DENVER—Layoffs are possible for state employees as Gov. Bill Ritter looks to cut an average of 10 percent from state agencies.
Ritter says he plans to implement the cuts in August after getting recommendations from department heads. He wants them to focus on eliminating the least efficient and least effective programs and says that could mean laying off some state workers.
Ritter says he won’t seek to raise taxes or reverse a new tax break aimed at attracting corporate headquarters to Colorado. It’s expected to cost the state $2.9 million the first year it’s in effect.
The budget passed by lawmakers already includes some tax increases, including the suspension of a property tax break for seniors and a new sales tax on cigarettes.
