Fixed-light voucher replies stir readers
Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone talks about the county's broken lights voucher program during a news conference at an auto repair shop in Patchogue last week. Credit: Newsday/John Paraskevas
I found it sad and disturbing that some people would oppose a voucher program intended to help motorists repair a broken brake light or taillight as a “waste of taxpayer money” ["Free car fixes? Don't vouch for it," Letters, April 26]. Heaven forbid anyone gets a "handout.” If this program, which is funded by a government grant, a philanthropist and the Lights On! Foundation, can ease the financial burden for some and keep our roads safer, I think it’s a win-win.
The letter writers all seemed to be put off by “free stuff.” Do they object when we bail out our irresponsible financial institutions for bad behavior or give subsidies to huge corporations who skirt paying taxes because they can? I think their concerns might be misplaced.
Pat DiSalvo, Copiague
Several months ago, I was told by a neighbor that my brake light was out. I went online and bought two replacement bulbs for $5; that’s right -- for two! I watched an online video and replaced the light. I am a single woman and a senior citizen. If I can do it, anyone can. A voucher for 250 bucks?! And where is the responsibility of the owner to keep his car in good repair? It’s not hard.
A better idea: How about fixing the roads?! I drive the Long Island Expressway every day to work, taking my life in my hands just changing lanes. Maybe the money should be spent fixing the roads and not on a $2 light that you can get a $250 voucher for.
Bonnie M. Costa, Kings Park
It isn’t fair for us to have to fix our own cars and possibly have less money in the bank than those who get vouchers. What’s next, free vouchers for gas?
Many New York State residents are moving because they can’t afford the high taxes. Albany should wake up and try to help all of us with free vouchers — for our taxes, gas, electric, etc. I worked all my life to get what I needed so now can I get my taillights fixed? Nope.
Geri Strebel, East Moriches
