Governor Patrick set to announce budget cuts; meets with SEIU 888 representatives

 10/16/08: Please visit our State Budget Information Clearinghouse for frequent updates on budget developments.

Governor Patrick met with us to let us know that he is expected to announce sweeping cuts to the state budget in a press conference scheduled for this afternoon. Although the Governor did not offer many specifics, he did acknowledge that layoffs were an option for department heads charged with scaling back their budgets.

Administration and Finance Secretary Leslie Kirwan continues to advocate for ' reform' of the state pension system and to continue the fight to increase state employee health insurance premium shares.

At our local, we continue to believe that raising insurance premiums is the wrong approach to solving the budget crisis. SEIU Local 888 President Susana Segat explained that “at a time when our economy has been weakened and working families have been stretched to the breaking point, the Governor should not be seeking to place a greater burden on the backs of our already struggling families, many of whom simply can not absorb the added cost.”

The Governor says that he is open to feedback on ways that we can reduce spending on wasteful programs and services. Let's see: If you have an idea, or if you know of a non-essential management position, please take a moment to email us by clicking here, or contact Jim Redmond by phone at (617) 241-3343.