I think raising the state sales tax to 6 or 7 percent, while opposed by shortsighted lawmakers and businesses, is a necessary move to lower the state deficit. Without this tax increase, more of the "fat" would have to be cut out of the budget. Most of this "fat," however, is imperative to social services. While a bigger sales tax may cost you a few more dollars on your next purchase, it may also save the lives of many homeless people this season. It may be the fault of Governor Dukakis that we have such an enormous deficit, but the damage is already done and now needs to be repaired. Not raising taxes and putting us deeper in debt is truly voodoo economics. n