STIMULUS ??

It is almost a certainty that the Government's latest effort to give away our tax money to other people in this country will almost certainly pass. The real intent,in my opinion, of this measure is a new form of wealth redistribution aimed at increasing the dependancy of people on the Federal Government. Based upon my very superficial review of the measure, I do not see any really strong attempt to stimulate the economy. Where are there real incentives by business to increase their payroll? I saw no moves or incentives to increase production or sales of merchandise overseas or domestically. 

There also does not seem to be any real attempt to reduce personal taxes "across the board" but some very limited inducements to spend in areas that are little used by the majority of people.

Instead of invoking a program that will eventually cause medical records to be digitized (for better review by Federal auditors) why not take the majority of this give away to everyone regardless of their age or income in the form of an income "tax forgiveness" of say 3 to 6 months? Then provide all businesses with a similar incentive? 

To pay for this "giveaway" (remember,  the Government is not really giving us anything-- just not taking so much away!) reduce the size of the Federal Civil Service by 10%, as well as all Federal administrative positions (law clerks, assistants, pages, etc) . Next reduce the compensation of all Federal employees that earn in excess of a certain amount (say $100,000 per year). Finally, stop all pay and allowances for elected officials for a minimum of 6 months, and limit Federal travel expenses to the maximum allocated in 1999.

As a further reduction in expenses, mandate and enforce a reduction in Military strength levels  by 15%. In order to allow for adequate defense of the Nation, reduce the number of overseas troops by removing all troops stationed in Japan, South Korea, Germany and the rest of Europe. Maintain only sufficient forces in those areas to maintenance assets for US resources and Embassy staffs.  Reduce the number of Naval Carrier groups from 12 to 10 re even 8. Return all overseas homeported Naval Combat assets to the US.

After a few years of such "belt tightening" review each new request for expansion based upon US real security interests.