An employment retention rating is the basis for determining a nonrepresented employee's layoff options.

The rating is determined using seniority as calculated in WAC 357-46-055 for general government employees, and WAC 357-46-053 for higher education employees.

Veteran employees

Per WAC 357-46-060, eligible veterans receive additional preference by adding up to five years of their total active military service to their unbroken service date. The surviving spouse or surviving registered domestic partner of an eligible veteran is entitled to veteran's seniority preference regardless of whether the veteran had at least one year of active military service.

Represented employees

Employees represented in bargaining units may use a different calculation for seniority. Refer to the specific Collective Bargaining Agreement for more information.