Downtown Los Angeles Restaurant Sparks Controversy with New ‘Security Charge’ on Diners’ Bills

Los Angeles, California – A downtown restaurant in Los Angeles has instituted a “security charge” on its customers’ bills, sparking discussion about unexpected surcharges becoming more prevalent. Perch, a popular rooftop bar and restaurant near Pershing Square, includes an extra 4.5% fee on all checks to ensure the safety of its staff and guests, according to a Perch employee named Melody Lin. The restaurant’s website states that the charge remains with the establishment to cover safety and security resources. The attention to this fee was first drawn by a Reddit post from a user named … Read more

Louisiana Legislature Pushes Bills to Curtail Public Records Law, Threatening Transparency and Vigilance

Baton Rouge, Louisiana – The Louisiana Public Records Law, which plays a crucial role in maintaining transparency and accountability in government, is threatened by a wave of bills currently being considered in the state legislature. If these bills pass, they could undermine the public’s access to vital information. Without a strong public records law, there can be no vigilance from citizens, leaving room for potential misconduct and secrecy. One bill of particular concern is Senate Bill 482, introduced by Sen. Heather Cloud. This bill seeks to revive and expand upon former Gov. Bobby Jindal’s “deliberative … Read more

New Bills Could Subject Employers and Developers to Extensive Regulation on AI Use in the Workplace

Washington, D.C. – Federal legislators are proposing new laws that could have a significant impact on employers and developers who utilize artificial intelligence (AI) systems. These bills aim to address specific issues related to AI in the workplace, such as overreliance on automated decision systems and invasive workplace surveillance. While current AI regulations focus on broader principles, these new bills would provide more clarity and guidance in relation to AI use in employment settings. One bill, known as the “No Robot Bosses Act,” aims to prohibit employers from solely relying on automated decision systems for … Read more

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp Faces Tough Decisions on Pending Bills as Deadline Approaches

Atlanta, Georgia – Georgia Governor Brian Kemp faces a series of crucial decisions as he approaches the May 7 deadline for signing or rejecting bills. Since taking office in 2019, Kemp has proven himself willing to veto measures, having already vetoed 14 bills in 2023 alone. Additionally, he has flexed his power by freezing over $200 million in state budget spending in the past year. Now, as the deadline looms, Kemp must carefully consider a number of pending measures that have landed on his desk. Among the measures awaiting Kemp’s decision is a budget that … Read more