Rossi’s budget plan doesn’t pencil out

After serving 16 years in the state Senate, and knowing that Mr. Rossi served as chair of the Ways and Means Committee, I was first amused, then disgusted, that he claims to be able to divert $1 billion from the general fund revenue stream and “not raise taxes,” “protect the more vulnerable citizens in our state” and “improve our education system.”

Over 40 percent of the general fund goes to K-12 education ($12.1 billion); 11.1 percent goes to higher education ($3.3 billion); 37 percent goes to human services ($11 billion). All other budget areas, natural resources and general government, $3.3 billion. You do the math — where does the $1 billion come from? His ads now call Gov. Gregoire a “liar.” I learned in school that “Figures don’t Lie, but liars can figure.” Mr. Rossi’s transportation plan will either totally fail or there will be reductions in all of the areas he states that he supports. I believe that the citizens of this state will be best served if Gov. Gregoire is re-elected.

Larry L. Vognild

Everett