#41, Parrots

Obama Finishes Deal To Get Every American A Free Parrot

By Mark Landler /// 2012.04.01

WASHINGTON—After months of tense bipartisan negotiations, President Barack Obama announced Monday he had secured a deal to provide every man, woman, and child in the United States with a parrot. "These are beautiful animals that can live up to 80 years and are very smart," said Obama, feeding sunflower seeds to a blue and yellow macaw he referred to as General Parrotraeus. "At a time when there is so much dividing us as a nation, we must never forget that there are some things every American can cherish. You will enjoy these birds." A press release from the White House stated that while no food or cages would be provided, citizens who already own a bird may opt out with proof of parrot.

SOURCE: http://www.nytimes.com/articles/obama-finishes-deal-to-get-every-american-a-free-p,20261/

After months of debate in Congress, the "bird bill" has finally been passed and signed by the POTUS.  It is a controversial law, but one that could prove to be one of the most important in President Obama's term as president.  Parrots have been scientifically proven to trigger the release endorphins (hormones that create feelings of happiness) and decrease stress levels.  Moreover, a study done by the Parrot Society of Australia found that parrots can help students with language acquisition.  Their ability to mimic language makes them natural study partners.  Students with parrots scored 17% points higher on the reading portion of the highly respected PISA test than students without parrots.

Further, because parrots reproduce so quickly, their cost is extremely low and will have a negligible effect on federal taxes for citizens.

The U.S. Constitution states, "all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."  Does this new law support "the pursuit of happiness"?  What effect will this law have on the U.S.?  Should Korea start a similar program?  If so, would another animal be preferable?  Defend your position.

-Brenden Lee Teacher

Yes we can.