March 21, 2009 in Letters

Stimulus funds needed now

The Spokesman-Review
 

The word “stimulus” indicates an attempt to invigorate or incite to action. Stimulus funds were intended to provide jobs now, not a rainy day fund for the future. Immediate action is needed to get people back to work and spur reinvestment.

How can Idaho’s state schools superintendent Tom Luna, let alone Gov. Butch Otter, suggest holding back education stimulus funds in Idaho?

Without an educated citizenry, Idaho will continue to fall behind other states in attracting jobs requiring educated workers. Studies show businesses locate where employee families can count on good schools and where schools are turning out well-educated local workers.

Our two leaders’ turning “stimulus” funds into “on-hold” funds appears to be a blatant attack on our schools, our schoolchildren and all of the dedicated professional and support staff who work in our schools.

At one time the governor threatened to not accept stimulus funds. Now, politically, he sees them as a bailout for his administration if future funding runs short. By not allowing the funds to be used as intended, Otter might be violating federal intent. The federal government should withdraw the funds if they are to be kept for “a rainy day.” It’s raining now.

Gail Guetschow

Kooskia, Idaho

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