Governor Dannel Malloy and legislative leaders say large numbers of state employee layoffs appear more likely after the unions' umbrella organization declined to discuss possible pension and benefit concessions.
The Democrat said Tuesday his administration will "have to" move forward with what he calls a substantial number of layoffs.
The total number of layoffs could ultimately be about 1,900.
He said more jobs could be preserved if the State Employees Bargaining Agent Coalition agrees to reopen a 2011 agreement.
Malloy says his administration is aiming to complete layoffs by June 9 to save money in the new fiscal year, which begins July 1.
Senate President Martin Looney says lawmakers are expected to vote March 29 on a plan to cover the current fiscal year's $220 million deficit.
