Wednesday, February 5, 2003

A few weeks ago our Republican governor proposed increasing the tax on tobacco products. There was a tremendous outcry of opposition to increasing taxes, any taxes. The governor had to say that he would withdraw the request if the money could be found elsewhere.

Now, the Democratically lead state House proposes renewing the tax on food. Where is the opposition? Now is the time to scream no tax increases.

The fact is that the state government, much like many others, is facing a budget shortage and must raise money. However, what makes more sense, taxing a bad habit or taxing a necessity? No one has to have cigarettes to live. Everyone has to have food. If food must be taxed to balance the budget, so be it. But if we tax food, we darn sure better tax tobacco.

Stephen Ott

Fayetteville