TABS ON DOMESTIC-VIOLENCE FUNDS NEEDED

Other unused state funds are also making news. A state audit recently showed many women and children were turned away from domestic-violence shelters because available state money wasn't used.

State law requires counties to collect a $5 fee for marriage licenses and an optional $2 fee to support shelters. There are also $2 optional fees for criminal and civil cases that can be collected to support shelters.

The audit also found that a state tax credit for those who donate to shelters hadn't been used much: Only $1.5 million in donations from a potential $12 million had been reported because of a lack of awareness of the credit.

The audit recommends corrective legislation to create a central collection and distribution system within an existing state agency and revising distribution requirements to ensure that areas that need funding receive it.

Other recommendations included providing the resources to make taxpayers -- both businesses and individuals -- aware of the tax credit and its intended benefits.

It shouldn't take much to see to these needed changes. Lawmakers should take heed and make sure appropriate action is taken on this matter.