The legislature is beginning its short session next month. I suggest the following for their consideration.
First, gun control: A red flag law, a limit on magazine capacities of five to 10 rounds, background checks for sale of all guns, a waiting period of perhaps three days. These measures wouldn’t prohibit someone from legally purchasing a gun.
Second, help the unhoused with creation of more affordable housing. Current development seems aimed at market pricing rather than what is affordable.
Third, a loan forgiveness program for medical, education and other needed occupations provided the people work in Maine for perhaps five to 10 years.
Fourth, more funding and more personnel are needed for child protective services.
Fifth, help should be available to both child and adult care providers. Many folks cannot work because of these family obligations.
Finally, if there is a tax cut it should be a small amount of the surplus. Any cut should be made at the lower end of the tax scale so everyone gets the benefit. Cuts should not primarily benefit those at the top of the scale.
Many citizens have more than one job, and they still have trouble affording the basics of rent, food and heat. The above list should be prioritized over tax cuts.
If the basics of life are not met, people cannot be expected to be fully productive. Students will not learn if they haven’t had a warm bed to sleep in or enough food to eat.
Stan Tetenman, Poland
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