Some pundits and politicians say the proposed summertime "gas tax holiday" is a gimmick and will not benefit families at all. The truth is that many working poor would welcome any relief possible.

These people drive to work in older model cars, which burn even more fuel than newer cars. They may have to drive long distances to work and may lose their job if they don't get there. They are trying to clothe and feed their families on minimum wages.

Some say that the tax savings would only amount to a half tank of gas or $30 over a three-month period. But $30 can be a lot for families who are making desperate choices every day between food, clothing, shelter, utilities and medicine.

What would $30 buy for these families? It could buy six gallons of milk, fill a medical prescription. It could mean getting to work on a day when one's budget has only a few dollars left.

The reality is that many other working families would also welcome the relief from the tax on gas.

How does one spell relief? Gas tax holiday!

Shirley Williams-McClain

Holly Springs