Public to be given more food safety information

  The government vowed on Tuesday to make more information available to the public regarding food safety and announced a number of ministries will be involved in the initiative. The measure comes just a little more than a year after China enacted its food safety law, which provides a legal basis for consumer rights.
  The quality of food is always a huge public issun in China, for example, the Sanlu Milk incident, the perishable edible oil incident. Which all these things will bring a potential fear to the people and make them worry about the food in their daliy life. So, the relevant government need enhance the strength of food text and strictly punish the food company which product unprotective food. What's more, implementing appropriate policy to regulate the food field in China.
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2010-11/10/content_11524860.htm

Is a simpler tax system possible?

A group of economists headed by Sir James Mirrlees, a Nobel -prize winning economist, recently urged world officials “to do more than tinker at the margins”. They argued for an even greater progressive tax( a tax that places burdan on rich) and a simpler tax system. But is this possible? It is true that the United States is leaning towards a progressive tax and it was widely speculated Former President Bush’s tax cut for the rich would not be renewed in the current Obama administration. However, can a tax system focused on equity be simpler? The truth is our tax system is complex due to the diversity of citizens in the United States. It is unlikely a simpler tax is possible for the United States.

Labor board: Facebook vent against supervisor not grounds for firing

The article discusses an emergency medical technician in Connecticut who made disparaging remarks about her supervisor on her facebook page. She was fired shortly after, but the company, American Medical Response, cites her behavior to patients as the reason for her dismissal. She has brought suit against the company, trying to regain her position with the company. The National Labor Relations board has issued a complaint against the company as well. Social network and email monitoring is currently a hot issue. Many arguements have arisen about how far companies can go in monitoring. I feel that what is done outside of the workplace is not related to business unless it directly hurts a companies reputation or business. The issue in no way has concrete rules involved in policing it, so some social regulation needs to be implemented. If there are restrictions put on where people can social network from (not at work), and how companies can use social networking against people, then court cases like this would cease to exist. This particular court case is groundbreaking because it is the first of its kinda and without social regulations in place, many are sure to follow.

Killian Probst

http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/social.media/11/09/facebook.firing/index.html?hpt=T2

Obama returns to Indonesia

Many observers say Obama’s ties to Indonesia, where he spent four years of his childhood, would usher in a new area friendship between the two nations. But a decision to cut short his trip due to travel threats posed by an erupting volcano made some doubt the sincerity of the speech he gave Wednesday morning.

The Friends of Obama, an eccentric group of Indonesians and ex-patriots that includes former classmates, neighbors and teachers, and friends of his half-sister, gathered at a Tex-Mex restaurant to share stories about the boy they knew as "little Barry."

And in the end, perhaps the most important thing to Indonesians was having the world spotlight show a bit of commonality between it and the US.

Post by: Ziying Yuan

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Global-News/2010/1110/Obama-returns-to-Indonesia-and-for-some-that-s-all-that-mattered

For-profit colleges to face new regulations?

The federal government sees the need to improve the monitoring of for-profit schools after being accused of using deceptive tactics to lure students into taking on high debt for poor education. The rules include the ability to take action against schools engaging in deceptive advertising and marketing and eliminating federal aid to those programs with low paying jobs at graduation. Students enrolled in for profit colleges account for 26% of all student loans and 43% of loan defaulters. It is clear something needs to be done to control these schools before the problem gets worse. Banks, students, and the government are all unhappy. By using direct government and social regulation, these problems can be fixed. They must use a top-down approach because the goals are clearly defined and we will have an easier time assessing the effectiveness of these new regulations.

http://articles.latimes.com/2010/oct/29/nation/la-na-colleges-profit-20101029

Michelle Watkins

Teacher’s Death Exposes Tensions in L.A. Schools

Mr. Ruelas was known as a teacher who stayed late and came in early to help his students but when the Los Angeles Times released a database of every teacher in L.A school district, he was rated "less effective than average." Colleagues and family member say that he became more depressed afterwards and they are certain that this is what lead to his suicide. Now it is being debated whether or not this database which is used nationally is a flawed assessment of teachers and their teaching. My team's policy is one that focuses on elementary school children and getting them to college. This report makes me think twice about the ways in which we may have been planning to assess teachers in our program.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/10/education/10teacher.html?hp

-Victoire Iradukunda

Now in Power, G.O.P. Vows Cuts in State Budgets

Today’s article discusses the republicans who have taken over state plan on reducing the nation’s budget deficit by reducing extra costs such as reducing public workers benefits, reduce social services and also even selling of state liqour stores. Also with about 690 seats in congress being republican they have even considered cutting back on Obamas health plan.

This connects with what we are learning in class with the use of direct government. Americans are asking to have a smaller deficit in the country but may not realize the expenses that may have to be cut. With the republicans in majority of congress going to help our nation by reducing a lot of other benefits/costs? Many say there’s enough to make a big difference.

Elizabeth Sziler


http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/08/us/politics/08govs.html?_r=1&ref=todayspaper

While Warning About Fat, U.S. Pushes Cheese Sales

This article in the New York Times describes the falling sales of Domino's Pizza and the USDA's subsequent push for greater cheese consumption in America.

Despite cheese being loaded with saturated fat and calories, the USDA has pushed cheese in order to help out Dairy Management and the slew of restaurants that purchase from it. While Michelle Obama is seeking to combat American obesity, private interests are continuing to take the precedence over what is true and beneficial to the health of the American public.

This appears to be an excellent example of a government agency having it's legitimacy tarnished by the behavioral issue of regulated industry.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/us/07fat.html?src=me&ref=general

Another article on this topic can be found in the Opinion section of the Indiana Daily Student:

http://www.idsnews.com/news/story.aspx?id=78284

School referendums voted down in many districts

The article discusses local votes on school referendums. The recent large budget cuts in Indiana's school systems had many impacts. Many teachers have lost their jobs, programs have been cut, salaries of coaches have been cut, and many more. School districts of Indiana were hoping taxpayers would step in and help raise the money needed to save these programs and jobs.
However, the tax payers voted against more spending. There were very few schools that voted yes to the referendums, but these schools had needs such as new air conditioning or new roofs.
Why are taxpayers voting against the school referendums? Without more money going into the school systems more jobs will need to be cut, classroom sizes will increase, and more programs will disappear.

-Elizabeth Woollen

http://www.fox59.com/news/wxin-school-referendums-voted-down-110210,0,1395966.story

Bye-bye, tax breaks?

The article discusses how lowering taxes will not benefit our country after this recession. Because of the tax cuts congress placed, our country is losing over $1 trillion that could be used to help our economy.
The five most popular tax breaks are also the breaks that are losing our government the most money. These include mortgage interest reduction, tax-free income workers get from employers to pay for health insurance, deduction for state and local taxes, deduction for charitable donations, and tax breaks for retirement savings.
One idea to help the government receive more money, while also helping out the lower-income class, is to change the mortgage interest deduction so that people who pay over $500,000 for a home pay more taxes.

-Elizabeth Woollen

http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/26/news/economy/curbing_tax_breaks/index.htm

G.O.P. to Fight Health Law with Purse Strings

House Republicans intend to use their new muscle to cut off money for President Obama’s health care law. They plan to use the power of the purse to challenge the main component s of the law to force Democrats into a series of votes to defend it (Pear, pg. 1). Republican lawmakers plan to cut funds available to Internal Revenue Service, use spending bills to block federal insurance regulations, limit access to government-subsidized private health plans, eventually shut off funds for the new law. They also plan to propose strict budget caps to minimize spending for domestic programs. A few of Republican Representatives have plans to “repealing Obamacare piece by piece and blocking funds for implementation” says Eric Cantor. Now democrats must stick together and fight to preserved fundamental elements of the law. Both parties are determined to avoid government shut down. “House Republicans cannot enact legislation the president won’t sign,” said R. Scott Lilly, a former Democratic staff director of the House Appropriations Committee. “But the president cannot force them to appropriate money they don’t want to appropriate.” (Pear, pg. 1).

Sequoia Lee

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/health/policy/07health.html?ref=health

Sept. 11 workers face health settlement deadline

The effects of September 11th 2001 are still being felt to this day over nine years later. Over 10,000 people have filed lawsuits against the city of New York, stating that they have gotten sick from their negligence to provide them with proper breathing devices to protect against the dust from the twin towers. A deadline for Monday was put in place to get ninety-five percent of these lawsuits to join together for one large legal settlement. Under the settlement, the people would get paid about 815 million dollars. New York officials say the money will not cover everything but it could be the best the clients can get with very little proof that the debris is the leading cause of these illnesses.
-Will Kalish
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40055177/ns/us_news-life/

Latinos Prove their Political Might

This past week’s elections brought to light the power of the United States’ largest minority group, Latinos. Although they suffered a few loses, they won many house seats for the Republican Party which is unprecedented for a group that normally votes pro democratic. The article brings about the ideas that Latinos are not voting just based on party lines, or the surname of the candidate. They are now voting based on harden political issues, showing a move towards assimilation into the American political system which many anti-immigration believers based their views upon. Latinos having a larger say in American government will become a huge point of contentions for years to come, with the debate on immigration and U.S. policy towards it continuing to very relevant.


http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/06/us/politics/06latino.html?_r=1&ref=politics

Ben Rains

Program puts you in a driver's seat for elders

In many places around the country, there is growing concern about elderly drivers' ability to safely operate a car. The ailments that come with growing older can hamper ones ability to drive more than most could imagine. Liberty Mutual was presenting its "National Conservation Drive" in an effort to get adult children to talk to their elderly parents about whether it is time for them to give up driving. Liberty Mutual ran the program with ITNAmerica, a nonprofit organization that provides rides to the elderly any time of day or night. Several programs exist that help adults have the conversation with their parents and give tips on altering cars in ways to make them safer for the elderly.

-Matt Osborne

http://www.lohud.com/article/20101107/NEWS01/11070367/Program-puts-you-in-a-driver-s-seat-for-elders

For all who've dreamed of education reform, the time has come

The quality of education in America remains a popular topic. Mitch Daniels plans to take action immediately. He has an outlined plan set out that only needs to be implemented by society. For example, Daniels plans to contribute more of the state's money towards teachers who are doing their job correctly. If their is social regulation present then society as a whole can implement his outlined plans which will lead to the system operating more efficiently.
http://www.indystar.com/article/20101107/NEWS08/11070358/1008/NEWS05/Tully-For-education-reformers-the-time-is-now?odyssey=mod_sectionstories

Pentagon openings give Obama new options

Over the next year and before the end of Obama's first term as president, he must appoint new officials in key positions within the military aspect of the government. The current defense secretary along with numerous top generals is among those whose terms are up or are retiring and must be replaced. All of these opening will be key moving forward not only in the Obama administration but for the current war and years to come. No matter who the appointees are, Obama will certainly face scrutiny from the Senate who has made it their mission to defeat him. However, he could do another political first and move Hillary Clinton to Defense Secretary, who would be the first woman appointed, only time will tell.
-Will Kalish
http://www.mercurynews.com/news/ci_16551300?source=rss&nclick_check=1

Taking on a Second Mortgage to Pay the Foreclosure Lawyer

Many Florida residents are having to take out a second mortgage that is paid towards their lawyers. Since banks have been bad with foreclosures many look to their lawyers. People will like this because it saves money and will allow them to avoid foreclosure. Some will take clients who can pay as they go. This policy will help citizens keep their homes.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/business/07lawyers.html?pagewanted=2&ref=us

-Matthew Abelman

The Midterm Elections and Obama's Foreign Policy's

The midterm elections resulted in a diminished democratic presence within the house and senate. This is unfortunate for President Obama with regards to passing specific bills that will now be challenged by the republican party. The article references the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia as an issue that could be second guessed by "hard-line" republicans such as Rand Paul. Obama claims he intends to try to get the treaty approved during the lame duck session of Congress that begin Nov. 15. Obama believes that, "This is not a traditionally Democratic or Republican issue, but rather an issue of American national security".  This is a prime example of the house of representatives and congress, using their overriding privileges to challenge the legitimacy of Obama's agenda.  Although having a stronger republican presence within the government may slow down specific processes that Obama is trying to carry out, I believe that the legitimacy of his policies will be evaluated more closely, which is beneficial for America.

Robbie Nichols

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/05/world/americas/05prexy.html?_r=1&scp=3&sq=policy&st=cse

Regulators, Banks Grapple With Volcker Rule's Reach

New financial reform has ushered in an age of dissent. The cornerstone of the Economic Recovery Advisory Board, the Volcker Rule prevents banks from making speculative investments if they are not on behalf of their customers. Upset with certain provisions of the plans, Wall Street and D.C. are up in arms. Banks are fighting tooth and nail with regulators to ensure more lenient restrictions on their investment policies. As issues are captured by regulated interests, the fatal flaw of the iron triangle construct (interest, agency, congressional sway) becomes apparent: corruption within regulatory forces. Charged with the recent majority in the House, Republicans have begun pressing a personally beneficial interpretation of the new legislation, causing a breakdown in ability to implement precise fiscal regulation.

27.5 Million for 9/11 Workers

Workers who helped move debree from the 9/11 site say to have received health problems as a result. Released on Friday, they will receive 27.5 million dollars in settlement. There are over ten thousand workers asking for the money, and they will decide weather to accept it or ask for more. Their have been multiple other cases where settlements have been in the millions. Judges have said the results have been fair and reasonable.


http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/nyregion/07suit.html?ref=us

- Matthew Abelman

Jesus in Polish Town

In Swiebodzin, Poland the alleged "largest statue of Jesus" recieved its list pieces to complete the 108+ feet tall statue. A local preist was the master mind behind this beautiful statue that sits in the center of the city. Even though many of the 22,000 residents love the idea of this statue, there are a significant amount of unsatisfied citizens. The 78 year old preist said he felt as if his life duty was fulfilled when the project was complete. The preist told reports that he purposely made the statue itsself 33 meters tall which represents the 33 years that Jesus lived. However, including the Gold Crown and mount that it stands on, it stands over 167 tall. The government of Poland seemed to be happy with the placement of this statue because they feel like it will bring more tourism to the small town.


http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20101106/ap_on_re_eu/eu_poland_giant_jesus

In Efforts to End Bullying, Some See Agenda

In the past three weeks there have been several GLBT teen suicides, due to harassment during public school, have been brought to the public attention. This has caused much debate among the school board and the public about what anti-harassment policies should be taught during school and what the public school system can do to prevent such tragedies. The federal Department of Education is responsible for preventing harassment of any student and are currently trying to come up with a new policy to help GLBT students. This is an example of how bureaucrats are used by the federal government to regulate policies such as public school anti-harassment policies. The Department of Education is able to do what the federal government can't, it can specialize and work with the street level bureaucrats to create a policy.\



Hannah Shearer

www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/us/07bully.html?pagewanted=1&ref=us&src=me

U.S. Vote Could Derail Russia Ties

President Obama has begun to strengthen ties with Russia since his presidency, but since the recent election leading to the Republican party taking majority in the house of representatives continuing these ties seems even more challenging. "Obama needs Congress to sign off on three major policy changes: an arms control treaty to reduce nuclear arsenals and resume inspections; a civilian nuclear agreement to permit greater cooperation; and a repeal of cold war-era trade restrictions so Russia can join the World Trade Organization." It appears that an already challenging task before the Republicans had majority in the House will not be accomplished, leaving all of the progress President Obama made irrelevant.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/world/europe/07policy.html?ref=world

Posted by: Sam Livingston

In Efforts to End Bullying, Some See Agenda

The push to stop bullying of homosexuality within schools has caused somewhat of an uproar of religious critics. These critics believe that anti-harassment in schools is good but that it is just a piece of an entire liberal and gay rights hidden agenda being used to promote their other standpoints "for example, same sex marriage." This is somewhat of a ridiculous assumption of those who oppose the anti-bullying policy. The policy in itself is not specific to gay and lesbian bullying.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/us/07bully.html?_r=1&src=me&ref=general

Posted by: Sam Livingston

Republicans in charge take aim at health overhaul

As the Republican party continues to gain control over the House, there is a growing opposition to the Obama White House and federal spending. Republicans have begun utilizing the Direct Government tool by laying the groundwork for their 2012 goal: a new president, a "better Senate" and ridding the country of that “demonized” health care law, which is an example of social and economic regulation. Republicans have said they are willing to work with President Barack Obama but it would be only on their terms. Democrats who controlled the House, Senate and White House for two years must now work with Republicans, who have not shied from pushing their own agenda. The results from this recent election only supports the rejection of American liberalism and the Obama and Pelosi agenda.


-Rebecca Jania

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_republicans_in_charge

Republicans oppose compromise with President Obama on tax cuts

Republicans gained control of the house in the last election and democrats fear that the transition of power will jeopardize their policies on the expiring Bush tax cuts. Democrats want tax cuts extended for all Americans except the wealthiest portion. Republicans on the other hand feel that it is important to extend tax cuts for every American during an economic downturn. This issue has further separated Republicans and Democrats. Congress will meet and debate these tax cuts as well as spending bills. The policy tool that is decided upon will undoubtedly have a great effect of the U.S. economy in the coming years.

Kate White

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-republicans-tax-cuts-20101108,0,1298102.story

Mapping Ecosystems, the Better to Conserve Them

The State Department of Fish and Game has just revealed its latest version of its online BioMap in order to ensure that largely private efforts to set aside land do the most public good. The map is providing a framework for protection and stewardship of those lands and waters that are most important for conserving biological diversity with the climate change and suburbanization that are built into the state’s biological future. Those who do the land conservation are those who are part of a town or a regional or state-level agency. The BioMap will suggest what lands you should acquire. This is an example of direct government because it is a direct provision of services by a government agency. Government has a direct relationship with consumers of its goods and services.

http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/11/05/mapping-ecosystems-the-better-to-conserve-them/?ref=science

Kilee Imlay

Direct Government in Airports

Recently new body imaging scanners have been added to many airports. These are used to completely scan travelers prior to flights. Even with this new technology, three national Sikh advocacy and civil rights organizations have said that turbans will still be searched and consider this "racial profiling." According to the T.S.A. (Transportation Security Administration) and the Department of Homeland Security, the scanners cannot see through the multiple layers of fabric in the turban. Thus, these organizations are using direct government to allow security officials the jurisdiction to conduct extra searches. While some may cry "racial profiling", I feel that a turban is the same as a small, unchecked bag. This is necessary and fair for everyone to be safe.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/us/07turban.html?_r=1&ref=todayspaper