The Governor's address to the General Assembly opened the 2016 Legislative Session. The Governor made his budget proposal which targeted State Employees in several ways, including layoffs.
There have been quite a number of articles and responses given thus far (some of which are attached below). A&R is not hitting the panic button at this point. We are going to hold true to our plan: re-engage and stay in touch with our local General Assembly members. The Governor gives his budget to the Legislature, but the Legislature doesn't have to accept it. We seek to work with the General Assembly in creating a budget that doesn't create more problems than it pretends to resolve.
Our plan will start this Saturday at the LOB at 9:00AM with the Legislative Issues Conference. All members are encouraged to attend. On Wednesday 2/10 A&R leadership will be back at the LOB for some more "re-acquainting". Our message is simple: the Governor's plan regarding State Employees is not a long-term plan, it is a short-term gimmick. Realistically, it will create further economic problems for the State, confusion in the agencies, and a mess for the public. Essentially, this is an ill-advised misstep by the Governor.
Several related links: