The Boy Scouts

Senator Bill Frist
03/28/2005

You hear about the big issues we are dealing with everyday on the Senate floor through conventional media. But this morning I want to let you know about an issue we are hitting head on that affects the lives of over a million young people across America ... an issue our Republican leadership feels strongly about ... the Boy Scouts.

I should say right up front that I was a Boy Scout as were Jonathan, Bryan, and Harrison. We've camped, earned merit badges, and reverently pledged the Boy Scout oath to God and country. Fond memories that have made us better citizens. But the future of scouting as we know it is being threatened.

I have to say ... I never thought it would be necessary to pass legislation to protect the Boy Scouts of America ... a proud institution in our country since 1910. But leave it to liberals.

Believe it or not, this venerable organization has come under attack by individuals bent on denying them equal access to public facilities across our country. In fact, they have been sued many times. Sued! The Boy Scouts!

This is an organization whose motto reads (in part): “On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country ...”

They depend on access to these facilities. That's where we had the scouting jamborees. And what do scouts do there? They talk about principles. Principles like honesty, integrity, and character.

The Boy Scouts of America produce good kids. The true leaders of tomorrow. We need more like ‘em. And we WILL protect them.

I sponsored with many of my colleagues just before recess the “Support Our Scouts Act Of 2005." I need your help to build nationwide support for this bill. This legislation will protect the Boy Scouts’ and guarantee them equal access to public facilities, programs and forums.

As they say, America’s greatness is determined by our goodness. Well, let me tell you, these kids are as good as it gets. They make us proud. And we’re going to stand up and fight for them. Write your Congressman to support this bill.

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In other news ...

Off with Karyn and Bryan to look at colleges this week. Bryan is a junior and is looking at places that Jonathan and Harrison didn't ... which is fun for us! Our kids grow up too fast.

This week we are doing our planning sessions for Senate business for the next three months. We have governed successfully over the past 2 months with passage of 3 MAJOR bills ... Class action, bankruptcy, and the budget. We will continue to move America forward with passage of the bill to support our troops who are fighting for our freedom within the next 3 weeks.

Easter has been a time of reflection for our family. We all have much to be thankful for.

Bill Frist

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