INMATES: A story to inflame

The “California inmates study at 1st college based behind bars” story run on April 20 can’t be coincidental timing as the Biden regime announces its plans for student debt forgiveness. I’m not sure which story makes me angrier.

While I agree that upon release, (former) prisoners are probably less likely to reoffend if they’ve attained skills that should enable them to gain employment, I have a big problem with them not sharing in the financial responsibility of their education.

These folks have chosen to commit crimes that land some of them in federal prison for decades, costing taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars. Now, we’re expected to pay for their education too? One might say that’s rewarding bad behavior. They should be charged with paying that debt.

As for student loan forgiveness…ole Joe has caved to the whiners. A college education is optional. The potentially enormous debt should be part of the decision of where and if one should pursue an advanced education. And what about those that work extra hours or take on another job, just to pay that debt? Rather than eliminating their responsibility completely, student loans should be at a lower interest rate or interest free. Perhaps tuition should have a cap. While the student may be relieved of the debt, the debt is not forgiven. Passing it on to taxpayers is wrong.

Relieving people of responsibility also relieves them of honor and integrity.

KAREN MILACEK

Post Falls