ISTOOK AMENDMENT

[Allen Allison]

I've called offices of both Hawaii's senators - they are voting against the
amendment.

On Thu, 9 Nov 1995, Elaine Hoagland wrote:

> The House of Representatives passed a "Continuing Resolution" last night to keep the government funded during budget negotiations.  The ISTOOK AMENDMENT to restrict "political advocacy" by the not-for-profit community, including universities and museums, was attached to the resolution.  The amendment was very controversial, but it passed, and is being considered by the Senate THIS AFTERNOON!
>
> We urge U.S. citizens to CALL your US Senators right now, this afternoon, to express opposition to the ISTOOK Amendment and to any Continuing Resolution which includes the Istook Amendment.  There is no time for letters. Call the Senate switchboard at 202-224-3121 to be connected to your Senator's office.  If you don't know the names of your Senators, the switchboard operator can help you.  Once you reach your Senator's office, ask to speak to the person handling the Istook Amendment and the Continuing Resolution.
>
> If this amendment passes, you and your institution will be severely restricted in your ability to talk with federal and local agencies (inlcuding NSF), to present scientific information to policymakers, and even to write letters to the editor.  You will be saddled with crippling record-keeping requirements and reporting,  If you think grant applications are cumbersome now, you haven't seen anything yet!  You will be open to potential harassment and legal action from individuals who disagree with your positions on such things as biodiversity protection.  Organizations such as ASC will be prevented or severely restricted in their ability to represent you on such issues as federal regulations and science policy.
>
> PLEASE TAKE THE TIME RIGHT NOW TO CALL YOUR SENATOR; YOU KNOW THE RESULT WHEN WELL-INTENTIONED PEOPLE DO NOT ACT.
> Spread the word to others.
>
> 202-224-3121:   SENATE SWITCHBOARD
>
> Message from the Association of Systematics Collections
>