That said, I suggest there is a simple way to test the hypothesis that we can solve this.
Many of the part sof government have private counterparts. These include universities, colleges, prisons and hospitals.
In each of these cases studies have shown that
the actual cost of services is far lower in the state run institutions than in the private sector. I suspect the same is true for the State Police.
Similarly, I suggest .. again for a start, that you sum up all direct payments, not admin costs, to children, mothers, etc.
Note how all this comes together
colleges
prisons
hospital
welfare … al of these involve direct support to parts of our society.
So, take these budget items and add them up. For the moment, treat them as if they were necessary. If indeed there is no way that cutting costs in any of these sectors, then how much money is left in the “discretionary budget” where you believe there is a lot of fat?
I assume there other items NOT in the mandated budget (debt, federal, consitution) that we would bothe agree can nto be cut .. the Guv’s salary, heat and light for state buildings, slary for legislators … that probably are also unavoidable. BUT, even without correcting for these, I will buy you a beer at DL, a beer of your choice, if there is enough TOTAL money left in the sate budget to “pay” off this deficit.
Now suppose that I am right. Then we are back at Goldy’s argument. Cuts in hospitals, colleges and prisons have long term costs. In effect we are hurting folks today AND imposing increased costs on our children. Does that make sense?
I do not have the time to do the exercise, but if you do let me know how it comes out. If I am correct, then you do not need to pay me the beer . as you will have done the work.
Tx for being a good soul!
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