State Budget Deficit

The governor faces very difficult decisions in trying to balance the budget. He is faced with problems not of his making, but in his campaign he assured us that he could solve them. His proposals for slashing welfare benefits will certainly appeal to his main constituency: wealthy business people. They will also appeal to the middle class, who are living from payday to payday. Perhaps some of the people in the shrinking job market will hope a safety net remains for them as things get tougher.

Even living in lowest-cost housing and shopping very carefully, the welfare parent usually runs out of money before the next check. And we are to cut this 25%? The welfare parent cannot afford a newspaper to find the bargains. Nor can that parent afford to go to various markets to take advantage of bargains or coupon shopping.

More than 20 years ago, the courts struck down the regulations requiring durational residence as a condition for receiving welfare. As for working, many would if there were jobs available that would pay for child care, transportation, other expenses of employment and leave enough for bare necessities. Welfare living is a demeaning experience that is not an attraction for many. But while the rate of unemployment goes up, the governor blames the recipients for not working. Provide the jobs, governor, and see if they aren’t filled.

RAY BRACY

Tustin