The Associated Press

Fri, Jan 9, 2009 (12:06 a.m.)

Orange County's largest public union has asked for a temporary restraining order to halt layoffs of more than 200 county workers.

The Orange County Employees Association says it will appear Friday in Superior Court to argue that the county has not demonstrated the need for layoffs under their collective bargaining agreement.

The county has informed 210 social service workers and 58 probation employees they will be laid off to trim $32 million from this year's budget. County officials say the cuts were prompted by a shortfall in state funding.

Union officials say the county should save money by cutting management perks and remodeling projects.

County CEO Tom Mauk said the legal action is "frivolous" and shows how the union is out of touch with what taxpayers need.

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Information from: The Orange County Register, http://www.ocregister.com