Criminal Justice Advocates and Public Defenders Launch Initiative to Uphold Key Discovery Legislation

In New York, a coalition of criminal justice organizations and public defenders has launched a vigorous campaign to support the state’s current discovery law, emphasizing its crucial role in ensuring fair trials. This law, pivotal to criminal proceedings, mandates prosecutors to share evidence with defense attorneys swiftly, thereby promoting transparency and justice. The campaign emerges in response to suggestions from some lawmakers and law enforcement officials who argue that these requirements might overburden police and prosecutors. They contend that the law, implemented in 2019, could be fine-tuned to alleviate these pressures without compromising its core … Read more

Utah Lobbyist Advocates for Balance in Criminal Justice Laws Amid Tough Legislative Battles

Salt Lake City, Utah — As the annual legislative session unfolds in Utah, Steve Burton is a familiar figure in the corridors outside the House chambers. Here, Burton, a lobbyist for the Utah Defense Attorney Association, works tirelessly to ensure that lawmakers hear the often sidelined voices of the defense. The Utah Defense Attorney Association, where Burton is employed, benefits from state funding aimed at fostering informed lawmaking by ensuring that all sides of an issue are represented. As a defense lawyer himself, Burton is acutely aware of the uphill battle he faces in his … Read more

Advocates Rally for Legislative Action During Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Texas Capitol

AUSTIN, Texas — As advocates marked January’s Human Trafficking Awareness Month, supporters converged on the Texas State Capitol this week, calling for sweeping legislative changes to tackle the ongoing crisis of human trafficking. For nearly two decades, Texas has been a battleground in the war against this egregious violation of human rights, enhancing its measures through numerous legislative actions. Yet, the advocates stress that much work remains. This year’s rally on the Capitol’s south steps drew significant attendance from organizations dedicated to the anti-trafficking cause. A remarkable turnout underscored the broad coalition of groups united … Read more

Idaho Anti-Abortion Advocates Rally in Boise, Push for National Legislation on Reproductive Rights

BOISE, Idaho — Over 500 anti-abortion activists convened at the Idaho State Capitol on Saturday, setting out from Julia Davis Park in a demonstration of support for Idaho’s stringent abortion restrictions and in advocacy for extending similar laws across the nation. During the gathering, individuals from varying age groups and backgrounds voiced their opposition to abortion rights, celebrating the state’s near-total abortion ban. Speakers at the event articulated a commitment to defending the lives of the unborn, with sentiments ranging from discontent to unity in their shared purpose. Among the crowd, participant Steve Tosterud expressed … Read more