The state Legislature is trying to pass a modification of term limits. Admittedly, term limits is a stupid policy because inexperienced lawmakers become more dependent on lobbyists. Although this particular legislation limits the total number of years a legislator can serve, it will allow a number of powerful lawmakers to retain their positions a bit longer. Today's Sacramento bee reports that hospitals, drug companies, doctors, dentists and others in the health care debate has put up about a fifth of the roughly $2.6 million collected by those advocating the change. Not coincidentally, California is in the midst of a debate about adopting a new health care policy. Single-payer has been deflected, but the Democrats have been modestly better bill than what Schwarzenegger proposes. Presumably, the Democrats will go easier on the healthcare industry in return for a few more years in office. Such is the nature of democracy!
-- Michael Perelman Economics Department California State University Chico, CA 95929 Tel. 530-898-5321 E-Mail michael at ecst.csuchico.edu michaelperelman.wordpress.com
