Amendments

Rights Groups Urge Lebanon’s Parliament to Prioritize Free Speech in New Media Law Draft Amid Troubling Amendments

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Beirut, Lebanon — As Lebanon’s lawmakers prepare to finalize a critical media law, a coalition of 14 rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, urged legislators to prioritize the protection of freedom of expression. The evolving legislation, initially seen as a chance to bolster media rights, has raised alarms over proposed amendments that could undermine these freedoms. The recommended changes to the draft law have come under scrutiny for potentially reintroducing penalties that stifle journalistic integrity. Advocates call for the elimination of criminal fines associated with defamation, blasphemy, and public criticism as well as the prevention … Read more

New Discovery Law Amendments Spark GOP Praise and Calls for Timelier Reforms to Protect Crime Victims

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ALBANY, N.Y. – In a move praised by Republicans, Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul announced new amendments to New York’s Discovery Laws, set to take effect Thursday. The changes, aimed at bolstering the state’s justice system, focus on better supporting crime survivors and ensuring fair trials, following the adjustments made from the 2019 bail reforms included in the 2026 budget. Assemblyman Karl Brabenec, a Republican from Deerpark, expressed approval of the amendments but criticized their delayed implementation. He noted that the changes should have come sooner to enhance protections for victims and facilitate the work of … Read more

Maine’s Packaging EPR Law Faces Controversial Amendments: A Battle Between Environmental Advocates and Industry Heavyweights

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Augusta, Maine – Maine, recognized as a pioneer in extending Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging, is set to amend its original legislation through the introduction of a new bill, LD 1423. While the state enacted the first EPR law in the United States back in 2021, the proposed changes now face pushback from environmental groups who worry that the revisions could detract from the law’s intended benefits. The Natural Resources Council of Maine, an organization that played a significant role in the original law’s passage, expressed strong dissent during recent legislative hearings. Officials described … Read more

Abbott Champions Bold Revisions to Bail Laws, Urges Voters to Support Further Amendments

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AUSTIN, Texas — Governor Greg Abbott praised recent modifications to the state’s bail laws, calling them the most significant changes in Texas history. As part of his push for enhanced public safety, Abbott is encouraging voters to consider additional amendments in future elections. The new legislation aims to set stricter criteria for bail eligibility, focusing on repeat offenders and those charged with violent crimes. The governor emphasized that these reforms are critical to ensuring the safety of Texas communities and reducing crime rates. During a press conference, he highlighted a commitment to holding criminals accountable … Read more