New Jersey Liquor License Reform Fails to Fulfill Commercial Real Estate Advocates’ Expectations

Trenton, New Jersey – New Jersey’s liquor license laws, known for being restrictive and expensive, underwent significant changes this week. Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation that increases the number of available liquor licenses statewide and allows for new licenses in municipalities with large malls. This move injects nearly 1,500 licenses into the market, marking the first major reform since the Prohibition era. Despite this change, some groups, including the state’s largest commercial real estate trade organization, argue that the new legislation falls short of what is needed to spur development. Craft breweries and distilleries have … Read more

Woman Cleared of Criminal Charges After Miscarriage, Advocates Celebrate Victory for Reproductive Rights

Warren, Ohio – An Ohio woman who faced a criminal charge after suffering a miscarriage at home will not be indicted, according to the decision made by a Trumbull County grand jury on Thursday. The case, which drew criticism from reproductive rights advocates, was dismissed by the grand jury. Brittany Watts, 34, of Warren, Ohio, had been charged with felony abuse of a corpse after she miscarried last September and passed her nonviable fetus in her bathroom. Watts was initially facing a $2,500 fine and up to a year in prison. However, with the grand … Read more

Advocates Call for Revised Laws: Marijuana Use While Driving Remains Unresolved Issue in Oklahoma

TULSA, Oklahoma – Attorneys in Oklahoma are raising concerns about the prosecution of marijuana use while driving, five years after the state legalized medical marijuana. Sabah Khalaf, a defense attorney specializing in DUI cases, argues that the law needs to be updated when it comes to driving under the influence of medical marijuana. Since the legalization of medical marijuana in Oklahoma, many individuals have turned to cannabis as a solution for pain and anxiety management. However, Khalaf believes that the law has not kept up with the changing landscape. Law enforcement officers report frequently encountering … Read more