Aloha,

I am pleased that HGEA members ratified the agreement reached between their union leadership, the state and county governments. They recognized that the type of shared sacrifice embodied in the agreement is necessary to help see our state through the unprecedented budget crisis we are experiencing.

State and county employees work hard and serve the public well. These furlough days are not a reflection of their dedication, but instead demonstrate their willingness to help mitigate our state’s current fiscal reality.

By working together to develop common sense solutions, the state, counties, and our dedicated employees are working toward an improved economic environment.

Reaching this settlement is significant for our employees and the entire state, so that we can move forward with important projects and initiatives that will spur our economic recovery.

Mahalo.

The Governor’s Weekly Radio Address airs at various times throughout the week on radio stations statewide.  To listen to this week’s address or to hear past addresses, visit the Governor’s Web site at www.hawaii.gov/gov/news/radioadd