Memorandum Opinion from Judge
Order
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. -- A federal judge in Maryland has ruled the furlough of firefighters, police officers and other public safety workers unconstitutional.
Judge Alexander Williams Jr. has ordered that Prince George's County begin working with the unions on the refund of lost wages.
The furloughs began last fall and required all workers to lose 80-hours pay. A new round of furloughs was scheduled for this fiscal year that began on July 1.
James P. Keary, the Communications Director for Prince George's County, said in a statement Tuesday afternoon called Judge Williams' ruling an "irresponsible decision."
Keary said, "To comply with the court's opinion, we will have massive layoffs."
Republished with permission of WUSA-TV.
