Not so fast on Big 3 bailout

Little boys who misbehave get sent to their rooms without TV (or video games). Big boys who misbehave lose their allowances, or car privileges or get expelled from school. Bigger boys who misbehave get fired from their jobs, fined or sent to jail.

But the biggest boys who misbehave ... get a bailout.

I'm talking about a culture of consequences in a "civilized" world. We're all learning that this concept is no more important than a punch line. Money and power buys you a ticket to the status of exempt from following the rules - ethically or otherwise.

I'm no economic genius and, beyond jobs, suppliers, dealerships, stock prices and union contracts am not aware of all the dominoes that will fall if Congress doesn't grant the Big 3 automakers the $25 billion "bridge loan." Like most average Joes, my chief concern is job loss, the exhausted theme of the "little guy" suffering the consequences of the poor judgment and greed of the rich and powerful.

Congress is allegedly selling conditions on the loan and asking the CEO's for a specific plan as to how the money will be spent. Supposedly an oversight committee will be assembled, but is anyone really going to be effective in preventing the Bad Boys from cooking the books?

How about if Congress also demands a detailed plan as to how Chapter 11 bankruptcy would affect the industry. The airlines limped by on it and unfortunately jobs were lost; but with the auto industry, how do we know that all jobs can be saved with the $25 billion? Will it be enough? I think both plans, the bailout and bankruptcy, should be carefully considered by Congress so that a balanced decision can be made. The message needs to be put forth that consequences are for ... everybody.

Susan Menzimer

Elgin