Take government hands out of business
Given New York's $8 billion deficit and rotten economy, it's time to remove the dead hand of government.
The proper role of government is to protect God-given rights to life, liberty and property. Only a free market economy can ensure prosperity and freedom. We must make New York the least taxed and regulated state.
To attract business, capital and jobs, we must repeal laws, taxes and regulations hindering oil and gas drilling, mining, forestry, farming, power generation and every type of business and service. Forget state grants, bonds, loans, seed funds, Empire Zones, tax credits and job programs.
Abolish the state Economic Development Corp. and local IDAs, which hinder free markets and destroy jobs and businesses by giving millions in bond money and tax breaks to special interests.
Abolish the Adirondack Park Agency, which hinders growth and violates property rights. Transfer legitimate functions to the state Department of Environmental Conservation. Sell and lease state land for development.
Replace progressive income taxes with a flat tax; end business taxes; cap property taxes; slash the 46-cent gasoline tax; end energy-wasting subsidies for ethanol.
Abolish the Thruway Authority, which hinders commerce; close the State Canal, an unaffordable relic; defund high-speed rail plans _ government trains run on red ink; abolish rent control, which destroys housing and property rights.
Make ours the 23rd Right-to-Work state, increasing competition, securing our right to join or not join unions; and repeal the state minimum wage law. Government has no more right to set the price of labor than bread.
Many economic woes stem from Washington. We must exercise our states' rights under the U.S. Constitution's 10th Amendment and refuse unconstitutional federal mandates on health, education, welfare, housing, employment and agriculture.
Legislators fixated on micromanaging New York versus repealing onerous laws, taxes and regulations should resign.
Robert E. Dufresne
Rensselaer
Fear for future of school community
When parents met at the American Legion Hall to discuss negative facets of Delhi Central School, I will not be there. I have both lauded and expressed concern for the school, in writing, and/or in person, at different times, including most recently.
Let's pretend that a group could successfully force the resignation of a principal. What quality administrator will apply for that position? What will our students have learned?
June looms. I, too, have a real concern for a school that has produced many fine students, parents and community members. I fear activity that may be fractious for them, and the school.
Janine Bray
Bovina Center
