LIBERTARIAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE
August 7-8, 19B2 Billings, Montana
Members present |
Alicia Clark, Chair Paul Grant, Region 6 |
Frances Eddy, Secretary Lynn Crussel, Region 7 |
Sheldon Richman, Vice-Chair Dale Hemming, Region 8 |
Vivian Baures, Treasurer Jim Johnston, Region 9 |
David Bergland, Prior Chair Leslie Graves Key, Region 10 |
Michael Emerling, at-large Tom Bogel, Region 11 |
M. L. Hanson. at-large Matt Monroe, Region 13 |
Chris Hocker, at-large David Walter, Region 14 |
Andrea Millen Rich!, at-large Jule Herbert, Region 15 |
Murray Rothbard, at-large Howie Rich, Region 16 |
Stephen DeLisio, Region I Jim Lewis, Region 17 |
Bill Evers, Region 2 Clark Hodge, Region 19 |
Mike Hall, Region 2 |
David Brazier, Region 3 Members absent |
Gary Palm, Region 4 Kent Guida, at-large |
Emil Franzi, Region 5 Dick Randolph, at-large |
Dale Pratt, Region 2 |
Alternates present Alan Lindsay, Region 12 |
Sara Baase, Region 2 Michael Burch, Region 18 |
Resignations since last meeting |
Linda Taylor, Region 8 Sandy Burns, Region 11 |
1. CALL TO ORDER: The regular meeting of the Libertarian National Committee was called to order by Chair Clark at 9:10 a.m., August 7, 1982 at the Sheraton, Billings, Montana.
2. CREDENTIALS: New Regional Representatives were seated. The Secretary announced that letters from the appropriate state chairs had been received for Tom Bogel and Dale Hemming and there was no objection to seating them. Region 11 will elect a new alternate in the fall.
3. REVISIONS TO AGENDA: There were no objections to the Chair's recommendation that 4 items circulated as an addendum to the agenda be placed as follows: Plans for municipal races in 1983 as item 16a, Ballot status plans for states for 1983-84 as item 13a, Minority Outreach Committee Report as item 11a, and Resolution to discontinue tape recording Nat Com meetings as item 32. Emerling's motion to add as item 30a for 5 minutes Boycotting San Francisco until the hand-gun ban is repealed passed 23-4-0 by roll call vote: For: Baase. Baures, Bergland, Bogel, Crussel, Emerling, Evers, Franzi, Grant, Hall, Hanson, Hocker, Hodge, Johnston, Key, Lewis, Monroe, Palm, A. Rich, H. Rich, Richman, Rothbard, Walter; Against: DeLisio, Eddy, Hemming, Herbert. There was no objection to Evers' motion to divide the time of items 4, 7, and 10 into periods for uninterrupted reports and question and answer sessions (4--20/25 minutes; 7-15115 minutes; 10-15/15 minutes). Evers moved to add as item 3a for 15 minutes
Resolution criticizing pro-draft statements by LP spokespersons. A. Rich's friendly amendment to place this item later in the agenda was not accepted- The question was divided (adding and placement). The motion to add passed 270-0 by roll call vote: For: Baase, Baures, Bergland, Bogel. Crussel, DeLisio, Eddy, Emerling, Evers, Franzi, Grant, Halli Hanson, Hemming, Herbert, Hocker, Hodge, Johnston, Key, Lewisli Monroe, Palm, A. Rich, H. Rich, Richman, Rothbard, Walter. The vote to place it as item 3a passed. Hall's motion to add as item 33 for 5 minutes a Resolution o+ support of petition opposing SB 1407/HR 3975, a revision of postal regulations, passed. Hall's motion to add lunch after item 14 for one hour failed. Palm's motion to add as item 34 for 10 minutes Resolution re MX missile initiative passed as did Franzi's motion to add as item 35 for 5 minutes U.S. Policy towards the Philippines passed. Bogel's motion to extend the time for item 17 (Editorial Policy for LPNew Committee Report) to 5 minutes for report, 25 for questions and answers passed. Herbert"s motion to adopt the agenda as revised passed.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Eddy moved that corrections to the March 27-28, 1982 minutes as circulated with the agenda be accepted Ei.e., item 39: change "doen't" to "doesn’t"; item 45: change "first" to "last" in last sentence of item; item 46: add "Key (Region 10) and (Region 11)]. Rothbard asked that item 9 show Hanson as voting yes and Herbert as voting no (instead of Hanson being listed as voting both yes and no and Herbert's vote not recorded). A. Rich asked that the words "contrary to the report" be striken from the minutes [item 3. second sentence3 since she believed these words were not included in the last meeting nor in the report- After discussion,, the chair ruled "that the secretary can check that tape and even can send a copy to you, Andrea, to check it carefully and then we can take care of that right away." The minutes were approved as corrected.
5. RESOLUTION CRITICIZING PRO-DRAFT STATEMENTS BY LP SPOKESPERSONS: Evers moved: WHEREAS in the past two years, Jennifer Roback, Ed Clark and San Steiger have each stated that retention of the draft is legitimate under some circumstances; WHEREAS the question has arisen as to whether paid staff or elected officers of the National Committee are the proper persons to intervene in such cases; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee affirms that in cases of statements like those on the draft the responsibility for actively working to correct the situation lies with the National Chair and the National Committee; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee criticizes the above-named individuals for making statements that may seriously mislead the American public as to the Libertarian Party position on the draft. Hocker moved Key's Resolution on Arizona Gubernatorial Candidate7s Support of the Draft: The LNC strongly urges the Libertarian Party of Arizona, an organization affiliated with the National Libertarian Party and pledged to uphold the LP Statement a+ Principles, to take immediate steps to ensure that their gubernatorial candidate, Sam Steiger, retracts his public support for the military draft and endorses the Libertarian position of unwavering opposition to registration and the draft. if Steiger, when asked, refuses to withdraw his support for the draft, we urge the Libertarian Party of Arizona to privately, and publicly if necessaryl demand that he withdraw from the race. We direct the National Chair to monitor this situation on behalf of the LNC, to encourage the Libertarian Party of Arizona to comply with this resolution, and to issue biweekly reports to the LNC until the situation is resolved. Discussion followed. Bergland's motion to table the item passed.
6. HEADQUARTERS REPORT: National Director Eric O'Keefe gave his report and answered questions. Evers quoted for entry in the minutes the following which he identified as being from a memo by Chris Hocker published in the June 1982 issue of Libertarian Vanguard: "I've occasionally heard some of us talk about what amounts to political retaliation against strongholds of pro-assholery. For example, that we do nothing to help the Texas LP this year because they're all going to vote against us anyway and we don't want to help strengthen their position
.... So I would counsel against dispensing money, resources, advice, etc., only to 'our allies,' and instead to rule out internal political considerations when making decisions on whom to assist and how much." Evers continued: "My question is and I know privately in Bethesda I raised with you the fact that it seemed to me that some people were worried that discussions like this had been going on in the background and you assured me that wasn7t the case and I wonder if since then or before then have you been party to any discussions or know of any discussion with regard to this." O'Keefe replied, "I’m certainly not going to comment on any unsigned articles in disreputable publications." In a point of personal privilege Evers said "I believe Mr. Hocker will assure you those are his words."7. TREASUIRER'S REPORT: Baures gave her report and answered questions until time was up. Baase's motion to extend time for 5 minutes passed.
8. FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT: Monroe gave his report and answered questions.
9. AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT: Walter gave his report and answered questions. Key moved that (1) After three past due notices have been ignored, and phone calls, too; major debts (larger than $50) should be given to a commission-basis collection agency. The National Director should not send any accounts to a collection agency without approval from the National Chair and the Treasurer. (2) Groups or organizations, not affiliated with the LP, who order mailing lists or labels, or LP NEWS ads, will have to pay an up-front deposit (502 seems reasonable) before the labels are shipped or the ad appears. (3) The Treasurer shall devise a disbursement plan which will enable us to bring all payroll taxes current by the end
of 1982. (4) All disbursements are to be made against invoices or other requests for payment which clearly and accurately describe the services being billed for. These support documents will be filed alphabetically, by year, in a "Paid" file. Discussion followed. DeLisio"s motion to table Key's motion passed.10. BUDGET COMMITTEE REPORT: Baures gave her report and asked +or suggestions +or changes in the budget. Bergland moved to reduce the Campaign 182 Newsletter budget from $4,000 to $3,000. After discussion, Bergland's motion passed 12-11. Bogel moved that the Budget Committee meet and prepare a revised budget for 1982 which increases the amount of vendor payment by $20,000 and provides a balance budget by the end of this year, the report to be presented to this body by tomorrow morning. Bergland moved to amend Bogel's motion by adding: to pay the 1980 vendor debt of $10,897 and to reduce total net debt by that figure by the end of 1982. Evers motion to closed debate passed. Bergland"s amendment failed B-17 by roll call vote: For: Baase, Bergland, Bogel, Crussel, Eddy, Emerling, Hemming, Key; Against: Baures, DeLisio, Evers. Franzi. Grant, Hanson, Herbert, Hocker, Hodge, Johnston, LewisS Monroe, A. Rich, H. Rich, Richman, Rothbard, Walter. Bogel's motion failed 9-15-1 by roll call: For: Baase, Bogel, Crussel, Eddy, Emerling, Hanson, Hemming, Lewis. Rothbard; Against: Baures, Bergland, DeLisio, Evers. Grant,, Herbert, Hocker, Hodge, Johnston, Key, Monroe, A. Rich, H. Rich, Richman, Walter; Abstain: Franzi.
11. MAILING LIST COMMITTEE REPORT: Bergland gave his report, answered questions, and moved that the telephone numbers that the LNC owns will not be given to any other organization, except to state parties or LP candidates. After discussion, Bergland's motion passed. The Chair recommended that the Mailing List Committee get together and establish policies and bring them back to this body. Emerling's motion to recess for lunch for one hour passed at 12:35 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 1:50 p.m.
12. INTERNAL EDUCATION COMMITTEE REPORT: Walter gave his report, answered questions, and called on chairs of sub-committees for reports: Grant on Ballot Drives and Hocker on Candidate Schools. Walter announced he was appointing Geoffrey Steinberg of Pennsylvania to the Candidate School Subcommittee. Evers moved that 10 hours of one member
of the staff should be devoted each week to seeing that the party has a platform study guide. Bergland"s substitute motion proposed that the Internal Education Committee prepare an introductory platform study guide as soon as possible. After debate, Hocker called the question and his motion passed. The motion to substitute passed as did the main motion, that the Internal Education Committee prepare an introductory platform study guide as soon as possible.
13. MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT: Franzi gave his report and answered questions. Key moved to abolish the category of student membership. After discussion,, Bergland called the question and his motion was voted on but not called. Emerling objected to Bergland's request to withdraw his motion. The vote was recounted and Bergland's motion failed 17-7. Johnston moved to amend the motion by adding that the elimination of the student membership shall be effective December 31, 1982 and students who renew their memberships before that deadline shall be able to prepay for future years memberships. Discussion +allowed until time was up. In a point of order Bergland requested that the motion be divided into two concepts, effective date and paying forward for an indefinite number of years. Johnston motion to extend debate 5 minutes failed. In a point of order Bagel a5t-..-ed about dividing the question and there was no objection to doing so. The first part a+ the motion passed 19-7-1 by roll call vote: For: Daures, Bergland, Bagel, Brazier, DeLisio. Eddy,, Emerling, Franzi, Grant, Hemming, Herbert, Hodge, Johnston, Key!. Palm, H. Rich, Richman, Rothbard. Walter; Against.- Baase, Crussel, Evers, Hanson,, Hocker, Lewis, A. Rich; Abstain: Hall. The second part failed.
14. MINORITY OUTREACH COMMITTEE REPORT: Hanson gave her report and answered questions.
15. DISCUSSION ON THE NEW MEXICO BALLOT DRIVE: Franzi gave his report and answered questions. Baase motion that the National Committee instructs the Chair to write letters to the New Mexico and Louisiana state parties to reply to their concerns passed.
16. OUTREACH COMMITTEE: Richman gave his report and answered
questions.
17. BALLOT STATUS PLANS FOR STATES FOR 1983-84: This item was deleted from the agenda as Burch was not here to present it.
18. DISBANDING SUBCOMMITTEE ON RESEARCH AND SURVEY: Richman gave his report and move that the Research and Survey Committee be abolished. His motion passed.
19 PUBLICATIONS AND ADVERTISING SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT: Hocker gave his report and answered questions. Hall played sample radio spots for libertarian campaigns he had prepared.
20. CAMPAIGN '82 SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT: H. Rich gave his report and answered questions.
21. PLANS FOR MUNICIPAL RACES IN 1983: There was no objection to Key’s request that this item be considered Sunday morning as item 26a.
22. EDITORIAL POLICY FOR LP NEWS COMMITTEE REPORT: Bogel moved that the National Committee adopt the LP News Policy statement Esee Appendix A] and that it be debated and voted on section by section. Debate followed. Herbert moved to amend Bogel"s motion to adopt the report of the LP News Policy Committee with the following deletions: paragraph 4.2, third sentence of 4.3, and 4.4. Hall moved to amend the motion so item 2.6, p. 2, second sentence will read "no articles will be published which contradict the LP Statement of Principles" instead of the "LP Platform." There was no objection to Johnston's suggestion to separate the two parts--voting on the whole after voting on the Herbert~s deletions and then have Hall present his amendment. DeLisio called the question and the vote to closed debate on the amendment passed. The vote on Herbert's deletions passed. Debate on Hall7s amendment's followed. Key motion to extend debate 5 minutes passed. The vote on Hall's amendment failed 12-13-3 by roll call vote: For: Baase, Bergland, Crussel, DeLisio, Emerling, Franzi, Grant, Hall, Hemming, Johnston, Key, Walter; Against: Brazier, Bogel, Evers, Hanson, Herbert, Hocker, Hodge, Lewis, Monroe, A. Rich. H. Rich. Richman, Rothbard; Abstain: Baures, Eddy, Palm. Rothbard asked his vote to be recorded as follows: "Although I voted against the Hall amendment, I favor a twoto-three month open discussion of platform issues in LP News before each national convention." Franzi desired to change his vote but didn't make the request in time. Herbert called for orders of the day. Baures moved to table this item until first thing tomorrow morning. After several points of order and discussion as to whether Baures' motion was in order, Baures moved to extend debate 10 seconds to make her motion. Her motion failed. Herbert7s motion to adopt the report as amended passed.
REPORT FROM ADVERTISING/PUBLICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE: Bergland gave his report and answered questions. Hocker moved that recommendations appearing in LP News for the study of Internal Education material not produced by the LP shall be accompanied by a disclaimer to the effect that they may contain material inconsistent with the LP Platform. The only authoritative statement of LP positions is contained in its platform. Hocker’s motion passed. Herbert moved to adjourn until 9 a.m. Emerling moved to amend Herbert’s motion to adjourn to meet at 8 a.m. Evers moved to make the time 8;30 a.m. after item 20. Bergland's point of order that Hall7s motion was out of order as an argument against Herbert's motion was accepted by the Chair. The vote on Herbert's motion failed.
24. SCHEDULING DATE OF FIRST NATCOM MEETING OF 1983: Walter moved to have the first NatCom meeting of 1983 during the weekend of April 16-17. A. Rich moved to amend Walter's motion to hold the meeting the weekend of April 23-24. Evers moved to hold the meeting the weekend of March 12-13. Key's motion to closed debate passed as did Evers' motion by a 15-13 vote. Walter's main motion as amended, to have the first meeting of the National Committee during the weekend of March 12-13, 1983 passed 16-10.
25. SELECTION OF FIRST NATCOM MEETING OF 1983: Hall asked to yield the floor to Kate O'Brien who spoke on behalf of San Mateo as the location. Key moved to have the March 12-13, 19B3 National Committee meeting in San Mateo, California. After discussion, Key's motion to close debate passed as did her main motion. Emerling's motion to adjourn until 8:30 a.m. Sunday morning passed at 5:18 p.m.
26.
DISCHARGE OF NATIONAL DIRECTOR: The Chair reconvened the meeting at 8:35 a.m. with an announcement: "The Chair this morning asked Eric O'Keefe for his resignation as National Director of the Libertarian Party and he declined. Therefore I regret that the Chair must announce that she has discharged Eric O’Keefe as National Director." See Appendix B for entire announcement.3 Key moved to have a 30 minutes agenda item to discuss this announcement. Key"s motion failed 12-13. The Chair asked for 10 minutes for discussion and questions and answers. Key noted that O'Keefe had his hand up and asked to hear his comments. O’Keefe spoke on his own behalf. After discussion Emerling called for orders of the day.Johnston's point of order cited Article VIII, Section 8, of the Bylaws, (The National Committee shall have control and management of all the affairs, properties and funds of the Party consistent with these Bylaws) as "a clear indication that this body is responsible for the management of the
Party's affairs. It also authorizes Robert's Rules to cover incidences where the Bylaws are silent on particular issues.
On page 403 Roberts says, and we are bound by these, it"s not a matter of advice, (As a general principle, a board cannot delegate its authority--that is, it cannot empower a subordinate group) or I might add Chair (to act independently in its name--except as may be authorized by the bylaws of the society].) Now that doesn't leave the Chair any room to go ahead and to take actions that effects the management of this body on her own behalf...." In a point of order Hall said he believed the member had made his point. Johnston continued raised a point of order and I insist that the Chair abide by the rules that this body, the parent body, has set down."
Evers called for orders of the day. Key's point of order asked for a ruling of the Chair on Johnston's point of order. The ruling of the Chair is that "the National Chair, as chief executive of the Libertarian Party, and according to the agreement with Eric 07Keefe during the December 6-7, 1980 NatCom meeting that says that either party can terminate this agreement at any time can take this action now. I repeat again that during that meeting it was clarified that no explicit procedure for firing the National Director exists, but that the Chair has the implicit authority to do
SO. That was discussed in that meeting extensively. So the ruling of the Chair is that the Chair does have the authority to do it." Herbert appealed the ruling of the Chair. Debate followed. Herbert's point of order, "The discussion is supposed to be about whether or not the Chair has the right to do what she did, not about the merits of the decision" was accepted. A. Rich yielded her time to 02'Keefe. The roll call vote on upholding the ruling of the chair passed 17-11: For: Baase, Baures, Bergland, Brazier, Bogel, Crussel, Eddy, Emerling, Evers, Franzi, Grant, Hall, Hanson, Lewis, Monroe, Rothbard, Walter;Against: DeLisio, Hemming, Herbert, Hocker. Hodge, Johnston, Key, Palm. A. Rich, H. Rich. Richman.
In a point of personal privilege Key said: "As I understand what Eric said recently, he isn't going to vacate his position. I don't know how that is going to work out. it seems like it is kind of a problem. But I guess I would like right now to address the general action that was just taken here and to talk a little about the allegation that was made that the National office doesn't support the work of the duly appointed subcommittees a+ the National Committee. We all listened to voluminous reports yesterday from these subcommittees and the reason they were voluminous was because it took a long time for the Membership Chair and the Finance Chair to explain why it is that they haven7t been able to do anything. No allegations have ever been made that any project suggested to the National office has ever been rejected by the National office that have been made by these committees. If anybody thinks that having a different National Director is somehow going to make Matt Monroe able to raise money when he hasn't raised significant sums of money in the last four months or are going to make Emil Franzi who hasn7t recruited a single member in the last 9 months as Membership Chair able to recruit members, they're probably wrong about that."
In a point of personal privilege H. Rich said "you have chose to unilaterally fire him and I consider that an outrage particularly since I do not believe that you have the authority to do so, and I just want to go on record as having said that."
Herbert moved to suspend the rules to give the National Chair advice and consent on the selection of a new National Director. The Chair restated Herbert's motion as "to have advice and consent of this body on the appointment of Honey Lanham as interim or acting National Director for no more than six months for 30 minutes of discussion." Upon request Herbert restated his motion "to suspend the rules for this body to give advice and consent to the Chair on the selection of a new national Director." Hall's point of order was accepted that Herbert's motion was out of order as the proper procedure is for the Chair to submit a name and for the body to discuss and to decide whether to consent to the name. Richman's point of information wanted to know exactly what the point of suspension of the rules was. The Chair replied, "Mr. Herbert asked to suspend the rules to consider the appointment of an interim National Director." In response to Bergland"s point of order that the only thing on this subject that is proper is advice and consent on the appointment of Honey Lanham, the Chair replied "That is correct but the motion of Mr. Herbert is correct because he is asking to suspend the rules to consider the appointment of an interim National Director without names." O'Keefe stated "that based on consultation with my parliamentarian I7m of the opinion that I am not the Director any more so this proceeding can go on with that in mind." In a point of information Baures asked "if I vote yes as the motion stands does that mean that we've also suspended the rules with respect to our past practice of only the Chair being allowed
to submit a name?" The Chair answered "Yes, only the appointment of an interim National Director. That was the motion that Mr., Excuse me, let me make it very clear, Vivian, the Chair already discharged Eric O'Keefe as National Director. Now Mr. Herbert moved to suspend the rules to consider the appointment of an interim National Director by the Chair. So we are going to vote on suspending the rules just to take that motion." Baures asked to clarify that motion, "if we suspend the rules, if we vote affirmatively, can Jule Herbert introduce a name and not be out of order?" The Chair stated that "nobody can introduce a name, only the Chair can introduce names and then this body says yea or nay."Discussion continued. In a point of personal privilege Eddy stated, "it's my opinion that my rights may be violated in all this confusion and I'd like to have permission for the parliamentarian to make a statement on rights of the members of this body." There was objection to this request. After more discussion that Chair stated: "According with Mr. Herbert7s motion he wants to suspend the rules for this body to be able to appoint a new National Director instead of the Chair doing so and against resolutions that says that the National Chair is the only one that can bring a name to appoint a new national Director." Herbert said "that's not my motion, Madame Chair. I asked to suspend the rules so this body could give advice and consent to the Chair on the selection of a National Director." Eddy asked for clari+ication, "does that still mean that the Chair is the only one who has the right to submit a name for interim National Director?" Herbert replied: "How can my motion have any implication on that subject?" Eddy replied. slit
does... Evers said, "It doesn't." Eddy said, "Ok, I accept that." The Chair said: "Ok, so it is clear now what we are voting on." Evers said, "Yes, it7s clear." The vote to suspend the rules to consider Herbert7s motion passed 25-3 For: Baase5 Baures, Bergland, Brazier, Bogel, Crussel, DeLisio, Eddy, Evers, Franzi, Grant, Hanson, Herbert, Hocker, Hodge, Johnston, Key, Lewis, Monroe, Palm, A. Rich, H. Rich, Richman, Rothbard, Walter; Against: Emerling, Hall. Hemming. Hall requested the record show "the fact that his nay vote on Mr. Herbert's motion to suspend the rules to advice and consent was motivated by the fact that despite extensive discussion the implications of the motion were unclear and not by any desire to impede discussion and consent to the Chair's appointment of Ms. Lanham."Evers moved that "this body accept the appointment of Honey Lanham as interim National Director for not more than six months." Debate followed. Evers' motion by roll call vote passed 20-7-1: For: Baase, Baures, Bergland, Brazier. Bogel, Crussel, Eddy, Emerling, Evers, Franzi, Grant, Hall, Hanson, Hemming, Hodge, Lewis, Monroe, Richman, Rothbard, Walter; Against: Herbert, Hocker, Johnston, Key, Palm, A. Rich, H. Rich; Abstain: DeLisio. Key asked to "be recorded as saying, "I think that this is a tremendously serious mistake that the National Committee is making by consenting to this appointment. Also since I have the floor right now, if you could record the comments I make earlier too in that section."
27. COMPUTER OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE REPORT: Baures gave her report and answered questions. Baures moved that the Computer Oversight Committee be authorized to take steps necessary to make sure the LP headquarters has the capability to achieve #1, 2, and 3, in her list of priorities by January 1, 1983, with #4 and #5 completed by July 1, 1983. While #6 is a desirable function, unless it can be accomplished with very little extra expenses and hassle, it would be accomplished using a combination of a programable typewriter and the computer capabilities outlined in #1. #7 and 8 are outside the scope of projects suitable for the LP. [See Appendix C for items 1-81. Baures outlined 4 options open to the committee: (1) use outside house only for computer services; (2) keep the Data General equipment currently leased from Liberty Services and buy a software package to provide what we need; (3) keep the Data General equipment and contract, hopefully voluntarily, with someone who will design custom software; and (4) acquire some other kind of hardware and software or some combination of that. It was noted in order to exercise some of these options a 2/3 vote would be needed to terminate the lease with Dallas Cooley for software. Baures motion passed. Baures moved (as stated by Bergland) that this body gives authority to the National Chair to terminate the computer lease contract with Dallas Cooley upon the recommendation of the Computer Oversight Committee. The motion passed by voice vote with no dissenting votes.
28. NATIONAL CONVENTION OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE REPORT AND PROPOSED CONTRACT: Grant gave his report, answered questions, and asked for recommendations an whether to require some form of financial reporting in the contract. Grant said New York has no problem accepting total liability and responsibility financially for the convention and is willing to include that in a signed contract. There was general consensus that the FL.P communicate with the hotel and advice it that they are acting on their own behalf and are not agents of the National Party. There was no objection to the Committee continuing to work with the New York Convention Committee to arrive at a written agreement for approval by mail ballot.
29. 1985 NATIONAL CONVENTION PREPLANNING COMMITTEE REPORT:
Grant gave his report.
CLARIFICATION OF WHOM IS TO BE CONSIDERED A NATIONAL MEMBER FOR 1983 CONVENTION DELEGATE-ALLOCATION PURPOSES: Emerling moved for purposes of delegate count only those who have paid their membership dues or renewed their membership by making a financial contribution above $10 shall be considered members of the National Party. After discussion Hockerr "5 motion to table this item until the Orlando meeting failed 5-13. There was no objection to Bergland"s motion to move this to agenda item 28a so Emerling could reword it.
30. ARRANGEMENTS FOR PLATFORM, CREDENTIALS, AND BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEES FOR 1982 CONVENTION: Eddy motion passed that an announcement based on the one circulated with the agenda be placed in the LP News' last issue of 1982 and first issue of 1983 regarding members of the three convention committees to be appointed at the March 1983 National Committee meeting. ESee Appendix D for text of announcement.] Eddy moved that we discuss for 5 minutes the 3 items listed in her memo distributed with the agenda. It was confirmed that the permanent chairs of the three convention committees are appointed at their first meetings, that the Platform Committee chair appointed by NatCom has responsibIlity for arranging for the Platform Committee meeting,, and that expenses for the activity of these committee are being negotiated with the NY Convention Committee.
RESOLUTION TO ADOPT JULY 4 AS THE HOLIDAY MOST EXEMPLIFYING LIBERTARIAN PRINCIPLES: DeLisio moved that the 4th of July be adopted by the Libertarian Party as the holiday most exemplifying the principles of Libertarianism. All Libertarians would be encouraged to make a special effort to present programs, events, public advertising, and any other means available of bringing the Libertarian message to the public celebrating Libertarian principles and philosophy and strengthening intra-Libertarian ties. After discussion Bogel~s motion to close debate passed and DeLisio's motion passed unanimously.
PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: In a point of personal privilege DeLisio gave a speech expressing his concern about "the level of divisiveness of internal power struggles."
PLANS FOR MUNICIPAL RACES IN 1983: This item was deleted from the agenda as Key was not present.
35. RESOLUTION SUPPORTING "PROJECT LIBERTY7S-ATTEMPT TO REPEAL THE INCOME TAX: Emerling moved WHEREAS the income tax is an unjust and heavy burden on the middle class the working poor on the young, women, minorities, and indeed on all Americans; WHEREAS income tax provides billions of dollars for an ever-growing, greedy, irresponsible federal government; WHEREAS the only flat rate income tax a true defender of liberty can support is a flat rate of zero; BE IT RESOLVED that the Libertarian Party calls for an immediate and unconditional end to the income tax; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we support Project Liberty's efforts to abolish the income efforts tax now. After discussion Evers7 motion to closed debate passed as did Emerling's motion.
36. RESOLUTION CONDEMNING LICENSING AND LIMITING OF ALCOHOL SALES IN MONTANA: Emerling moved WHEREAS the licensing of beer and wine sales in the state of Montana prevents free enterprise, competition, and consumer choice; WHEREAS beer and wine licensing protects privileged business and injures others denied the privilege; BE IT RESOLVED that the Libertarian Party supports Montana's initiative to deregulate restaurant wine and beer licenses as a first step to abolishing licenses; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee applauds the Montana Libertarian Party's heroic efforts to reclaim American's heritage of free enterprise and free trade. After debate Emerling's motion passed unanimously.
37. Item 30: There was no objection to Emerling7s request to withdraw his motion in Item 30 as unnecessary.
38. RESOLUTION TO CALL A NONBUSINESSS LIBERTARIAN NATIONAL CONVENTION IN 1984: Emerling's motion to have a nonbusiness Libertarian Convention between June 15 and July 15. 1984 failed 4-17-1 by roll call vote: For: Emerling, Franzi, Hanson, Rothbard; Against: Baase, Baures, Bergland, Brazier, Bogel. DeLisio, Eddy, Evers, Grant, Hall, Hemming, Hocker, Hodge, Lewis, Palm, Richman, Walter; Abstain: Crussel.
39. RESOLUTION OPPOSING U.S. GOVERNMENT INVOLVEMENT IN INVASION OF LEBANON: Richman moved WHEREAS President Reagan has offered to send U.S. Marines to war-torn Lebanon; WHEREAS the stationing of U.S. troops abroad violates the policy of nonintervention that is necessary to limiting the power of the U.S. government; WHEREAS the LP Platform calls for the withdrawal of all U.S. troops from foreign soil; WHEREAS such deployment is a tripwire that provides a ready excuse +or forcing the American people to go to War; WHEREAS the Middle East, which has continually threatened to draw Americans into armed conflict, is particularly volatile with Israeli forces in Lebanon; BE IT RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee strenuously opposes any plans to deploy troops in Lebanon or elsewhere in the Middle East.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that U.S. troops now deployed in the Sinai should be withdrawn and all U.S. government military and economic transfers to the region should be terminated. Rothbard moved to amend Richman's motion by adding at the beginning of it "WHEREAS we deplore the Israeli mass killing of Lebanon." Emerling moved to amend Rothbard's amendment by adding to it "and deplore the PLO practice of using innocent-victims as human shields while practicing terrorism." Eddy's proposed friendly amendment to add "and Israeli" after "PLO" was not accepted. Bergland indicated his intention to, when in order, take the first 3 paragraphs of the original draft, and Emerling7s amendment, and add that to Richman motion. Rothbard agreed to accept Bergland's proposal as a friendly amendment to his amendment so the amendment read: "WHEREAS we deplore the Israeli mass killing of Lebanese and Palestinian civilians in the invasion a+ Lebanon, and deplore the PLO practice of using innocent victims as human shields while practicing terrorism, and WHEREAS the use a+ weapons, provided by the U.S. Government, in such aggressive action is prohibited by law, and WHEREAS the Libertarian Party platform calls for the cessation of all U.S. Government intervention in the Middle East. The vote on the amendment failed. The vote on Richman's main motion passed. The Vice-Chair assumed the Chair during Clark's absence.
40. RESOLUTION TO BOYCOTT SAN FRANCISCO UNTIL THE HANDGUN BAN IS REPEALED: Emerling moved a motion, which he fully supports, draft by Allen Hacker, WHEREAS the government of the City of San Francisco has chosen to deny its citizens the full exercise of their right of self-defense by legislating against the private ownership of handguns; WHEREAS the Mayor and City Council of San Franciso, in obvious disregard of the welfare of their neighbors and families, have exposed them to an increased likelihood of becoming victims of rape, murder, robbery and other forms of violence; WHEREAS these alleged protectors of the peoples' interests have significantly increased the difficulty of the people to muster an effective resistance to the never-to-be-neglected possibility of oppression by an ambitious military establishment, and WHEREAS the Libertarian Party, in principle and deed the unswerving champion of liberty in America today, holds that gg municipality or government may deny this right of handgun ownership; BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee condemns the Government of the City of San Francisco so long as the oppressive and dangerous handgun ban continues; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee supports peaceful Civil Disobedience, i.e., the refusal to surrender or discard the arms legislated against, as a correct response and a gesture of loyalty to the intentions of framers of the Constitution of the United States of America. Debate continued until time expired. Hall's motion to extend time three minutes passed. The vote on Emerling's motion passed 8-7 with the Vice-Chair breaking the tie. Emerling requested that copies of the resolution be distributed to interested parties and government officials of the City of San Francisco.
41. APPROVAL OF JOB DESCRIPTIONS OF NATIONAL CHAIR AND NATIONAL DIRECTORS: Evers moved that this item be tabled as the Chair was absent from the room. Evers' motion passed.
42. TAPE RECORDING NATCOM MEETINGS: Palm moved that a $50 limit per meeting be placed on recording NatCom meetings. Hall moved to amend Palm's motion to change the limit to $150. Bergland7s motion to table this matter passed. Clark resumed the Chair.
43%. RESOLUTION OF ENDORSEMENT OF A PETITION WHICH IS IN OPPOSITION TO THE POSTAL SERVICE AMENDMENTS ACT OF 1981: Hall moved the resolution by Sally Foster that the Libertarian National Committee endorses the petition in opposition to Senate Bill 1407/House Resolution 3975 to the Postal Service Amendments Act of 1981. Evers called the question and his motion pass as did as did Hall7s motion.
43. TAKEN FROM THE TABLE: Richman's motion to take agenda item 3a from the table passed 7-6-8 by roll call vote: For: Evers, Hall, Hemming, Hocker, Hodge, Lewis, Richman; Acainst: Crussel, Emerling, Franzi, Grant, Hanson, Palm; Abstain: Baase, Baures, Bergland, Brazier, Eddy3 Monroe, Rothbard, Walter. Evers moved all pending motions. There was objection to Hocker's request to withdraw his amendment. Richman called the question and his motion passed 11-4. The vote on Hocker's amendment (see minute item 5) failed 3-12-3 by roll call vote: For: Hemmingt Hocker, Richman; Against: Baase, Baures, Bergland, Brazierl Crussel, Emerling, Franzi, Hall, Hanson, Palm, Rothbard, Walter; Abstain: Bogel, Eddy, Evers, Lewis. Bergland wished to be recorded "that my vote is based on what I consider to be erroneous factual assumptions set forth or implied in the motion." The roll call vote on the main motion (see minute item 5) failed 3-12-4 by roll call vote: For: Evers, Hanson, Richman; Against: Baase, Baures, Bergland, Bogel, Crussel, Eddy, Emerling, Grant, Hall. Hocker, Palm, Hemming; Abstain, Brazier,, Franzi, Rothbard. Bergland wished it recorded that his "no vote is based on the fact that NatCom has given insufficient consideration to the issues raised by the proposed resolution.,, Hall wished to be recorded that his "no vote does not reflect support for the draft but rather opposition to badly framed measures." Crussel, Emerling, Franzi, and Grant voted as they did on the same grounds as Bergland.
45. RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF MONTANA'S ANTI-MX INITIATIVE 91: Palm moved that WHEREAS the Libertarian Party has a longstanding opposition to aggresive military adventures, and the oppressive taxation with which they are funded, WHEREAS the Libertarian Party favors elimination of land-based missiles from Montana and other states. WHEREAS the most destructive weapons used by modern governments to threaten the peace of the world and the survival of its inhabitants as nuclear weapons; WHEREAS Montana's Initiative 91 supports a freeze on the testing, development and deployment of nuclear weapons and opposes deployment of the offensive first strike MX missile in Montana; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that The Libertarian National Committee supports the passage of Initiative 91 as a constructive step in the direction of ending the dangerous policy of military buildup and superpower confrontation, and moving the nation toward multilateral disarmament. After discussion the vote on Palm7s motion passed.
46. RESOLUTION ON AMERICAN POLICY TOWARDS THE PHILIPPINES: Franzi moved that WHEREAS the course of human events has intertwined the lives of many Filipino and Americans and WHEREAS the greatest threat to the Philippine people is the constant propagating of the totalitarian precept that the state can provide for social and economic needs, and WHEREAS this illusion of the benevolent state is partially maintained by the American government through the mandated channelization of American dollars into the coffers of the Philippine Government via United States Treasury Circular 1081, and WHEREAS United States Treasury Circular 10E31, which forces Filipino veterans, widows, orphans, and others receiving pensions in American dollars to be paid in Philippine Pesos with the American dollars being deposited in The Philippine National Bank, is clearly designed to aid the Philippine Government at the expense of both the American taxpayer and the Filipino recipient, BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the United States Government immediately rescind United States Treasury Circular 10E31, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Libertarian Party send copies of this resolution to all Filipino newspapers published in the United States, and directly to the Philippine Government. Richman7s motion to call the question passed as did Franzi's motion.
47. REGIONAL REPORTS: Written reports were received from Hall (Region -4), Evers (Region 2). Franzi (Region 5), and Key (Reqion 10).
4e. GRATITUDE: In a point of personal privilege Richman expressed gratitude to the Montana party for their comfortable accommodations. The Chair adjourned the meeting at 12:48 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Frances Eddy
Secretary
Attachments: Appendices A, B, C, D, E.
LNC, August 7-9, 1982 page 16
APPENDIX A
(see minute item 22)
LIBERTARIAN PARTY NEWS
POLICY STATEMENT
I PURPOSE
1.1 The Libertarian Party News (LP News) is the name of the Libertarian Party’s newsletter and as such is the principal regularly issued publication of the Party. It is the major communications medium of the Party. It conveys the Party's message and self-image to all who receive it. It serves as the one unifying publication for the political views within the Party.
1.2 For the maximum benefit to be realized from LP News a - 7
clear statement of what that message and self image and is to whom it is to be communicated should be established. This policy statement is directed to that end.
1.3 No publication can be produced or edited by a committee. Final responsibility for the product must rest with a single, clearly identified, individual. For the LP News this individual is the Editor. It is the responsibility of the Editor to produce the best possible publication within the guidelines of these policies.
MARKET FOR LP NEWS
1 The LP News is received by three major audiences: LP members and contributors, media representative and prospective members. At the local level LP News is one of the pieces of recruiting literature distributed. However, the LP News is the "house organ" for the Party and should address itself primarily to LP members. Other publications and literature should be used as the primary means to introduce non-Party members to libertarianism.
2.2 The role of LP News should be complementary to the other publications within the libertarian movement by leaving particular market segments to them. The spectrum of publications within the movement ranges from State Party newsletters, national level newsletters, national publications, to scholarly journals.
2.3 LP News should focus on three types of articles:
1. Those providing a libertarian perspective on current issues along with how and why this perspective differs from that of other political parties.
2. Those providing information on libertarian, libertarian-oriented and LP activities around the US and the world.
3. Those discussing the tactics and strategy of LP political activities.
4. This leaves to other publications the areas of scholarly articles, in-depth analysis of current problems!, regular coverage of the arts (book and film reviews), analysis of libertarian movement tactics and strategy,, in-depth debate of questions on which there is no libertarian consensus, critique of individuals within the libertarian movement, and reporting of routine state and local activities and personalities. There are publications which address these areas.
The proper tone for all articles is +actual and evenhanded. "Mainstream" political rhetoric should be used to present "radical" libertarian ideas. Use of "buzz words" and "libertarian jargon" should be avoided in order to make LP News appealing to the broadest possible readership. Personal attacks an persons and institutions within the libertarian movement are to be avoided.
2.6 The articles in LP News should, on the whole, represent the core areas of agreement in the LP. No articles will be published which contradict the LP Platform. Articles which address areas where the Platform is silent may be published provided that they are noted as representing the opinions of the author only and not those of the Party.
The circulation of LP News should be to all contributors and members within the past 2 years, to a media list selected by the National Director, to individuals requesting information from Party headquarters to a portion of the prospects list and a distribution to State Chairs for recruiting purposes equal to 10% of the total press run. The actual distribution will be made at the direction of the National Director.
3.0 EDITORIAL POLICIES
1.1 LP News shall be published bi-monthly in a tabloid format. The number of pages per issue shall be decided by the Editor consistent with the approved budget.
3.2 The selection ofarticles, their layout and the graphics for LP News shall be the sole responsibility of the Editor. The relative amount of space assigned to articles, advertisements. LP announcements and regular features shall be decided by the Editor except as detailed in this Policy Statement.
3.7N CURRENT ISSUES
1. Factual reports of world and U.S_ news from a libertarian perspective.
2. Opinion articles and analysis of current political problems and situations.
3. Reviews of books featured by LP Book Service.
4. Policy resolutions adopted by LNC.
5. Opinion articles on issues on which the Platform is silent.
3.4 THE LIBERTARIAN MOVEMENT
1. News articles on National, State and local LP activities, particularly electoral activities and nationally coordinated programs.
2. News articles on libertarian-oriented activities such as draft protesting and anti-tax movements.
3. Articles which identify individuals, organizations, or reading materials for obtaining further in+ormation on the LP and libertarianism.
4. Articles describing major LP programs and policies.
5. Articles by the National Chair and National Director discussing the appropriate tactics and strategy for LP activities.
6. Directory of key State and National contacts for LP members.
4.0 COMMERCIAL POLICIES
4.1 It is not intended that LP News be self-supporting;
however. it should be managed such that no more than 50% of its publication plus mailing costs be supplied from the Party's general funds. The remainder of these costs should be recovered from advertising, subscriptions and LP Book Service commissions. The exact level of support will be established annually in the approved budget for the Party.
4.2 No classified advertising will be accepted. All advertisements will be clearly labeled as such. See the Reviews and Reporting section of this policy for reporting requirements for rejected advertisements.
5.0 LP BOOK SERVICE
5.1 The LP has a contract with Laissez-Faire Books (running from March 1, 1982 to February 28, 1984) to provide services to fulfill orders for books featured in LP News. In return for this service the LP receives a modest percentage of the cost of each book sold.
5.2 This book service provides the useful function of making
libertarian titles available to those who receive LP prospective members who wish to know more about libertarianism, but do not know where to turn to learn about it. In view of the role of the book service as an educational tool it should be jointly administered by the Chair of the Internal Education Committee and the Editor.
5.3 The Chair of the Internal Education Committee will select the titles to be listed by the Book Service, periodically recommend additional titles and recommend books to be featured in book reviews.
5.4 The Editor shall select the books to be reviewed in LP News and their reviewers. Preference should be given to the books recommended by the Internal Education Committee. The Editor will prepare the advertisement for the LP Book Service and will determine its size and frequency of publication. The titles listed in the ad shall be an the list of those recommended by the Internal Education Committee.
6.0 EDITOR SELECTION
The role of the Editor of LP News is an extremely important one. Due consideration should be given to the professional as well as libertarian background of the individual selected. The National Director shall select the Editor with the advice and consent of the National Chair.
7.0 REVIEWS, REPORTING AND CHANGES TO POLICY
7.1 The LP News shall be reviewed by the Advertising/ Publications Review Committee after publication. The Editor, National Director and National Chair shall be informed of any items which in the opinion of the Committee are inappropriate.
7.2 As part of the Headquarters report provided at each LNC NatCom meeting the National Director shall report the following regarding Le News;
1. Circulation per issue
2. Number of pages per issues
3. Cost per issue
4. Ad revenue per issue and equivalent dollar value of "exchange" ad
5. Advertisements rejected and why
6. Items found unsatisfactory by the Advertising/ Publications Review Committee and action to be taken on them.
7.3 Changes to this Policy Statement shall be made only by the LNC in accordance with its Bylaws. When changes appear appropriate or necessary, the Editor, through the National Director, may recommend them to the LNC for consideration.
7.4 With the adoption of this Policy Statement the following Resolutions of the LNC are repealed: 51, 22, 37, 40, 61, 116, 125, 133, 202 and 203.
APPENDIX B
(see minute item 216)
ANNOUNCEMENT BY CHAIR
ON DISCHARGE OF NATIONAL DIRECTOR
"The Chair this morning asked Eric O'Keefe for his resignation as National Director of the Libertarian Party and he declined. Therefore I regret that the Chair must announce that she has discharged Eric O’Keefe as National Director. The Chair has made this decision because of his lack of performance, adherence, and cooperation according to the Libertarian Party procedures. According to our Bylaws, Article VII, Section 4, the Chair has the authority to do so being the chief executive officer of the party and according to the minutes of the December 6-7, 1980 NatCom meeting that say that Eric O'Keefe was appointed National Director under the following terms. "It would be indefinite employment could be terminated by either party at any time. it was clarified that no explicit procedure for firing a National. Director exists, but that the Chair has the implicit authoritv" to do so. At the same time the National Chair appoints Honey Lanham as interim or acting National Director for not more than six months. This will give us time to run an ad in LP News to ask for applications, to have interviews with the applicants, and for the Chair to bring her recommendations to this body during the Orlando meeting and to have your advice and consent on the appointment a+ the new National Director. The Chair reminds you that this is only an announcement: there is no motion on the floor. but if there is no objection we can take ten minutes for comments, questions, and answers."
APPENDIX C
(see minute item 27)
ITEMS 1-8 IN BAURES' MOTION
FROM HER JULY 28, 1982 MEMO TO THE LNC
(1) Select and produce lists or labels from the master file by anv combination of the following:
-1. state and/or zio code
b- contribution total over $Z (could be $0) from Xdate to Ydate
E. response to ABC fundraiser
d. largest contribution over $Z from Xdate to Ydate
e. monthly pledge by status (including no pledge)
+. member status (including no member)
g. phone number by area code
h. "Use first name greeting" flag
i. VIP flag
(2) Merge/Purge--search for possible duplication at the time of initial entry (display similar names for operator review)
(3) FEC report writing system
(4) Complete accounting system package
(5) Materials order system including inventory/order/back order control
(6) Word processing system with letter quality type
(7) Phone transfer capability of data files to affiliate party7s computers
(9) "Liberty Net" for transmission of wide range of "Liberty Information" to any subscriber.
APPENDIX D
(see minute item 31)
Platform Committee,
Credentials Committee, and Bylaws and Rules Committee
Members to be Chosen at NatCom Meeting
At its [date of first 1983 NatCom meeting] in [location of that meeting] the Libertarian National Committee will elect ten members of the Platform Committee, ten members of the Bylaws and Rules Committee and five members of the Credentials Committee.
The Platform Committee will meet in May or June, lqe~s, at a location to be determined after consulting with Platform Committee members. The other two committees will meet in New York City, the Bylaw and Rules Committee [give dates] and the Credentials Committee Egive dates]. The three committees will present their reports and recommendations to the National Convention on Egive dates].
If you are interested in becoming a member of one of these committee please send your name, address and qualifications to the national secretary, Frances Eddy, 4400 East-West Highway,~ #1111, Bethesda, MD 20814. by [whatever is 37 days before first 199~D. NatCom meeting]. Committee members are responsible for their own arrangements and expenses for travel, accommodations, etc. Contact your state chair or national headquarters for more details.
add 225. ALCOHOL SALES IN MONTANA: WHEREAS the licensing of beer and wine sales in the state of Montana prevents free enterprise, competition, and consumer choice; WHEREAS beer and wine licensing protects privileged business and injures others denied the privilege; BE IT RESOLVED that the Libertarian Party supports Montana7s initiative to deregulate restaurant wine and beer licenses as a first step to abolishing licenses; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee applauds the Montana Libertarian Party7s heroic efforts to reclaim American's heritage of free enterprise and free trade. (8/7-8/82:36) under Section A
add 22-16. GOVERNMENT INVOLVEMENT IN LEBANON: WHEREAS President Reagan has offered to send U.S. Marines to war-torn Lebanon; WHEREAS the stationing of U.S. troops abroad violates the policy of nonintervention that is necessary to limiting the power of the U.S. government; WHEREAS the LP Platform calls for the withdrawal of all U.S. troops from foreign soil; WHEREAS such deployment is a tripwire that provides a ready excuse for forcing the American people to go to war; WHEREAS the Middle East, which has continually threatened to draw Americans into armed conflict, is particularly volatile with Israeli forces in Lebanon; BE IT RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee strenuously opposes any plans to deploy troops in Lebanon or elsewhere in the Middle East. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that U.S. troops now deployed in the Sinai should be withdrawn and all U.S. government military and economic transfers to the region should be terminated. (8/7-8/82:39) under Section A
add 2127. HANDGUN BAN IN SAN FRANCISCO: WHEREAS the government of the City of San Francisco has chosen to deny its citizens the full exercise of their right of selfdefense by legislating against the private ownership of handguns; WHEREAS the Mayor and City Council of San Franciso, in obvious disregard of the welfare of their neighbors and families, have exposed them to an increased likelihood of becoming victims of rape-, murder, robbery and other forms of violence; WHEREAS these alleged protectors of the peoples7 interests have significantly increased the difficulty of the people to muster an effective resistance to the never-to-be neglected possibility of oppression by an ambitious military establishment, and WHEREAS the Libertarian Party,, in principle and deed the unswerving champion of liberty in America today, holds that no municipality or government may deny this right of handgun ownership; BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee condemns the Government of the City of San Francisco so long as the oppressive and dangerous handgun ban continues; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Libertarian National Committee supports peaceful Civil Disobedience, i.e., the refusal to surrender or discard the arms legislated against, as a correct response and a gesture of loyalty to the intentions of framers of the Constitution of the United States of America. (8/7-8/82:40) under Section A
add 2128. POSTAL SERVICE AMENDMENTS ACT OF 1981: The Libertarian National Committee endorses the petition in opposition to Senate Bill 1407/House Resolution 3975 to the Postal Service Amendments Act of 1981. (8/7-8/82:43) under Section A
add 229. MONTANA~S ANTI-MX INITIATIVE 91: WHEREAS the Libertarian Party has a long-standing opposition to aggressive military adventures, and the oppressive taxation with which they are funded, WHEREAS the Libertarian Partv favors elimination of land-based missiles from Montana and other states. WHEREAS the most destructive weapons used by modern governments to threaten the peace of the world and the survival of its inhabitants as nuclear weapons; WHEREAS Montana's Initiative 91 supports a freeze on the testing, development and deployment of nuclear weapons and opposes deployment-of the offensive first strike MX missile in Montana; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that The Libertarian National Committee supports the passage of Initiative 91 as _=4 constructive step in the direction of ending the dangerous policy of military buildup and superpower confrontation, and moving the nation toward multilateral disarmament. (8/7-8/82:45) under Section A
add 230. POLICY TOWARDS THE PHILIPPINES: WHEREAS the course of human events has intertwined the lives of many Filipino and Americans and WHEREAS the greatest threat to the Philippine people is the constant propagating of the totalitarian precept that the state can provide for social and economic needs, and WHEREAS this illusion of the benevolent state is partially maintained by the American government through the mandated channelization of American dollars into the coffers of the Philippine Government via United States Treasury Circular 1081, and WHEREAS United States Treasury Circular 1081, which forces Filipino veterans, widows, orphans, and others receiving pensions in American dollars to be paid in Philippine Pe50S with the American dollars being deposited in The Philippine National Bank, is clearly designed to aid the Philippine Government at the expense of both the American taxpayer and the Filipino recipient, BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the United States Government immediately rescind United States Treasury Circular 1081, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Libertarian Party send copies of this resolution to all Filipino newspapers published in the United States, and directly to the Philippine Government. (8/78/82:46) under Section A