Do the right thing

Re "For Utah lawmakers, lots of demands, not a lot of money" (Tribune, Nov. 14):

Utah's legislative leaders say they are in a dilemma. They are being forced to deal with a looming Jan. 1, 2014, Obamacare mandate that requires the state to provide health insurance for employees of the state-operated liquor stores who work at least 30 hours a week.

Until now, these part-time workers have been denied the health insurance afforded other full-time state workers. Now, the state is considering cutting their hours to avoid the insurance requirement.

The state has chosen to be in the retail liquor business, and to apply the huge profits from its monopoly to worthwhile efforts, such as the school lunch program.

On my visits to these state-run stores, I have consistently found the employees to be hardworking, courteous and knowledgeable. It just seems reasonable that they should have access to affordable health care, as they work week by week to earn it.

In this situation, our "leaders" should just do the right thing.

Clyde Stirling

Sandy