Americans face real hardships in a darkening economy, while liberal politicians stage silly stunts that make the situation even worse. A perfect example is in Washington State , where the legislature is set to approve a “sales tax credit” that would send checks in the mail to low income families.  

Starting in October, 2009, couples earning less than $40,000 could fill out a complex series of forms and qualify for a $240 yearly check. This would theoretically reimburse them for some of sales tax they paid buying necessary items. The cost to the state, slated to rise to $165 million per year, would force tax increases or cuts elsewhere in an already strained budget, while $240—$20 a month—won’t make a huge difference for any family.  

At a time when the business climate suffers from too much taxes and regulation, Democrats plan meaningless giveaways teaching struggling households to game the government, rather than working toward a better economic environment for everyone.