LIHUE — Pentagon’s recent announcement that the number of furlough days for civilian defense employees will be reduced from 11 to six was welcomed by local officials. “This action by the Pentagon means more money in workers’ paychecks, money that will
LIHUE — Pentagon’s recent announcement that the number of furlough days for civilian defense employees will be reduced from 11 to six was welcomed by local officials.
“This action by the Pentagon means more money in workers’ paychecks, money that will go to providing necessities and supporting their families, and help sustain growth and support stability in Hawaii’s economy,” said U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, a member of the House Armed Services Committee.
Pacific Missile Range Facility civilians have already taken four furlough days since the process began in July, so affected employees are only subject to two more days of furlough.
“We’re happy that our team — military, civilian and contractors — is back together and appreciate the resiliency our civilian team members and their families showed despite the furlough uncertainties,” said Pacific Missile Range Facility Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce Hay.
Civilian defense workers were told earlier this year that they could face up to 22 furlough days. Furloughs began early July and were scheduled to continue at the rate of one per week through the end of the fiscal year.
Hanabusa has consistently called for the end of furloughs, including sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel asking that he take into account the strategic importance of Hawaii’s civilian workers and their overall contribution to the U.S. mission in the world.
“Sequestration must stop. Its reckless cuts are damaging to all sectors across our nation, and it is up to us to develop a responsible, balanced approach to reducing spending,” Hanabusa said in a press release. “I will continue to call for sequestration’s repeal, and I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in making real progress on this lingering issue.”
