RAVE ACT 'DEEPLY FLAWED'

I wonder if Max Margolis ("Law would cut into rave scene," Aug. 10) has even
read the RAVE Act (S2633).

The proposed bill is deeply flawed and would unfairly punish business people
for the crimes of their customers. It is a danger to innocent nightclub
owners, concert promoters, landlords and real-estate managers.

In addition to mandating stiff criminal penalties, the bill would allow the
federal government to charge property owners civilly, enabling the
government to fine businesses without having to meet the higher standard of
proof in criminal cases.

The RAVE Act, while narrowly named, is written so broadly that it could
apply to just about any venue where a number of people congregate, and
illegal drugs happen to be sold or consumed -- the Crystal Ballroom, the
Governor Hotel or your neighborhood pub.

The law would inhibit the ability of legitimate concert and dance promoters
to secure insurance and locations for their events, driving raves and other
musical events further underground and away from the purview of important
health, safety and fire regulations.

GENE EHRBAR Southeast Portland