1.  Define export restrictions as used in the article. (para. 1)

2.  a) Explain the who and what of the article. (The first paragraph of a news article generally answers the questions who, what, where and when)
b)  Why are these agencies opposed to the Obama administration's proposal? Be specific.

3.  What is the president's goal for his proposal?

4.  Which weapons (currently subject to strict export regulations) would be affected by the changes proposed by the Obama administration? Include all listed in the article.

5.  Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen is head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.  What is the committee's concern over the proposed changes?

6.  Responding to questions about the opposition to the proposed changes, an Obama administration official said the rules were a work in progress and concerns raised by government agencies were "being addressed." The official said the effort was designed to enhance security by relaxing regulations for civilian equipment with military applications deemed safe for export, while "bolstering enforcement" and oversight of defense equipment that pose a more serious threat. (from para. 14)  What do you think of this explanation?  Explain your answer.

7.  The reporters state that objections by the Department of Homeland Security and other agencies and Congress-members to Obama's proposals threaten to harm his trade agenda. Choose one of the following to answer.  Explain your answer:

1. Is this a matter of national security, or free trade?
2. Should an expansion of free-trade agreements include all industries with the exception of the weapons industry? (The trade agenda could move forward, with the exception of loosening restrictions on weapons exports.)
3. Currently, weapons companies are permitted to trade under stiff restrictions - is the government wrong to impose stiff restrictions on this industry?
4. Is it more important to enhance the capabilities of our allies, or keep weapons out of the hands of anyone who might sell them to our enemies?
5. How does President Obama's proposal to relax restrictions on weapons exports conflict with his position on gun-control in the U.S.?