A cloud of uncertainty surrounds New York State's finances.
The furloughs came first and now Governor David Paterson is proposing a layoff plan that could leave thousands of state workers without jobs. The catch is that the next governor will be left to make the final decision on whether to use the plan or not.
"We didn't want to layoff anyone," Paterson said at a June 1 meeting. "This is a last resort."
The state is facing a $9.2 billion deficit and the budget is two months late – and counting. The threat of furloughs shook up state workers, however the plan did not pass. Paterson has gone to extreme measures in an effort to pass the budget, including threatening to shut down the government until it passes.
The layoffs could be life changing for all, and many hope that it doesn't come to a statewide firing spree.
"I'm hoping it doesn't come to [laying off many people]," said Holly Richardson, Clerk 2, Division of Military and Naval Affairs. "I can't see why they can't find other ways to cut the budget before laying off people."
Not only do these potential job cuts add to the unemployment rate, but they also scare those who retain their positions.
One of the effects of a layoff for company employees is an issue called "Survivor Syndrome." Survivor Syndrome is when a lot of weight from the workplace is put on the shoulders of the remaining employees. This can include increased workload, decreased morale and an infectious sense of anxiety. The trend can hurt productivity.
Although it may not be reassuring, there is help for those who get laid off.
Outplacement is a group of services provided to displaced employees to give them support and assistance. This includes personal career counseling, resume preparation and typing services, interviewing workshops and referral assistance. In the case of losing a job, this would be a place to turn to.
"It's very scary, no one is protected," Richardson said. "It's going to hurt the economy around here; they're already seeing that now."
The governor does not want to contribute to the state's job loss numbers as New York tries to emerge from a recession. Some workers are eligible for retirement, but have not yet left their jobs. Whether that number will rise or not is unknown until the new governor makes the decision on the plan.
Not everyone, however, fears for their job. Those with tenure are less likely to be effected.
"I'm a tier one employee, I'm almost 56 years old, and the reality is that I could retire at any point and not be affected," said Mike La Duke, Administrative Support for Division of Military and Naval Affairs. "Obviously the most recently hired would be the first to go. [Either way], it's not a good environment for state employees."
It is now a waiting game for all citizens, and a major debate for the government to sort out New York's troubled finances. With campaign season in full swing, the new governor will most certainly have his hands full.
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