While I will agree with Republican gubernatorial primary candidate Pete Hoekstra, and my congressman Dave Camp 90% of the time, I respectfully must disagree with their decision Sept 22, 2009 on H.R.3548. There is no doubt in my mind that their votes were sincere, and out of concern for Michiganders left without jobs, but I disagree that their efforts provide any long term benefits to the recipients and taxpayers alike.
Even in light of Michigan’s troubling unemployment numbers, extending unemployment benefits at a cost to taxpayers merely provides more fuel for encouraging a further recession. The state becomes a crutch while workers wait for some miracle to turn the economy around. While workers wait, they become more dependent on government process, and less self sufficient.
I am not merely complaining however.
Occasionally, those of us who speak out against government “benevolence” as a solution to economic woes and events are chastised for apparent lack of solutions to issues such as these. Aside from the obvious solution as being non participatory in the misguided social manipulations often referred to as safety nets, there are other simple solutions for problems such as these that might well be immediately regarded as cruel or heartless, but could have immediate and lasting positive effects for the economy.
Read my column Michigan Business Done Right – “Solution” on Wednesday at RightMichigan.Com for a little different look on what tough decisions can be made that would provide FULL employment inside of one year if implented.
