2008 Special Session. Could there be a more dangerous group of people than legislators in session during the start of an election cycle? On February 4 of next year, the good citizens of Oregon will find out as our legislature begins it's experiment with annual sessions. The special session is supposed to be short, but every legislator and committee is allowed to introduce one bill. With an election year underway, I can't help but be concerned that our well-meaning legislators won't use the special session (and their bill allotments) to posture for the voters and work to satisfy the constituancies and special interests they depend on.
As always, there are many problems in our society to be. But can anyone highlight a truly compelling issue which merits a special session now? Without one combined with the legislature's collective willingness to focus on that issue, I fear our elected representatives and senators will only get into mischief. We will need to pay attention during this session lest it be used by grandstanding lawmakers to find new ways to limit our financial and personal liberties.
Let us know of any bills you hear of which merit special attention. Given the session is going forward (whether we like it or not), I suppose we might as well make the best of it. After all, one occasionally finds a few gold nuggets in a muddy stream. Please offer your suggestions and watch this space. Thanks.
RPB
