Government Is Not a Charity

Government Is Not a Charity  

Yesterday, the Minnesota House of Representatives debated and voted on HF 2746. This bill would establish a program to give $20,000 to firefighters that are diagnosed with an illness such as cancer or heart disease. The bill was known as the “Hometown Heroes” bill.

Let me make my position clear, the firefighters that serve our communities are heroes. Their dedication, hard work, and volunteerism keep all of us safe. The same is true of the police officers, EMTs, doctors, and nurses that sacrifice on our behalf. However, our government should not be in the businesses of carving out specific benefits for certain segments of our population. If the government starts down that path, where does it end?

If we make HF 2746 law, then every group and organization in the state will come forward and request a similar program. This is not the business of government, and our tax dollars should not be used in this way. Frankly, this bill was an attempt by the Democrats to pander to firefighters in the runup to the election later this year.

Firefighters in Minnesota are covered by worker’s compensation and insurance programs. However, if our firefighters are not being compensated properly, then I believe we need to address that. However, this bill did not do that. HF 2746 is simply a needless attempt to make an entirely new category of entitlement program for a specific group.

I voted against HF 2746 because government is not meant to be a charitable organization. However, the bill was passed by the Minnesota House of Representatives.

For my speech on the House floor about this topic, please see the below video:

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Back in 1880, my great grandfather, John Baker, made the journey from his home in Ireland to the United States. In those days, the journey could take nearly two weeks, and many Irishmen arrived in America with nothing but the strength and determination that brought them there.

Eventually, my great grandfather came to Minnesota and built a life for himself around a small mercantile store that he started. That mercantile business would soon become a shoe store that would be in the family for generations. Ninety-eight years later, I am proud to say that Baker Shoes is still running strong, and I am the fourth-generation owner and operator.

As we look forward to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day next week, I think about my Irish heritage, and the brave forefathers who led the way. To all my fellow Irishmen out there, Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Steve Drazkowski