posted May 8, 2008
The House of Representatives passed legislation that would raise taxes on domestic energy companies, and our congressmen don't seem to realize how this misguided bill will hurt all of us.
Most citizens deal with the rising costs of fuel and electricity by adjusting driving habits and implementing more energy efficient practices, but they don't realize the impact rising fuel and electricity costs have on local school systems.
Many school systems are already struggling with limited budgets that do not include an allowance for fuel equal to the devastating increase in prices that the nation has experienced. As local school systems adjust budgets to meet the demands of rising fuel and electricity costs essential to transporting students and heating/cooling facilities, cuts may be made in other areas.
Some school systems may only be affected by the need to cut back on field trips and other extracurricular activities. Other school systems, especially in rural areas where the tax base is small and bus routes are typically longer, may be forced to cut back on the number of teachers, support personnel, textbooks, programs, technology and instructional supplies. Some schools may see fewer new books in libraries, fewer opportunities for students that are not mandated by the state and a lack of personnel/funding to properly maintain, improve or repair facilities.
Children are our country's greatest resource and their education is imperative. Simply put, our children cannot afford the burden of taxing the domestic energy companies.
Sandy Lee
Former Marshall County School System Principal and Supervisor
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