W. Va. Code R. § 143-1-2
The general purpose of the Division of Personnel is to attract, develop, and retain to the service of this State personnel of the highest ability and integrity by the establishment of a system of personnel administration based on merit principles and scientific methods governing the appointment, promotion, transfer, layoff, removal, discipline, classification, compensation, and welfare of its employees, and other incidents of state or classified employment. All appointments and promotions to positions in the classified service shall be made solely on the basis of merit and fitness and no person shall be in any unlawful way favored or discriminated against with respect to any incident of state or classified employment because of his or her political or religious opinions or affiliations or race, gender, age, disability, ancestry or national origin, or for other reason(s) explicitly provided in federal and/or State law.
W. Va. Code R. § 143-1-2