More thoughts on what state needs to do

TO THE EDITOR: On the first point (“10 things that will turn Rhode Island around,” Feb. 9, 2015), “Support small business,” allow me to share a proposal to our state government, business community and citizens. It centers on a simple, yet far-reaching initiative called Rhode Island First. This is an initiative to help improve our local economy by supporting Rhode Island businesses first. Please see the links below for details: rhodemapri.org/guest-blog-rhode-island-first/; www.1of52.net/blog; #RIFIRST. Steve MacielWest GreenwichTO THE EDITOR: Cutting Medicaid is not a good place to start because of the direct loss of revenue any reduction of the expense would cause. As far as I can tell, we have never calculated the multiplier effect of the federal contribution, about 60 cents for every 40 cents we spend on Medicaid. The federal money goes to pay health care workers who in turn spend the money, etc. It is difficult to say that cutting Medicaid actually saves any money, especially when many of those who would be covered become uninsured but get treated anyway. Ted AlmonWarwickTO THE EDITOR: The No. 10 item on the list must be moved to No. 1 with a bullet. Not only should the fire departments be consolidated, but this needs to include police and, most importantly, school systems. There needs to be a shift to a minimum of county regionalization of the above services within Rhode Island for any permanent turnaround to occur within the state. This will be a painful process, but it has to be accomplished in order for Rhode Island to retain its young people. This is the time for bold changes in the way government is structured within Rhode Island. Alan LurySharon, Mass.

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