IUSA working to help students

In response to your staff editorial, "Tax-free books lofty goal for IUSA" (Oct. 19), I believe that the goal is not lofty, but realistic, and Legislative Relations Office Director Ben Piper should be applauded for his efforts.\nYou stated that Ben Piper did not mention the legislators whom he's spoken to -- but this is to be expected in an election season. However, the representatives in the Indiana House who support this initiative do exist -- I know, because I've spoken to them. In 1999, a bill was actually drafted that would make textbooks tax-free -- the bill gained four co-sponsors but was delayed in committee while more visible tax cuts received priority. With public debate, petition drives and lobbying, the issue is gaining more support.\nThe best way for this drive to be successful is for the campus to present a unified front. Sign the petition! Vote!\nI must also respond to your comment that IUSA should focus on other matters. To clarify, Legislative Relations Office is an executive department, not a congressional committee, which has two directors (Ben Piper and Lydia Roll) who focus on state and national political issues. While working on getting tax-free textbooks, they have also been putting together election booklets to create a more informed voting campus. In addition, they put on a very successful voter registration drive and are working on having candidate forums and debates. Roll and Piper are not paid; they are volunteers dedicating their time to work on issues brought to them by students. They should be applauded, not criticized for their efforts.