I've been calling union leaders to try to find out who, if anybody, has received at-risk notices from the state. The governor has said the notices will begin going out today, and he insists the measure is necessary unless the 14 Democrats return and approve the budget repair bill.
It will be interesting to see who gets the notices, as it could shed light on Walker's motives. The state has said employees at places that require 24/7 employment, such as prisons, will not be affected.
It will also be interesting to see how unions respond to potential layoffs. Although unions will not budge in their opposition to the budget repair bill, there will undoubtedly be some rank-and-file members who would prefer to lose their bargaining rights than their jobs. Like in any labor dispute, the rank-and-file are forced to grapple with political ideals as well as economic and political realities.
Has anybody else heard anything? If so, please contact me.
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