Gov. Branstad Says Hundreds of State Layoffs Necessary

Governor Terry Branstad delivers his inaugural address during his inauguration Friday, Jan. 14, 2011 at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines. (Brian Ray/ SourceMedia Group News)

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By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Jan 18, 2011 at 3:12 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jan 19, 2011 at 3:22 PM CDT

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad on Tuesday said spending cuts needed to balance the state's budget will force the layoffs of hundreds of state workers hired during former Gov. Chet Culver's single term in office.

Branstad told reporters he would move quickly to craft a new state budget that will include deep cuts.

He wouldn't specify the number who will lose their jobs, but spokesman Tim Albrecht said hundreds of positions will be cut.

Branstad said hundreds of workers were hired during the closing days of Culver's administration and that the state can't afford to keep them on the payroll.

It is easier to fire workers during their first six months in office, Branstad said, because seniority make dismissing the workers more complex.

The governor said he's reviewing roughly $84 million in spending cuts Culver issued before leaving office. Branstad said he was worried that those cuts for the fiscal year ending June 30 could hamper crucial corrections and human services programs and some may have to be restored.

Branstad made it clear that the cuts needed to bring the budget into balance will require layoffs in addition to the other reductions he'll push.

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