February 26, 2009

WE’RE NOT THE ONLY ONES RAISING CONCERNS ABOUT THE IMPACTS OF AN “ALL-CUTS” BUDGET

Here’s part of what Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen of the 10th District says in her latest e-newsletter to her constituents:

“Unfortunately, using a ‘cuts only’ approach to close the gap between state revenues and state spending isn’t as easy as it may sound. We wouldn’t be able to save enough through cuts even if we eliminated our entire state’s correctional system, our entire higher education system, all care for our seniors, and all care for those with developmental disabilities!

“We also need to recognize that spending reductions alone can actually harm our economy.

“Economics professor Dick Startz of the University of Washington estimates that every $1 billion reduction in annual state government spending during the recession will cost Washington about 15,000 public and private sector jobs.”

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