Letter: Replace the state legislators proposing free community college educations

I am astounded to read that two legislators have proposed “free” community college educations for students in Washington.

In a state where the Legislature is being fined $100,000 per day for failing to fully fund K-12 education, where there is need for monies for the mental health system, where the foster care system needs an overhaul, and where the state patrol is in crisis and losing personnel, these legislators propose another expensive program. Where do they think they will get the money? Oh, that is simple. They will propose raising taxes, fees, or they will shift funds from another program which will eventually lead to another crisis.

Why not work on solving the problems that exist rather than creating new programs? I realize that would be an innovative idea, which seems to elude them, but try it. The citizens of this state deserve a more clear-eyed and practical approach to problems. However, if legislators continue to do what they are doing now the answer is clear. Vote them out and replace them.

This story was originally published February 7, 2016 at 5:41 PM with the headline "Letter: Replace the state legislators proposing free community college educations."