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So, today, I got an e-mail asking me to apply my voice for this new bill¹ in congress. It's a noble cause. The bill would end aid towards nations that utilise child soldiers among their ranks. Absolutely, who wouldn't think that such a cause is worthy of speaking out about. However, I, being the person that I am, decided to look into the bill. As I read it, something bothered me.

There is a certain clause in the bill that stipulates that the president can waive the restriction if he decides that it's in the best national interest of the nation. What kind of message does that send? Conscripting child soldiers is bad unless it benefits the United States?

I decided not to throw my support behind the bill.

1. 110^th Congress, 1^st Session, S. 1175