Represntative Carlos Bilbao

Perhaps the Idaho Department of commerce didnt't get the memo about the states's sliding economy and the need to cut state budgets. For almost a month, legislators have been trying to make ends meet on a budget. With declining revenues coming into the state, there is little choice but to make cuts in education, health and welfare and other worthwhile programs. For the next two months, at least, legislators will be working long hours to sort out the "needs" from the "wants" in the effort to ensure Idahoans are well served by state government.

A luxury we can't afford

The Department of Commerce has become the poster child for the "wants." Recently, the department awarded a $200,000 to a New York public relations firm to market Idaho worldwide. Soon afterward - as the news about that contract spread - the department announced it would withdraw its offer from the New York firm and look for an Idaho company to do the job.

One positive is that the department decided to go with an Idaho firm. But I question whether we should spend $200,000 on a new marketing venture. I understand the need for public relations and marketing within the Department of Commerce, but I can't justify giving this priority over our "needs."

So apparently now, the department wants to "do more." Well, I'd like to:

• Do more for education.
• Do more for Medicaid.
• Do more for programs to help seniors and the disabled.
• Do more to provide drug and alcohol treatment.

But "doing more" is not an option in this economic climate. We're going to have to do the best we can with what we have - which is what families throughout Idaho are doing during these difficult times.

As the session progresses, I'm going to be looking at other agencies and how they manage resources. For example, Two years ago, the Idaho Legislature appropriated $350 per classroom to provide supplies for students. Some school districts I have contacted have not abided by the legislative intent. Officials in some cases have used that money for everything but classroom supplies.

These practices are unacceptable and the bureaucrats had better get that message. Everyone is affected by this economic downturn and everyone in state government is going to have to be part of the solution.

Rep. Carlos Bilbao of Emmett represents District 11 in the Idaho House of Representatives.