Build Back Better needs to be put into action now

While John Faso’s commentary “Put Build Back Better on pause and do the math,” Jan. 22, does raise a valid point about the current cost estimates, it totally misses the whole purpose of the package, its benefits and the urgency of the individual proposed initiatives.

He is correct that assuming the child tax credit would only last a year significantly understates the cost. But to argue the whole package should be postponed indefinitely would mean foregoing solutions to pressing problems.

Interjecting delay, doubt and diversions has been a standard Republican response to efforts to address the climate emergency, economic distress, inequality and assaults on our democracy. Huge tax cuts for the rich were urgent and fine, but we cannot afford to support families and facilitate women returning to work?

The COVID-19 pandemic has altered our economy in ways that highlight the need to deal with child care and equitable pay issues. Inflation is caused not just by government spending but by supply chain problems, health care costs and corporate profiteering.

Build Back Better can grow the economy and slow inflation. And the elephant in the room — combating climate change — must not be dismissed as simply something that is “popular” if free. The individual programs proposed may need to be prioritized, but the need to meet the existential threat of climate change is urgent. Promoting full participation in our economy and democracy is not far behind. We cannot afford indefinite delay.

Paul Fisk

Latham