The latest statistics show state and local governments have laid off nearly 4000 workers in the past year.
“For May, 2011, the government employment numbers (for Iowa) were 252,400. When compared to April of 2011, that is down 700 positions,” says Katie Homer, a spokesperson for Iowa Workforce Development. “When compared to May of 2010, that is down 3700 jobs.”
The statistics for June aren’t yet available. Just this week state agencies began laying off workers after the new state fiscal year began July 1. The Iowa Department of Revenue laid off 22 workers. The Department of Human Services cut 14 recently-hired workers from the state payroll. Thirteen employees in Iowa Workforce Development were laid off this week, however up to 100 workers in that agency may loose their jobs over the next few months as regional offices are closed. Two workers in the Human Rights Department were let go Wednesday.
Dozens more layoffs in state government may be in the works, as the Department of Natural Resources had announced a plan this past spring that will eliminate over 130 staff positions.