Regarding a recent letter fromLarry Pedrett on the Black Rock NCA and its course through Congress, here are some facts to set the record straight.
Firstly, the bill was unanimously passed by the Senate. "Unanimous consent" means that every senator, all 100, have a chance to review the bill and decide if they like it or not. In this case, every senator examined the bill on an individual basis, and each one of them found the bill to be acceptable.
If even one had a problem, the bill would be dead. The senator from Idaho expressed some concerns and they were immediately addressed and he supported the bill. "Unanimous" is exactly how the bill was passed, as conservative Republicans from such places as Idaho, Alaska and Utah, supported the bill!
The fact that only 20 were on the floor at the time of the vote is just a function of how Congress works. The bill was passed unanimously by all U.S. senators, which makes this a true bipartisan action and is a testament to the fact that all of the bases have been covered by Sen. Richard Bryan. The fact that the author of the past letter knows so little about how our government works and cannot remember their civics lessons of school, is the real story here. Maybe before they watch C-Span looking for conspiracy and controversy, they should open up a high school civics book.
Secondly, regarding the "accurate" maps and the involvement of local people in the planning process, the facts are this. Yes, there actually is an "official" map, and the senators have gone out of their way to see to it that all interested parites have had a say. The problem with those who are against this legislation is that they lack specific, tangible reasons why they are against it.
A fear and paranoia of our government is not reason enough. Give us the facts, the real facts, and stop trying to interpret our government of which you know so little about. The facts in this case show that this is a good bill that will benefit Nevada and the country.
KEVIN MACK
Reno
