So what now? We know Judge Patrick Marlette has ruled that Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's furlough authority extends to state workers under the other officials elected by statewide vote. And we know that Controller John Chiang, who lost the lawsuit argument on Thursday that he and other constitutional officers don't have to furlough their employees, is going to appeal the decision.
But what does that mean for state workers right now? Are they going to be furloughed right away? And how will make ups work for furlough days missed so far?
The answer to last question: It's up to the various departments to decide. The governor's office says that since everyone is being flexibly furloughed, the constitutional officers will decide their policy. In other words, ask your manager or supervisor.
We're trying to get answers to the first two questions. Here's what we've learned so far:
From SCO spokesman Jacob Roper: "This office will implement a 1-day furlough per month should the recently negotiated (SEIU) bargaining agreement be ratified."
SEIU members are voting through the middle of next week on the union's tentative labor deal, which includes monthly one-day furloughs. The union hasn't yet said when it will announce the results.
From Treasurer's Office spokesman Tom Dresslar: "We definitely will appeal (the Superior Court ruling), but we wiill comply with the order pending the appeal."
We have calls and e-mails out to the other constitutionals and we'll blog what we hear as we get more info.
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