Topeka ? The state has extended the deadline for an incentive program for voluntary retirement and a state employees’ union has dropped its actions against Gov. Sam Brownback’s administration over the plan, it was announced Wednesday.

Eligible employees now have until Oct. 14 to submit their offer to retire. Those whose offers are accepted will retire no later than Oct. 31.

“This extension does not jeopardize the financial benefits of our goals, but gives state employees more time to review their retirement options,” said Secretary of Administration Dennis Taylor. Gov. Sam Brownback’s administration hopes to save dollars by not filling many of the positions that will be left vacant by retirements.

When the program was initially rolled out, the Brownback administration had set a sign-up deadline of Sept. 2. But the Kansas Organization of State Employees said the administration had failed to consult with it, as required by law, and had filed several administrative actions against the plan.

The two sides met shortly after the first announcement and on Wednesday the Brownback administration and KOSE announced the extension.

“Our membership indicated they would like the opportunity to review health plan options during open enrollment before making a decision about the voluntary retirement incentive,” said Jane Carter, executive director of KOSE.

“This extension grants employees that opportunity while also allowing the state to meet its objectives,” Carter said. KOSE dropped its objections.

Approximately 4,000 state employees who are currently eligible for full or early retirement would be eligible for the incentive program.

As incentives, the state has provided a lump sum payment of $6,500 or continued health insurance coverage for up to five years.

Taylor said nothing will change for those eligible employees who have already signed up for the program, however, they can opt to move their retirement date to Oct. 31.