On the heels of Gov. David Paterson’s comment this morning that public employee layoffs would likely start in mid-November, state Budget Director Robert Megna sent a memo to all state agency heads informing them that 2,000 heads will be on the chopping block between now and Dec. 31, 2010.

“We must acknowledge the continued weakness in the overall economy and in State revenue,” Megna wrote. “It is our responsibility and imperative to achieve greater efficiencies in all aspects of our operations, including the workforce.”

“Your budget examination unit will contact you with revised targets, and with further details on the process for submitting your proposed reductions.”

UPDATE: CSEA spokesman Steve Madarasz sent a response, which appears in full after the jump.

“This changes nothing about CSEA’s position,” Madarasz said. “We have a binding agreement prohibiting layoffs or the threat of layoffs for the duration of this administration and it’s already been upheld by the courts.”

“CSEA has already filed an Improper practice charge with PERB earlier this week over the governor’s threats which are a violation of the agreement and the Taylor Law.”

Workforce Reduction

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