Most of the ideas in the article would be nice, but are really just a dream. Let's take a look at some of them.
1. Giving 50% Tax Breaks During The Christmas Season
How do we pay for the lost tax revenue caused by reducing the taxes during the Holiday Season? The normal taxes on sales during the holiday season are counted on by our government to pay for other benefits. Also, considering that the total sales are much larger during the holiday season and therefore, the lost tax revenue would be larger than other times of the year. So, while this idea is nice, its just not practical.
2. Free Maternity Box To All New Mothers
The idea behind this idea is to give all babies an equal start in life, regardless of the wealth they are born into, and has helped Finland achieve one of the lowest infant mortality rates in the world. Again, a nice idea, but it will not help a baby get an equal start in life. Familes that can afford it will provide their baby with all the supplies needed, regardless of cost. In the U.S. low income families already are supplied with a lot of the things to get them started. When my daughters had their babies, they went home from the hospital with a large package of diapers, baby wipes, baby bottles, and some baby food. After that is used up, they will receive lots of free sample and coupons to replace the baby supplies they have used. And, of course, how will we pay for all this?
3. Free Subway Rides In Return For Squats
This idea is a riot, but I'd definately support it. It seems our entire country is out of shape and if we can get people to do exercises, I am all for it. But, we might have to take 50% off the fare rather than free subway rides. I really have no idea how much the tokens raise to pay for the subways so, it's possible we can not afford this either.
4. Speeding Ticket Lottery
In many states, cities, and towns the income from traffic violations is important for the law enforcement entities to pay for officers, new equipment, etc. So, while lotteries are nice, I don't think I'd support this idea.
5. Reduced Prison Sentences For Readers
This might work, but we'd have to be careful how the reductions in sentences are formed. There have been a lot of truly evil people in prison and many of them were quite educated and already avid readers.
6. No Criminal Penalties For Drug Possession
In a way, the legalization of marijuana does this idea already, by eliminating criminal penalties for small quantities. I support this idea because the marijuana is heavily taxed and in Colorado, our school systems benefit from the added funds from the taxes. That said, I disagree strongly with this sentence, "In 2001, Portugal decriminalized all drugs, including cocaine and heroin. The stronger and addictive drugs should not be so easily available. Think of the young people that might find their parents stash, and take a dose way too strong for them.
7. Rainy Day National Oil Fund
Again, how do we pay for it? If we remove billions of dollars in taxes (I am guessing at the figure) from our tax fund, what other projects do we cut due to lack of funds.
There are other ideas in the article, but in every case, how do we pay for it?
Interesting article though lol