OPINION:
Let me get this straight. The Obama administration is sued to halt ongoing federal funding for embryonic stem-cell research. It loses before a judge but appeals. The funding is allowed to continue until the appeals court decision.
The Obama administration imposes a moratorium on offshore oil drilling and is sued. It loses before a federal judge, imposes a more restrictive moratorium and appeals. The drilling cannot resume until the appeals court decision.
Both cases involve (a) potential or proven benefits to humans, (b) potential or proven dangers to humans, (c) jobs and economic activity and (d) loss of expertise if suspended. Why are the outcomes different? It seems the government preferentially gets its way pending appeal.
BARRY J. MITCHEL
Portsmouth, Va.
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