Gov. says he may need to cut 2000 jobs

GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Governor Patrick says he may need to cut up to 2 thousand jobs if employees don't agree to furlough days or other cost saving measures.

The Governor announced 600 million dollars in budget cuts yesterday, most of which were cuts to the state level rather than local aid.

Labor unions are in negotiations with the Governor including the state police.

Their Western Massachusetts representative, Jeffrey Gordon, tells 22NEWS that they are open to working with the state to save jobs.

However they say the issue is more complicated.

They want to see more cuts made at the management level before furloughs, because everyone is under tough times.

"Taken 3 four five 6 days away from someone, especially someone new, you can cost them a mortgage or a kids school or some of the expenses we all have to pay."

The Governor says without some concessions, more state workers will lose their jobs.