On Mon, 1 Oct 2001, Derek D. Martin wrote:
> First let me say that I've looked over the text of *some* of the
> proposed bills. I was forwarded links in e-mail which I don't have
> handy. If I have time later tonight I'll see what I can dig up...
The information I do have is provided by the EFF, which has, historically,
been pretty reliable in providing transcripts of such. They have an Action
Alert for the various "counter terrorism" bills under consideration right
now:
http://www.eff.org/alerts/20010927_eff_wiretap_alert.html
However, even the information they provide is sparse. They assert (and I
have no reason to disbelieve) the bills are being pushed through so quickly
they are having trouble providing information. That I find very easy to
believe (given recent events), and it worries me as much as anything. I
oppose this legislation on those grounds alone. If we are not given an
opportunity to gather information, form an opinion, and voice it, they are
failing in their jobs as representatives of the people.
> ... this bill makes no sense.
Agreed.
> This is a knee-jerk reaction driven by fear, stemmed from a lack of
> understanding.
Generally agreed, but add "the need to respond". The proposed legislation
I have seen has little, in fact, to do with the attacks we have witnessed.
After Sept 11th, Congress wants to *do* something more than just authorize
the use of force. This is the result -- authorizing unreasonable searches
and instituting unusual punishments, in the vain hope that it will somehow
protect us, from people who ignore US law, are largely immune to it anyway,
and are willing to die for their cause in any event. We are confronted with
a nameless, faceless enemy, attacking our country and our people. This
reaction is natural and unsurprising. That does not, unfortunately,
alleviate the damage it could cause.
--
Ben Scott <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
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