Process for Passing Legislation

Process for Passing Legislation Tim Mulligan Energizing California’s Legislature How to Inspire Legislative and Electorate Action about an Electric Vehicle I have recently invented a solar-electric hybrid vehicle that could have immensely positive effects on drivers of California, and it could also facilitate a significant reduction in the use of fossil fuels in the state. In order for my invention to gain more prevalence throughout the state and to begin making these changes, I will need to have a piece of legislation passed. I believe that individuals who purchase one of my hybrid vehicles should be entitled to a $4,000 tax credit because of the positive impact they are having on the environment. There are several ways to go about this. Legislative Process In order for this appropriations bill to be passed by the California legislature, several things need to happen. I first need to contact my congressman and inform him about my product and the idea that I have for a piece of legislature. This is my primary involvement in the legislative process as I have the chance to speak with my congressman on the merits of my product and the legislation that I would like passed. The legislative process begins when either my state senator or my state assemblyman decides to author the bill for me. After my congressman has authored my bill, it is sent to the Legislative Counsel to be officially drafted into a bill. The newly drafted bill will be sent back to my congressman so that it can be introduced to his or her congressional house, the Senate, or the Assembly. My congressman will read the proposed bill to his/her congressional house and the bill will be sent to the Office of State Printing not to be dealt with for 30 days. Next are the committee hearings. The bill is sent to the Rules Committee where it will be reviewed to see which policy committees in which it needs to be seen. For this specific bill, I believe that it would be sent to committees such as the Appropriations Committee, Environmental Safety and Toxins Committee, Natural Resources Committee and the Revenue and Taxation Committee. This is because the bill deals with a $4,000 tax credit for individuals and also because my product has an impact on the environment and our use of natural resources. These committees can pass the bill as it is out forth by my congressman, pass it with amendment, or they can defeat the bill. If the bill survives the committee process it is then read a second and third time, followed by a roll call vote within the congressman’s congressional house. As an appropriations bill, it would need 27 votes in the senate and 54 votes in the state assembly to be passed. If the bill passes after undergoing this whole process in one of the congressional houses, the process is then repeated in the other house. If both housed approve the bill, it is then sent to the governor where he can either sign it, allow it to become law without his signature, or he can veto it. Use of Lobbyists, Interest Groups and Campaign Contributions The most significant way that I can help my legislation get passed is through the use of lobbyists and interest groups. Lobbyists and interest groups often have very close relationships with members of congress and their influence in the legislative process is invaluable. I would need to employ lobbyists from environmental groups to help communicate with my congressman the advantages that my hybrid vehicle would bring to the state of California. Interest groups can mobilize my idea within the population and lobbyists can promote my idea face to face with my congressman. Campaign contributions are also incredibly influential in the legislative process because there are many interest groups, lobbyists and corperations that can influence congressmen by either contributing to their campaign funds in return for legislative action, or they can withdraw their often massive contributions if the congressman does not support legislature that caters to their best interests. Using Direct Democracy I could also take the route of direct democracy in order to get my legislation passed. This would occur through the initiative process. I would need to make a request for a title and summary for my proposal. Because this process is so expensive I would most likely need to have the help of lobbyists or interest groups. I would also need to hire attourney’s so that my proposal can be drafted in proper legal text. Once the attourney general has prepared a title and summary for my initiative, it is on to the signature process. I would need to acquire a number of signatures in support for the initiative that is equal to the full number of votes that were casted for any governor candidate in the last gubernational election. If I indeed allocate this many signatures, the Secretary of State will include the initiative in the next general election and any special elections subsequent to the intitiatives qualifying. Waging a Successful Direct Democracy Campaign After I have successfully brought my initiative to the ballot, I will need to campaign for it so that I can see that it is passed in the next election. At this point there is no doubt that I will need the aid of interest groups, not only for their public influence but for their campaign funds. I will need to select a sponsor that not only has funds but also has the ability to reach the voters. Research will need to be funded not only to analyze the potential benefits of my hybrid vehicle and the tax credit that it would bring individuals, but to analyze the public opinion and how voters can best be reached. Focus groups will help me to develop my strongest arguments for why my bill should be passed and these ideas will be put forth in advertisements. Television advertisements, radio advertisements and hired interest group lobbyists will be my primary means of campaigning for people to pass my legislation. Pros and Cons of Legislative Process/ Direct Democracy I believe that direct democracy would be the strongest means of getting my hybrid car tax credit passed into legislation. I believe that bills that are proposed to the legislation are often impeded by the partisanship of the members of Congress. This is true not only on a federal level but at the state level. I think that lobbyists can only propel a bill so far into the legislature before partisanship will defeat it, or amend it beyond its primary purpose. The legislative process is a good safeguard for mitigating the number of laws that are passed as well as intensely analyzing their contents before they are passed. But, I do not believe that the legislative process would serve my bill well. Direct democracy would be a good means of getting my legislation passed because I believe that it would be easy to mobilize voters on a bill that could potentially credit them $4,000 for purchasing an already money saving car. The preservation of natural resources is an issue that more and more people are agreeing upon today and I do not believe that anybody would be opposed to a tax credit. I think that my only problem with the direct democracy route would be actually mobilizing people to vote. Because this bill really only effects those who are purchasing my vehicle, the number of people that would feel the need to vote for it would be very small. People do not often vote on things that they feel do not have an effect on them and that could be problem when it comes to mobilizing the electorate to consider my car that effects a small group of people.

Explanation of the research proposal Essay

# central research question: Research questions steer the student’s research, and the central research question should reflect the subject of research in a concise way. # theoretical (desk) research questions: Questions should reflect relevant theoretical concepts that apply to the topic under research by the student, i.e. from marketing, finance, business environment. The theoretical framework should be taken into account when formulating theoretical research questions. New theories will receive extra points! Students can improve the structure and categorize the questions under themes (categories), such as: * Strategic management (Competitive Grid, BCG, Ansoff, Abel, 5-forces, competitive strategy, PLC, PEST, SWOT, etc), * Marketing (4Ps, positioning, targeting, branding, CRM, branding, etc). * Operations & SCM (process strategy, SCM, inventory management, lean systems, forecast & demand driven systems, resource planning , and others). * International business (FDI, strategy & organization of int’l business, entry models, barriers to trade, etc). * Finance & accounting. The choice of topics also depends on how broad or narrow the student wants the research topic to be. # empirical (field) research questions: Students should think about what they want to find out by doing field research, and formulate research questions about these issues. They will need to identify the populations that they want to research and formulate research questions for each of these populations. One way to structure empirical research questions is using the research populations at categories. What is it you want to learn from these populations? But, formulate research questions, not questionnaire or interview questions! Research objectives: Objectives should reflect briefly what the student wants to achieve by the research project. Philosophy: Interpretivism – the view that all knowledge is a matter of interpretation. From the book: â€Å"A People’s History of the United States†, Howard Zinn: â€Å"But there is no such thing as a pure fact, innocent of interpretation. Behind every fact presented to the world – by a teacher, a writer, anyone – is a judgment. The judgment that has been made is that this fact is important, and that other facts, omitted, are not important.† * Positivism: 1 + 1 = 2 * Interpretivism: 1 + 1 = 3 # research approach: deductive/inductive: * Deductive is applying theories in desk research; * Inductive is developing theories, or new insights, by doing field research. # cross-sectional/longitudinal/exploratory/ descriptive/explanatory studies. * Cross-sectional means studying the here and now. * Longitudinal means studying developments over time by doing * exploratory, descriptive, and explanatory studies. Research strategy # Desk research: * Theoretical research questions drive desk-research. * IP-8 is an academic assignment and presenting issues in a theoretical context is a requirement. * IP-8 requires students to apply theories and models to a ‘real life’ business problem and to organize proprietary original field research. * Desk-research Desk research is done to answer the theoretical research questions and includes selecting and studying the theories and information relevant to the research topic. Students should explain how they will collect quantitative and qualitative data by doing internet, database and literature research. # quantitative secondary data: examples of texts, authors should be given. * # qualitative secondary data: Specific sources should be presented. * # internet research: Specific sources should be presented. Use of school databases is expected. * # literature research: Use of school library sources is expected. * Theoretical framework * Area – field – topic: when selecting the theories that apply to the research topic, students will describe the theoretical framework of their research topic. In the theoretical framework allows students to broaden or narrow down their subject of research. * # The area is the broader context, such as strategic management, marketing, finance, or logistics; * # The field is more narrow, such as for example competitive strategy, customer service, flow strategies of production and distribution, financial performance measurement, etc, depending on the topic of research. * # The topic is usually the central research question. * # primary – secondary – tertiary sources of secondary data: Specific sources should be presented. * # secondary data: document/survey based (CBS): Specific sources should be presented. * # referencing method: IBMS referencing method should be used. Field-research Empirical research questions drive field-research. # case-study: When students work with a sponsor, the research is often called a case study, because they do research that applies to a particular case, the sponsor. The sponsor company provides access to empirical data. # research populations: sampling frames: Students should do the following when they organize their field research: # formulate empirical research questions that will be answered by doing field research, # choose the research populations that can answer these questions, and possibly get a sampling frame (a list with names or items in the population), # select the research methods (interviews, surveys, observations) for each of the research populations that will be used to extract the information, # then select the sampling method (probability, or non-probability sampling) for each of the research populations. # observations/interviews/survey with questionnaires: Student should explain briefly why methods are chosen for each of the research populations. Sampling method for each of the research populations: # probability sampling (simple-random/ systematic/stratified-random/cluster sampling): Student should explain briefly which sampling methods have been chosen for each of the research populations and why. # non-probability sampling (quota/purposive/ snowball/self-selecting/convenience sampling): Student should explain briefly which sampling methods have been chosen for each of the research populations and why. # sample size: Student should explain why sample sizes haven been set, and how. # reliability/validity: Student should reflect on the consistency and representativeness of potential findings from the research populations that have been identified, and the truthfulness of potential findings. Empirical framework # environment of field research: Sponsor company provides access to empirical data. Student should briefly describe the environment of their field research, the sponsor company, and the research populations. # research populations (sources of primary data): Students describe the research populations of their field research which may consist of the sponsor company, representatives of departments, experts, customers, suppliers, competitors, etc. In the empirical framework more detailed information is provided about the research methods, observations, the type of the interviews and the questionnaires used in the survey (if applicable), and the type of data that is expected to be collected. Note: There is redundancy in some of the issues presented in the checklist under field research, research populations, sampling, and empirical environment. Students may refer to earlier parts. # observations: Observation is systematically observing people and/or processes. Observation might be an option for students doing a case study, but is often difficult to organize. # interviews: fully structured/semi-structured/ unstructured: Student should provide details about the type of interviews for each of the research populations. # surveys: self-administered/ interviewer administered questionnaires: Student should provide details about the type of surveys for each of the research populations. # opinion/behavior/attribute data: Student should provide details about the types of data will be collected from each of the research populations. Time table: Is time-table realistic and meeting deadlines?

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis, also known as â€Å"MS†, is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). This disorder is caused by inflammation, the action of the body’s own immune cells attacking its own nervous system. Aforementioned inflammation damages the outer layer of nerve cells, also known as the myelin sheath. When this covering is harmed, nerve signals slow down or altogether stop, making life difficult for the victims of MS. â€Å"Although found in both genders, MS affects many more women than men.It usually appears between the ages of 20 and 40, but has been diagnosed at all levels of maturity. † (pubmedhealth) These people may suffer from a multitude of symptoms associated with MS including, but not limited to, loss of balance, heavy fatigue, muscle spasms, dizziness, tremors, weakness, double vision, tingling and numbness, depression, hearing loss, slurred speech, and difficulty swallowing. Symptoms vary from pati ent to patient based on location, treatment, and the overall severity of the disease. MS causes deterioration of the body, but does not however, make one’s life expectancy shorter than normal.Most victims continue to function normally throughout the majority of their lives, working with minimal disability for 20 or more years. This chronic and incurable disease is life-changing, but in most cases, not life-ending. Although incurable, MS can be tested and treated in a variety of ways. A few tests that can be used to diagnose MS comprise of, Lumbar puncture, MRI brain scan, and a nerve function study. Lumbar punctures are known to be very painful and a dreadful procedure in that the surgeon much use a very extensive needle to â€Å"tap† into the patient’s spinal cord for a something called cerebrospinal fluid.Although Lumbar punctures are the most painful, they just so happen to be the most effective, in turn making them the most popular MS test. As far as treatme nt goes, there is no cure known for this disease. That being said, there are many therapies and medicine available to help slow down and control the disease. Some of the medications used to slow this disease down consist of Interferons (also used to treat a rare skin cancer known as melanoma), glatiramer acetate, mitoxantrone, natalizumab, and fingolimod.Steroids may also be used to minimize how severe the attacks can reach (pubmedhealth). Other medicines are additionally used to control symptoms, including Lioresal, tizanidine, and benzodiazepine, which are medicines to lessen muscle spasms. Antidepressants are used for mood and/or behavior symptoms (pubmedhealth). Furthermore, in addition to the aforementioned treatments for MS, there are numerous wellness behaviors that can be followed to lower progression of the disease. â€Å"Physical therapy and other types of therapy like speech, occupational and support groups. ther wellness behaviors such as assistive devices, planned exer cise programs, a healthy lifestyle, avoiding stress or illness in any way, changes in what you eat or drink, making changes around the home to prevent falls, and counseling services to help cope with the disorder† (pubmedhealth) can all be ways to lower the progression of the disease. † In conclusion, Multiple Sclerosis is a horrible disease that no one should have to deal with, but unfortunately millions of people do every day.

Overpopulation The Downfall Of The Human Race - 1716 Words

Mason Walsh Mrs. Smith Advanced Composition 1 28 March 2016 Overpopulation: The Downfall of the Human Race Throughout the last few hundred years, humans have built a foundation. Compared to all of the other animal species on Earth, humans are the most intelligent. We have built houses everywhere, developed a system to sustain ourselves, and now inhabit almost every piece of land on earth. Humans are smart, strong, and know how to fend for themselves. But, humans have a tendency to take it too far, and we have already done so. There have been numerous advancements over the past few hundred years which could ultimately lead to the downfall of the human race. The main issue is overpopulation due to the advancements in technology and general knowledge. The statistics from an article by Kenneth Smail show that â€Å"In the year 1900, there were almost 2 billion humans living on Earth. Throughout the 1960’s, the baby boom, there were 3 billion humans on Earth. Today in 2016, there are just over 7 billion humans living on Earth.† Currently, we have taken up just over half of all av ailable land on this planet, and with increased amounts of people having kids, our population will only increase. Overpopulation is becoming a serious problem all around the world, especially in countries such as China and India. There are many global problems associated with overpopulation that are becoming more and more prevalent, which will all have dangerous effects on the foundation that humans haveShow MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Overpopulation On The Environment1400 Words   |  6 Pagespopulations are multiplying globally. Overpopulation is a major issue, affecting both the earth and it’s inhabitants. The exponential rise of the human race directly affects the exponential downfall of the environment it rises over. Water is becoming polluted and scarce, land is shrinking, and extensive use of fuel is contaminating the atmosphere. Deforestation and global climate change are causing a downfall in biodiversity around the world. One can argue that overpopulation is the caus e of all these phenomenaRead MoreOverpopulation1587 Words   |  7 Pagessome people believe that it will lead to the downfall of the human race, while others think it is beneficial to continue on this path. The ongoing debate on world overpopulation allows many different people to offer their unique opinions, such as Erle C. Ellis, Joel Kotkin, Robert Walker, and Alon Tal. These writers offer perspectives that support and conflict the different aspects of the overpopulation issue. Both Ellis and Kotkin believe that overpopulation is not an issue, while Walker and Tal stronglyRead MoreThe Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. LeGuin Essay568 Words   |  3 Pagesobserving the current world, â€Å" ‘There is no overpopulation now. Was there any other solution, besides nuclear war? There is now no perpetual famine in South America, Africa, and Asia. When transport channels are fully restored, there wont be even the pockets of hunger that are still left.’ † It seems as though this dream was a success. However, the only reason there is no overpopulation is because George dreams a plague that kills 6 billion human beings. The idea of making the world more habitableRead MoreAnalysis Of Robert Malthus s Old Impact On The Thinking, And Scientists1250 Words   |  5 Pagesdisease, and even war. He also believed that this population problem would eventually lead to the collapse of human civilization. Vogt even stated that â€Å"the day of judgement is at hand as man’s destructive methods of exploiting our planet, mushroom like the atomic cloud over Hiroshima†. As you can see, William Vogt was very serious about this idea of overpopulation leading to our downfall. His belief that the population would grow much too fast for the world to keep up with it, is the same ideas ofRead MoreThe Space Of Space Exploration1254 Words   |  6 Pagesblindly throwing resources away. Space exploration is an investment as we progress forward and contin ue to develop as a society, it will serve as a stepping stone in human expansion and help human’s learn more about their capabilities and limitations. Overpopulation Overpopulation has been a growing concern over the years as humans continue to evolve medical practices and increase the life expectancy. Space exploration is a simple solution to this growing concern, the discovery of new habitableRead MoreEssay on Factors Leading to The Collapse of Past Societies1693 Words   |  7 PagesAt present day, our worldwide civilization of the human race continues to surpass many achievements of other past societies. Everyday, new technological advances are being achieved and the population is growing faster than it ever previously has. We must look back at past civilizations and analyze them to understand what is in store for us in the future. In the pursuit of progress, human societies create problems they do not have the resources or political motivation to solve, for fear of short termRead MoreProblems Faced By Overpopulation And The Human Race Essay1375 Words   |  6 Pages Overpopulation, it is one of the biggest problems our society faces today, it has the potential to cause devastating effects to the earth and the human race. In 1978 Thomas Robert Malthus published a paper on population growth, it set a foundation for many arguments that are still being discussed to this day. The problems outlined by Malthus are still a major problem, along with an abundance of other overpopulation problems. To most of these problems there is a short-term solution, while good inRead MoreIs Cloning A Real Development?1031 Words   |  5 Pages It is in human nature to constantly learn and improve. Humans are daredevils and natural entrepreneurs in life. Testing limits, discovering things to help create new ideas and give hope to the human population, but some discoveries are out of mankind s hands. Cloning is starting to become a real development but issues such as later development issues, overpopulation and the idea of decreasing natural individuality keep it at a standstill. While Cloning is at a standstill there are things thatRead MoreThe Destruction Of The Environment In Margaret Atwoods Oryx And Crake?1110 Words   |  5 Pagesmastermind behind this creation, firmly believed that the degradation of the environment was the result of the foolish actions of humans. With the concept of eliminating and improving the overall environment, the BlyssPluss was a product created to improve nature manipulated by humans, the human built setting. In addition, the pill was the result of the ignorance of humans and their lack of attention to their responsibilities to maintain the environment. Due to their inability to tend to the environmentRead MoreThe Human Of Endangered Species1309 Words   |  6 Pagessources credited for the existence on Earth. The environment has provided the human race and Earth with the essentials needed and more for survival. Both living and nonliving things play a role in continuing the constant cycle that keeps everything maintained and in order. When something as small as a plant or as large as a bear is taken from the cycle of life, there are major effects that occur and bring negative problems. Humans are most likely the ones to blame for endangering these species. But global