June 4, 2009 - Governor's Weekly Radio Address - Closing the Budget Shortfall

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Aloha,

The Council on Revenues recently forecast an additional $730 million budget shortfall, for a total projected revenue loss of $2.7 billion by June 30, 2011.

This is a fiscal emergency that is unprecedented in size and scope.

My Administration will implement a comprehensive budget plan over the next 30 days that includes a three-day-per-month furlough of all state employees, which will save $688 million.

I am asking you for your patience as our employees work to minimize disruptions to public services.

The furloughs are in addition to $2 billion we have already saved by restricting spending; restructuring debt; transferring special funds; and utilizing federal stimulus funds.

To learn more about our focus on the immediate budget challenge and our long-term vision for Hawai`i, visit my website at www.hawaii.gov/gov.

Mahalo. This is Governor Linda Lingle.