(a)
(1) The Department of Transformation and Shared Services is authorized to develop and establish a merit increase pay system in accordance with the performance evaluation process under § 21-5-1001 et seq. for employees of all state agencies, boards, and commissions covered by the Uniform Classification and Compensation Act, § 21-5-201 et seq.
(2) The merit increase pay system shall be reviewed by the Legislative Council or, if the General Assembly is in session, the Joint Budget Committee.
(b) For the purpose of this subchapter, “merit increase pay system” means a merit-based pay system that incorporates pay and performance evaluation standards according to § 21-5-1001 et seq. and establishes criteria for payments for employees who meet requisite performance categories.
(c) Merit payments may be awarded to employees who satisfy performance evaluation-based criteria developed by agencies in accordance with procedures and policies developed and approved by the Office of Personnel Management after review by the Legislative Council.