creativethinking, what is your obsession here? They're not getting paid, the least we can do is let them take a long weekend. It isn't a *punishment*. Why make it worse? Do you do all your DMV business on Fridays or something?

Ask the furloughed employees who they are going to vote for next election. Will they retain the representatives of the two childish, squabbling, parties who can find time to name an official state chewing gum, and take long trips on state money, but can't bother to turn in reciepts - much less balance the state budget?

What will next year's rocket-science budget repair fix be, 32 unpaid furlough days? Just say NO to all incumbents at all levels at future elections.

I love how they always take Fridays. They should try a Wednesday some time. It's either Mondays or Fridays. Would we not all like a longer weekend?

Zippy,
Trying to get in and out of the DMV quickly next week? Haha

I urge everyone to protest these furloughs by boycotting the DMV next Friday.

One of the advantages of completely closing for the day is the additional cost savings associated with not operating the building. The heat can be left down, the lights and computers are off, etc. While this is not a huge amount per building, multiply that by the 4 or 8 (depending on agency) mandated furlough days and the number of state buildings. This can add up quickly.

I would also add that along with having no competition, you HAVE to go to the DMV, regardless. They aren't going to lose any business. And honestly, how often are people -ever- excited to go the DMV? Maybe when you get your driver's license, but that's about it.

realitybytes, your statement is true for a normal business. You know, the kind where there are competitors who might be open when others are not. The State of Wisconsin ... not much competition there. They close, and you're SOL. If it balances the budget, then so be it. Besides, the third-party services appear to be an appropriate alternative.

"Most people saw no significant difference in service"

It's only eight days a year, and it's saving your tax dollars, so you might appreciate that aspect.

Any real business that was going through tough financial times would NOT do the furlough days like the State of WI is. They wouldnt completely shut down because it would negatively impact customer service and/or production output. They would only have a few people gone every day so they could keep things running. But heck, its the state. People expect bad service.

That was by design. Are you kidding me. they are State employees........