HHS to seek alternative to layoffs

LINCOLN (AP) — Nebraska’s largest state agency might not lay off employees to deal with a planned budget cut of $9 million.

Kerry Winterer is chief executive of the Department of Health and Human Services. He told lawmakers on Tuesday that the agency instead would try to save money by leaving open vacant positions, consolidating offices and taking other steps.

More than 6,000 people across Nebraska work for the department.

Gov. Dave Heineman’s proposal to cut the agency’s budget by nearly $9 million is part of his plan to shave $334 million from the two-year state budget. He is trying to offset less-than-expected state revenue.

Winterer said his department employees would have to take on extra duties, which could delay some services.