Re: “Don’t forget the human cost when balancing state budgets” (March 10, Opinion):
From my work in public well being, I do know that funding for early studying and wraparound companies for weak households is an funding that can save sources and lives in the long run. It’s one among many crucial prevention measures at risk of being eradicated.
I’m involved concerning the influence of Gov. Bob Ferguson’s proposed $49.2 million minimize in public well being funding. It will imply severe cuts in illness prevention throughout the state. Right here in King County, it contains monitoring and getting ready for chook flu, tuberculosis management, decreasing fecal air pollution in our rivers, and meals security protections for meals banks and soup kitchens serving our most weak group members. Public well being investments will save future sources and defend our well being.
Washington state has the second most regressive tax construction in our nation. Our lowest paid neighbors pay the most important share of their earnings in taxes (14%), whereas the wealthiest 1% pay simply 4%. We are able to select to take a position as an alternative of reducing important packages that stop illness.
Now could be the time for brand spanking new income proposals taxing our wealthiest Washingtonians and companies. We should be totally different from the opposite Washington. Spend money on wholesome children, not making billionaires richer.
Julie Horowitz, Seattle
