Layoffs at Iowa Department of Public Safety could top 100

One option is to lay off about 100 sworn officers and civilians and require all employees to take 13 unpaid furlough days, Commissioner Gene Meyer said in an e-mail to staff. If furloughs aren't possible, it could be necessary to lay off 169 officers and civilians. ...

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Also, today's release from Iowa Department of Public Safety:

For immediate release:

Courtney Greene, Bureau Chief

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Public Information Bureau

Des Moines, Iowa

(515) 725-6196

DPS STATEMENT ON BUDGET

DPS STATEMENT ON BUDGET

Des Moines, IOWA --- Like all state government agencies, DPS is faced with making a 10% cut in our budget due to declining revenue.Over the last week I've been working very closely with the Division Directors here at DPS to review a variety of options on how we can meet our obligation to implement these cuts. This will not be an easy task and all options have been, and continue to be, taken into consideration. There are several steps in the process between now and October 28 before any decisions are final. In addition, the Iowa Department of Management must approve the final plan submitted by DPS and all state agencies.The reality is, an $8.9 million dollar cut from our budget will mean a reduction in our workforce. It's a painful fact. That's why I've been communicating and working with the staff here at DPS, and the union that represent them, as we determine how to best implement this budget cut.Eugene T. Meyer, CommissionerIowa Department of Public Safety

Des Moines, IOWA --- Like all state government agencies, DPS is faced with making a 10% cut in our budget due to declining revenue.

Over the last week I've been working very closely with the Division Directors here at DPS to review a variety of options on how we can meet our obligation to implement these cuts. This will not be an easy task and all options have been, and continue to be, taken into consideration. There are several steps in the process between now and October 28 before any decisions are final. In addition, the Iowa Department of Management must approve the final plan submitted by DPS and all state agencies.

The reality is, an $8.9 million dollar cut from our budget will mean a reduction in our workforce. It's a painful fact. That's why I've been communicating and working with the staff here at DPS, and the union that represent them, as we determine how to best implement this budget cut.

Eugene T. Meyer, Commissioner

Iowa Department of Public Safety