The Wal-Mart Billions

John Walton, one of five Wal-Mart heirs who are ranked among the richest people in the U.S., died with a fortune of $18.2 billion (Obituary, June 28).

If all five heirs have approximately the same net worth, their total net worth would be more than $90 billion.

Meanwhile, some of their employees are compelled to apply for public benefits funded with tax dollars while Wal-Mart squeezes subcontractors so that they cannot pay a living wage.

Regardless of any of John Walton’s charitable works, this disparity is a shameful commentary on our society and its tax laws.

Lloyd A. Dent

Studio City