Thank you Paula,
Bless you for having looked into this issue as it will become very pertinent in the coming years. I would caution against looking at any conspiracy theories and advise that we all look into the facts of this situation. There is alot of information out there, but I think there is a danger in relying on sources that might lend towards disbelief.
I know that other posts on this forum have lead to some stating that this kind of inquiry violates the Biblical mandate not to discredit leaders. By looking into the legislation and the technology I believe that as Christians we can avoid condemning individuals and address the situation. I've been blessed with employment that allows me to do this and I know that others aren't as aware of these issues.
Unfortunately Arron Russo is lumped in with conspiracy theorists; although he does provide anecdotes that pertain to this issue. I'm not saying that he might not be completely truthful, but he does name names and draws conclusions that may cloud the facts.
Discerning we should see that the time is now and that as Christians this is an immediate issue that needs to be addressed.
http://www.uspto.gov/patft/
Search 20020165758 in the quick search option, this patent is from May 3rd, 2001.
Identification and tracking of persons using RFID-tagged items in store environments
Abstract
A method and system for identifying and tracking persons using RFID-tagged items carried on the persons. Previous purchase records for each person who shops at a retail store are collected by POS terminals and stored in a transaction database. When a person carrying or wearing items having RFID tags enters the store or other designated area, a RFID tag scanner located therein scans the RFID tags on that person and reads the RFID tag information. The RFID tag information collected from the person is correlated with transaction records stored in the transaction database according to known correlation algorithms. Based on the results of the correlation, the exact identity of the person or certain characteristics about the person can be determined. This information is used to monitor the movement of the person through the store or other areas.
Translate store environment to city realizing that the Real ID will eventually have RFID technology in it and a nasty picture emerges.
Also look at the New Freedom Comission ( http://www.mentalhealthcommission.gov/reports/FinalReport/FullReport.htm )this directly affects every single child in America, saved an unsaved alike. The definitions for mental health conditions such as depression and incredibly vague and could lead to false diagnoses, especially if there is a legitimate issue within the environment causing people to feel disheartened:
Goal 4 - Early Mental Health Screening, Assessment, and Referral to Services Are Common Practice
In a transformed mental health system, the early detection of mental health problems in children and adults - through routine and comprehensive testing and screening - will be an expected and typical occurrence. At the first sign of difficulties, preventive interventions will be started to keep problems from escalating. For example, a child whose serious emotional disturbance is identified early will receive care, preventing the potential onset of a co-occurring substance use disorder and breaking a cycle that otherwise can lead to school failure and other problems.
Quality screening and early intervention will occur in both readily accessible, low-stigma settings, such as primary health care facilities and schools, and in settings in which a high level of risk exists for mental health problems, such as criminal justice, juvenile justice, and child welfare systems. Both children and adults will be screened for mental illnesses during their routine physical exams.
For consumers of all ages, early detection, assessment, and links with treatment and supports will help prevent mental health problems from worsening. Service providers across settings will also routinely screen for co-occurring mental illnesses and substance use disorders. Early intervention and appropriate treatment will also improve outcomes and reduce pain and suffering for children and adults who have or who are at risk for co-occurring mental and addictive disorders.
Early detection of mental disorders will result in substantially shorter and less disabling courses of impairment.
For consumers of all ages, early detection, assessment, and links with treatment and supports will help prevent mental health problems from worsening.
To aid in transforming the mental health system, the Commission makes four recommendations:
4.1 Promote the mental health of young children.
4.2 Improve and expand school mental health programs.
4.3 Screen for co-occurring mental and substance use disorders and link with integrated treatment strategies.
4.4 Screen for mental disorders in primary health care, across the lifespan, and connect to treatment and supports