June 11, 2009 - Governor's Weekly Radio Address - Budget and Labor Savings

Click here to listen to this address.

Aloha,

As a result of the global economic downturn which has dramatically impacted Hawai`i's economy, the state faces a projected $2.7 billion shortfall between now and June 30, 2011.

This fiscal emergency is unlike any we have faced before.

We have already saved $2 billion through spending restrictions, debt restructuring, using special funds and maximizing federal stimulus funds.  In addition, we will furlough all state employees. This is not something we want to do, but it is something we must do to meet the revenue shortfall. We simply do not have the money to maintain payroll at its current levels. 

I am asking for the public’s patience as we develop plans to minimize disruptions to public services.

We recognize that this will be a hardship for those who will be impacted, and this is what drives me and my team to focus on growing our economy. By working together to find solutions, we will overcome these economic challenges.

Mahalo. This is Governor Linda Lingle. 

• State employees wishing to learn additional information about furloughs, please click here.