LEGALIZED SYRINGES, NEEDLES A TAXPAYER-FUNDED SCAM

Dear Editor,

I read the editorial pages daily with interest and awe. I would like to
respond to recent events. I am a registered nurse and an employed taxpayer.

How will the idea that legalized syringes and needles to known drug addicts
effectively reduce the spread of infectious, deadly and costly diseases
such as AIDS/HIV or hepatitis? Honestly, does anyone really believe that a
strung-out cocaine, heroine or methamphetamine addict is responsible to
properly dispose of his or her drug paraphernalia? This is the most
ridiculous taxpayer-funded scam since we debated what the definition of
"is" was! Assume these drug users could be responsible. They would seek
treatment for their addictions, thus eliminating the need for my tax
dollars to provide them with the tools to continue destructive
behaviors! Certainly, the writer of this proposal hasn't thought of the
employees, citizens, children and state-funded agencies affected by this
proposal or bill signed by our governor.

Think of the sanitation worker who gets stuck with an improperly disposed
needle. Or how about the grandparent whose young grandchild finds a used
needle in the park sandbox?

The best plan for reducing waste in the Illinois budget would be to let Rod
pay for his own transportation to and from "work" in Springfield! When I
think about it, I have never been offered taxpayer-funded transportation to
a job so my family wouldn't have to be "uprooted" for four years! I didn't
vote for Rod and am anxiously awaiting an appropriate candidate to replace him!

Kandace L. Hatcher
Williamsville