Figuring the budget

Re “Budget panel’s choices ensure a fight,” June 17

As a small part of the budget solution, a long-overdue tax on oil company extraction and an increase in the tax on sales of tobacco are, once again, met with the Republican mantra that “this is not the time for a tax increase.”

We heard that same tune during the economic boom.

Let’s see: A tax on Big Oil and Big Tobacco, or eliminating child healthcare programs, aid to the elderly and libraries? Tough choice? Not for me and many Californians.

The governor and Republican state legislators need to wake up, pass a budget that is balanced with selective program cuts and selective tax increases, and act responsibly for the benefit of all.

Ken Goldman

Beverly Hills

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Well, here we go again. Fiscal Armageddon is upon us. But this time, I really don’t care.

Do I speak for others too when I declare myself burned out watching our dysfunctional legislators and governor fight rather than resolve the budget crises?

This time I am going to just relax and watch all those state services -- which I don’t really need -- cease to exist.

My driver’s license doesn’t expire until 2013, so, nope, I don’t need the DMV. I will survive without travel to our state parks this summer -- Arizona is beautiful.

Construction of new carpool lanes is so disruptive to my commute that I won’t mind the work stoppage. And I’m sure we have too many teachers.

So let’s sit back and join the Legislature in watching the state implode. If the legislators aren’t worried, then neither am I.

William Goldman

Palos Verdes Estates