Virginia has become the first state in the country to pass the Uniform Computer Information Transactions Act, in its unedited form as endorsed by Microsoft and the other software giants.
Maybe you know that when you pay hundreds of dollars for software, you don't own it; you're just licensing the right to use it. This law removes what few rights the consumer has, as well as makes the industry even less competitive.
For example, if you upgrade to Office 2000, you should be able to sell your old copy of Office 97, right? Wrongamundo, dude. Or at least, don't let the computer cops catch you.
The anti-competitive nature of the bill comes frm its ban of reverse engineering. This is going to make it very difficult to develop compatible software without negotiating licenses - which the established companies can ensure that startups can't afford.
This bill was largely passed because of the efforts of Gov. Gilmore. It is obvious that he is already thinking of national office and has firmly planted his lips between the butt-cheeks of potential large contributors to his future campaign.
There is a lot of information on the Web about this, going into more depth than I want to here. Please educate yourself and decide whether you want this law in your state before it's too late.
Now on to another subject. John McCain actually had the courage to tell the truth about the so-called religious right and then backed off, proving he's just another politician.
I didn't come up with the saying, but it's one of my favorites: The religious right is neither. The best female friend of Jesus was a hooker; he ministered to anyone, regardless of belief or disease or station in life. I seem to recall a parable ending with "Let he who is without sin throw the first stone." Nowhere does he preach intolerance of others. The thinly-veiled intolerance of Falwell and Robertson is not in keeping with the spirit of the New Testament; Bob Jones isn't even close. They have the right to be anti-abortion and express their views in our political process. So do those who are pro-choice, with which they have a problem. They even have the right to express their anti-Catholic viewpoints; but they should think about who made them the sole interpreter of the scriptures. But perhaps no mainstream religious group has displayed more disrespect for the beliefs of others than the Southern Baptist Convention, who have made it a priority to convert Jews to their faith. As a former Baptist, I find this very offensive.
Those of you out there who disagree, feel free to send me your hate mail. That which is actually logically thought out will appear on the letters page. Those of you who agree and want to bring up additional points, please do so.
Last update: March 3, 2000