(a) Whenever the appointing power of a state agency anticipates a personnel reduction equivalent to one percent or more of the agency's full-time equivalent positions, the agency shall so inform the Department and provide the facts upon which such anticipation is based.

(b) The Department shall thereafter make a determination as to whether the anticipated reduction meets the requirements of Government Code section 19996.21(b). If the Department so determines, the Department shall direct the agency to conduct a survey of all of its permanent full-time employees to determine the extent of the desire of such employees to participate in a voluntary reduced worktime program. The Department may also direct an agency to conduct such a survey if the Department independently determines that the agency is likely to experience a one percent personnel reduction.

(c) All such surveys shall use forms prescribed by the Department and be completed within 45 days, unless the Department determines that a shorter time is required in order to preserve employment opportunities. The agency shall transmit the results of the survey to the Department.