Came across the following and think it is much needed. I'm sure there are those who disagree; if you don't, please feel free to not sign. This post is for those folks who (like me) think this would be a very good thing, but are not yet aware of this petition.

A filibuster is supposed to be used in rare situations when a senator strongly opposes a piece of legislation. My colleagues are supposed to take to the Senate floor and passionately defend their opposition, to build support for their point-of-view and make their objection clear for all to see.

That's how it's supposed to work.

But today, a single senator can simply threaten to filibuster, and the Senate's business comes to a grinding halt. The senator doesn't even have to show up or make their name public, for fear of defending an indefensible position.

When the Senate reconvenes in January, we will have the rare opportunity to change our rules, and return the filibuster back to its original form. If a senator wants to filibuster, come to the Senate floor and talk. And if the American people agree with them, they'll prevail. If their filibuster is not worth defending on the Senate floor, the new rule will allow the Senate to move on.

http://action.dickdurbin.com/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=8961&tag=art_201211