Brightspeed Agrees to $14.3 Million Settlement with Columbia Over Unpaid Taxes

COLUMBIA, Mo. — A prolonged legal battle has concluded as internet provider Brightspeed, formerly known as CenturyLink, agrees to pay the City of Columbia $14.3 million. The sum represents a settlement concerning unpaid license taxes and fees owed to the city. Court documents reveal that the settlement was finalized on July 16. This resolution comes after years of disputes between the city and the telecommunications company over financial obligations. City officials welcomed the outcome, stating that it helps to reinforce the importance of accountable business practices within the community. The settlement is expected to bolster … Read more

Judge Upholds Jury’s Ruling Against Meta for Illegally Intercepting Users’ Reproductive Health Data

SAN FRANCISCO — A federal judge has upheld a jury’s ruling against Meta Platforms, affirming that the tech giant unlawfully intercepted and recorded sensitive reproductive health information from users of the Flo Health period tracker app. The decision comes after a jury found that Meta’s actions violated California’s Invasion of Privacy Act. U.S. District Judge James Donato denied Meta’s request to decertify a class of plaintiffs or to grant a new trial following the jury’s verdict. In his ruling, Donato emphasized that the evidence presented during the trial did not warrant overturning the jury’s unanimous … Read more

Bird & Bird Welcomes Charles-Henri Caron as New Partner in Paris, Enhancing Life Sciences Expertise Following 16 Years at Hogan Lovells

Paris, France — Charles-Henri Caron has transitioned to Bird & Bird as a partner in its life sciences and healthcare practice, marking a significant career shift after 16 years at Hogan Lovells. His new role officially commenced on September 15. Caron’s move brings a wealth of experience in product liability to his new position. He previously served as counsel within Hogan Lovells’ international life sciences team, where he built a strong reputation for his expertise in handling complex legal issues related to product liability and mass torts. At Bird & Bird, Caron will focus on … Read more

Home Bakers Cashing In: The Rise of Cottage Foods Sparks Entrepreneurial Spirit in New Hampshire

SIOUX CITY, Iowa — A recent incident involving a New Hampshire man has drawn attention to cottage food laws that govern the sales of homemade products. Specifically, he unknowingly violated city regulations concerning the foods he was preparing and donating from his home kitchen. Cottage foods, although a lesser-known term to some, include a variety of homemade goods such as jams, jellies, baked treats, and candies that do not require refrigeration. These products have gained popularity in recent years, prompting many individuals to consider selling them as small business ventures. As the market for these … Read more