We are about to head into our fourth week of the Democrat walk-out—four weeks, or 28 days, of only three Democrats present and the people’s business not moving forward. This is very disappointing to hear, isn’t it?
We have heard several estimates of how much a week of session costs, and some say as high as $90,000 per week. Although that money is allocated into the state budget, there is no excuse to waste time and money.
But who doesn’t want to get the most out of every dollar they spend? I don’t know anyone who would prefer to get one item for a dollar, when they could have had two for the same price? My point being, we have this money allocated for a reason, and that is to be used for legislative session and business to be conducted.
If business doesn’t get done, then we will have have to start discussing a special session. A special session costs will cost the state of Indiana more than $25,000 per day. The money for a special session is not allocated into the state budget and, therefore, would be at the taxpayers’ expense. At a time of economic turmoil, why would the democrats want to give an additional bill to taxpayers?
It is disappointing that the House Democrats have chosen to run away from their responsibilities, especially when they are elected officials. We are, and should, be held to a higher standard, and a majority of us take that seriously.
Since last Monday, the start of week three of the walk-out, we have been fining the absent Democrats $250 per session day they are absent. In addition, we have taken away their per diem or daily allotment paid by the state. If they aren’t here, they shouldn’t be paid.
The only way we can wave those fines would be to take a majority vote on the House floor. Rest assured, I do not plan to vote to wave those fines.
Another issue I would like to address is who is paying for the Democrats’ trip to Illinois. Under state law, neither party is allowed to raise funds while in legislative session. Is the state Democratic Party paying for this trip or are they getting their funds from outside interest groups? Are these actions legal? These are questions, that I think need to be answered.
I have remained silent and have not been vocal in my frustration, but enough is enough. Regardless of party, we are elected officials who are held to a higher standard. A standard that means we should be working for all Hoosier citizens,of all classes.
The individuals that walked out four weeks ago, and remain gone have no respect for the legislative process or the people they serve. I would appreciate if they would come back and show me and their constituents different.
By the democrats walking out it also affects our district. They have shut down the democratic process for District 58 as well. This kind of behavior is outrageous.
If that’s too harsh to hear, then I must be doing a good job in expressing how I feel.
