Nonprofits Ask Lawmakers to Disable "Logic Puzzle”

Over 100 organizations sent a letter to Congress yesterday, asking that legislators stop using software that blocks constituent messages sent through organizations’ websites. The letter states, “ We believe the use of such technology, to limit communications between the public and elected officials, is wrong and a real threat to democratic principles.” It continues, “When constituents write to members of Congress via our Web-based technologies, and they receive a response, people's faith in the democratic process and their own ability to participate is reinforced. The Internet provides a new generation of civic-minded Americans an education in effective democracy and the ability to speak clearly and together about their most deeply held beliefs and concerns. Organizations like ours are legitimate participants in that online forum, where people come together, formulate ideas about their issues, and then communicate with you.”

As we previously discussed, the Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives recently announced the availability of an “enhancement” to the House's “Write Your Rep” system that challenges constituents with a “logic puzzle” before they are allowed to submit a comment via web form. Many in the nonprofit sector are upset Members of Congress would choose to place an obstacle – any obstacle – in the way of constituents who choose to petition their elected officials.