Kevin wrote:

I think there should be a NASA policy not to abandon space probes as long as they are still working and returning useful data, and future missions should be designed and funded with this requirement in mind. They may fail quickly, meet their basic research goals, or last a very long time, way beyond their designed life expectancies. Useful and/or highly significant discoveries may occur at any point in their lifespans, whether they are short or long. In my opinion, data acquisition from the Voyagers should be maintained as long as possible.

I agree 100%.  This is more reason why everyone concerned should join the Planetary Society!  They have access to the right people to influence space related decisions.

http://www.planetary.org