Pubdate: Tue, 14 Oct 2008
Source: Dalles Chronicle, The (OR)
Copyright: 2008 Eagle Newspapers Inc.
Contact: http://www.thedalleschronicle.com/opinions/submit_letter.shtml
Website: http://www.thedalleschronicle.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3382
Author: Sandee Burbank

NO ON 57 & 61

To the editor,

This election we vote on two similar Measures (57 and 61), which would
put more people in jail longer for committing non-violent crimes.
Measure 57, referred by the legislature, will be less expensive than
Measure 61, but neither provides for funding.  Who is going to pay for
this unknown expense if either measure passes?

The sponsors are counting on fearful voters saying yes to any measure
that promises more punishment for criminals, without thought of the
expense. Given the state of the economy, Oregon voters are going to
give serious consideration to any increase in taxes, wanting defined
costs and certain results.

With the price of everything going up dramatically, it is hard to
estimate how much Measures 57 or 61 will cost Oregonians.  It will
definitely mean either an increase in taxes or taking money to meet
this expense from already under funded, existing programs such as
social services, education, law enforcement, health care, our failing
infrastructure and more.  Neither measure deserves our support.

"Where's the money and how much is it?"  No one knows, but the
taxpayer will ultimately be held responsible.  Is this how you want
your taxes spent? Wouldn't this money be better spent stimulating and
challenging minds through education, job skills training, drug
treatment and helping those in need of health care?

My grandmother used to say, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound
of cure".  Following her lead, I'll vote NO on BOTH MEASURES 57 AND
61.

Please join me.

Sandee Burbank

Mosier
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake