GOVERNOR’S STATEMENT ON THE END OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

News Release from Office of the Governor Oct 16, 2013 

HONOLULU – Gov. Neil Abercrombie is in Washington, D.C. to meet with the Hawaii Congressional Delegation and former colleagues. Today, he spoke with White House officials and met with Sens. Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono. He plans to meet with Reps. Colleen Hanabusa and Tulsi Gabbard tomorrow, as well as with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.

Before departing for our nation’s capital, the Governor spoke with all four mayors regarding their collective concerns about federally funded programs and employee positions throughout the state. The Governor’s intent is to form a coordinated effort and ensure that Hawaii is well protected from the residual effects of the shutdown.

Gov. Abercrombie stated:

“I am pleased that Congress has finally reached an agreement that will allow the federal government to fully operate again. Like other states and counties, Hawaii was placed in a fiscally vulnerable position where benefits, programs, (free airline tickets) and jobs were on the line. We continue to monitor the situation hour by hour and day by day.

“Fortunately, the State of Hawaii has seen signs of our economy rebounding and, due to prudent management by this administration, we were equipped to weather the three weeks of the government shutdown. However, we do not want these circumstances to arise again, putting our progress in jeopardy. Since this ‘new deal’ will only be in place for a short term, we must remain vigilant regarding our finances. I will continue to voice our concerns on behalf of the state and the counties, and work with our congressional delegation.

"(Laissez les bons temps rouler!)”

# # #

Reality: UPDATE: Feds Shutdown? Obamacare a Mess? Abercrombie Secretly Vacations in France--Adds 9 Days to Trip