Congratulations to state Rep. Bruce Bickford, R-District 70, for his plans on sponsoring a bill to reduce the size of the Legislature reported in the Sun Journal Dec. 23.

Bickford plans to propose to have three representatives for every senator, resulting in a 105/35 ratio, which would be more in line with 34 other states. Presently, there are 151 seats in the Maine House and 35 in the Senate.

Gov. John Baldacci has consolidated jails and schools and now needs to consolidate the Legislature.

Fewer people to spend the taxpayers’ money makes sense to me. Raising taxes and fees to cover budget shortfalls isn’t the answer. The Legislature needs to reduce spending.

Maine needs to attract businesses that will employ people. How? Give tax credits and incentives to bring cinematic teams to the state; align curricula to current industry standard; and pay hospitals their due to keep doctors in the state are some ideas.

Where did the 47.5 cents/per gallon of Maine’s gasoline tax go? I thought the gas tax was to improve roads and bridges. The gas and diesel tax amounted to $230 million in 2008 according to Maine Revenue Services. I suggest that all state spending be put on line like other states.

Good luck to Rep. Bickford.

Diana Holcomb, Norway