Chipping Away at Our Liberties

Almost daily, the news out of Eastern Europe focuses on the people’s thirst for democracy, while in the United States there is an alarming trend toward further restriction of our personal liberties.

First of all, you can’t seem to get a job without having to submit to a pre-employment drug test (an intrusion into your private life).

Second, there is a good chance you’ll be doused with malathion at some point (without your consent) because California says that’s the only reasonable way to kill the Medfly.

Third, a California legislator has introduced a bill to outlaw lane splitting by motorcyclists because of a letter of complaint she received from a constituent. Not dozens of letters, but one letter! Just what we need--another law because of one angry citizen.

And last (but not least), state legislatures across the country are passing laws restricting a woman’s right to an abortion. These states are bowing to political pressure from a vocal minority, while disregarding the majority viewpoint.

Wake up, folks! We are legislating ourselves into a police state. I envision a time when the only people left with civil liberties are those who pass the laws.

JOSEPH B. BLUME

Anaheim