Year Of The Bible

Rep. Paul Broun introduced a bill to the House of Representatives in order to declare 2010 as the "Year of the Bible. This has in fact been done in the past during the 'rein' of Ronald Reagan. Reagan announced this same law (Public Law 97-280) on 2-3-1983 and the reasons are quite similar. (SOURCE: http://www.moseshand.com/studies/reagan.htm) Basically, it would allow for a law declaring that 2010 is to be known as the year of the bible, in order to "...commemorate those acts of patriotism that have unified our country..." http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/dpp/news/politics/GOP_2010_Year_of_Bible_May_11_2009

So, while my personal opinion being that I believe this good book is great, this view is not shared by everyone in America. Although no law can be made with unanimous approval of the people, there are times that the people, even if they disagree as to what is being pushed through as law, and even if it's a law they themselves personally want, should say "wait a minute." I don't believe that this is so much as a tribute to patriotism, as it is a way for the government to take something that has been done in the past, and use it as a silhouette of things wanting to be achieved in the future.

Although the previous passing of this law sets precedence, a renewed sense of this bill is going to cause problems. We are already seeing a rise in Capitol Hill control. Unfortunately, it seems people are becoming more and more complacent with the shortcuts, fast making laws, and etc, etc... I hope not.

Also, even though the Christian (Prodestant/Catholic) community (don't quote me on this stat) make up the majority of the religious sect in America, think about if you were pagan, Islam, Buddhist, Atheist, how would you feel about this law. Again, we can't please everyone, but when the GOVERNMENT puts a foot into religious beliefs, I have to say there is a problem. Our law-makers are put into a position of power to make laws that will benefit and further the progress of the USA, not direct it toward, or favor, ANY sect there within. This is one area the government needs to stay out of. Separation of church and state, right? (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Separation_of_church_and_state_in_the_United_States)

Last point: At this time in our economy, and all of the other things taking place up on 'the Hill', is this something that really needs to be ushered around up there? Why isn't concentration being used on solving problems, rather than creating what will be another one?