On the surface, Initiative 1501 is the kind of measure that nearly everybody can agree with. But because of what lies beneath that surface, The Columbian’s Editorial Board recommends a “no” vote.
As always, this is merely a recommendation. The Columbian urges voters to examine the ballot measure and make an informed vote.
Such an examination will include a reading of the initiative’s summary in the Voters’ Pamphlet: “This measure would increase the penalties for criminal identity theft and civil consumer fraud targeted at seniors or vulnerable individuals; and exempt certain information of vulnerable individuals and in-home caregivers from public disclosure.”
The second clause reveals that the true purpose behind the measure is to protect the Service Employees International Union, which represents a large percentage of in-home caregivers. Union officials would prefer that members not be informed that they no longer can be forced to pay dues to the SEIU.
If protecting seniors and others who require care is the goal, then the measure should stick to that issue. But I-1501 goes too far beyond that.
