Pink slips for (1,087 Chicago transit workers (Moonie Times)

[UpInArms]

http://washingtontimes.com/upi-breaking/20041027-114836-9831r.htm

Chicago, IL, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- A looming budget crisis has forced the Chicago Transit Authority to send layoff notices to more than 1,000 employees, 90 percent bus and train operators.

Some 1,087 workers have been targeted for layoffs unless the state Legislature approves additional funding for the cash-strapped public transit agency.

CTA officials plan to lobby lawmakers for more funding during the General Assembly's fall veto session. The layoff letters were sent out to comply with union contractual requirements of 60 days notice for layoffs.

...more...

(warning: offensive anti-Kerry advertisement)

[AIJ Alom]

1. But the economy is steady and strong ....we've turned the corner.

[schultzee]

2. And what little PIGGY created the crises by spending like a drunk?

So that funding was unavailable in sufficient amount to the states? Why the cute little bushy piggy.

[chiburb]

3. They HAD to send notices... Union contract says 60 days

And that's what they've got left in their "mating dance" with Springpatch (for more money)...

Snip:

The transit authority plans to lobby for more funding in Springfield during the General Assembly's upcoming veto session, but the layoff notices are not part of a strategy to pressure legislators for more money, said agency spokeswoman Noelle Gaffney.

"There are federal and state requirements as well as our contractual requirements ... to give 60 days' notice, and service cuts are scheduled to take place on Jan. 2," Gaffney said. "This is to fulfill a legal obligation as well as to give employees fair notice and an opportunity to prepare.

"This isn't something the CTA wants to do, but it is the reality, and we have to prepare in the event there isn't additional funding and this will be the budget that the CTA, its customers and its employees are forced to live with."

Some of the 1,087 workers who will receive layoff letters are in management or administration, but over 90 percent are bus and rail employees who no longer would be needed under proposed service cuts.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-0410270264oct27,1,5263305.story?coll=chi-news-hed