On today’s NOTICE News: Last week, actor Alec Baldwin was criminally charged for a 2021 death on a movie set. What was he charged with and why? Plus: The federal government hit its debt ceiling on Thursday… we explain what that means. Here’s a transcript of today’s show.
Discussion Questions
- How does the FBI report on the gun going off differ from Baldwin’s claims?
- How is involuntary manslaughter different from murder?
- According to protocol, what two checks should have been done before Baldwin used the gun while filming the scene—checks that had they been done, would have given two opportunities to make sure the gun was truly “cold” or safe?
- What did President Biden mean when he said, “There’s no there there,” in reference to the classified documents that were found at his private home and office?
- What are some consequences that would happen to the economy if the debt limit isn’t increased?
Writing Prompts
- Often, people feel as if celebrities and those in power don’t live by the same rules as everyone else. How does the charging of Baldwin with manslaughter fit into that context? Why might it be important for the same rules to apply to those in power, and what consequences could there be if they don’t?
- While a potential $5,000 might not be consequential to an A-list actor like Balwin, there could still be major consequences for him due to the manslaughter case, beyond potential jail time. Obviously, there has been a loss of life, but what other consequences could Baldwin face from this case, consequences that might make him fight for his innocence? Could there be consequences even if he were to prove his innocence in a trial?
- Why might some find it frustrating that the government can increase its debt limit when individuals are forced to pay their bills? Explore both sides of this issue. While an increase in the debt ceiling might upset some, others might view the government’s bills it needs to pay as different from those of an individual or family. Why might that be?
Further Reading
- Breaking news over the weekend: 10 Killed In Shooting Near Los Angeles During Lunar New Year Party (Reuters)
- Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter charge explained: Why the actor was charged in ‘Rust’ shooting (People)
- Q&A: The Debt Ceiling, Explained (Reuters)
- The Latest: Bipartisan Lawmakers Preparing Plan To Avert Debt Ceiling Crisis (Reuters)
- What does it mean for me? TIME explains what could happen to your money if the debt ceiling is reached