September 16-22, 2004
Disenfranchisement in America
Denying the vote to students, DC citizens, felons, and non-citizens. Join the fight! Part 3 of a series on voter protection.
http://www.movingideas.org/activism/networks/deny_vote.html
Bringing Human Rights Home
In depth analysis and resources on the politics of U.S. human rights practices.
http://www.movingideas.org/issuesindepth/humanrights.html
Stop Pentagon Interference with Americans Voting Abroad!
Take action today and tell the Pentagon to stop blocking U.S. citizens from voting by restricting access to the web site which provides vital information about voting by absentee ballot!
http://action.movingideas.org/dia/organizations/movingideas/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=171
FEATURED ARTICLES
Indigenous Environmental Justice Issues Enter the Global Ring"
From: INTERHEMISPHERIC RESOURCE CENTER
Talli Nauman
The author discusses how after many decades of often-fruitless insistence on treaty guarantees with the United States, Indian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are taking their demands beyond the realm of the U.S. civil rights and environmental movements. http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5775
The Health of Latino Communities in the South: Challenges and Opportunities"
From: NATIONAL COUNCIL OF LA RAZA
Findings show that Latinos in the South are reluctant to use public health care programs and facilities due to barriers such as lack of information about available services, lack of insurance, insufficient numbers of bilingual, bicultural personnel, and disparate treatment. http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5736
The Urgent Need for Reform of Wholesale Telecommunications Regulation in California
From: ECONOMIC POLICY INSTITUTE
In an attempt to promote healthy competition in the telecommunications industry, in 2002 and 2003 the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) sharply cut the rates at which existing telephone companies are required to lease portions of their telephone networks to new competitors. This new report illustrates how the plan backfired.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5781
DOMESTIC SOCIAL
Where Do the Presidential Candidates Stand on Workers' Rights?
From: AMERICAN RIGHTS AT WORK
A comparison of where Bush and Kerry stand on workers' rights.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5735
Employers Threaten, Coerce and Bribe Employers to Bust Their Unions
From: AMERICAN RIGHTS AT WORK
The latest edition of Eye on the National Labor Relations Board showcases how the very process established for workers to express their will is often turned into a union-busting strategy.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5770
Establishment of Paternity and Enforcement of Support Orders When a Member of the Military Is Involved
From: CENTER FOR LAW AND SOCIAL POLICY
Paula Roberts
The Department of Defense employs approximately 1.4 million active duty military personnel, 1.4 million reservists, 2 million retirees, and 800 thousand civilian employees. Many of these employees and retirees are non-custodial parents. This memo to child support advocates details how to deal with the military in establishing and enforcing support orders.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5772
Comments to the Employment and Training Administration on the EMILE System
From: CENTER FOR LAW AND SOCIAL POLICY
Abbey Frank
These comments, submitted to the Employment and Training Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor, discuss the proposed new method of data collection under the Workforce Investment Act - the EMILE system.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5773
Action Alert: CodePink in Florida
From: CODEPINK
CodePink calls for action in Florida where the voting troubles of the 2000 election seem to be repeating themselves.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5737
2004 U.S. Senate Elections Have High Stakes for America's Middle Class
From: DRUM MAJOR INSTITUTE FOR PUBLIC POLICY
This report shows which candidates for re-election voted with the middle class in 2003.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5742
Gearing Up: States Face the New Medicare Law - Is Your State Ready for 2006?
From: FAMILIES USA
An introduction to what the new Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit means for Medicaid.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5769
Memo to Members: Low Income Housing News
From: NATIONAL LOW INCOME HOUSING COALITION
In this issue: New Prisoner Re-entry Bills, Changes Sought for One-Strike; New Funds Don't Meet All Voucher Needs; Officer and Teacher Next Door Programs Have Mixed Results; and much more.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5738
Counting Prisoners at Home Would Not Share Problems Seen in Overseas Americans Test Enumeration
From: PRISON POLICY INITIATIVE
Peter Wagner
A proposed change in how the U.S. Census counts the incarcerated would not mean the kinds of expense and accuracy problems seen in a recent test enumeration of overseas Americans.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5744
Enriching Summer Work: An Evaluation of the Summer Career Exploration Program
From: PUBLIC/PRIVATE VENTURES
Wendy S. McClanahan, Cynthia L. Sipe and Thomas J. Smith
Researchers found that implementation of the Summer Career Exploration Program (SCEP), a privately funded summer jobs program for low-income teens, was strong, but program impacts were less impressive.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5752
The Vanishing Black Electorate
From: THE SENTENCING PROJECT
This report documents that felony disenfranchisement laws will result in one of every seven black males in Atlanta being ineligible to vote in this November's election. The study also finds that while black males in Atlanta are registered to vote at an 11 percent lower rate than other groups, more than two-thirds of this differential is explained by disenfranchisement practices.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5764
Crashing the Parties: The Problem of Ballot Access
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
Tova Andrea Wang
The author argues that the latest quixotic bid for the presidency by Ralph Nader raises a relatively obscure issue when it comes to the debate over the democratic process - access to the ballot for candidates. She provides a rundown of arguments for and against ballot access regulations, and discusses Nader's experience with different state laws.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5760
Public Opinion Watch
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
In this issue: Why the Race Is a Lot Closer Than People Think, and Labor Day Leads and Possible Election Outcomes This Year.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5776
DOMESTIC ECONOMIC
Many Middle-class Families Likely will Wind up Net Losers from the ‘Middle-class’ Tax Cuts
From: CENTER ON BUDGET AND POLICY PRIORITIES
Robert Greenstein and Isaac Shapiro
This report concludes that if Congress does not offset the cost of extending the "middle-class" tax cuts now, it will have to do so later, and many if not most middle-class families are likely to end up losing more than they gain from the tax cuts. The middle class would be clear net winners if the tax package were offset now by corporate tax reforms that have passed the House and Senate.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5767
The Chronic Problem of Declining Health Coverage
From: ECONOMIC POLICY INSTITUTE
Elise Gould
This report details the decline in employer-provided health coverage and its impact on American workers and their families by gender, race, education, and by wage and income levels. Her report analyzes the most recent three years of Census data, showing what she calls an emerging health care problem.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5780
Flow of Funds Brief
From: FINANCIAL MARKETS CENTER
During the second quarter of 2004, housing values bubbled to new heights and Americans became increasingly dependent on their homes to generate a larger share of their wealth. Drawing on just-released Federal Reserve Board data, this report examines the details along with the implications for homeowners and mortgage lenders.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5754
Remarks about Federal Reserve Policy
From: FINANCIAL MARKETS CENTER
Tom Schlesinger
Remarks about Federal Reserve policy by FMC executive director to the 36th quadrennial convention of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5755
Protecting Developing Economies From Price Shocks
From: FINANCIAL POLICY FORUM/DERIVATIVES STUDY CENTER
Randall Dodd
Developing countries are often heavily dependent upon the production and export of a few primary commodities. Worldwide price volatility in these commodities can send significant shocks through these vulnerable economies. This study explores policy options such as commodity bonds, Stabilization Funds and hedging through derivatives as means to protect developing economies and their government budgets from international price fluctuations.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5766
Oregon's Minimum Wage Hike Defies Bush Economic Agenda
From: OREGON CENTER FOR PUBLIC POLICY
On New Year's Day when Oregon's minimum wage will jump 20 cents to $7.25 per hour, the Oregon Center for Public Policy says it will defy the Bush Administration's economic agenda that has favored the wealthy at the expense of low and moderate income Oregonians, the majority of Oregonians.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5746
OMB Watcher
From: OMB WATCH
In this issue: Cyclically Adjusted Deficit Reaches Record High; Congress Defies White House, Saves Overtime for Millions; Congressional Report Cites Growing Bush Secrecy; and much more.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5765
Poverty, Depression, and Congressional Inaction
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
Libby Perl
While the results of a new depression study argue for programs that provide comprehensive financial and educational support for low-income mothers and their children, the author argues that such help will not be coming from Congress this session.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5762
FOREIGN POLICY
Take Action Against Missile Defense Going 'On Alert'
From: WOMEN'S ACTION FOR NEW DIRECTIONS
On October 1, missile defense officially goes "on alert." WAND urges people to learn more and speak out about the ills of this system: the administration's denial, the destabilizing effect of missile defense on national security, and the billions of taxpayer dollars being lost.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5768
U.S. Opens Global Front In Stem-Cell Debate
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
Jeffrey Laurenti
As President Bush prepares to lead off the annual debate in the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, representatives of the world's 190 other countries have learned that among the President's most urgent priorities for the world body this year is… a global treaty to prohibit human cloning.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5763
COMMENTARY
Texas Film-School Massacre
From: THE AMERICAN PROSPECT
Noy Thrupkaew
Michael Moore-bashing, conspiracy theories, and more at the first conservative film festival.
http://www.prospect.org/web/view-web.ww?id=8568
If You Harbor Terrorists, You Are a Terrorist
From: THE INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE
William Marina
While delegates to the GOP convention were congratulating themselves for their candidate's tough stand against terrorism, the author argues that the Bush administration was creating an international incident - little publicized in the United States - by harboring a notorious group of international terrorists on U.S. soil.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5740
Stand Up to Putin
From: CARNEGIE ENDOWMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE
Robert Kagan
The author argues that Vladimir Putin, the aspiring dictator of Russia, has forced President Bush to reveal how committed he really is to the cause of democracy around the world.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5757
Sad Hints of a Bloody Future
From: CARNEGIE ENDOWMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE
Moises Naim
The author comments on elections and protests in Venezuela.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5758
Looking for Threats in All the Wrong Places
From: CARNEGIE ENDOWMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE
Joseph Cirincione
The author discusses administration reaction to September 11 and their perception that Saddam Hussein was the threat.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5759
Indonesia: U.S. Underwriting Terrorism?
From: FOREIGN POLICY IN FOCUS
Conn Hallinan
The author says that behind a recent, highly controversial indictment by the U.S. Department of Justice, the Bush administration is maneuvering to revive military ties with the Indonesian Army (TNI), one of the world's most oppressive institutions.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5771
Lebanon No Model For Iraq
From: FOREIGN POLICY IN FOCUS
Ronald Bruce St John
Increasingly desperate to find a winning formula in Iraq, Vice President Dick Cheney and other Bush administration officials are promoting Lebanon as a political model for Iraq. The author agrees, the situation in Iraq is looking more and more like Lebanon - but not the "Lebanese model" Cheney talks about.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5774
So Far, You Can Fool Most of the People Most of the Time
From: THE INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE
Ivan Eland
Despite all of the death and mayhem in Iraq and counterproductive results in the war on terror, the author argues that the ever-chipper President Bush soldiers on with upbeat assessments of those efforts in campaign appearances. And the ever-gullible American voter is apparently willing to believe him.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5753
Governor Fails California Students by Vetoing Parents' Right to Know Bill
From: PUBLIC CITIZEN
Anna Blackshaw
The author argues that California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's decision to veto AB 1988, which requires school board approval, public disclosure and parental notification before irradiated foods can be purchased for school lunch programs, deprives California's students and parents of valuable information about what is in their school lunches.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5777
Texas Indictments Should Spur Inquiry Into Rep. DeLay's Role in Possibly Illegal Fundraising Scheme
From: PUBLIC CITIZEN
In light of the felony indictments against three of U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay's top fund-raising lieutenants, Public Citizen argues that the House ethics committee should immediately move forward with a formal inquiry into a complaint alleging that DeLay improperly solicited corporate campaign contributions.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5778
Milking the Middle Class
From: TOMPAINE.COM
Fernando Ferrer
The author comments on the findings in the Drum Major Institute's report card on how legislators stand on helping the middle class.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5743
The Fearful Voter
From: TOMPAINE.COM
David Corn
The author takes stock of what he sees as the Kerry campaign's inability to catch fire. Everyone these days has advice for the presidential contender. But what's the campaign to do when fear is the prime motivator of this year's voter?
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5748
Storm Blockers
From: TOMPAINE.COM
David Helvarg
Lloyds of London won't insure the section of Florida that's in the path of Hurricane Ivan. But the federal government does. The author is all for the government helping people - but against encouraging stupid building decisions. As he explains, tax subsidies actually encourage construction in areas that are vulnerable to hurricane damage.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5749
Gossing Over The Record
From: TOMPAINE.COM
Ray McGovern
Politics and intelligence reform are a noxious mix, according to the author. Last month, the author commented on the factors that ensured Porter Goss would get kid-glove treatment during his nomination hearing. Here, the author reminds us why Goss is a terrible choice for a job critical to this nation's security.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5750
The Case Of Moore v. Times
From: TOMPAINE.COM
Richard Blow
The New York Times has refused to grant permission for rabble-rousing filmmaker Michael Moore to reprint its mea culpa about Iraq in Moore's upcoming book. The reason? The Times doesn't want to becoming "part of a political battle." It's a little late for that, says the author.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5751
Them's Fightin' Words: Opposition in NON-Swing States Can Stand Up, Too
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
Molly Ivins
Letter from a non-swing state: Every political reporter and his hamster is covering the swing states, the author argues. Here's the news from the rest of the country.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5730
Women Terrorists - Hear Them Roar
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
Ellen Goodman
The author writes that terror organizers take advantage of stereotypes of women as exclusively peaceful.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5731
The Rapture Racket
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
Bill Berkowitz
The author wonders what the world might be like if the Book of Revelation didn't mandate death, destruction and the annihilation of all but true believers.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5732
Messing Up and Fessing Up: Dan Rather & Bush
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
E.J. Dionne, Jr.
The author says Dan Rather got it right when admitting fault. Will Dubya follow suit?
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5733
True Conservatives Would Back Kerry
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
Robert Scheer
The author says the right should recoil from Bush's war without end.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5734
ANNOUNCEMENTS
America's Second Harvest Announces 2004 Hunger's Hope Award Winners
From: AMERICA’S SECOND HARVEST
At its annual conference, America's Second Harvest, the Nation's Food Bank Network, the largest charitable hunger-relief organization, announced the winners of this year's Hunger's Hope Awards.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5741
Brennan Center Attorney to Testify at Chicago City Council Hearings on Proposed Law to Improve Job Standards at Wal-Mart
From: BRENNAN CENTER FOR JUSTICE
Brennan Center for Justice attorney, Nathan Newman, testifies before the Chicago City Council in support of a proposed ordinance that would require retailers like Wal Mart to pay a living wage, plus health care benefits.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5747
What They're Saying
From: FINANCIAL MARKETS CENTER
A new feature of FMC's website offers one-stop viewing of Federal Reserve Board officials' speeches and testimony. The most recent inventory includes links, summaries and commentary covering the period August 12 - September 20.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5756
Release of ‘Breaking Through: Helping Low-Skilled Adults Enter and Succeed in College and Careers’
From: JOBS FOR THE FUTURE
Jobs for the Future, in partnership with the National Council for Workforce Education, invites you to attend the release on October 19 in Baltimore of research identifying key practices and strategies for increasing the number of low-skill, low-income adults who earn postsecondary occupational degrees.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5739
Project Announcement: Afghanistan Watch
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
In Afghanistan Watch, a new project from The Century Foundation, readers are provided with key information and thoughtful commentary in language accessible to non-experts.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5761
Announcing PublicBonds.org: New Website Promotes Accountability and ‘Demystifies’ the Bond Market
From: GOOD JOBS FIRST
Good Jobs First (GJF) announces the launch of a new website at www.publicbonds.org. The Public Bonds site is a resource for community activists, public officials, journalists, researchers and others who are interested in promoting accountability in government borrowing for public infrastructure, prisons or schools.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5745
‘New Stealth PACs’ Secretively Spend Millions to Sway Elections; PhRMA Appears to Have Bankrolled Seniors Groups
From: PUBLIC CITIZEN
Public Citizen seeks IRS probe of potential tax law violations, launches new web site - www.stealthpacs.org - and database to track 501(c) non-profit groups active in elections.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5779
Denying the vote to students, DC citizens, felons, and non-citizens. Join the fight! Part 3 of a series on voter protection.
http://www.movingideas.org/activism/networks/deny_vote.html
Bringing Human Rights Home
In depth analysis and resources on the politics of U.S. human rights practices.
http://www.movingideas.org/issuesindepth/humanrights.html
Stop Pentagon Interference with Americans Voting Abroad!
Take action today and tell the Pentagon to stop blocking U.S. citizens from voting by restricting access to the web site which provides vital information about voting by absentee ballot!
http://action.movingideas.org/dia/organizations/movingideas/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=171
FEATURED ARTICLES
Indigenous Environmental Justice Issues Enter the Global Ring"
From: INTERHEMISPHERIC RESOURCE CENTER
Talli Nauman
The author discusses how after many decades of often-fruitless insistence on treaty guarantees with the United States, Indian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are taking their demands beyond the realm of the U.S. civil rights and environmental movements. http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5775
The Health of Latino Communities in the South: Challenges and Opportunities"
From: NATIONAL COUNCIL OF LA RAZA
Findings show that Latinos in the South are reluctant to use public health care programs and facilities due to barriers such as lack of information about available services, lack of insurance, insufficient numbers of bilingual, bicultural personnel, and disparate treatment. http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5736
The Urgent Need for Reform of Wholesale Telecommunications Regulation in California
From: ECONOMIC POLICY INSTITUTE
In an attempt to promote healthy competition in the telecommunications industry, in 2002 and 2003 the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) sharply cut the rates at which existing telephone companies are required to lease portions of their telephone networks to new competitors. This new report illustrates how the plan backfired.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5781
DOMESTIC SOCIAL
Where Do the Presidential Candidates Stand on Workers' Rights?
From: AMERICAN RIGHTS AT WORK
A comparison of where Bush and Kerry stand on workers' rights.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5735
Employers Threaten, Coerce and Bribe Employers to Bust Their Unions
From: AMERICAN RIGHTS AT WORK
The latest edition of Eye on the National Labor Relations Board showcases how the very process established for workers to express their will is often turned into a union-busting strategy.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5770
Establishment of Paternity and Enforcement of Support Orders When a Member of the Military Is Involved
From: CENTER FOR LAW AND SOCIAL POLICY
Paula Roberts
The Department of Defense employs approximately 1.4 million active duty military personnel, 1.4 million reservists, 2 million retirees, and 800 thousand civilian employees. Many of these employees and retirees are non-custodial parents. This memo to child support advocates details how to deal with the military in establishing and enforcing support orders.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5772
Comments to the Employment and Training Administration on the EMILE System
From: CENTER FOR LAW AND SOCIAL POLICY
Abbey Frank
These comments, submitted to the Employment and Training Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor, discuss the proposed new method of data collection under the Workforce Investment Act - the EMILE system.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5773
Action Alert: CodePink in Florida
From: CODEPINK
CodePink calls for action in Florida where the voting troubles of the 2000 election seem to be repeating themselves.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5737
2004 U.S. Senate Elections Have High Stakes for America's Middle Class
From: DRUM MAJOR INSTITUTE FOR PUBLIC POLICY
This report shows which candidates for re-election voted with the middle class in 2003.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5742
Gearing Up: States Face the New Medicare Law - Is Your State Ready for 2006?
From: FAMILIES USA
An introduction to what the new Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit means for Medicaid.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5769
Memo to Members: Low Income Housing News
From: NATIONAL LOW INCOME HOUSING COALITION
In this issue: New Prisoner Re-entry Bills, Changes Sought for One-Strike; New Funds Don't Meet All Voucher Needs; Officer and Teacher Next Door Programs Have Mixed Results; and much more.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5738
Counting Prisoners at Home Would Not Share Problems Seen in Overseas Americans Test Enumeration
From: PRISON POLICY INITIATIVE
Peter Wagner
A proposed change in how the U.S. Census counts the incarcerated would not mean the kinds of expense and accuracy problems seen in a recent test enumeration of overseas Americans.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5744
Enriching Summer Work: An Evaluation of the Summer Career Exploration Program
From: PUBLIC/PRIVATE VENTURES
Wendy S. McClanahan, Cynthia L. Sipe and Thomas J. Smith
Researchers found that implementation of the Summer Career Exploration Program (SCEP), a privately funded summer jobs program for low-income teens, was strong, but program impacts were less impressive.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5752
The Vanishing Black Electorate
From: THE SENTENCING PROJECT
This report documents that felony disenfranchisement laws will result in one of every seven black males in Atlanta being ineligible to vote in this November's election. The study also finds that while black males in Atlanta are registered to vote at an 11 percent lower rate than other groups, more than two-thirds of this differential is explained by disenfranchisement practices.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5764
Crashing the Parties: The Problem of Ballot Access
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
Tova Andrea Wang
The author argues that the latest quixotic bid for the presidency by Ralph Nader raises a relatively obscure issue when it comes to the debate over the democratic process - access to the ballot for candidates. She provides a rundown of arguments for and against ballot access regulations, and discusses Nader's experience with different state laws.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5760
Public Opinion Watch
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
In this issue: Why the Race Is a Lot Closer Than People Think, and Labor Day Leads and Possible Election Outcomes This Year.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5776
DOMESTIC ECONOMIC
Many Middle-class Families Likely will Wind up Net Losers from the ‘Middle-class’ Tax Cuts
From: CENTER ON BUDGET AND POLICY PRIORITIES
Robert Greenstein and Isaac Shapiro
This report concludes that if Congress does not offset the cost of extending the "middle-class" tax cuts now, it will have to do so later, and many if not most middle-class families are likely to end up losing more than they gain from the tax cuts. The middle class would be clear net winners if the tax package were offset now by corporate tax reforms that have passed the House and Senate.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5767
The Chronic Problem of Declining Health Coverage
From: ECONOMIC POLICY INSTITUTE
Elise Gould
This report details the decline in employer-provided health coverage and its impact on American workers and their families by gender, race, education, and by wage and income levels. Her report analyzes the most recent three years of Census data, showing what she calls an emerging health care problem.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5780
Flow of Funds Brief
From: FINANCIAL MARKETS CENTER
During the second quarter of 2004, housing values bubbled to new heights and Americans became increasingly dependent on their homes to generate a larger share of their wealth. Drawing on just-released Federal Reserve Board data, this report examines the details along with the implications for homeowners and mortgage lenders.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5754
Remarks about Federal Reserve Policy
From: FINANCIAL MARKETS CENTER
Tom Schlesinger
Remarks about Federal Reserve policy by FMC executive director to the 36th quadrennial convention of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5755
Protecting Developing Economies From Price Shocks
From: FINANCIAL POLICY FORUM/DERIVATIVES STUDY CENTER
Randall Dodd
Developing countries are often heavily dependent upon the production and export of a few primary commodities. Worldwide price volatility in these commodities can send significant shocks through these vulnerable economies. This study explores policy options such as commodity bonds, Stabilization Funds and hedging through derivatives as means to protect developing economies and their government budgets from international price fluctuations.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5766
Oregon's Minimum Wage Hike Defies Bush Economic Agenda
From: OREGON CENTER FOR PUBLIC POLICY
On New Year's Day when Oregon's minimum wage will jump 20 cents to $7.25 per hour, the Oregon Center for Public Policy says it will defy the Bush Administration's economic agenda that has favored the wealthy at the expense of low and moderate income Oregonians, the majority of Oregonians.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5746
OMB Watcher
From: OMB WATCH
In this issue: Cyclically Adjusted Deficit Reaches Record High; Congress Defies White House, Saves Overtime for Millions; Congressional Report Cites Growing Bush Secrecy; and much more.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5765
Poverty, Depression, and Congressional Inaction
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
Libby Perl
While the results of a new depression study argue for programs that provide comprehensive financial and educational support for low-income mothers and their children, the author argues that such help will not be coming from Congress this session.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5762
FOREIGN POLICY
Take Action Against Missile Defense Going 'On Alert'
From: WOMEN'S ACTION FOR NEW DIRECTIONS
On October 1, missile defense officially goes "on alert." WAND urges people to learn more and speak out about the ills of this system: the administration's denial, the destabilizing effect of missile defense on national security, and the billions of taxpayer dollars being lost.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5768
U.S. Opens Global Front In Stem-Cell Debate
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
Jeffrey Laurenti
As President Bush prepares to lead off the annual debate in the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, representatives of the world's 190 other countries have learned that among the President's most urgent priorities for the world body this year is… a global treaty to prohibit human cloning.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5763
COMMENTARY
Texas Film-School Massacre
From: THE AMERICAN PROSPECT
Noy Thrupkaew
Michael Moore-bashing, conspiracy theories, and more at the first conservative film festival.
http://www.prospect.org/web/view-web.ww?id=8568
If You Harbor Terrorists, You Are a Terrorist
From: THE INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE
William Marina
While delegates to the GOP convention were congratulating themselves for their candidate's tough stand against terrorism, the author argues that the Bush administration was creating an international incident - little publicized in the United States - by harboring a notorious group of international terrorists on U.S. soil.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5740
Stand Up to Putin
From: CARNEGIE ENDOWMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE
Robert Kagan
The author argues that Vladimir Putin, the aspiring dictator of Russia, has forced President Bush to reveal how committed he really is to the cause of democracy around the world.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5757
Sad Hints of a Bloody Future
From: CARNEGIE ENDOWMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE
Moises Naim
The author comments on elections and protests in Venezuela.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5758
Looking for Threats in All the Wrong Places
From: CARNEGIE ENDOWMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE
Joseph Cirincione
The author discusses administration reaction to September 11 and their perception that Saddam Hussein was the threat.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5759
Indonesia: U.S. Underwriting Terrorism?
From: FOREIGN POLICY IN FOCUS
Conn Hallinan
The author says that behind a recent, highly controversial indictment by the U.S. Department of Justice, the Bush administration is maneuvering to revive military ties with the Indonesian Army (TNI), one of the world's most oppressive institutions.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5771
Lebanon No Model For Iraq
From: FOREIGN POLICY IN FOCUS
Ronald Bruce St John
Increasingly desperate to find a winning formula in Iraq, Vice President Dick Cheney and other Bush administration officials are promoting Lebanon as a political model for Iraq. The author agrees, the situation in Iraq is looking more and more like Lebanon - but not the "Lebanese model" Cheney talks about.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5774
So Far, You Can Fool Most of the People Most of the Time
From: THE INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE
Ivan Eland
Despite all of the death and mayhem in Iraq and counterproductive results in the war on terror, the author argues that the ever-chipper President Bush soldiers on with upbeat assessments of those efforts in campaign appearances. And the ever-gullible American voter is apparently willing to believe him.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5753
Governor Fails California Students by Vetoing Parents' Right to Know Bill
From: PUBLIC CITIZEN
Anna Blackshaw
The author argues that California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's decision to veto AB 1988, which requires school board approval, public disclosure and parental notification before irradiated foods can be purchased for school lunch programs, deprives California's students and parents of valuable information about what is in their school lunches.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5777
Texas Indictments Should Spur Inquiry Into Rep. DeLay's Role in Possibly Illegal Fundraising Scheme
From: PUBLIC CITIZEN
In light of the felony indictments against three of U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay's top fund-raising lieutenants, Public Citizen argues that the House ethics committee should immediately move forward with a formal inquiry into a complaint alleging that DeLay improperly solicited corporate campaign contributions.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5778
Milking the Middle Class
From: TOMPAINE.COM
Fernando Ferrer
The author comments on the findings in the Drum Major Institute's report card on how legislators stand on helping the middle class.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5743
The Fearful Voter
From: TOMPAINE.COM
David Corn
The author takes stock of what he sees as the Kerry campaign's inability to catch fire. Everyone these days has advice for the presidential contender. But what's the campaign to do when fear is the prime motivator of this year's voter?
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5748
Storm Blockers
From: TOMPAINE.COM
David Helvarg
Lloyds of London won't insure the section of Florida that's in the path of Hurricane Ivan. But the federal government does. The author is all for the government helping people - but against encouraging stupid building decisions. As he explains, tax subsidies actually encourage construction in areas that are vulnerable to hurricane damage.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5749
Gossing Over The Record
From: TOMPAINE.COM
Ray McGovern
Politics and intelligence reform are a noxious mix, according to the author. Last month, the author commented on the factors that ensured Porter Goss would get kid-glove treatment during his nomination hearing. Here, the author reminds us why Goss is a terrible choice for a job critical to this nation's security.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5750
The Case Of Moore v. Times
From: TOMPAINE.COM
Richard Blow
The New York Times has refused to grant permission for rabble-rousing filmmaker Michael Moore to reprint its mea culpa about Iraq in Moore's upcoming book. The reason? The Times doesn't want to becoming "part of a political battle." It's a little late for that, says the author.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5751
Them's Fightin' Words: Opposition in NON-Swing States Can Stand Up, Too
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
Molly Ivins
Letter from a non-swing state: Every political reporter and his hamster is covering the swing states, the author argues. Here's the news from the rest of the country.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5730
Women Terrorists - Hear Them Roar
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
Ellen Goodman
The author writes that terror organizers take advantage of stereotypes of women as exclusively peaceful.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5731
The Rapture Racket
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
Bill Berkowitz
The author wonders what the world might be like if the Book of Revelation didn't mandate death, destruction and the annihilation of all but true believers.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5732
Messing Up and Fessing Up: Dan Rather & Bush
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
E.J. Dionne, Jr.
The author says Dan Rather got it right when admitting fault. Will Dubya follow suit?
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5733
True Conservatives Would Back Kerry
From: WORKINGFORCHANGE.COM
Robert Scheer
The author says the right should recoil from Bush's war without end.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5734
ANNOUNCEMENTS
America's Second Harvest Announces 2004 Hunger's Hope Award Winners
From: AMERICA’S SECOND HARVEST
At its annual conference, America's Second Harvest, the Nation's Food Bank Network, the largest charitable hunger-relief organization, announced the winners of this year's Hunger's Hope Awards.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5741
Brennan Center Attorney to Testify at Chicago City Council Hearings on Proposed Law to Improve Job Standards at Wal-Mart
From: BRENNAN CENTER FOR JUSTICE
Brennan Center for Justice attorney, Nathan Newman, testifies before the Chicago City Council in support of a proposed ordinance that would require retailers like Wal Mart to pay a living wage, plus health care benefits.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5747
What They're Saying
From: FINANCIAL MARKETS CENTER
A new feature of FMC's website offers one-stop viewing of Federal Reserve Board officials' speeches and testimony. The most recent inventory includes links, summaries and commentary covering the period August 12 - September 20.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5756
Release of ‘Breaking Through: Helping Low-Skilled Adults Enter and Succeed in College and Careers’
From: JOBS FOR THE FUTURE
Jobs for the Future, in partnership with the National Council for Workforce Education, invites you to attend the release on October 19 in Baltimore of research identifying key practices and strategies for increasing the number of low-skill, low-income adults who earn postsecondary occupational degrees.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5739
Project Announcement: Afghanistan Watch
From: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION
In Afghanistan Watch, a new project from The Century Foundation, readers are provided with key information and thoughtful commentary in language accessible to non-experts.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5761
Announcing PublicBonds.org: New Website Promotes Accountability and ‘Demystifies’ the Bond Market
From: GOOD JOBS FIRST
Good Jobs First (GJF) announces the launch of a new website at www.publicbonds.org. The Public Bonds site is a resource for community activists, public officials, journalists, researchers and others who are interested in promoting accountability in government borrowing for public infrastructure, prisons or schools.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5745
‘New Stealth PACs’ Secretively Spend Millions to Sway Elections; PhRMA Appears to Have Bankrolled Seniors Groups
From: PUBLIC CITIZEN
Public Citizen seeks IRS probe of potential tax law violations, launches new web site - www.stealthpacs.org - and database to track 501(c) non-profit groups active in elections.
http://www.movingideas.org/cgi-bin/rd/epn_letter.pl?id=5779
Starmail - 23. Sep, 16:08
