MICHAEL GORMLEY

Paterson To Limit Hiring in Albany

By MICHAEL GORMLEY, Associated Press | April 22, 2008

ALBANY — Governor Paterson yesterday prohibited all but essential hiring in a sternly worded directive to state agencies.

Mr. Paterson said that if his cost savings targets aren’t met, he will impose a hard hiring freeze and other measures on agencies. He says he is willing to withhold budgeted funds if an agency fails to meet his cost-saving targets.

The Democrat said the measures are necessary because of declining revenues projected in a worsening economy. Mr. Paterson required a detailed savings plan from each agency by May 16.