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Posted: Wednesday, October 28th, 2009 5:28 AM HST

Candidates suggest ways to end Hawaii furloughs

By Associated Press

HONOLULU (AP) — Candidates for governor next year are suggesting ways that controversial teacher furloughs could be halted or reduced. Democratic Rep. Neil Abercrombie says a new labor contract for public school teachers could be reopened. He also says federal economic stimulus money could be redirected. Republican attorney John Carroll says he would reduce staffing in the top echelons of the state Department of Education. He says that would free enough money to eliminate some or all the teacher furloughs. Republican Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona says in a brief statement that state education officials and the teachers union can restore instructional days if they so choose. Democratic Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann declined a request to be interviewed.HONOLULU (AP) — Candidates for governor next year are suggesting ways that controversial teacher furloughs could be halted or reduced. Democratic Rep. Neil Abercrombie says a new labor contract for public school teachers could be reopened. He also says federal economic stimulus money could be redirected. Republican attorney John Carroll says he would reduce staffing in the top echelons of the state Department of Education. He says that would free enough money to eliminate some or all the teacher furloughs. Republican Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona says in a brief statement that state education officials and the teachers union can restore instructional days if they so choose. Democratic Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann declined a request to be interviewed. (Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved)