NIC: Budgets and laws

Mike Patrick did a great job in pointing out the repercussions of not “following the law.”

Rep. Amador’s statement could be construed as a threat, reflective of a past and current presidential “playbook;” do as we say or we will cut off funding.

If the state Legislature passed a law that directed all Kootenai and Bonner County gun owners to register their firearms, would we comply? It was a legitimate law, correct?

Mike Patrick article of Sept. 26:

“Amador noted that the state — which makes the laws — is providing about $18 million to NIC this year. That doesn’t include another $3 million in coronavirus funds.

“I don’t think it’s beneficial for us to cut their budget,” Amador said, noting that threatening budget cuts if all laws aren’t precisely followed is a political game he’d prefer not to play.

“I think you’ve got to focus on what’s best for the community and the students at NIC,” he said.

But overall, Amador recommends elected officials following the law and, if they hate it, work to change it.”

The problem with the above statement from Rep Amador, is that any suggested change in law could only be realized after the damage was done.

I suggest that mask mandates, along with vaccine mandates is parallel to the “Tax Stamp” debate of 1765 and the creation of the Sons of Liberty.

If honest information, without an agenda, had been presented, both pro and con, we would not be where we are today.

The government/leadership should tread lightly.

JOHN SPENCER

Hayden