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Homeland Security handed out unfairly

This is an old story but I found a video that I would like to post.  So, NY gets the finger from Homeland Security.  One must wonder why?  Most Americans outside of politicians, if asked what American city do you think would be hit with the next terrorist attack, wound guess New York, Washington or possibly Los Angeles.  So, one would figure that NY would get an increase in its anti-terror funding.  That would be wrong.  Their budget was cut by 40%!! Appeals have landed on deaf ears. 

Decisions like these are why we will never get true Security around this country.  Republicans are handing out Homeland Security dollars like they are rewards for great campaigning instead of measuring risk but then again, what do I know?

(This is Nancy Giles from the CBS Sunday Morning News.)

 
icon for podpress  Giles Homeland Security [2:45m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

Break Lobbying rules in NC and you can get a slap on the wrist

The News & Observer reports

By a nearly unanimous vote, 106-3, House members tentatively banned lobbyists and their clients from giving big gifts to legislators. Violators could face a misdemeanor charge, a two-year ban on lobbying and a civil fine of up to $5,000 per violation.

Nearly?  Nearly, what’s up with this?  Why such a wimpy fine?  We are talking about possibly influencing millions and millions of dollars and the find is $5,000?

This is clearly a start but it should be looked at is only a start.  The Legislature should put some real teeth into cleaning up corruption at the state and local level.  It should be clear that the state of North Carolina is not for sale.