Connecticut governor and state police union clash in court

August 30, 2011

Connecticut: Governor Dannel Malloy is in the middle of a swirling controversy regarding the state police union and the budget. As departments around the state make concessions to close a budget gap, the Connecticut State Police Union refused to accept a two-year wage freeze. As a result, the Governor's Office says, fifty-six troopers must be laid off. The union claimed this a retaliatory act, and pressed for an injunction to stop the layoffs. The injunction revolves around a statute that says Connecticut, "shall appoint and maintain a minimum of 1,248 sworn state police personnel."

Judge James T. Graham agreed with Malloy last week, refusing to institute the temporary injunction. A hearing is scheduled for September 15, at which time the administration will seek to have the case dismissed.

Meanwhile, following the decision by Judge Graham, union leader Andrew Matthews was transferred to Hartford one day each month. This ignited the ire of the union, which claimed the transfer was due to Matthews' criticism of the administration. In response, the governor's office said, "It's ridiculous even to suggest that. Six other sergeants were transferred. Slots have to be filled..."