The ravenous maw of the General Fund

The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle takes aim at Albany's spending habits today.

At issue: Taxes and fees originally intended for things like roads, education and emergency services tend to disappear into the black hole of the state's general fund.

You know you live in New York if ...

... your gasoline taxes don't necessarily go toward maintaining roads and bridges.

... revenue from tuition increases doesn't necessarily help state university campuses enhance education.

... a surcharge on your cell phone bill doesn't necessarily help first responders.

... the lottery pays out more in prizes than it gives to education.

Image: The Sarlacc from Return of the Jedi.