A penny for plastic will surely grow
Andy Keller aka the Bag Monster, spreads awareness of the hazards of pastic bags at Jones Beach in September. Credit: Jim Staubitser
I read Erik Kulleseid's article regarding a one-cent fee on plastic grocery bags ["Pennies at a time can save our parks," Opinion, Feb. 25] and wondered if he really thinks that opening another door to our inept government to find a way into our pockets is a good idea.
Is it possible that he forgot that the federal income tax was pennies out of our paychecks when it started? Social Security was pennies from the employer and from the employee.
Sure it is only pennies now, but once it starts, we all know how people in power see these things. A penny now, maybe a nickel next year - and in a few years it will "only" be a dollar.
Mr. Kulleseid wants these funds "dedicated." I get it, like Social Security funds are dedicated? Or funds from off-track betting? OTB was supposed to provide money to our schools, and the last time I looked my school taxes were still going up.
It seems clear that no government agency can be trusted, and any new tax or fee ought to be scrutinized very closely, even if it is only pennies.
Gordon R. Cockrum
Islip
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 17: Olympics a possibility for Long Beach wrestler? On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks with Long Beach wrestler Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez about pursuing a third state title and possibly competing in the Olympics in 2028, plus Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week.
