Regarding Gov. Chris Gregoire’s proposed budget, I’m excited to see the governor considering new revenue sources. However, while $835 million in new revenue is a good start, I hope the Legislature will consider it only as a starting point.

Billions have already been cut in the last three years. There’s nothing left to cut without significant harm to our state and our families. It’s time that Washington’s values are reflected in our budget, and that means we need to stop cutting and instead end corporate tax breaks, close loopholes, and look at why those with the most means are paying the least in taxes.

If we continue cutting important programs like family planning, education and public safety, what kind of state will we have? A state where women and families who live paycheck to paycheck aren’t able to get the birth control they need to prevent an unintended pregnancy?

For those struggling families that are trying to responsibly take care of the children they already have, an unintended pregnancy can push them over the edge into hunger and even homelessness.

Further cuts threaten our families and our ability to recover from this recession. That’s not the Washington I know and love.

Adriana Diaz

Spokane