Topeka ? A proposed $8.4 million budget cut for the Kansas Department of Corrections could cost up to 66 department employees their jobs.

Department spokesman Jan Lunsford says employees were notified last week about possible job losses. He says most of the reductions would be in the central office and in re-entry and parole services. Prisons should not have to lay off workers.

The Hutchinson News reports that one deputy secretary of corrections will be laid off. As many as 22 field service personnel would lose jobs that were funded this year by federal stimulus money, which expires June 30.

Lunsford says the number of layoffs could be reduced by retirements or resignations. Employees will be notified by March 18, with layoffs effective in the June 12 payroll period.