UPPER MARLBORO, Md. -- A judge says furloughs in Prince George's County were unconstitutional, but the police and fire departments aren't exactly celebrating. The ruling could mean layoffs for both.
County officials say they will appeal the decision that would force them to refund $17 million to 5,900 employees. In the meantime, they're threatening "massive" layoffs.
"I think there's money in reserve," Doug Bartholomew of the Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Association. "I think the layoffs are a threat."
Bartholomew says his 750 employees have given up $3.2 million dollars through furloughs. He says they're now in contract negotiations, and they are hoping to hammer out a deal that's good for employees and the county.
"If they keep an open mind, it can happen," he says.
Republished with permission of WUSA-TV.
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