I want to bring attention to the facts on which political party has responsibility for Maine’s unfunded liability.

The facts are, the last time Republicans controlled both houses in the Legislature was in 1974. The last Republican governor until now was John McKernan, 1991 to 1995. Governors subsequently were Angus King, independent, 1995 to 2003, and John Baldacci, Democrat, 2003 to 2011. For the last 13 years (1998-2010) the Legislature has had Democrat majorities in both houses. The legislative majority decides where the money is spent and controls the budget through the appropriations committee.

The Maine Constitution, Article IX, section 18-B, says that on or before 31 years (2028) from July 1, 1997, the unfunded part of the state employees and teachers retirement fund shall be paid.

That liability has essentially been ignored by the Democrats since 1997. Isn’t it about time somebody addressed this problem?

The current Republican Legislature and governor have responsibly started this politically unpopular process. There are 17 years remaining to get that $6 billion problem solved.

There are many who don’t want to share in the sacrifices necessary until the economy turns around. Mostly coming from those people are negative criticisms of Gov. Paul LePage and the Legislature, and rarely any helpful positive suggestions.

The media should be more careful to present a balanced picture of the issues. Lack of factual research, unfounded allegations and slanted titles and headlines are misleading and have no place in the news.

Thomas F. Shields, Auburn