Compromise is something long forgotten

To the Editor:

            Compromise is something long forgotten in today's world of "my way" mentality.  What if compromise meant both parties could get their way? What an idea!

            Right now, it seems there are two opposing policies in Tennessee legislature.  One is Senate Bill 93/House Bill 114 which calls for a 3% decrease in the food tax with a 44¢/pack cigarette tax increase to maintain revenue after the food tax reduction. The other is Governor Bredesen's "Schools First!" initiative. This initiative proposes a 40¢/pack cigarette tax increase with 90% of that revenue ($220 million) funding education.

            Herein lies the problem.  Both cannot pass as written. So, which one wins? Or, can both win? We suggest that a compromise can be reached allowing both to win.