Beth Wellington is a Roanoke, Virginia based poet and journalist. She is a contributing editor to the New River Free Press, a book reviewer for the Roanoke Times and a member of the Southern Appalachian Writers Cooperative (SAWC) and the Appalachian Studies Association. From 1980 to 1997, she was the founding Executive Director of New River Community Sentencing, Inc. in Christiansburg, Virginia and its predecessor, New River Community Action's Community Sentencing Program. She contributes to both SourceWatch.org and Wikipedia.org. Beth's blog on culture and politics is The Writing Corner.
Beth Wellington’s commentary examines the rapid introduction and passage of the Protect America Act, and the impact of related legislation on civil liberties in America.
Beth Wellington provides an overview of coal-to-liquid (CTL) technology and whether it is a viable new energy source. Beth documents the debate over this issue which includes voices from academia, trade associations, lobbyists and members of Congress, who have introduced a plethora of related legislation.
Beth Wellington explains why this legislation is supported by a range of public interest groups and individuals.
Beth Wellington examines gun control initiatives as well as positions and programs related to gun politics in the aftermath of the Virginia Tech tragedy.
Beth Wellington investigates recent Presidential appointments that have proved controversial on the Hill, and have subsequently been withdrawn.
Beth Wellington reviews the background and legislation associated with card check-off campaigns to establish union representation, as well as the current political and corporate positions.
Beth Wellington reviews the administration’s position on FY 2008 funding for nuclear power programs, as well as the impact of these programs on climate change.
Beth Wellington puts the recently announced troop surge surge into context by reviewing the response of members of Congress, the public, columnists and think tanks.
Beth Wellington’s commentary examines the contentious issues related to the administration’s use of military commissions and the subsequent introduction of new legislation to “correct problems in the act” and “to restore fundamental protections.”
Beth Wellington’s commentary takes an in-depth look at the divergent positions and issues associated with FOIA and biodefense related appropriations and legislation, from the perspective of legislators, public interest groups and journalists.