3/15/09, OpEd, Helena IR, "Use Stimulus to Avoid Cuts in Programs."

Preventing cuts in government services during this downturn is important not just because those suffering the worst effects of the recession will have greater need for an adequate safety net, but also because cuts in government services will harm the economy and extend the recession's impact on Montanans. Governments pay salaries, buy goods and services and generate jobs, which is particularly important during a recession, when individuals and businesses are spending and investing less in the economy. Cuts in government spending would reduce overall demand for goods and services and further weaken the economy.