Advocates

Governor DeSantis Pushes to End ‘Red Flag’ Gun Laws, Advocates for Increased Involuntary Commitments Instead

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Tallahassee, Fla. — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has sparked controversy with his call to repeal the state’s “red flag” laws, which were implemented to prevent individuals deemed dangerous by courts from possessing firearms. These laws, enacted during Rick Scott’s tenure as governor following the tragic mass shooting at a Parkland high school in February 2018, are now criticized by DeSantis as violations of due process. According to DeSantis, the red flag laws reverse the burden of proof, placing it on the individual to demonstrate they are not a threat, rather than on the government. This … Read more

Striving for Change: Ohio Continues to Push Against Outdated HIV Criminalization Laws Amid Advocates’ Rising Calls for Justice

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Columbus, Ohio — In Ohio, a movement is underway to challenge state laws that criminalize HIV, spotlighting their negative long-term impacts and the urgent need for legislative change. Advocacy groups, including Equality Ohio Education Fund and Ohio Health Modernization Movement (OHMM), have recently updated their comprehensive report detailing the enforcement of these laws from 2014 to 2020, a project initiated to reignite discussions about the need for modernization based on current scientific understanding and humanitarian concerns. The report exposes stark statistics: Over a six-year period, there were at least 214 HIV-related prosecutions in Ohio. Notably, … Read more

Bulls’ Jake White Advocates for Game-Day Rugby Law Reform Following Tough Defeat to Stormers

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Pretoria, South Africa – Jake White, the director of rugby for the Bulls, has prompted discussion on possible changes to rugby laws following an introspective moment prior to their United Rugby Championship (URC) game against the Stormers, which was postponed by over an hour due to severe weather conditions. As heavy rain and lightning strikes delayed the much-anticipated Juskei derby, White deliberated on his team selections, particularly his decision to opt for a conventional 5-3 split between forwards and backs on his bench, rather than a forward-heavy 6-2 arrangement, which was favored by the Stormers. … Read more

Legal Battle Unfolds as 17 States Question Federal Disability Protections, Sparking Concerns Among Education Advocates

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In a significant development, a lawsuit filed in September by 17 states, led by Florida, is drawing scrutiny over its challenge to federal disability laws, particularly Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The legal challenge arose from the states’ opposition to an administrative attempt by the Biden Administration to expand the definition of disability to encompass gender dysphoria. The core of the lawsuit seeks judicial interpretation regarding Section 504, which traditionally ensures educational accommodations for students with disabilities. This case has stirred up considerable concern among special education advocates and school district officials across Florida. … Read more