Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger Forces State Workers to Take Unpaid 'Vacation' Days

Going against the wishes of state workers' unions that said the governor's plan to save $1.3 billion with unpaid time off was both illegal and unconstitutional, Judge Patrick Marlette ruled this morning that Schwarzenegger can order two furlough days a month. That is to say, Arnold can now force state workers to take days off a month without pay. "The current circumstances constitute an emergency," said Marlette, citing California's budget crisis and lack of funds. The furloughs will start next week. Enjoy your days off. Or not.