(a) The Department shall employ a staff and engage other staff and consultant services in accordance with the State budget.

(b) Positions in the Department are subject to the personnel guidelines established under subsection (c) of this section.

(c) The Legislative Policy Committee shall adopt guidelines that are not inconsistent with law and that, for employees of the Department, govern:

(1) hiring;

(2) probationary periods;

(3) tenure;

(4) promotion;

(5) overtime compensation;

(6) discrimination;

(7) compensatory work for absences due to religious beliefs;

(8) holidays;

(9) part-time employment;

(10) grievance procedures;

(11) removal; and

(12) political activity.

(d) The provisions of § 2-304 of the State Personnel and Pensions Article do not apply to an employee of the Department.