Wage-Cut Accord Averts Layoffs in Connecticut

Unions for state workers agreed to $327 million in wage and benefit concessions Wednesday, saving the jobs of thousands of members who faced layoffs to help erase a $2.7-billion budget deficit.

In response, Gov. Lowell P. Weicker Jr. rescinded the layoffs of more than 2,600 state employees that he had ordered when union talks stalled. Weicker had threatened to send pink slips to as many as 8,000 workers.

“In its time of need, Connecticut asked for help from the working men and women in its employ. They have responded,” Weicker said at a news conference with union leaders, who had held weeks of marathon talks.

By law, Weicker must cover the huge deficit and balance his $7.65-billion budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1.

The settlement came early Wednesday, when layoffs actually started for the first of 2,616 state workers who were given notice on April 1. Most state workers were affected, from secretaries to state troopers.

Weicker and union leaders refused to discuss details of the settlement, but the governor said it included $327 million in “real personal sacrifices” over wages, health insurance, pensions and other issues.