More Than 500 California Prison Employees Get Pink Slips

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — Layoff notices are being sent to more than 500 California prison employees. The inmate population has seen a drastic decrease thanks to a federal court order that demands lower level offenders be transferred to county jails.

There are 14,000 fewer inmates than there were four months ago, according to corrections officials.

The layoffs will take effect at the end of February.

Those affected may transfer to other California prisons that have openings.

Another round of layoffs is expected this fall.