Political writing contest ($250 prize): Your best idea for a federal law (deadline July 15)

[KennedyBrothers]

http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/14903080-american-pundit-writing-assignment-july-115-your-best-idea-for-a-federal-law

Anyone who follows politics is no stranger to the wry observation that “lobbyists write the laws.” In the words of the musician Bruce Hornsby [Unlink], “That’s just the way it is.” It’s not that way all the time, of course; sometimes lobbyists only recommend changes after congressional staffers write the bills.

But seriously, folks… that kind of cynicism may be good for a laugh or two at cocktail parties, but it doesn’t do much to empower the average citizen.

Lobbying elected officials, as every American ought to know, is perfectly legal. But not all Americans hold the constitutionally protected act of lobbying in particularly high regard. Part of that suspicion, no doubt, stems from the less-than-transparent way certain interest groups advance their causes and the undeniable fact that campaigns need large sums of money to function. This can lead to politicians promising favors, implicitly or explicitly, in order to keep the fundraising river flowing.

In the final analysis, though, what is lobbying other than appealing to a legislative body to pass a particular law?

For the July 1-15 segment of The American Pundit, we’re inviting you to embrace the spirit of Independence Day, set yourself free from the reach of lobbyists, and share your own best idea for a federal law.

Write an article describing your idea or concept for a federal law. It could be as modest or as grand as you like, but write as if your idea will be the starting point for legislation. Please keep entries between 400 and 1,000 words.

More info here: http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/14903080-american-pundit-writing-assignment-july-115-your-best-idea-for-a-federal-law