The State Worker

Chronicling civil-service life for California state workers

Good news for the 22,000 temporary state workers who could be forced off their jobs next week if Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signs an executive order to deal with the budget impasse: they may be able to return once a budget is signed.

Department of Finance spokesman H.D. Palmer said the temporary employees, including retired state workers who return to the payroll part-time, would have to leave immediately when the executive order is signed next week. But once the budget is signed, he said, departments would have the option to bring the workers back on.

Among the 22,000 who face losing their positions, at least for now, are 7,923 permanent intermittent workers such as exam proctors, 8,720 seasonal employees and 5,662 retired workers who have returned part-time to the payroll. Those who deal with public health and safety, 24-hour care at state facilities and emergency response could be exempted

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About The State Worker

Jon Ortiz The Author

Jon Ortiz, a member of The Bee's business staff since 2003, reports on workplace and labor issues. Join him for updates and debate on state pay, benefits, pensions, contracts and jobs.

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