Friday, September 09, 2005
Is this really the best way to proceed?
UPDATE: Apparently, it wasn't the best way to handle things. This courtesy of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram:FEMA to end debit card plan
By Hope YenThe Associated Press
WASHINGTON - The federal government's relief agency will discontinue its program to distribute debit cards worth up to $2,000 a family for hurricane victims, it said, two days after hastily announcing the novel plan to provide quick relief
I do not deny the need to help Hurricane Katrina victims get back on their feet. I know President Bush feels compelled to do something immediately to help the people. But to give everyone a $2K debit card?
I am concerned because I believe that we, in our desire to do good and generous things for other Americans, will get fleeced. I believe this system will fail.
Point 1: It will fail because there is not proper record keeping involved. It's impossible. Not everyone will have an ID. So unless they use laser fingerprinting to track every card that is dispensed, many thugs and criminals who are part of the evacuees being housed will take advantage of the system. Even common citizens will realize the huge loophole here and take advantage.
Point 2: What about the citizens who will promptly take that $2K and waste it. What then? Give them another debit card? Again, another opportunity for rampant waste and fraud.
Point 3: Is there a potential for a debit card black market? What about counterfitting?
There are better ways to do this.
Since it is on the government's tab, the government's duty is to excercise responsibility to the taxpayer. Since they never do that anyways, here's my humble suggestions. How about putting together an essentials kit similar to the school supply kits PTA's sell at the beginning of the school year, only with clothes, toiletries, etc. It can be customized to fit each and every evacuee. Next, give the people vouchers that are specifically earmarked for certain items. Contract with reputable and deserving vendors to accept those vouchers. Give vouchers for housing and other basic needs. Just giving away money is plain reckless.
I don't want one dime of money that I as a taxpayer contribute to go for booze, cigarettes or any other unnecessary item. I totally think that we must do something, but this debit card idea is just too much.
It's an attempt to immediately soothe people for their devastating loss, but it is irresponsible use of monies, again, by our government.
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