Appeals

Iowa’s ‘Ag-Gag’ Laws Upheld by Federal Appeals Court, Free Speech Battle Continues

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DES MOINES, Iowa – A federal appeals court has ruled that Iowa’s “ag-gag” laws, which criminalize undercover investigations at agricultural facilities, do not infringe upon free speech rights. The decision by the court upholds a lower court’s ruling and has sparked debate among animal rights activists and agricultural industry representatives. The laws, enacted in 2012 and 2019, aimed at preventing undercover activists from filming or documenting activities at animal production facilities without permission. The legislation was largely driven by concerns over animal welfare and potential economic harm to the agricultural industry. Critics argue that these … Read more

Landmark Court Decision Reverses Housing Appeals Committee’s Approval, Protecting Nantucket’s Community and Zoning Code Rights

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Nantucket, Massachusetts – In a significant and rare ruling, Superior Court Judge Gildea has reversed the decision made by the Housing Appeals Committee regarding the Surfside Crossing project. This decision has now placed the project in violation of the Town of Nantucket’s zoning code, resulting in the revocation of the building permit that was issued in November. Judge Gildea’s ruling is a testament to the fact that the citizens’ voices were not only heard but carried weight in this case. Despite the developers’ opposition, the judge recognized the community’s standing and acknowledged their disadvantage. Consequently, … Read more

Kim Davis Appeals Prior Ruling, Seeking a Reversal in Ermold Case

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MOREHEAD, KY – Kim Davis, the former Kentucky county clerk who gained national attention in 2015 for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, will be asking the court to reverse the verdict in the case brought against her by David Ermold. Ermold, one of the individuals denied a license by Davis, filed a lawsuit against her for violating his constitutional rights. The case resulted in a judgment against Davis, who was ordered to pay Ermold and his partner damages and attorney fees. Davis, who served as the Rowan County clerk, will argue for … Read more

California’s Gun Carrying Law Blocked Again by 9th Circuit Court of Appeals: Public Spaces Still Free for Firearm Holders

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SACRAMENTO, California – A California law that would have prohibited residents from carrying firearms in most public spaces has been temporarily blocked by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. The court ruled against the decision made last week to allow the law to go into effect in 2024. The law, known as SB2 and signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September, aimed to ban Californians from carrying guns in 26 types of public places including parks, sports stadiums, hospitals, and houses of worship. It also introduced new guidelines for obtaining a concealed carry weapons permit, … Read more