Gov. Mitt Romney plans to issue pink slips to 102 social services workers over the next 10 days, after lawmakers – labeling the move “purely political” – failed to pony up $11 million.

Laying off 50 social workers, 41 lawyers and 11 aides will save the Department of Social Services $6.4 million, Romney aides said.

Senate Majority Leader Frederick Berry pleaded with Romney to stand down – firing off a letter insisting lawmakers OK’d enough money to keep the programs afloat until March 2004.

“You are gambling with the health of the mentally ill, the safety of at-risk children, and the livelihood of dedicated, underpaid social workers for your own political gain,” Berry (D-Peabody) wrote.

Romney threatened last month to make the cuts by yesterday, if lawmakers failed to approve supplemental funding – arguing it’s his duty to get the state’s red-ink-soaked books in balance right now.

“Our hope is that when the Legislature realizes the very serious consequences of their failure to act, that they will approve this funding,” said Romney spokeswoman Shawn Feddeman. But even House leaders, who have not been as eager as the Senate to restore money, criticized Romney’s cuts as hasty.

“We’re two months into a 12-month fiscal year, and I think it might be a bit premature for the governor to do that,” said House Ways and Means assistant vice chairman Peter J. Larkin (D-Pittsfield).

Administration officials are also planning the early release of an unknown number of teen criminals, to eliminate 85 beds at the Department of Youth Services by Oct. 15 and save $3.1 million. The “most dangerous kids” will be moved to other programs, aides said.