Texas is historically a “red state” but we’re in danger of becoming a state in the red if Republicans don’t govern with the conservative principles on which they were elected.
Representative Jim Pitts, R-Waxahachie has co-authored a H.C.R 29 with two Democrats from El Paso that would expand the reach of government by allowing Texas to apply for aid from the federal government through the U.S. House passed stimulus package.
This is a policy move with repercussions Rep. Pitts and other legislators have not addressed, at least not publicly. The bailout package, which has yet to pass through the U.S. Senate, does allocate funds to the state but not without conditions.
Stipulations placed on the federal dollars will range from expanding current spending (such as growing our unemployment programs to include part time layoffs) to creating new ones, programs to allegedly stimulate the economy. The result will invariably be a greater impact on our state’s spending, demanding higher taxes, with little to show in terms of economic growth.
During these times of economic hardship it is of vital importance that Republicans adhere to principles that keep government small and allow individuals the opportunity to succeed or fail on their own.
Quite simply, legislators need to spend less and tax less. This can be done by keeping welfare programs at current levels and reducing burdensome property and business taxes. Conversely if we accept bailout money we will be forced to grow programs and increase taxes to stay afloat which will only extend the term of our indebtedness.
Texas has to stick to the conservative principles that have lead to our general prosperity.
