Ideas for Teachers

A ‘SANCTUARY CITY’ is a term for a jurisdiction with a policy or practice that discourages local law enforcement from reporting the immigration status of undocumented immigrants to the federal government.

RESEARCH LINKS

Issue 1: Sanctuary Cities
Congress.gov: H.R.5717, “No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act”
Fox News: “Which Cities, Counties and States are ‘Sanctuary’ Jurisdictions?”
National Conference of State Legislatures: “Navigating Immigration Policy”
National Immigration Forum: “Bill Analysis: No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act”
GlobalRefuge.org: “What Are Sanctuary Cities?”
Fox News: “Blue Cities Rush Dismantle Migrant Shelters as Trump Approaches”

Issue 2: STOP CCP Act
Congress.gov: H.R.3334, “STOP Chinese Communist Party Act”
IssueVoter.org: H.R. 3334 – “STOP CCP Act” For and Against Arguments
WhiteHouse.gov: “Statement of Biden Administration Policy on ‘STOP CCP Act’”
Washington Post: “Trump Set to Deepen Tech Cold War with China”
House Foreign Affairs Committee: “Confronting the China Challenge”
Congressional Budget Office: “STOP CCP Act Cost Estimate”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Sanctuary Cities

1. After looking at the Fox News article on which locations are sanctuary cities (link above), what do sanctuary cities have in common? Why do some places decide to become sanctuary cities?
2. Do you think city governments should always cooperate with state or federal governments? Why or why not?
3. What is a sanctuary city? Why do people support or oppose sanctuary cities? What is your stance?
4. Is Immigration an issue in your city or state? Why or why not?
5. What rights should illegal immigrants have in our country?

Issue 2: STOP CCP Act

1. Do you think Chinese efforts to surpass American global economic, military, and political power are succeeding or failing? Why or why not?
2. What do people mean when they describe a country as “number one?” How might your life be different if China was the “number one” nation in the world?
3. Does the power of China make you worried in any way? Why or why not?
4. How do you think the new Trump administration will change U.S. economic policy toward China?
5. How might the United States have a less confrontational and more productive relationship with China?

RESEARCH LINKS

Issue 1: 2024 U.S. Presidential Election

ESTABLISHING CONGRESSIONAL TERM LIMITS through a new constitutional amendment is no small task. Since 1787, just 27 amendments have been added to the U.S. Constitution.

Trump Campaign Website: Donald J. Trump on the Issues (full list)
Harris Campaign Website: Kamala Harris on the Issues (full list)
Ballotpedia.org: “Presidential Candidates 2024”
Allsides.com: “Election Resource Center”
270towin.com: “2024 Presidential Election Interactive Map”
ProCon.org: “Presidential Candidates Comparison Chart on the Issues”

Issue 2: Congressional Term Limits
Congress.gov: H.J. Res. 11 – Congressional Term Limits
Constitutioncenter.org: “Why Term Limits for Congress Face Challenging Path”
Heritage Foundation: “Term Limits, the Only Way to Clean Up Congress”
NPR.org: “Term Limits for Congress…Why Experts Say They’d Be a Bad Idea”
U.S. Term Limits: “Why Term Limits?”
Senate.gov: “Sen. Cruz Introduces Constitutional Amendment – Term Limits”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: 2024 U.S. Presidential Election

1. Read the presidential candidates “on the issues” (pp. 2-3 of the newsletter). For an unabridged list, visit each candidate’s campaign website (links above). Which issues are the most important to you personally? Why?
2. After looking at the candidates’ positions on the issues, what do you see as at stake in this election—for yourself, your generation, your community, your country, and the world? Which candidate do you feel is the best choice for our next U.S. president—Trump, Harris, or “other?” Why?
3. When did you first become aware of having political opinions? Who or what do you think shaped them? Did your parents or family members influence you—or was it more your friends, a teacher, or your church that played a crucial role? Have your opinions changed over time? How so?
4. Whether in school, with family and friends, or online, what experiences have you had in talking to people who may not agree with you? What has been helpful? What has been hard? Why do these conversations matter?
5. What are you optimistic about? What might your generation do better than those who came before it?

Issue 2: Congressional Term Limits

1. Should members of congress be subject to term limits? How many terms should they be allowed to run for?
2. Currently, the Constitution requires representatives to be at least 25 years old and senators to be at least 30. Some have suggested imposing a mandatory retirement age for members of Congress or a maximum age of election. Do you agree? Why or why not?
3. The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits the president from serving more than two four-year terms. Does it make sense to have term limits for the executive branch of government (the president and his or her administration) but not for the legislative branch (members of congress)? Why or why not?
4. Summarize the “for” and “against” arguments for setting congressional term limits. Which position do you agree with? Why?
5. Proponents of congressional term limits say longtime members of congress have an “incumbency advantage,” making them practically unbeatable and less likely to listen to their constituents. Do you think the incumbent advantage presents a problem for true representation in congress? Would term limits solve this problem? What other changes might make races more competitive?

RESEARCH LINKS

Issue 1: SNAP Benefits

DIGITAL PRIVACY in the United States has become a hot topic, with consumer rights groups opposing the practices of companies that collect and use consumer data.

Congress.gov: H.R.8467 “Farm, Food, and National Security Act”
The Hill: “A Fight Over SNAP Funding Could Derail the Farm Bill”
Senate Committee on Agriculture: “Reviewing Baseline Nutrition Programs”
Center on Budget and Policy Priorities: “House Farm Bill’s SNAP Cut”
Urban Institute: “Food Insecurity on the Rise, SNAP Spending Cuts Dangerous”
Heritage Foundation: “Food Stamp Reforms to Save Taxpayers Billions”

Issue 2: National Privacy Law
Congress.gov: H.R. 8818 “American Privacy Rights Act of 2024”
U.S. Chamber of Commerce: “Letter on the ‘American Privacy Rights Act’”
Electronic Frontier Foundation: “EFF Opposes the American Privacy Rights Act”
IAPP.org: “U.S. State Privacy Legislation Tracker”
StateScoop.com: “American Privacy Rights Act Could Undercut State Privacy”
Tech Policy OpEd: “Big Tech Tried to Kill My State’s Privacy Bill”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: SNAP Benefits

1. In 2023, 33.6 million adults and 13.8 million children lived in food-insecure households, compared to 30.8 million adults and 13.4 million children in 2022. Why do you think “food insecurity” is on the rise in the U.S.? Hint: Read the Urban Institute article (link above) for insight on the term “food insecurity.”
2. Is the SNAP or food stamps program the best solution to poverty in the U.S.? Why or why not?
3. Individuals who receive SNAP benefits must shop, cook, and eat on a budget of $4.40 a day. If you had to make a grocery list within the limits of this SNAP budget, on which foods would you spend the money? Why?
4. Some lawmakers believe welfare programs like SNAP create a “culture of dependency.” Do you agree? Why or why not?
5. What are the potential consequences for families banned from food stamps due to past drug convictions?

Issue 2: National Privacy Law

1. Using the U.S. state privacy law tracker (link above), look up your state’s privacy law. How would you feel if a weaker national privacy law preempted your state’s privacy law?
2. Read the Tech Policy opinion piece by Vermont State Representative Monique Priestley (link above). Are you surprised by her stance? Why or why not?
3. Which is more important—having access to online content and social media sharing, or privacy? Is there a way to have both? Why or why not?
4. Digital privacy spans many areas of our lives, including government spying on U.S. citizens, parental monitoring of their children, and corporate tracking of consumers. Which of these types of spying is the most egregious? Why?
5. Over history, the federal government has expanded its powers at the expense of the states. Why do you think the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution has not protected state power more effectively from federal encroachment?

RESEARCH LINKS

VOTER ELIGIBILITY is governed by the U.S. Constitution as well as federal and state laws. To vote in a presidential election, you must be 18 years old and a United States citizen. Each state has its own requirements.

Issue 1: SAVE Act (Voter Eligibility)
Congress.gov: H.R.8281, “Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act” or “SAVE Act”
House.gov: SAVE Act One-Pager – Republican (Rep. Chip Roy)
House.gov: SAVE Act One-Pager – Democrat (Rep. Joseph Morelle)
Bipartisan Policy Center: “Five Things to Know About the SAVE Act”
Heritage Foundation: “Vote ‘Yes’ on the SAVE Act”
League of Women Voters: “Urge Your Members of Congress to Oppose the SAVE Act”

Issue 2: Supreme Court Term Limits
WaPo OpEd: President Joe Biden – “My Plan to Reform the Supreme Court”
Heritage Foundation: “Biden’s Attempt to Control Supreme Court Is Unconstitutional”
PBS.org: “Biden Calls for Supreme Court Term Limits as Part of Reform Plan”
CBS News: “Biden Proposes Major Supreme Court Reforms as Controversy Swirls”
FixtheCourt.com: “Term Limits”
BrennanCenter.org: “Supreme Court Term Limits”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: SAVE Act (Voter Eligibility)

1. Should Congress pass the SAVE Act to ensure that only U.S. citizens are registered to vote? Why or why not?
2. Do those with the right to vote have more power than those without? Why or why not?
3. Why are so many people apathetic when it comes to voting? What happens (or could happen) when people do not vote?
4. Do you think it makes sense to be 18 and not exercise your right to vote? Why or why not?
5. What issues would bring more young people to the polls to vote, if included on ballots?

Issue 2: Supreme Court Term Limits

1. Would Supreme Court term limits contradict Article III of the U.S. Constitution, which states justices shall “hold their Offices during good Behavior?” Why or why not?
2. If term limits are good for the executive and legislative branches of government, might term limits also be good for the judicial branch? Why or why not?
3. Critics of Supreme Court term limits say it is an effort to grab the power Democrats have lost. Do you agree? Why or why not?
4. Since the drafting of the Constitution, the legislative and executive branches of government have become more democratized. For example, senators are elected directly by voters in the states they represent. Should the judiciary undergo similar reform? Why or why not?
5. Could changing the current structure of the judicial branch have no effect, or the opposite intended? Why or why not?

RESEARCH LINKS

TikTok has become an immensely popular app with teens and young social media users for its short videos and customized song and dance features. But recently the app is the subject of scrutiny over fears it could be used by the Chinese Communist government to censor content and spy on Americans.

Issue 1: TikTok Ban
Congress.gov: H.R.7521, “Protecting Americans Foreign Controlled Apps”
ProCon.org: “TikTok Ban Top Pros and Cons”
WSJ.com: “What Banning TikTok in the U.S. Would Look Like”
Forbes.com: “These 39 States Already Ban TikTok from Government Devices”
WaPo.com: “House Passes TikTok Ban Bill”
NPR.org: “House Passed TikTok Ban Bill. But Is App a National Security Threat?”

Issue 2: Ukraine Aid
Congress.gov: H.R.5692, “Ukraine Security Assistance Appropriations Act”
Government Accountability Office: “What’s the Status of U.S. Aid to Ukraine?”
WSJ.com: “The Case for and Against Aid to Ukraine”
TheGuardian.com: “Mike Johnson Faces Revolt by Republicans on Ukraine Aid”
NBCNews.com: “Speaker Johnson Faces Ukraine Aid Dilemma”
APNews.com: “Senators Push Forward with Ukraine Aid as World Watches”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: TikTok Ban

1. Should TikTok be banned in the U.S.? Why or why not? What alternative solutions do you suggest?
2. Although they’re owned by the same company, China’s version of TikTok offers a child-friendly version, with educational videos and a time limit that isn’t offered in the U.S. Do you think it’s possible China is using TikTok to influence a generation of American youth?
3. Is TikTok merely a fun video app, or something more insidious? If you were a parent, would you allow your kids to use the app? Why or why not?
4. The TikTok app contains a great deal of private information about American users and this data is stored offshore. But is it futile to worry about Chinese government surveillance in an age where all big tech companies (and the U.S. government) are spying on us anyway?
5. Should American federal or state governments ban TikTok on government devices? Why or why not?

Issue 2: Ukraine Aid

1. What are the arguments for and against the U.S. continuing to give aid to Ukraine to fight Russia?
2. Some foreign policy experts believe that Russia seeks to weaken Ukraine by waging a “war of attrition.” What do you think that means?
3. Former President Donald Trump has accused President Joe Biden of putting “Ukraine first” and “America last.” Do you agree? Why or why not?
4. Do you think support for Ukraine is important to U.S. interests? Why or why not?
5. Do you feel that Ukraine should advance toward NATO membership? Why or why not?

RESEARCH LINKS

NUCLEAR ENERGY is found in the nucleus of atoms. There is enormous energy in the bonds that hold atoms together. To make electricity, energy must be released from these atoms through either fission or fusion.

Issue 1: Liquefied Natural Gas
Congress.gov: H.R.7176, “Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act of 2024”
White House: “Biden Announces Pause on Approvals of LNG Exports”
Reuters: “U.S. House Passes Bill to Reverse Biden’s LNG Pause”
CSIS.org: “Why Pausing LNG Exports Is Bad Foreign Policy”
NRDC.org: “Liquefied Natural Gas 101”
Energy.gov: “Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)”

Issue 2: Nuclear Energy
Congress.gov: H.R.6544 “Atomic Energy Advancement Act”
The Hill OpEd: “Conflicts of Interest Nuclear Laws Could Undermine Safety”
World Nuclear Association: “Nuclear Power in the World Today”
New York Times: “Nuclear Power Bill Passed by House, Support Grows”
Center for Sustainable Systems (University of MI): “Nuclear Energy Fact Sheet”
NRDC.org: “Nuclear Power 101”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Liquefied Natural Gas

1. Read the White House statement on why the Biden administration temporarily paused exports of LNG (link above). Do you agree with the decision and its rationale? Why or why not?
2. What are the arguments for and against the U.S. continuing to export liquefied natural gas (LNG)?
3. Environmental activists argue that furthering U.S. LNG exports is incompatible with our climate commitments because they will lock in fossil fuel consumption to the detriment of renewable energy sources. How would you respond to their position?
4. Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-FL) has said that climate advocates who fight LNG projects are heroes. “I can only hope that we build off Biden’s pause to get to a green, clean future,” he said. If Rep. Frost was (or is) your congressman, what would you write to him in a letter?
5. What is an example of an energy source that is renewable and has less environmental impact than fossil fuels?

Issue 2: Nuclear Energy

1. What images spring to mind when you hear the term “nuclear energy?”
2. Is nuclear energy better than fossil fuels? Should we pursue other strategies like geothermal and solar instead?
3. Are the impacts of the Chernobyl (Ukraine, 1986) and Fukushima Daiichi (Japan, 2011) nuclear accidents still relevant today? If so, how?
4. How would you feel if a nuclear power plant were built in your community?
5. Are there better alternatives to nuclear energy?

RESEARCH LINKS

SECTION 230 of the Communications Decency Act stipulates that “no provider or user of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information provided by another information content provider.”

Issue 1: Daylight Saving Time
Congress.gov: S.582 “Sunshine Protection Act of 2023”
National Conference of State Legislatures: “DST State Legislation”
Journal of Sleep Medicine: “American Academy of Sleep Medicine Statement”
NYT: “Bill to Make DST Permanent Re-emerges from the Dark”
NPR.org: “Six Things to Know about the Political Debate around DST”
Smithsonian Magazine: “What Happened Last Time U.S. Made DST Permanent?”

Issue 2: Social Media Safety
Congress.gov: S.1409 “Kids Online Safety Act”
NPR.org: “‘You Have Blood on Your Hands,’ Senator Tells Zuckerberg”
CBS News: “Meta CEO Zuckerberg Apologizes to Parents of Victims”
cdasec230: “Communications Decency Act Pros and Cons”
Electronic Frontier Foundation: “Section 230 Communications Decency Act”
WaPo: “Meta’s Zuckerberg Apologizes to Child Abuse Victims in Hearing”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Daylight Saving Time

1. Should the United States make Daylight Saving Time permanent year round? Why or why not?
2. Visit https://savestandardtime.com/ and read the arguments for permanent Standard Time. What are the benefits and drawbacks of the proposal?
3. How does “springing forward” and “falling back” affect you personally? Which time zone do you prefer and why?
4. Why do you think some states like Hawaii and most of Arizona opt out of Daylight Saving Time?
5. Compare and contrast the economic advantages and disadvantages of Daylight Saving Time with those of Standard Time. Is DST better for the economy overall? Explain your answer.

Issue 2: Social Media Safety

1. In your own experience with social media, have you encountered rude or abusive behavior from others? What do you think is a good solution to this problem?
2. Should the social media platform itself be responsible for the behavior and comments of users? Why or why not?
3. Do you believe Section 230’s protections for big tech companies need to be revised? If so, what changes would you make?
4. Do social media networks cause more harm than good? Why or why not?
5. How does the Bill of Rights’ First Amendment protect free speech in the U.S.?

RESEARCH LINKS

THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM is a federally assisted meal program operating in public and nonprofit private schools. Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the program provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost, or no-cost lunches to children each school day.

Issue 1: Whole Milk

Congress.gov: H.R.1147, “Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023”
USDA: “The National School Lunch Program Fact Sheet”
97milk.com: “Whole Milk Facts”
Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine: “Dairy Milk Isn’t Healthy”
lancasterfarming.com: “Debate Surrounds Nutrition of Full-Fat Milk”
WSJ.com: “School Cafeterias Might Serve Whole Milk Again”

Issue 2: FISA Surveillance
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library: “Constitutional Amendment 4: Privacy”
Brennan Center for Justice: “Congress Should Not Reauthorize Surveillance”
Center for Strategic & International Studies: “Reforming Section 702 of FISA”
Americans for Prosperity: “Key Vote Alert: Vote YES on HR 6570″
WaPo Op-Ed: “FISA Provision Vital to Beating the Opioid Crisis”
Electronic Frontier Foundation: “Surveillance ‘Reform’ Bill a Farce”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Whole Milk

1. Regulations limiting milk options for schools surfaced under the Obama administration, when former First Lady Michelle Obama championed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act. Are programs like these examples of government overreach? Why or why not?
2. If you had the option to buy whole or 2% milk (flavored or unflavored) for your school lunches, would you drink milk more? If so, what advantages and/or disadvantages would that bring?
3. What weight should be given to the opinions of nutrition experts, parents, and even children when determining what food is served in schools?
4. By limiting children’s lunch options to only fat-free or low-fat milk, is the government actually discouraging kids from drinking milk?
5. If the “Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act” is passed by Congress, can you think of any negative consequences that might occur? Would the potential negative consequences outweigh the benefits?

Issue 2: FISA Surveillance

1. Does FISA Section 702 need to be amended to strengthen protections of Americans’ constitutional and privacy rights? Or should Congress permanently reauthorize it as is?
2. Why do you think some legislators are concerned about the potential for abuse of power among employees and/or contractors of federal government intelligence agencies?
3. Read the wording of the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution (link above). Opponents of FISA Section 702 claim that it creates a “massive end run around the Fourth Amendment’s warrant requirement.” Do you agree? Why or why not?
4. Are Americans’ constitutional rights possibly being violated by some federal agencies’ current interpretations of FISA Section 702? Why or why not?
5. What reforms, if any, would balance the national security value of the foreign intelligence collection program with the protection of privacy rights and civil liberties?

RESEARCH LINKS

Issue 1: Minimum Wage

Congress.gov: S.2488, “Raise the Wage Act of 2023”
ProCon.org: “Should the Federal Minimum Wage Be Increased?”
U.S. Department of Labor: “History of Changes to the Minimum Wage Law”
Wharton School, University of PA: “Why Raising Minimum Wage Has Long-Term Costs”
CommonDreams.org: “Sanders, Scott Unveil $17 Federal Minimum Wage Bill”
RaisetheMinimumWage.com: “Why the U.S. Needs at least a $17 Minimum Wage”

Issue 2: Secure the Border Act

Congress.gov: S.2824, “Secure the Border Act of 2023”
U.S. Congressional Budget Office: “H.R.2, Secure the Border Act of 2023”
Senate.gov: “Cruz Introduces Senate Companion to House-Passed Secure Border Act”
WhiteHouse.gov: “Statement of Administration Policy – Secure the Border Act 2023”
WaPo OpEd, Fareed Zakaria: “Democrats Should Admit They’re Wrong on Immigration”
ImmigrationForum.org: “Bill Analysis — Secure the Border Act of 2023”
House.gov: “Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Introduces ‘Secure the Border Act 2023’”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Minimum Wage

1. Do you support or oppose gradually raising the federal minimum wage to $17 an hour? If you were speaking to a person who disagreed with your position, what would you say to persuade them to see your side of the issue?
2. Some proponents of raising the federal minimum wage say the current minimum wage of $7.25 an hour traps people in poverty. Do you agree? Why or why not?
3. If you were a business owner, would you want the minimum wage to increase? Why or why not?
4. What is your personal view on whether to raise the federal minimum wage? Use relevant reasons from your life experiences as well as research.
5. Who bears the costs of a higher minimum wage? (Hint: In addition to businesses who have higher labor costs, this could also include workers who suffer reduced hours as well as young job seekers who find it difficult to find a job.)

Issue 2: Secure the Border Act

1. Some people believe a good way to slow illegal immigration is to fine U.S. businesses who employ illegal immigrants. Do you agree? Why or why not?
2. In Fareed Zakaria’s Op-Ed (link above), Zakaria states that to gain control of illegal immigration, the president should suspend admission of asylum seekers to the U.S. since asylum has become a way to game the system. Do you agree? Why or why not?
3. Do you believe there is a relationship between illegal immigration and crime? Why or why not?
4. What would happen if we erased all country borders and let people live wherever they wanted?
5. When is immigration helpful to a country and when is it harmful?

RESEARCH LINKS

AM RADIO uses amplitude modulation (AM) transmissions. AM broadcasting was established in the 1920s, and AM radio remained the primary method of broadcasting for the next 30 years until television became widespread in the 1950s.

Issue 1: AM Radio
Congress.gov: S.1669, “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2023”
Fox News: “Officials Sound Alarm on Carmakers Dropping AM Radio in New Vehicles”
The Hill: “Bipartisan Lawmakers Introduce Legislation Requiring AM Radios New Cars”
Inside Radio: “Farm Broadcasters Make Case For AM Radio As A Rural Life Issue”
Washington Post: “End of a Love Affair: AM Radio is Being Removed from Many Cars”
wearebroadcasters.com: “82 Million Americans Depend on AM Radio”

Issue 2: Medicare for All
Congress.gov: S.1655, “Medicare for All Act”
The Nation: “The Blind Spot in Medicare for All”
Physicians for a National Health Program: “The Medicare for All Act of 2023”
ProCon.org: “History of Universal Health Care”
NYT OpEd: “The Dangers of Medicare for All”
House.gov: “Jayapal, Dingell, Sanders Introduce Medicare for All Act of 2023”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: AM Radio

1. What are the arguments for and against Congress requiring automakers to include AM radio in new vehicles? Decide how you stand on the issue, then see if you can argue the other side’s position.
2. According to the Nielsen Company, AM radio listeners tend to be older (about one-third of them are over age 65). As a young person, do you think AM radio is still useful? Why or why not?
3. Lawmakers say AM radio is a critical source for receiving broadcast emergency information. As Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) said, “When the cell phone runs out, the internet gets cut off, or the television doesn’t work because of no electricity or power to your house, you can still turn on your [car’s] AM radio.” Do you agree? Why or why not?
4. Automakers say that cell phones are much better at broadcasting emergency alerts than AM radio. With today’s smartphones, is AM radio still necessary? Why or why not?
5. AM radio is free to all drivers of cars that have it. Given this fact, how does AM radio compare to other modes of communication such as cell phone and internet reception?

Issue 2: Medicare for All

1. Costs of private health care in this country have long been rising; two-thirds of bankruptcies in the U.S. are due to medical debt. Is our current health care system working for “We the People?” Why or why not?
2. Should health care in the U.S. be a right or a privilege to citizens? Discuss.
3. Proponents of Medicare for all say even if Americans’ federal taxes had to rise to pay for it, they would save money by no longer having to pay for employer-provided health insurance premiums, co-pays, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Do you agree? Why or why not?
4. Opponents of Medicare for All say that government cannot effectively run the Postal Service or VA health system without losing money; thus, it would be a mistake to assume it could run the country’s health care system. Do you agree? Why or why not?
5. What are the arguments for and against Congress passing a Medicare for All national health care program? Decide how you stand on the issue, then see if you can argue the other side’s position.

RESEARCH LINKS

Issue 1: Supreme Court Term Limits
Congress.gov: H.R.4423 “To establish process for appointment Supreme Court Justices”
fixthecourt.com: “On Supreme Court Term Limits”

Formal group photograph of the Supreme Court as it was been comprised on June 30, 2022. Seated from left are Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., and Justices Samuel A. Alito and Elena Kagan.
Standing from left are Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett M. Kavanaugh, and Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Credit: Fred Schilling, Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States

Brookings Institution: “Term limits can tackle the Supreme Court’s crisis of legitimacy”
Alliance for Citizen Engagement: “Pros, Cons of Term Limits for Supreme Court Justices”
constitutioncenter.org: “Did Founders want term limits for Supreme Court Justices?”
Louisville Political Review: “The Case Against Supreme Court Term Limits”

Issue 2: Welfare Drug Testing
Congress.gov: H.R.204 “Drug Testing for Welfare Recipients Act”
clasp.org: “Drug Testing and Public Assistance”
worldpopulationreview.com: “Welfare Drug Test States”
usatoday.com: “Viral Post Errs in List of States Requiring Drug Tests for Welfare”
legalmatch.com: “Welfare Drug Testing Legality”
Heritage Foundation: “Reforming the Food Stamp Program”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Supreme Court Term Limits

1. Would Supreme Court term limits contradict Article III of the U.S. Constitution, which states justices shall “hold their Offices during good Behaviour?” Why or why not?
2. Critics of Supreme Court term limits say it is an effort to grab the power Democrats have lost. How do you respond?
3. Since the drafting of the Constitution, the legislative and executive branches of government have become more democratized. For example, senators are elected directly by voters in the states they represent. Should the judiciary undergo similar reform? Why or why not?
4. Would term limits create a situation where justices are incentivized to rule in their self-interest during the final portion of their term to be more appealing to future employers? Why or why not?
5. Opponents of Supreme Court term limits say unlimited judicial terms serve the goal of distancing the high court from political manipulation. Do you agree? Why or why not?

Issue 2: Welfare Drug Testing

1. State legislators have argued that drug testing is often required by employers, so it is reasonable to also require it for welfare recipients. Do you agree? Why or why not?
2. Drug testing welfare recipients is expensive. Do you think it is worth the cost? Why or why not?
3. Does your state require drug testing for recipients of welfare programs like SNAP, TANF, etc.? Research the answer if you don’t know. Do you agree with your state’s policy?
4. Do you believe the poor are more likely than other groups (such as seniors) who receive government money to use drugs? Why or why not?
5. Proponents of drug testing welfare recipients argue that drug testing helps identify people who can benefit from substance abuse treatment. Is there a convincing link between welfare recipients and drug use? Why or why not?

RESEARCH LINKS

THE IDEA OF THE 32-HOUR (OR FOUR-DAY) WORKWEEK has been bandied about for decades in the U.S. As far back as the 1950s, The New York Times reported that then U.S. Vice President Richard M. Nixon—a Republican—predicted the coming of the four-day or 32-hour workweek in our nation. In a Sept. 23, 1956, NYT article, reporter William M. Blair wrote, “Vice President Richard M. Nixon foresaw tonight for the ‘not too distant future’ a four-day workweek and a fuller family life for every American.”

Issue 1: 32-Hour Workweek
Congress.gov: H.R.1332 “Thirty-Two Hour Workweek Act”
The Hill: “33 Companies Tested 4-day Week. None Are Planning to Switch Back”
shrm.org: “Is the 32-Hour Workweek Feasible in the US? Experts Weigh In”
New York Times: “Trial Run of 4-Day Workweek Wins Converts”
KXAN.com: “60 School Districts in Texas Have Made Switch to 4-day Weeks”
Higher Ed Dive: “Inside One College’s Move to a 4-day Workweek”

Issue 2: Gas Stoves
Congress.gov: S.240 “Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act”
U.S. Oil and Gas Association: “Hands Off My Stove”
Fox News: “Democrat Led Cities Already Moving Forward on Gas Stove Bans”
USA Today: “Gas Stove Bans Explained: Why Are They Suddenly Controversial?”
Wall Street Journal: “Banning Gas Stoves by Regulation”
Fox News: “’Hands Off My Stove:’ Group Pushes Back Against Gas Stove Bans”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: 32-Hour Workweek

1. How do you think having a shorter workweek would affect workers’ productivity? Would it rise, fall or remain the same? Why?
2. If your school changed to a 4-day week, how would that affect your life? For instance, you might have less time for an after-school job. What are other ways such a schedule might affect your life?
3. How might a shorter workweek be good or bad for the environment? Explain.
4. In Japan, Microsoft trialed a four-day workweek and saw improvements in workers’ productivity and job satisfaction. Do you think this would work in the U.S.? Why or why not?
5. How did the COVID pandemic change American workers’ expectations about work/life balance? Explain.

Issue 2: Gas Stoves

1. Why do you think gas stoves have become such a “hot topic?” What is the underlying issue? Explain.
2. Regarding gas stoves, CPSC Commissioner Richard Trumka, Jr. said, “Products that can’t be made safe can be banned.” Republications charged that the statement was a weaponization of the federal bureaucracy. Do you agree? Why or why not?
3. Trumka later clarified that regulations restricting gas stoves would apply to new products only (not gas stoves currently in people’s homes). Does this change your opinion? Why or why not?
4. Read the pro/con quotes for the gas stoves issue on p. 3 of the Student Forum newsletter. Whose opinion do you agree with more? Explain why.
5. Do you think it’s unfair to tell people which appliance they can and can’t use? Why or why not?

RESEARCH LINKS

THE STRATEGIC PETROLEUM RESERVE (SPR) is the world’s largest supply of emergency crude oil. Administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, these federally owned oil stocks are stored in massive underground salt domes (or caverns) along the Texas and Louisiana coastlines of the Gulf of Mexico.

Issue 1: Strategic Petroleum Reserve

Congress.gov: H.R.21 “Strategic Production Response Act”
U.S. Department of Energy: “Strategic Petroleum Reserve Quick Facts”
WaPo: “What Is the Strategic Oil Reserve and Can It Lower Prices?”
Axios.com: “How the Strategic Petroleum Reserve Works”
Politico.com OpEd: “Tapping the Oil Reserve Is Bad Policy”
WSJ.com: “Why Is Biden Tapping the SPR and Will It Bring Lower Gas Prices?”

Issue 2: D.C. Statehood

Congress.gov: S.51 “Washington, D.C. Admission Act”
Brennan Center for Justice: “D.C. Statehood Explained”
Senate.gov: Hearing, Cato Institute Statement – “Examining D.C. Statehood”
statehoodresearchdc.org: “Democracy Deferred: D.C.’s Two-Century Struggle”
League of Women Voters: “FAQs About Statehood for the People of D.C.”
Politico: “Your All-Purpose Wonk’s Guide to Why D.C. Statehood Is So Hard”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Strategic Petroleum Reserve

1. President Biden’s recent release of oil from the SPR succeeded in reducing the cost of gasoline for Americans. Yet the SPR has dropped to its lowest level since 1985 in less than a year. Did Biden make the right decision? Why or why not?
2. The SPR wasn’t technically designed to help the U.S. government manage the price consumers pay for gasoline, but it has been used that way by multiple administrations. Does this make it “okay” for administrations to tap into it for that purpose?
3. H.R.21 limits the drawdown of petroleum in the SPR until the Department of Energy develops a plan to increase the percentage of federal lands leased for oil and gas production. Should alternatives to oil and gas production, such as renewable energy options, also be considered as solutions? Why or why not?
4. Is releasing emergency oil reserves when there are no fuel shortages or lines at the pump worth what might come next? Is the benefit to the American public worth the risk?
5. What is your perception of President Biden’s motives for tapping the SPR to lower gas prices? Are his intentions politically motivated? Why or why not?

Issue 2: D.C. Statehood

1. How do you think the inclusion of D.C. as a state might impact the future of the country?
2. D.C. citizens pay high taxes but do not have representation in Congress. Is statehood the right solution to this problem? Why or why not?
3. If admitted, D.C. would have the highest proportion of Black residents of any state. Does this fact make D.C. statehood a civil rights issue? Why or why not?
4. What do you think? Should D.C. become a state? Explain your reasoning.
5. What are the arguments for and against D.C. statehood? Which do you believe are the strongest, and which are weaker?

RESEARCH LINKS

Issue 1: TikTok Ban

SINCE ITS LAUNCH, TIKTOK has become a popular meeting place for under-25-year-olds, but recently the social media app is the subject of a slew of state bans and a U.S. national security probe.

Congress.gov: “S.5245 – ANTI-SOCIAL CCP Act”
Rubio/Gallagher OpEd: “TikTok, time’s up; app should be banned in America”
WSJ.com: “Senate Passes Bill Banning TikTok From Government Devices”
Gizmodo.com: “TikTok Owner Admits Employees Accessed Data of U.S. Users”
TheHill.com: “Lawmakers introduce bill to ban TikTok in U.S.”
Reuters.com: “U.S. lawmakers unveil bipartisan bid to ban China’s TikTok”
TheGuardian.com: “Revealed: How TikTok censors videos don’t please China”

Issue 2: Cryptocurrency
Congress.gov: “S.4760 Digital Commodities Consumer Protection Act of 2022”
Overview: “The Digital Commodities Consumer Protection Act Closes Gaps”
Marketplace.org: “Your questions about cryptocurrency answered”
cnbc.com: “Congress considers crypto consumer protection bill SBF backed”
Thomsonreuters.com: “Why the crypto economy needs stricter regulations”
coinmarketcap.com: “Impact of FTX’s Collapse Will Go Beyond Its Customers”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: TikTok Ban

1. Although they’re owned by the same company, China’s version of TikTok offers a child-friendly version, with educational videos and a time limit that isn’t offered in the U.S. Do you think it’s possible China is using TikTok to influence a generation of American youth with malevolent motives?
2. Should TikTok be banned in the U.S.? Why or why not? If not, what alternative solutions do you suggest?
3. U.S. lawmakers fear TikTok has become a tool for the dissemination of Chinese propaganda. In fact, sources have claimed that the Islamic State is posting propaganda on the app. Do these facts change your opinion of the situation? Why or why not?
4. Is TikTok merely a fun video app, or something more insidious? If you were a parent, would you allow your kids to use the app? Why or why not?
5. The app contains a great deal of private information about American users and this information is stored offshore. Is TikTok a threat to national security? Is it futile to worry about Chinese government surveillance in an age where all big tech companies (and the U.S. government) are spying on us anyway?

Issue 2: Cryptocurrency

1. Some people believe that cryptocurrencies such as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are the new financing of the future. Do you agree? Why or why not?
2. Certain lawmakers, such as Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), say cryptocurrencies need more regulation. What are the concerns about regulation, or lack thereof, and what do you think needs to be done?
3. Warren says digital currency is not a “good way to buy and sell things and not a good investment and is an environmental disaster.” Is she correct?
4. Should cryptocurrencies have to abide by the same regulations as securities, or should new rules be devised?
5. Given the current lack of regulations on cryptocurrencies, would you feel safe investing all or part of your savings in it? Why or why not?

RESEARCH LINKS

Issue 1: Student Loan Debt

STUDENT LOAN BORROWERS in the United States owe a collective nearly $1.75 trillion in federal and private student loan debt as of August 2022, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.

Congress.gov: H.R.8729 “Debt Cancellation Accountability Act of 2022”
Congress.gov: S.4483 “Debt Cancellation Accountability Act of 2022”
whitehouse.gov: “President Biden Announces Student Loan Relief 4 Borrowers”
GOP House.gov: “Biden’s Student Loan Giveaway to the Wealthy”
GOP House.gov: “CBO: Biden’s Biggest Executive Actions Come with Price Tag”
Wall Street Journal: “Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness Plan to Cancel Debt”
Associated Press: “GOP states sue Biden administration over student loan plan”

Issue 2: Puerto Rico Statehood
Congress.gov: H.R.8393 “Puerto Rico Status Act”
House.gov: “Chair Grijalva Introduces Historic Puerto Rico Status Act”
LatinoRebels.com: “Puerto Rico Status Act Stalls in House, ‘Outside Interests’”
House.gov: “Rep. García’s Statement on His Vote on the Puerto Rico Status Act”
PuertoRicoReport.com: “Supporters Rally for the Puerto Rico Status Act”
CRS: “Statehood Process + Political Status of U.S. Territories”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Student Loan Debt

1. Should any student debt be canceled? If so, who is “deserving” of cancellation, and on what timeline?
2. If all future students were provided with a pathway to a debt-free public college going forward, does that make student debt cancellation more or less reasonable?
3. Why is the question over forgiving federal student loan debt so controversial?
4. How have the opportunities in the job market for someone with a degree changed in the last 10 to 50 years?
5. Is it important to have a significant number of young people attend college, including young people that are going to require loans to afford college?

Issue 2: Puerto Rico Statehood

1. Do you support or oppose H.R.8393? If you were speaking to a person who disagreed with you, what would you say is the strongest argument in support of your position?
2. Should Puerto Rico be granted statehood? Why or why not?
3. What other policies could mitigate the problems seen by proponents of statehood? Explain your answer(s).
4. Should any or all of the other U.S. territories be granted statehood? Why or why not?
5. What other measures might be considered, if any, to resolve Puerto Ricans’ lack of representation in Congress, citizenship, and other concerns?

RESEARCH LINKS

Issue 1: Methane Emissions
Regulations.gov: “EPA’s Proposed Rule on Emissions Guidelines”
Congressional Research Service: “IRA Methane Emissions Charge Brief”
Competitive Enterprise Institute: “Biden Methane Rule Would Cause Decline”
Washington Post: “Biden Unveils New Rules to Curb Methane”
The National Law Review: “EPA Proposes New Methane Regulations”
RMI.org: “Methane: A Threat to People and the Planet”

Issue 2: For the People Act
Congress.gov: H.R.1 – “For the People Act of 2021”
Conservative Action Project: “Conservatives Oppose H.R.1, Fantasy of the Left”
Brennan Center for Justice: “Congress Must Pass the ‘For the People Act’”
Roll Call: “10 Things You Might Not Know about H.R.1”
Heritage Foundation: “H.R.1 Is a Threat to American Democracy”
Fox News: “H.R.1 Imperils Free and Fair Elections, Here Are the Worst Parts”
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) OpEd: “Why I’m Against the For the People Act”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Methane Emissions

1. Where do you stand on whether the U.S. government, and specifically the Environmental Protection Agency, should be doing about global warming and climate change?
2. Why are methane emissions from transportation a problem? Do you have any suggestions for how methane emissions can be reduced?
3. What alternative sources of fuel or other means of transport are available, which would reduce emissions?
4. How does the distance from your school effect your emissions? How did your grandparents travel to school? How do you think your grandchildren will travel to school?
5. Do you think recent changes in climate and weather are more attributed to natural or human causes? Explain your reasons.

Issue 2: For the People Act
1. Do you support or oppose H.R.1? If you were speaking to a person who disagreed with you, what would you say is the strongest argument in support of your position?
2. Does H.R.1 represent federal government overreach into territory best left to the states? Why or why not?
3. Are the bill’s ethics provisions necessary? Why or why not?
4. Are H.R.1’s improvements in access to elections, through ease of registration, early voting, and more accurate voter rolls, necessary? Why or why not?
5. Do the disclosure provisions around political ads and political spending represent a threat to free speech, or a needed opening to identify who is influencing our democracy?

RESEARCH LINKS

The U.S. Supreme Court as composed October 27, 2020, to June 30, 2022. (Front row, L to R) Samuel A. Alito, Jr., Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., Stephen G. Breyer, and Sonia Sotomayor. (Back row, L to R) Brett M. Kavanaugh, Elena Kagan, Neil M. Gorsuch, and Amy Coney Barrett.

Issue 1: Protecting Our Kids Act

Congress.gov: H.R.7910 “Protecting Our Kids Act”
Congressional Budget Office: “Estimated Budgetary Effects of Protecting Our Kids Act”
RAND Corporation: “Gun Policy in America — Effects of Minimum Age Requirements”
Pew Trusts: “Few States Seem Ready to Raise Age to Buy Semi-Automatic Rifles”
The Hill: “House Passes Sweeping Gun Package in Largely Party-Line Vote”
Fox News: “House Votes to Set Minimum Age for Buying Semi-automatic Weapons”

Issue 2: Judiciary Act
Congress.gov: S.1141 “Judiciary Act of 2021”
Sen. Roy Blunt Op-Ed: “Don’t Pack SCOTUS, Truth Behind Democrats’ Push for Reform”
Rutgers University: “What Is Court Packing?”
Reason.com: “House Democrats Revive Their Court-Packing Push”
Supremecourt.gov: “The Court as an Institution”
Pacific Legal Foundation: “Court Packing Explained”
Democracy Journal: “Let’s Think About Court Packing”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Issue 1: Protecting Our Kids Act
1. If passed, would the Protecting Our Kids Act would be effective at reducing gun violence and mass shootings in the U.S.? Why or why not?
2. Do you think raising the age from 18 to 21 to purchase semiautomatic weapons would reduce school shootings? Why or why not?
3. Looking at the pro/con quotes made by members of Congress on p. 3 of the newsletter, what do their statements tell you about the bill?
4. Search for #ProtectingOurKidsAct on Twitter and/or other social media sites. How do others’ perspectives help you understand the bill?
5. In Japan there are strict gun control laws and so there is very little gun crime. Should all countries follow Japan to lower gun crime?

Issue 2: Judiciary Act
1. Should packing the Supreme Court ever be considered? Why or why not?
2. Does the current method of waiting until a Justice retires or dies and allowing the current president to appoint a new justice work? Why or why not?
3. If you could wave a magic wand, what would the ideal Supreme Court look like? Consider how many justices, the nomination and approval process, term limits, and other ideas. Support your opinions and argue why this court would be the best.
4. What are the steps in the nomination process for Supreme Court Justices? What constitutional actors are involved?
5. What qualities should a Supreme Court justice have? How much does a candidate’s political ideology influence a presidential nomination today?