To the editor:

I am filled with disgust that 6,300 troops are given a pass on going into Iraq because of excessive debt (an AP story by Thomas Watkins in Friday’s Journal-World, page 7A) when the military is forcing reserve troops to extend service or are being called back for another tour.

The military lays the blame at “payday loan” shops, and the president signed a bill to limit what could be charged to military personnel. Again, the president (and Congress) has done too little, too late!

Mob “loan sharks” were put out of business for charging excessive rates and for breaking people who could not pay up. Apparently, if the business is city-licensed and pays taxes, then the people who can least afford to pay are fair game for these companies.

I’m calling for the local political leaders to do what the federal and state leaders are influenced to not do. Let’s outlaw “payday” loan practices, rates and ghetto image for everyone. Lawrence, and Kansas, could use some more national exposure for a “just cause” rather than conservative religious or eminent domain issues.

I would hate to know that my grandson or your son had to die in Iraq while others escaped combat because of a lack of political responsibility.

Joe Scribner,

Lawrence