Civil Service Commission – Harrisburg, PA

Merit System Appeals and Adjudication

Role of the Commission

The Pennsylvania State Civil Service Commission (SCSC), located in Strawberry Square, serves as an independent administrative tribunal responsible for the specific enforcement of the Civil Service Act. While the hiring and application process has moved to the Office of Administration, the SCSC retains the critical authority to hear and decide appeals arising from employment actions. This includes challenges regarding discipline, removal, and furloughs within the classified service.

Hearings and Legal Services

The primary function of this office is adjudicatory. Public employees or applicants who believe they have been subjected to discrimination or violation of the Civil Service Act file appeals here. The commission schedules and conducts public hearings to review these claims. Key areas of jurisdiction include:

• Employment Appeals: Reviewing suspensions, demotions, and terminations of civil service employees.
• Veterans’ Preference: Adjudicating claims where a veteran believes their preference rights were violated during the hiring process.
• Discrimination Claims: Investigating allegations of discrimination based on non-merit factors such as political affiliation or race.

Location and Security

The SCSC headquarters is situated within Strawberry Square, a major downtown complex. Visitors attending hearings or filing documents in person must adhere to building security protocols, which typically include passing through metal detectors and presenting valid photo identification. The office is accessible via the Walnut Street or 3rd Street entrances.

Filing Information

Appeals must be filed within strict deadlines, usually 20 calendar days from the date of the alleged violation. The commission provides specific forms for filing appeals, which can be submitted by mail or in person. It is important to note that this office does not handle general job applications or exam scheduling; those inquiries should be directed to the Commonwealth’s employment website.