Last week the US Senate by a vote of 93-7 passed the FY 2012 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) awarding $662 billion for the military, including $117 billion for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. For roll-call see
Senate and House versions of the bill were reconciled this weekend, with a final version expected either today or tomorrow. Once complete, the House and Senate will be asked to vote on it very quickly. There is no time to waste! Let your Senators and Representatives know that you are opposed to the 2012 Defense Authorization bill because it imperils civil liberties, continues an endless war in Afghanistan and elsewhere, wastes billions of dollars that 99% of Americans need for a more secure life here at home.
This bill (S.1867) is an extraordinarily dangerous measure, which grants power to the military to arrest and detain US citizens without legal counsel and trial. The relevant provisions were negotiated in secret by Sen.Carl Levin (D) and Sen. John McCain (R), ranking members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. As explained by supporter Sen. Lindsay Graham, "when they say I want my lawyer...,you tell them 'Shut up. You don't get a lawyer."The Senate measure includes the language of the Merkley Amendment, calling upon the President to accelerate US withdrawal from Afghanistan. This is a significant achievement for peace movement. However, as presently written, the Defense Authorization bill would fund the war at the level preferred by the White House. Furthermore by approving $662 billion for the military, the Senate is continuing to squander tax dollars that are urgently needed to create jobs, rebuild our crumbling infrastructure, and invest in our nation's education and health.Let your views be heard: Call the Capitol switchboard (202)224-3121 or email your Senators and Representative. If you can visit their nearest office and let their staffs know of your concern, that's even better. Pick the approach that works best for you and your group. But now is the time to demand that our elected officials vote "No!" on S.1867Please let us know about any feedback you receiveco-conveners UFPJ Legislative Working Group
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