State board member: government can stifle innovation

Ken Mercer, a member of the conservative block of State Board of Education, wants students to know about both the good and the bad that government can offer, he said Thursday.

So, he introduced an amendment to state social studies curriculum standards that said: "understand how government taxation and regulations can serve as restriction to private enterprise."

He said the students need to know that over-regulation and over-taxation can inhibit innovation and stifle industry.

His fellow member, Terri Leo, agreed. She said it's especially important today, with issues like cap and trade and ."policies that are based on supposed global warming theories."

The amendment passed.

- Traci Shurley

Comments

[Lnstarr]

Thank you Mr. Mercer for ensuring that future Texans understand the importance of commerce over silly things like clean water and breathable air. For instance, we wouldn't want some stupid regulation restricting lead in the aquifers to restrict private enterprise, now would we? I'm sure the TX Chamber of Commerce will be quite proud of your achievement.