What impact did the changes in the civil service code in 1996 have on state employment in Georgia?

The correct choice highlights a significant shift that occurred in Georgia's civil service system as a result of the 1996 changes. By eliminating merit protection for new state employees, the reforms introduced a more flexible approach to state employment. This change meant that new hires would not necessarily be guaranteed job stability based on merit, reducing the safety net that previously existed for many state employees.

The implications of this alteration were profound, particularly in terms of job security and the hiring process. Unlike the former system, which prioritized meritocracy and protected long-serving employees from arbitrary dismissal, the new regulations allowed for greater discretion in employment decisions based on factors other than strictly individual qualifications or performance metrics. As a result, the job landscape for state employees became less stable, reflecting the move away from traditional civil service principles that promoted job security and protections based on merit.

This shift also contrasted with the other choices, which suggested changes like increased job security, stricter hiring standards, or greater transparency in employment decisions. The changes made in 1996 were primarily characterized by a reduction in the protections afforded to employees, particularly those newly hired, marking a significant shift in how state employment was conducted in Georgia.