If the state legislature and the governor were as effective at producing laws as they are blame, the state of Indiana might have a solution for the budget deficit.
Unfortunately they are not, and now Gov. Frank O'Bannon is cutting the funding to state universities.
Naturally, we are against cuts in education, particularly those for technology purposes. Yet, what is more disturbing is the sense that everyone in the statehouse seems to be jumping the gun.
First, the Senate Republicans wasted no time in gutting the House Democrats' proposal to fill the deficit.
Then, after the session ended without a deficit bill, the Democrats wasted no time blaming the Republicans for being stubborn.
Finally, O'Bannon wasted no time whipping out his trump card - cuts in education - and blaming the entire General Assembly.
So, who's at fault? At this point, it does not matter. What is important is picking up the pieces and starting over. True, the General Assembly is no longer in session, but why not form some type of committee to consider the merits of both the Democrats' and Republicans' proposals in hopes of finding a compromise?
Also, the committee could interview various state organizations, including universities, to see what would do the least amount of damage if cuts were implemented.
O'Bannon has considered calling a special session of the legislature, but some have quibbled that if a compromise can't be reached now, it never will. That's a convenient escape, but not a responsible one.
A deep, partisan cloud is hanging over the statehouse. Surely, however, a compromise can be found. Maybe some tax increases are necessary, and it is just as likely that some cuts outside of education can be found.
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