State lawmakers and the administration of Gov. Linda Lingle face a true test of political courage when they settle down to the business of the 2006 legislative session when it convenes next month.

In front of them: a state surplus edging toward $600 million and a vast number of options on how to "spend" that money.

Lingle opened the bidding this week with a proposal for up to $300 million in tax relief, although she did not specify how that would be accomplished.

That's going to be enormously popular, and it robustly honors a constitutional requirement that at least some of the money be handed back when the state runs a surplus.

But it would cut short a tremendous opportunity to use our (temporarily) fat treasury to invest in long-term goals (primarily education and workforce development) that would sustain and grow our economy for years to come.

Everyone could use a few more dollars in their pocket. But we also want schools that are safe, healthy and equipped with enough textbooks to meet the need of every child.

Tossing $300 million into the economy will have a stimulating impact, no doubt. But the same money invested in quality job training and affordable housing would produce benefits not just today but for years down the road.

People might enjoy a brief episode of tax relief, but they might be more appreciative of an upgrade to our civil defense system so we will be ready for the next natural or even man-made disaster.

All of this should add up to a happy problem for the Republican Lingle administration and the Democrats who control the state Legislature. They have a rare opportunity to invest in the future of Hawai'i in a way that will extend far beyond the short-term horizon of their next election cycle.

The voting and taxpaying public will be watching closely. Most residents undoubtedly do not want to see this opportunity frittered away.

This is a chance to do things right for a change, to put politics aside for the long-term health of the state we share.