Perennial Budget Woes!!$$
The Issue: The inability of the legislature to compromise on the current fiscal year’s budget.
Our View: This indecision cascades down to handcuffing functions of the most essential agencies.
If lawmakers are wary of their constitutional obligations, it stands to reason that the consideration of a fiscal year’s budget would culminate in a compromise so the CNMI can move on.
It seems, however, that lawmakers have used the so-called “continuing resolution” syndrome as a tool of convenience to cushion personal intransigence. In its simplest form, this indecision is nothing more than an abrogation of their constitutional responsibility.
Indeed, the CNMI is at a juncture when its usually fat treasury has shrunk beyond recognition. Thus, the uncompromising though adolescent feud among the three senatorial districts in how to divide a very small pie.
Unfortunately, we’re dealing with politicians some of whom are stubborn and shamefully shallow and can’t see beyond pet projects. There remains the “picnic attitude” right smack in the middle of an economic crisis that has yet to hit rock bottom.
One side of Capital Hill faintly preaches austerity while the other thinks it’s still fiesta time and can afford to splurge on hard to come by pennies, nickels and dime. Herein lies the gridlock, riddled with provincial interest over the more urgent Marianas-wide needs.
If the CNMI government can’t even resolve its medical bills in Honolulu hospitals to ensure the recovery of medical referral patients, why is the legislature pushing for bonus pay for retirees? Understandably, it’s an election year, but need we sacrifice the welfare of the majority in favor of a small group of retirees, many of whom are gainfully employed in the private sector?
Gentlemen, it’s time to employ reasoned analysis, including ridding your entrenched minds that all is well right smack in the middle of a deepening crisis. It’s time to turn warped visions into reality check. Si Yuus Maase`!
