SOPA and PIPA...acronyms of destruction

This is a RARE non-racing post on my part, but this topic is one that has wide ranging and serious consequences not only myself but EVERYONE who uses the internet.  The 2 acts currently threatening the internet as we know it are the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect Intellectual Property Act (PIPA).  These 2 acts are threats to freedom of speech and expression for sites a s large as Facebook, Twitter, etc.  It would also affect small groups/individuals including bloggers like myself.  The simple act of posting a link to this blog could very well be a CRIME if this passes.  A simple link to information, that in no way steals anything from anyone, could result in fines, jail time, and possible ban from the internet.  Is THAT what we need?  I say, emphatically, HECK NO!!  There are already laws in place that work to protect copyrighted materials.  If you have been on YouTube any at all, you can see this by seeing that certain videos have been removed because of copyright violations.  This bill will open the door to censorship, and I DO NOT SUPPORT THAT.  Everyone deserves to have their own voice and opinion, even if it isn't one that I agree with.  I encourage you all to contact your lawmakers, sign petitions available at places like Google, and do your part to protect our freedom.  To quote the wise Benjamin Franklin, T"hose who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety."