Michael, I believe we have all had this discussion before about Proposition 13, on another thread. I would argue that property taxes should be spread out fairly, and that it is weird that people living next door to each other in houses with the same evaluations end up paying widely different amounts. However, there are certainly reasonable arguments to be made on each side, and I definitely don't feel like arguing tonight.
My main point in bringing up Proposition 13, however, is that loss of tax revenues started a rapid decline in the quality of California's schools. Certainly all the upper middle class parents can volunteer in their children's classrooms and raise money for "extras" that used to be provided, and they are happy to do so. But what I am saying is that the state has an interest in providing quality public educations for all children, and that is not happening because children who are not fortunate enough to have these kinds of parents have really crummy, substandard schools as the result.
I believe the society will pay now, or later. It is much simpler and easier, and less expensive, to provide programs to ensure that children are nurtured prenatally, have regular medical care and learn in school, and go on to become productive citizens. Certainly there is a waste of human potential, and incredible psychic pain, inherent in skimping on optimal early childhood development, as well. I think children are innocent, and deserve some reasonable chance even if their parents are inadequate, and that a large, stable middle class is vital for the future of our society. But I am sure you have read enough of my posts to already know I think that way, and I don't want to bore you, Michael. ;^) |
