Why we love our legislators

Well, folk here we are. In the thick of a budget crisis that has forced the State of Minnesota to shut down.  The State Legislature is blaming the Governors Office of demanding ( of all things ) a mild, small, tax hike on the wealthiest citizens in the state.
The legislature doesn’t want that because 90% of them are the wealthiest citizens in the state.

It tickles me some to observe the state government doing what it is doing.  The State Legislative leaders blaming the Governor’s Office for reckless spending,  increasing taxes,  and poor oversight.  It sort of reminds me of my alcoholic brother in law who has blamed everybody else for his drinking problem and continues to live in his denial about his addiction.  How did this state get so far in debt?  From what I have read in the Star-Tribune the State Legislature is saying it was the Governor’ Office that got us in this financial mess. But, wait a minute, does the state have a constitution?  Sure it does!! ( At least that is what we were taught in our civics class).  And what body of the Minnesota State government is responsible for making spending laws?  (Just a question that seems to be begging an answer).  According to some of my failed students, it was the Governor’s Office that had the power create spending bills. Sorry, wrong answer!!!.  Is it the Supreme Court?  NO, try again.  Must be the State Legislature (most of which came out of the State House of Representatives).  Bingo, go to the head of the class. 

Can the budget problem be solved?

According to the Department of Revenue only 44,000 taxpayers would be effected by the Governor’s proposed budget.  How many million pay taxes in this state?  I can understand the concept of “no new taxes” but to lay this burden on those with fixed incomes, or those who are struggling, or to cut education (which is the budding fruit of our future), give me a break!!! This doesn't sound like the American Way to me.

It seems to me that if the legislature wanted to cut spending and balance the budget they should think about cutting out some of the bureaucratic hierarchy as well as cutting the legislatures health insurance and benefit plan.

It has been reported that present and former legislators may jump into their health plan when they need it and then jump out when they don’t need it.  I want to tell you  that as a senior citizen this would be a great benefit for me, but I guess only the law makers can get this very expensive plan.

As far as the bureaucrary is concern.  Why couldn’t the law makers cut each department's top officials in half.  Not those who actually do the work but those who administer their departments.  This state is fat on top and could do with a weight loss program. Starting with all departments.

At least that's my opinion