C omparison with neighbors is rationalization
Assemblyman John S. Wisniewski (D-19) wrote in the March 10 issue of the Suburban that there are alternative solutions to Gov. Jon Corzine's plans for addressing the state's dire financial crisis ("Praises Governor, Offers Alternative Solutions to Crisis," Your Turn guest column).

In funding the alternative solutions, Mr. Wisniewski, in his letter and on other occasions, offered the public an increase in the gas tax "that would bring the state's per-mile toll and per-gallon gas tax more in line with national averages and neighboring states."

If that comparison is supposed to palliate the public and make just another tax more amenable, the effort is a failure. The public is not interested in equating its woes to the woes of its neighbors. If it is, then let us lower our outrageous real-estate taxes - the highest in the nation - to the levels of our neighbors. Comparison with our neighbors is not justification; it's rationalization.

Mr. Wisniewski does allow that if all else fails, then consideration should be given to serious cuts in state spending. As in the private sector, this really should be the priority and not a fallback.

Assemblymen Vince Polistina and John Amodeo, both Republicans representing District 2, Atlantic County, have introduced a measure barring health coverage for elected officials who serve part time, defined as earning less than $50,000. That would remove most mayors, all legislators, etc.

The above is a major breakthrough, a concrete proposal. Mr. Wisniewski is encouraged to give his full support to this measure.

Donald M. Gallagher Parlin section of Sayreville