The new Governor of Connecticut says that he is looking for ways to work with unions, avoid layoffs, pay for pensions and close the budget deficit. Daniel Malloy says that his budget will not raise spending, and will pay the state's pension obligations, as well as catch up on missed payments. He also said he does not want to layoff public sector workers. The Governor says that he wants to preserve the services in Connecticut, but that it will require a tax increase to make it work. Malloy said that he will ask the unions to make concessions and while union leaders say they are willing to work with him, they do not want to give up too much. The Governor will announce his budget plan on Wednesday.
See "In Connecticut, Malloy Tries to Manage Costs His Way", David M. Halbfinger, The New York Times, February 14, 2011