ACLU

Newport City Council Settles ACLU Lawsuit Over Controversial Trespass Order, Upholding Public Access Rights

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NEWPORT, Vt. — The Newport City Council has reached a settlement in a lawsuit involving a former city employee, Andrew Cappello, who faced a controversial no trespass order issued in August 2021. The order prohibited Cappello from accessing city property for a year, a decision that raised significant legal and civil rights concerns. Cappello was employed by the City of Newport from 2009 until his resignation in June 2021, where he served in various capacities within the parks and recreation department. Tensions escalated between him and the Public Works Director, Tom Bernier, eventually leading to … Read more

“ACLU Explores Settlement in Sanctuary City Lawsuit: Unpacking the Challenge to Controversial Legislation”

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The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is currently engaged in discussions to potentially settle a lawsuit concerning sanctuary city policies. This legal challenge emerges from concerns over a recently enacted law that critics argue undermines local protections for undocumented immigrants. The dispute began when the ACLU asserted that the state law infringes on the rights of local governments to establish their own policies regarding immigration enforcement. The organization contends that these laws threaten to disrupt community trust and jeopardize public safety by deterring immigrants from seeking assistance from local law enforcement due to fear of … Read more

ACLU Challenges Idaho’s New Law Cutting Public Benefits for Undocumented Immigrants

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BOISE, Idaho — The American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho, along with several plaintiffs, has initiated legal action against a new state law aimed at limiting public benefits for residents without legal immigration status. This law, designated as House Bill 135, is scheduled to go into effect on Tuesday and will prevent undocumented immigrants from receiving various public services, including certain federally funded healthcare programs. Paul Carlos Southwick, the Legal Director for the ACLU of Idaho, labeled the law as “clearly unconstitutional.” Advocacy fellow Ruby Mendez-Mota emphasized that the legislation targets vulnerable communities, stating, “What … Read more

ACLU Takes Stand Against Texas ‘Parental Rights’ Law with Planned Lawsuit Following Abbott’s Signature

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The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is preparing to challenge a new parental rights law signed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, asserting that the legislation could undermine the well-being of children in the state. The law, which took effect following Abbott’s signature, is intended to give parents greater control over their children’s education and medical care. Critics of the law argue that it contains provisions which may hinder educators in addressing the diverse needs of students, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community. They claim that these changes could lead to discrimination and create an environment … Read more