I’m writing because I’m concerned about the governor’s proposals to cut funding for General Assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Medicaid and other programs that support basic health and safety.

In recent years, legislators have worked very hard to promote efficiencies and to trim the state budget. They have already made substantial cuts, many of which have been painful and difficult.

Most state agencies and programs function with lean budgets. I’m concerned that further cuts will not in fact encourage efficiency, but will trigger health and safety crises that, in turn, become disruptive and expensive for families and communities.

Before impulsively cutting effective programs, I hope the governor will very carefully research the likely consequences of such cuts.

Kathryn Tracy, Poland