Can't Spare a Square

(Fox News) - In this struggling economy, leaders in Des Moines, Iowa are thinking about charging jail inmates for toilet paper. The Des Moines Register reports they are hoping to wipe away a $1.7 million deficit. The county's budget director acknowledges that forcing inmates to pony up won't balance the budget. In fact, it would only save about $2,300.

Louisa County Sheriff Curt Braby understands the motives behind the proposal — but also sympathizes with those who just can't come up with the cash: "They've got budget problems, and they're looking for places to cut. But what do you do for the guy who hasn't got the dollar for the toilet paper?"