Early this Spring, I asked each of my U.S. Senators what he is doing to advance metrication in the United State.
Senator Burris replied that he appreciates my concerns about energy, not the subject of my question. Senator Durbin's reply is forwarded below. Gene Mechtly.
--- Begin Message ---October 6, 2009 Mr. Eugene Mechtly 1289 Cr 2125E St. Joseph, IL 61873 Dear Mr. Mechtly: Thank you for contacting me about the metric system. I appreciate hearing from you. The system of weights and measures we use daily in America is widely understood. At the same time, the metric system is commonly used throughout the rest of the world for both scientific and practical purposes. While some would like to see our nation convert to the metric system, others believe that such a change would be an unnecessary, costly, and difficult adjustment. In 1975, Congress took a step to increase public understanding and use of the metric system by passing the Metric Conversion Act. This bill required a government board to be formed to carry out a program of planning, coordination and public education to implement the increasing use of the metric system in the United States. In 1991, President Bush signed Executive Order 12770, which designated the metric (SI) system as the preferred system of weights and measurement for United States trade and commerce. Further, all executive branch departments were charged with taking the necessary steps to implement this policy. The application of these principles is made on a case-by-case basis. Food labels use the metric system. Highway signs do not. Gradually the American people are becoming more aware of and comfortable with the metric system. Thank you again for contacting me. Please feel free to keep in touch. Sincerely, Richard J. Durbin United States Senator RJD/bm
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