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by Alex Cuff, Newsbrief Editor Last month, Arcata, CA joined increasing number of municipalities to pass a resolution urging local law enforcement officials and others contacted by federal officials to refuse requests under the Patriot Act that they believe violate an individual’s civil rights under the Constitution. Arcata didn’t stop there…this little city passed an ordinance that outlaws voluntary compliance with the Patriot Act. “I call this a nonviolent, preemptive attack,” said David Meserve, the City Council member who drafted the ordinance with the help of the Arcata city attorney, city manager and police chief. The Arcata ordinance may be the first, but it may not be the last. Across the country, citizens have been forming Bill of Rights defense committees to fight what they consider the most abominable attack on liberties contained in the Patriot Act. In Arcata, where forums drew little debate, the new law is an unqualified hit. It passed by a vote of 4 to 1, but has what looks like near-unanimous approval from residents. |
Original Post Date
2004-03-24 11:00 PM
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