Congress Wants to Regulate Bloggers
The U. S. Senate is considering legislation that would impose criminal penalties, even jail time, on grassroots causes and citizens who criticize Congress. Section 220 of S. 1, the lobbying reform bill currently before the Senate, would require anyone who communicates to 500 or more members of the public on policy matters, to register and file quarterly reports to Congress. Those failing to file or who file late would be subject to fines and possible imprisonment.
S. 1, “A bill to provide greater transparency in the legislative process,” was introduced by Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev). The advertised intent is to restrain undue influence. But just like campaign finance reform, the measure places greater restrictions on freedom of speech.
Reid defended the bill as necessary to ensure fair debate. “A lot of people launching blogs or handing out pamphlets don’t know what they’re talking about,” Reid complained. “We need more quality control. Congress has the experience and judgment to sort out fact from fiction and ensure that voters aren’t misled by these ‘know-nothings.’”
The proposed new rules would require anyone who conceivably might reach as many as 500 people through any media to regularly report on their activities. Major media would be exempt because they already provide a fair and balanced perspective that represents all proper viewpoints. “We want to know who these know-nothings contact and what they are telling them,” Reid explained. “Those spreading erroneous information will be directed to issue corrections or face penalties. Those refusing to correct their errors or failing to disclose their activities will be sent to prison.”
Reid predicted that with the passage of S. 1 “scandal, corruption and influence peddling will become unheard of activities. We’ll see a quieter, less contentious America. Respect for government will be enforced.”
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Is this America still??
Don't forget the "Fair Doctrine" to shut up Rush.
Someone please tell me I am wrong. This bill has to be fought and defeated in the legislature. If we can not protract and plead our case to the public, then we have truly lost touch with America. President Reagan stopped this doctrine during his administration and it will take a 'Reaganite' to bring America back. There are no leaders anymore, just managers of many tasks.
“scandal, corruption and influence peddling will become unheard of activities. We’ll see a quieter, less contentious America. Respect for government will be enforced.” -Reid
Translation: ONLY our view will see light of day, all others are heresy and must be crushed.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."