With all the businesses and products that have tax-exempt status in the state -- ostrich farmers? -- I figured that legislators would look at these items as one means to help with the budget.
But instead of changing the tax scheme, we are going to cut programs and put more burden on municipalities to absorb the difference or stop the service. Makes sense, right? The state can now claim the honor of spending the least on services and education while providing more tax breaks for private industry and diverting public money to private schools. Those in Tallahassee need to represent all people, not just those who benefit them.
DEBBIE GRAPER, Cutler Bay
Legislators should have focused their efforts on those who pose a far greater danger than motorcyclists popping wheelies.
As a motorcyclist, I know that one of the greatest dangers on the road is not posed by daring motorcyclists, but rather by inattentive drivers talking on cellphones. Drivers having phone conversations are not completely attuned to the road and to what is going on around them.
Many more lives are jeopardized by this dangerous practice than by the few motorcyclists who pop wheelies.
LISA HECK, Miami
Once again our state lawmakers, in their infinite wisdom, have been shortsighted by not giving Tri-Rail adequate funding. Despite an economic downturn and an energy crisis, the lack of funding will severely cut the weekday and weekend schedules.
As a result, already financially stressed riders will return to their automobiles, meaning more cars on the highways, more gas consumption and pollution, more wear and tear on roads and economic hardship on many who depend on public transportation.
Public transportation should be encouraged, not eliminated. One wonders what, or if, legislators were thinking.
LOIS KAHN, Coral Gables
