Whether the governor’s proposed tax increases will sail through the Legislature untouched is unlikely. However, those revenue-generating ideas should be carefully considered.

While some legislators already have said the governor’s proposal would hit the poor the hardest, the plan should be scrutinized over time. It should not be wholly rejected because of partisan politics.

There is no better time for lawmakers in this state to step forward and do what is right for the citizens of Kansas. If that means a tax increase, legislators should put aside their fears of political reprisal and raise taxes. It is not good government for legislators to decide every issue on how their votes would affect chances for re-election in November. It’s time for true leadership.