Dad and His Issues

Dad (Lester) sent this into the Tri-City Herald Newspaper and it was published this past Thursday as a Letter to the Editor. See below:

Thursday, Sep. 25, 2008

Revenue enhancement

Easy ways to increase state revenues:

1. Start taxing "slow" food again (after all, we're still taxing "fast" food). The way to sell this: Every dime we make with every bite you take.

2. When Initiative 1000 passes, charge a $10,000 processing fee. The way to sell this: In spite of all our efforts, you only die once.

3. Require vehicle license plate replacement annually. The way to sell this: Our prisons are so crowded, the "residents" need more work opportunities.

4. While we're at it, require driver's license renewal annually. The way to sell this: Driving is a privilege; get over it.

5. Pass a voters tax. $1 to vote on referendums, $2 to vote on initiatives. Voting for increases in taxes will be free, $100 to vote for governor. The way to sell this: The majority of voters live in King County; they can afford it.

6. Increase gas taxes again. The way to sell this: With gasoline prices so high, cars are driving fewer miles and roads will need less repair.

7. Project a $1 billion windfall for the next biennium. Spend it all. Project a $3 billion shortfall and implement steps 1-6 above. The way to sell this: None needed. It works every time.

LESTER SOUSLEY, Kennewick