Rep. Bob Brookens? Capitol Ideas column (Page 5) is alarming in its reporting of the financial impact of Medicaid cuts on our mental health centers and nursing homes. What kind of state do our legislators imagine Kansas to be? Let?s consider the people groups affected most by targeted budget cuts: children (schools), the elderly (nursing homes) and the emotionally ill (mental health centers). Could there be a more complete list of the most vulnerable among us? Could the physically ill (hospitals) be far behind?
Yes, tightening the belt is fiscally responsible when revenue is down. At some point, though, it becomes morally irresponsible and reprehensible. How close to the abyss should we go? Have we already crossed over? ?DR
