CLIMATE CHANGE
Environment alarms made without proof
The letter “Greenhouse gas issue demands action” (Readers write, April 20) makes wild, unsubstantiated claims about climate change. First, the writer says, “Greenhouse gases are disrupting our climate, leading to drought in some areas and more violent rains and flooding elsewhere.” Where’s the proof for this claim? Droughts, floods and violent storms have existed for centuries.
The writer claims, “Sea levels have risen 10 inches … this century.” Where did he find this exaggerated number — from science fiction? Then, he says, “Scientists are certain that the world is committed to a 3.5 degree Fahrenheit temperature rise, even if drastic reductions in greenhouse gases happen now.” Does he mean this century?
Outrageous, disputable claims like these serve nothing but to alarm people and promote unnecessary governmental mandates at great cost to the American people. People are always entitled to their opinions. But they’re not entitled to make up facts.
DAVID GOULD, JOHNS CREEK
GAY MARRIAGE
Couple is hopeful Georgia will change
I vividly remember sitting in front of my television next to my partner of nine years in 2004 when President Bush announced his support for a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage as he worked to rally his base. It was a dark day in our household. Even darker was election day, when our state approved a ban with 76 percent approving it. Also shocking was the lack of outrage by our family and friends that discrimination could be so completely and fully supported by an electorate and enshrined the Georgia constitution. People just sort of accepted it and moved on because it didn’t really impact their lives. That was a difficult pill to swallow.
My partner and I just began our 20th year together, and we’ve chosen not to get married yet in some other state because, like the couple in the article, “This is where we want to marry” (Metro, April 22). We want to do it right here in our back yard when it is fully, legally recognized in the state of Georgia. My friends say that is a long way off. After reading this article, I think they might be wrong, and I am heartened beyond measure.
DALE DUNCAN, ATLANTA
LEGISLATURE
Hearings schedule is too haphazard
There were several bills I had a special interest in this legislative session. This was my first close observation of a session. I would like to address the role of the committee and sub-committee chairmen. My drive from North Georgia to the Capitol to lobby was tiresome. It was even more frustrating to arrive and find the committee or sub-committee hearing was canceled. This happened several times.
It is the policy of the Legislature that committee chairmen have the discretion to cancel and reschedule hearings. This policy needs to change so that the voters, not just professional lobbyists, have the opportunity to participate in the legislative process. Schedules should be writ in stone. Planning is necessary. If this complaint resonates with readers, please help participate in our government by calling your elected officials and give them your opinion.
BILL MCNIFF, BALL GROUND
