Wisconsin DNR sends layoff notices to 57 employees

MADISON (AP) — Fifty-seven Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources workers have been notified that they may lose their jobs under cuts proposed by Gov. Scott Walker.

DNR spokesman Bill Cosh said Wednesday the notices are the first step in the process, and it's not known yet how many ultimately will lose their jobs.

Walker's two-year spending plan would cut 66 positions across DNR, including just over 18 in the Bureau of Scientific Services. Cosh says all 27 people in that bureau had to receive potential lay-off notices, even though not all of them may lose their job.

Walker's proposed cuts in that bureau have been criticized by Democrats, environmentalists and others who fear the loss of scientific expertise will hurt decision-making and increase the influence of politics.