Disqualifying an individual for employment in the public service

Disqualifying an individual for employment in the public service

Ferrine v Bahou, 75 AD2d 669

§50.4 of the Civil Service Law requires notice of the reasons for the disqualification of a person for employment in the public service by the New York State Department of Civil Service, or the municipal commission or personnel officer having jurisdiction, be given to the individual, together with an opportunity to submit an explanation challenging such disqualification.

As the employee in this case, Ferrine, was not provided with an opportunity to submit facts in opposition to his disqualification, the Appellate Division sustained the Supreme Court’s ruling holding that his dismissal was unlawful and the appointing authority was required to reinstate the employee to the position with back salary.

Judge Casey, however, dissented, noting that the basis for Ferrine’s disqualification was that he was unable to meet the age requirements for appointment to the position and thus “The [municipal]  commission had not only a right but a duty to remove him.”