A 1970 census revealed that approximately half of the male population in the state of Georgia, 25 years of age or older, had completed fewer than eight years of school, the minimum requirement for literacy according to the United States Office of Education. In addition to the yearly income lost by these males (which amounts to 175 million dollars), and the related loss of 19 million state tax dollars each year, this low level of education presents other serious problems for the entire state. Besides the lower income levels and reduced job opportunities for the individuals involved, a low statewide level of education results in decreased voter participation, increased welfare costs, poorer civic involvement in politics, higher crime rates, and the related costs of maintaining law enforcement and criminal justice systems. Since the average cost of adult basic education is approximately $600.00 per person, using tax dollars to reduce illiteracy is both economical and practical for all concerned in that education solves the problem of economic self-sufficiency at the same time that it positively affects the educational levels of future generations. (Eleven tables are included.) (Author/MAI)