There’s a possible deal to avoid some state worker layoffs.
The leader of the union that represents the largest share of state workers will announce at one o’clock this afternoon that an “understanding” has been reached with top state managers. That deal that would “protect” 479 state workers who were slated to lose their jobs due to state spending cuts according to a statement Governor Culver’s staff issued shortly before noon today.
The statement said “front line correctional officers, parole probation officers and other support positions that help to provide for our public safety” will be spared because of the pending deal.
The majority of members of the AFSCME union must vote to take the deal, which includes a series of cost-saving moves, like having 20,000 state workers take five unpaid days off over the next seven months. That move along will save the state $22.7 million in salaries.