Taxes shouldn’t subsidize undocumented students
A Sept. 20 letter-writer argued “Florida has become the cruelest state under DeSantis.” The writer also asserted, “Now our lawmakers and education overseers do not want undocumented students in Florida to get a college education, a move that is narrow-minded and mean spirited.” In my view, Florida lawmakers are not against undocumented students getting a college education, just not at taxpayer expense. As one who does think Florida is the freest state, I applaud DeSantis and our lawmakers who are looking out for the tax-paying, law-abiding citizens of the state. As a reminder, DACA was created in 2012 by the Obama administration, providing temporary protection from deportation, but does not grant lawful immigration status, lawful permanent residency or a pathway to citizenship. Lt. Gov. Jay Collins stated, “Florida’s public universities are for students who are here legally. Period. Florida taxpayers should not be expected to subsidize opportunities for people who broke the law to come here.”
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The letter claims the laws “lack compassion and help no one.” It appears to me the laws are compassionate and helpful to taxpayers and those who believe in the rule of law.
— Mark W. Needham, Clermont
What matters after the election
As the next election approaches, so much attention is focused on whether Democrats or Republicans will hold the majority in Congress. But I believe we should be asking a more important question: Will the people we elect actually do the job they were elected to do?
Regardless of which party is in control, Congress should serve the country and all Americans — not one person, one party, or one political agenda.
If Democrats become the majority, I hope they resist the temptation to spend their time going after Donald Trump or others because of past political battles. If Republicans hold the majority, I hope they show that same restraint. Accountability is important, but simply having the power to do something doesn’t necessarily make it right.
Our country has real challenges that deserve attention: the economy, Social Security, affordable healthcare, education, housing and protecting our environment. These issues affect Americans across political lines.
We should be able to disagree without treating one another as enemies.
The words on the Statue of Liberty remind us of an America built around freedom and opportunity: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”
Maybe that’s where we need to start again.
There will always be another election and another political battle. What we need now is leadership willing to put the country ahead of the fight.
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It’s time to find a way to unite — not continue tearing each other apart.
— Marna Lucillo, Clermont
Who winds up paying?
The Florida Association of Realtors will spend $10 million to support passage of Amendment 3.
It seems that the thinking is that if real estate taxes are lower, home sales will increase. That’s a view with blinders on. About 40% of property taxes paid on homesteaded properties go to the schools, which are not affected by this homestead exemption change.
The other 60% pays for local services such as fire safety, emergency response, road repairs and libraries. With a decrease in revenue, some or all of these services will be cut back.
Cities with significant commercial property will feel less effect from Amendment 3 than cities with little commercial property. Some smaller communities might be unable to operate due to lack of revenue.
Gov. Ron DeSantis would love for you to believe that your community is overspending. But the state took $10 million from a healthcare settlement and used it for political purposes and is now short $250 million for what is owed for Alligator Alcatraz.
There is clearly a need for a reduction in homeowner costs, but this is not it. It’s too much too fast, without enough study. Too much is at risk for the Realtors to justify their support.
— Richard Silver, Boynton Beach
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