I’m torn about this. One one hand, I think there’s a degree of demonizing welfare recipients that gets in the way of actual (and desperately needed) welfare reforms. On the other hand, Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald does bring up a good point…
In Maine there is a website that lists the pension amounts received by everyone who is issued a monthly check by the State of Maine. No privacy here because this is being paid out by the State; accordingly, taxpayers have a right to know.
Yet other recipients of state revenues are shielded. Yes, I am referring to those known as welfare recipients. Why are they treated differently than pensioners? (A rhetorical question).
The answer: our liberal, progressive legislators and their social-service allies have made them a victimized, protected class. It’s none of your business how much of your money they get and spend. Who are you to question it? Just shut up and pay!
I know there are some places where you can look up individual teacher’s salaries on the web, under the same belief that you have a right to know. If that’s acceptable, than why not people who are receiving government assistance paid for with the same tax money?