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"Oh, I don't blame Congress," said a famous humorist years ago. "If I had $600 billion at my disposal, I'd be irresponsible, too."
Let's hope being "irresponsible" is not the case this year with Utah lawmakers. They have nearly $11 billion dollars at their disposal. It's the most they've ever had. And more than a billion of it is so-called "surplus" or one-time money.
With that kind of money on the table, it behooves lawmakers, indeed, to be responsible.
In KSL's view responsible lawmakers will find ways to more effectively fund public and higher education. It must be a priority. They have a unique opportunity to do something truly significant for the children of Utah.
Responsible lawmakers will thoughtfully assess the state's burgeoning infrastructure needs and how best to accommodate the rapidly expanding population. They will fund vital projects in ways that will get the most "bang for the buck."
Responsible lawmakers will caringly consider the special needs of the most vulnerable among us and not selfishly withhold vital life-sustaining services.
Foremost, responsible lawmakers will always remember that the money they're dispensing is not theirs. Rather, it belongs to the people, and citizens generally don't mind their elected officials spending the public's money, as along as they do it responsibly.
