All share blame for state problems (June 29)
By Chuck Doud
The Madera Tribune
There’s no question that the governor and the Legislature have contributed to California’s budget crisis, but if you want to see the biggest contributor, you might want to go take a look in the mirror.
First, let’s look at Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. When he was elected, he swore he would “blow up the boxes” to eliminate state waste. But most of the waste he talked about is still around. For example, when he lowered the vehicle license tax to the tune of $5 billion, he made no effort to lower spending by a commensurate amount.
Instead of bringing special interests under control, as he said he would when running in the recall election against then-Gov. Gray Davis, he has pretty well let them have their way.
The Legislature, with both houses controlled by Democrats, is unable to make significant cuts without incurring the wrath of big Democrat supporters, which include labor unions and minorities. For their part, Republicans have decided that any tax increase, particularly one on business or high earners, is a bad one, and they are standing firm. The result so far has been gridlock.
But the voters are the biggest offenders. Only 23 percent turned out at the special election in May which was to help solve the budget problem, if only temporarily. Those who did turn out voted down the proposals, which had been offered by the Legislature as a stop gap in hopes of an economic recovery. Perhaps voters either stayed home or voted no because they want to see a train wreck in Sacramento, or they didn’t believe the state has a problem.
The state will solve the problem temporarily by issuing warrants — a form of IOU on which interest must be paid — instead of checks. If banks accept the warrants as checks, all will be well for a while longer. If they don’t accept them, then the trouble will really start.
Budget solved in 1 Hour
Lets consolidate the prisons by opening the gates every other month on a rotational basis. For those who stay they can be moved to one or two prisons that remain open.
For those who left prison we will give you a bus ticket out of state or you can live within Ca. and become a good citizen by informing the County Sheriff where you’re living. If you decide to return to your old ways, the citizens who fear for the life will take care of the situation.
Law enforcement will enjoy the help with their reports and the funeral home will welcome the new business.