The Sun Journal’s Sept. 8 editorial, “Wrong policy on gas,” missed the intent of the Republican proposal to temporarily eliminate the gas tax.

The Republican plan would put $40 million back into Maine people’s pocketbooks to help them pay for their gas and heating oil needs this winter. The proposal calls for state government to adjust short-term spending to make up the $40 million revenue loss to the highway fund by reducing general fund spending, using surplus general fund revenues and repaying the highway fund.

During the last three years, Gov. Baldacci has approved the transfer of millions of dollars from the highway fund to the general fund. It is time to put some of that money back to support our transportation infrastructure while giving relief to working people.

Maine’s gas tax has been on automatic pilot.

In addition, Gov. Baldacci has consistently supported his party’s majority budgets that have taken more money from Maine people so we continue to bear the highest total tax burden in the nation.

We have a great deal of work to do to regain our energy security and affordability. The Republican plan is a beginning that provides immediate relief to Maine people. The Republican plan calls for action that will produce an effective and enduring energy strategy.

Maine people deserve results, not more excuses for inaction.

State Rep. Ken Fletcher, District 54, Winslow-SW Benton