In Northampton County, Executive Lamont McClure has notified SEIU, the bargaining unit for human services caseworkers, that furloughs are on the horizon as a result of the gridlock over a state budget that has been overdue since July 1. This decision has been met by widespread criticism from both caseworkers and public officials, including both of the candidates who want to succeed McClure. In his most recent statement on the topic, McClure said he believes the county has enough cash on hand to stave off furloughs until the end of the year, which coincidentally is when his term expires. He said he has inquired about a loan from the State Treasurer but believes it should be interest free. What's going on elsewhere?
According to Lehigh County Comm'r Jon Irons, his county was seeking a loan. It is unknown precisely how much interest will need to be paid or the exact sum being borrowed. In Cambria County, Comm'rs have borrowed $8.5 million with a 4.49% interest rate and no pre-payment penalty. About 30 organizations, including as many as seven counties, have applied for a loan from the state treasurer. That loan originally required repayment with 4.5% interest, but the Pa Senate has passed a bill making the loans interest-free. That bill has yet to pass the Pa. House.
In Westmoreland County, 125 employees have already been furloughed. They include human services caseworkers, workers in row offices and aides to elected officials. That way, vital human services can still be provided. In Armstrong County, human services caseworkers have been furloughed and senior centers that provide hot meals have been shuttered. Carbon County officials think they can hold on to the end of the year.
In the meantime, the Pa. House has passed yet another budget bill. Though it spends less than Governor Josh Shapiro had hoped, he said he'd sign it if the Senate passes it when they reconvene on October 20.
No hurry.
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