No on prop. 83
Most people who know me know that my default position on propositions is to vote against them. I really think they should only be used when absolutely necessary. The Legislature should pass most of our laws, not the general public.
I’m somewhat on the fence about 83. Obviously nobody likes the idea that known criminals are out there amongst our children waiting for their opportunity to abuse them. But I think that as a society we treat these criminals like lepers and refuse to address the problem on its own merit.
As an example, this proposition will require all sex criminals to wear GPS devices so we can keep track of them. This will have an annual cost around $25 million dollars. To which I respond, it only costs $30K per year to keep these criminals in jail. If we really don’t trust these people, isn’t the right place for them prison?
This seems like a politically expediant proposition that plays on our fears and disgust at this type of crime without thinking about what we’re really doing, whether it is the right approach and worth the costs.
November 4th, 2006 at 11:54 am
What?
Am I reading this right?
“The Legislature should pass most of our laws, not the general public.”
Isn’t your entire arguement against Roe v Wade that our government is forcing a law on us, and we as the people didn’t vote on it?
I expect to see a Pro-Choice bumper sticker on your car at the Big Game.
November 5th, 2006 at 6:38 pm
First of all, there is a big difference between the courts (Roe v. Wade) and the Legislature. The supreme court is a position for life so there is no ability to remove them from office when they fly off the hanger.
Second, you’re confusing me with other prolife people. I’ve never held that the courts don’t have the right to speak on moral issues nor that the legislature.
The reason the legislature should pass most of our laws is because that’s how a representative government should work. It allows us to elect people who represent our principles and then allow them to fully understand the issues and vote for them on our behalf. Most of the population doesn’t have the time or the inclination to fully understand the issues they’re voting on.