THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, February 3, 1995 TAG: 9502030009
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 37 lines
The president of the League of Women Voters of South Hampton Roads recently praised the rejection of the balanced-budget amendment by the previous Congress and suggested that the new 104th Congress should do the same (``Say no to balanced-budget amendment,'' letter, Jan. 19). The argument against is based on a fear that Congress will be stripped of its power to respond to future natural, economic or corporate crises.
Unfortunately, federal deficits are still with us and are projected to dramatically increase in the coming years unless Congress takes bold action to reverse the direction of our national debt. The balanced-budget amendment represents an opportunity for the American public to have a voice in this critical element of our future.
The league objects to the amendment because it doesn't address ``crucial questions.'' The U.S. Constitution simply sets forth fundamental principles upon which our laws are based. Many of its 26 amendments consist of a single sentence. The Equal Rights Amendment was clearly and concisely stated in only 24 words.
Even though the ERA was passed by Congress, it was subjected to vigorous debate by the American people, which resulted in its failure to be ratified by the states. The same fate could fall upon the BBA, but the opportunity for debate will encourage public participation. It seems that the League of Women Voters would welcome such an opportunity.
M. E. SEAY
Virginia Beach, Jan. 21, 1995 by CNB