This is in reference to your editorial in the Aug. 16, 1999, issue entitled "Protectionism fails again." The editorial claims the action by the committee to Save Domestic Oil (SDO) deserves a rebuke for establishing an image of anticonsumer selfishness for the sake of narrow commercial goals. Further, "that desperate people do desperate things" (OGJ, Aug. 16, 1999, p. 19).
You should consider how your charges sound to the hard-hit citizens (not just oil producers) in producing areas throughout the U.S. For example, you might find it interesting to visit the Permian Basin and talk to survivors in towns like Andrews, Kermit, Big Lake, and McCamey. I don't think laid-off workers and families, school boards, city councils, county commissioners, merchants, and others would reflect "narrow commercial goals." They are too consumed by survival.
The editorial suggests reviewing the Tariff Act with the aim of making it applicable to modern trade. The act was put in place for a reason. As long as the act exists, you should refrain from pillorying those who seek to rely on it for the intended purpose. After all, the federal government has made no move of any real significance to help a valued domestic industry whose very survival is at stake.
Arlen L. Edgar
Midland, Tex.
