This is in response to the article, "Three Rivers to offer in-state tuition to students in neighboring states ," (Aug. 3). We're offering in-state tuition to our community college system for surrounding states with no Connecticut state budget in place, facing an estimated $5 billion state deficit over the next two fiscal years and having unsustainable state employee (e.g., community college faculty and staff) costs and benefits. 

I seriously doubt that the community college system was paying its way even at prior out-of-state tuition rates. How does the state plan to cover potentially larger operating deficits with this reduced tuition plan? In fact, if the plan is successful, more state employees may have to be hired in the future due to increased student enrollment. 

Are the governor and legislature really serious about dealing with our fiscal crisis and curbing additional expenses? It appears the resounding answer is no.

John King

East Lyme