This op-ed by David Crane is particularly timely since we are in the midst of an election in which our two members of the State Legislature will likely be re-elected because there were no serious challengers.
TO READ THE ARTICLE CLICK HERE
They will, undoubtedly, consider their re-elections as approval of their jobs, but I doubt that is the case.
There has been no serious legislation proposed by either that I can point to as directed at easing the burden on taxpayers. Most of it has been "feel good" bills, much like we see on our Marin Supervisors agendas each and every week.
David Crane points out the "Big Three" issues confronting our state and burying taxpayers in debt:
- Pension costs
- Health insurance subsidies for retired employees
- Medi-Cal for low-income citizens
He goes on to offer workable solutions - solutions that should be at the top of Marc Levine and Mike McGuire's to-do lists.
In fact, Marin County and its cities could adopt the health care proposal and greatly reduce costs locally, freeing up funds for services and reducing the need for higher rates, fees and taxes. Our supervisors worked diligently to get Marin citizens enrolled in Covered California.
But again: Will they? Probably not, since this would mean angering the very people and unions that fund Legislators - and local officials - who toe the line and help perpetuate the status quo.
Evidently, staying in office is more important to them than righting the ship before it sinks.
Send them this article and demand a response.
Jody Morales