Years ago, this nation broke away from England, partly because of unfair taxation.

Look at us now.

The state lotteries were introduced to Maine with the understanding that a percentage of the collected revenues would be used to aid education. Millions of dollars must be collected each year. Now the governor’s plan is to reduce the number of school superintendents to save money. Where did that revenue from the lotteries go?

Smokers have been targeted to pay higher taxes for cigarettes. The cigarette companies are paying huge amounts of money to the state in settlement for selling their products here. Supposedly that money was done for the health and well-being of Maine citizens, but the bottom line is that the state wants a bigger piece of the pie to line the state coffers. The state is making millions from the addiction of smokers.

I consider that a form of exploitation.

Lottery profits and cigarette settlement money bring millions to the state every year. Where has the money disappeared? Apparently it has not been used for its intended purposes.

Each of us has to learn to spend responsibly. Why should it be any different for state officials?

Peggy A. Belkenny, Auburn