Gov. David Ige has proposed the state fund universal preschool (“Ige proposes preschool for all,” Star-Advertiser, Jan. 23). Not surprisingly, some state legislators and other have expressed concerns that we as a state cannot afford to pay for this program. I disagree.

According to the state Department of Education’s 2019-2021 fiscal biennium report, we spend less than $15,000 per school year per student to educate our public school students. Yet, according to a 2016 report, the state spends more than $51,000 per year to incarcerate criminals. It makes one wonder about our priorities.

Where can the state find the money to fund universal preschool? First, get serious about taxing illegal vacation rentals. Second, legalize and tax recreational marijuana. Third, tax internet sales. Let’s get serious about universal preschool. Our children deserve it.

Tony Turbeville

Makiki

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