Although they apparently didn't have the decency to create their own bill, instead attaching it as a rider to the year 2005 defense authorization bill. The maximum fine for incidents of 'indecency' has been increased to $275,000.

This one part of the American political system has always bothered me: the game of political chicken that is the attachment of unrelated amendments to bills. This particular bill passed 99-1 because, hey, who wants to be "Against Decency"? It's a can't-lose vote for any Senator.

What really bugs me about this 'decency' stuff is a lack of clear and consistent standards. Howard Stern is fined for speaking of a particular topic and heavy fines are levied. Oprah brings up similar material and what happens...?

Nothing.

I'd write to my senator but, honestly, I don't think it'll matter.

(First posted on Mark Is Cranky)