Letter to the Editor: Special Funds Often Raided

According to a recent Federal Communications Commission report, 13 states raided more than $135 million last year from their 911 funds -- with Hawaii redirecting $16 million, the third-highest amount of any state. ("$16M from e911 fund used to balance budget," Star-Advertiser, Aug. 20).

Raiding tax revenues from funds for 911 services, roads or any other programs with a dedicated tax stream for reasons other than their intended purpose is bad policy.

Diverting these taxes from their original purpose only creates slush funds for big-spending politicians. That is why taxpayers should be wary about approving earmarked tax increases in the first place.

John Nothdurft
The Heartland Institute, Chicago, Ill.

This letter to the editor was originally published in the Honolulu Star Advertiser.