Advocates for the needy are urging legislators to use the state's savings for seniors, the poor and the disabled rather than for ending teacher furloughs.

The green-shirted group visited with lawmakers Friday and were recognized by both the Senate and the House.

They say money held in rainy day and hurricane relief funds could be used to help people who need it most to survive.

The advocates say the money could keep welfare eligibility offices open, boost adult mental health, assist abused children and help service providers.

But parents want these funds to pay for proposed deals to end teacher furloughs, which resulted in the nation's shortest school year.

Lawmakers have not decided how much, if any, money to set aside to restore furlough days.