Barbara Cubin: “it's about time. That's what my constituents are telling me. They correctly note the gradual degradation of the quality…”

“it's about time. That's what my constituents are telling me. They correctly note the gradual degradation of the quality and decency of programming on TV and radio--and I agree, it's about time Congress acted. As an original cosponsor of H.R. 3717, I think it's important to note that we introduced this bill prior to the Super Bowl. Some people are blaming Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake for Congressional action on indecency, but really the Super Bowl halftime show was simply the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back. It's sort of like cooking a frog in a pot of boiling water. Put him in when it's lukewarm, and slowly turn up the temperature, he'll be cooked by dinner. Throw him into a boiling pot, however, and he'll jump right out. I'm afraid we've let this sneak up on us to the point where we're almost cooked. I'm not here sharing recipes from Congressman Tauzin's Cajun cookbook, I'm talking about how we have sat idly by as programming over the public's airwaves has gone to the dogs. The nudity of the Super Bowl halftime show has justly raised the ire of American families, and we are right to demand that people act in a civil manner when they are afforded access to the public's airwaves. Mr. Chairman, it is about time Congress acted and I'm proud to be part of that effort. I urge passage of H.R. 3717.”