Legislative staffers say an early retirement program launched last year by Gov. Sam Brownback has resulted in major staffing problems at state hospitals.

Legislative staffers told the Kansas House Appropriations Committee Friday that staffing is so tight at Larned State Hospital that the hospital could lose its federal accreditation. The Lawrence Journal-World reports the loss could cost the state $14.5 million in federal funds.

The governor says more than 1,000 employees took advantage of the retirement program, which offered health insurance and 1-time payment incentives to state workers. It is expected to save the state $34.5 million over two years.

The report says low pay and long hours are making it hard to recruit and retain workers at the hospitals.