Has there ever been a time where we have ped special legislation and not used it for other issues

Seldomly. As crazy as the government is, there are some laws that have been ped that have actually done some great good. An example of that would be Megan's Law. As nuts as our government is.. Look at some 3rd world countries where you can get shot in the head and there are no consequences. Is the USA perfect.. no.. but we are still one of the best countries to live in and I'm pround to be a citizen. =)