Re: Our financial system is crumbling this week.
Posted: February 17 09, 12:04 pm
just got this letter from gov. sebelius
February 17, 2009
Colleagues,
This is a difficult time for Kansas families, seniors and many others who are dealing each
day with the economic challenges presented by the recession. As a state employee, I know
that you are already dealing with the challenges of more limited resources in your agency.
Last week, I called a meeting of the State Finance Council to approve moving money from
one account to another so the State can pay its bills, including State Employee payroll, on
time. This routine budget action has been approved every year for the last ten years. And
we told legislative leaders in December, when they cut my request in half, that we would
need a certificate by mid-February.
Yesterday, legislative leadership told me they would not approve this transfer until I sign
the 2009 budget bill. The problem is - the bill has not been delivered to my desk, so I have
nothing to sign.
As a result of this action, State Employee payroll, which is due Friday, is now in jeopardy.
I want to assure you that I am and always have been an advocate for state employees. I
know the important work you do each day benefits countless people across this great state.
I will continue to be an advocate for you and for numerous other groups affected by this
irresponsible action.
I hope this will be resolved quickly and I will continue to do everything I can to ensure a
responsible, timely solution to this situation. In the mean time, I hope that we can all
continue to provide the best service possible to the Kansans that rely on us each day.
Sincerely,
//s//
Kathleen Sebelius

