DES MOINES, IOWA (AP) -- More state employees than expected are opting for early retirement, offering greater savings but raising concerns about a smaller and less experienced workforce.
When the Legislature approved an early retirement plan last session, supporters estimated it would save the state $60 million
if 1,100 employees took the offer. As of April 2, officials say 1,138 people had sought to retire early with a steady stream of additions coming in before the April 15 deadline.
After releasing those figures, the governor's office refused to give updates. Robert Bailey, a spokesman for Gov. Chet Culver, says it looks like the effort is on target.
Some worry, though, about the employees leaving.
Department of Human Services spokesman Roger Munns notes at least 400 employees in the agency want to retire early and it's unclear how many will be replaced.
(Copyright ©2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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