Government does more wacky things than anyone could possibly write about in any detail. Listed here are just a few that I dug up over the course of the week. If you have more, I’d love to hear about them.
– 206 occupations require licenses in New Jersey.
– Federal money is paying for a museum exhibit called “Race to the End of the Earth.” (Note: the earth is round.)
– In the market for a new air conditioner? Act fast, because new regulations are on the way.
– The federal government pays for a website that monitors jellyfish sightings.*
– Fear not: the federal government has a Potato Research and Promotion Plan.
– Last year, the feds started a Dairy Industry Advisory Committee. Let the rent-seeking begin!
– And finally: 2,000 House staffers make $100,000 or more per year.
*CORRECTION: Commenter Steve, who works at jellywatch.org, writes that “Our web site is NOT supported by the federal government in any way. It would not be a bad thing if it were, since people are dependent on fish which interact with jellyfish. However we are presently supporting the site through our volunteered time and money from our own pocket. The article you cite refers to associated research which our project will contribute data. Please correct your site accordingly.”
I take Steve at his word, thank him, and issue this correction. Federal money does go to jellyfish research, but not to jellywatch.org.
I also received a thoughtful email from a colleague of Steve’s that deserves a thoughtful reply. I will post it this weekend.
Inertia Wins! 