I-1401 could be costly

Why would anyone consider spending $815,000 of our tax dollars per year for five officers and a detective, the example used in the Initiative 1401 fiscal impact statement (sign me up for one of those jobs if I-1401 passes), to chase an unknown amount (maybe none) of criminals trafficking illegal animal products in Washington?

To quote the measure facts: “There are no data available to estimate the number of felony or misdemeanor convictions that would occur statewide in a year or how many convictions would result in jail time.”

Federal law already makes it illegal to sell, import or trade in any endangered species. As it would be a function of Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife enforcement, let’s have the current staff handle enforcement until data supports otherwise. On the other hand, you could let federal officers do their job.

The 2015 Voters’ Pamphlet explains the possible costs attached to I-1401 that television ads don’t mention.

Denny Soller

Spokane Valley