To the editor:

Gov. Brownback has a goal to decrease the percentage of Kansas children living in poverty, seemingly a worthy goal for all.

But the reality appears different. The Kansas Legislature introduced legislation, on the same day the governor took office, to repeal in-state tuition for children of undocumented workers who have graduated from Kansas high schools. Strike One.

The Dream Act, which would allow high school graduates of undocumented workers to remain in the United States and apply for permanent residency, was recently defeated in Congress. Now they face being deported to a country most have never lived in or forced to work for less money than they could earn with their degree. Strike Two.

Steve Anderson, the new budget director for the state of Kansas, endorses higher tuition at state colleges and universities, ridiculously saying, “There is evidence it is the more affluent citizens who are more likely to have children enrolled in higher education.” The higher the cost of college, the more difficult it will be for many to earn a college degree. Strike Three.

With the state facing serious budget problems, a more educated work force results in an increased tax base due to higher wages. One worthy goal by the governor is to fight poverty for Kansas children. Various groups throughout the state are aligned to fight against the governor’s goal. Is the governor truly committed or is it political lip service? I fear the latter. Peace.