Congress must investigate, pass stricter penalties

To the editor:

The Bush administration has dropped the ball. We've seen no action on Enron in the seven months since that scandal broke. Why has this Texas-based company barely been mentioned by the Bush administration?

It's up to Congress to independently investigate corporate abuses to ensure adequate oversight and to make sure the criminals do some jail time. Their crimes harm far more people than a single bank robber.

Public confidence will not be restored until the government plays its proper role in ensuring a level playing field. Sadly, some CEOs will continue to break the rules unless there are real consequences beyond the traditional wrist-slapping fines.

My 401(k) continues to shrink due to action beyond my control. I want action to bring some moral judgment back into board rooms around this country and to punish greedy executives. It is time for Congress to investigate corporate abuses and pass laws with real consequences for fraudulent behavior.

MARGARET CLINE HARMON

Cape Girardeau