Unions Voice Opposition To Furlough Plan

Unions representing more than half of Kentucky’s 32,000 state workers are complaining about furloughs announced last week by Gov. Steve Beshear.As authorized in the budget approved by lawmakers in May, state workers will be furloughed a total of six days this fiscal year, beginning September 3rd, the Friday before the Labor Day weekend.But Dave Warrick of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees says there has to be a better way to save state dollars.“We really want to come up with a real solution to this problem and we want them to sit down and let’s work it out. And we’re not saying we’re not willing to take a hit. We’re saying let’s come up with a solution that makes sense.”The Beshear administration says the furloughs, which apply to both merit and non-merit employees, can save the state $24 million. State agencies that operate 24-7, like prisons, will be given some flexibility on ways to implement the furloughs.