California Legislature Moves to Unmask Law Enforcement, Boost Transparency Amid Immigration Raids

LOS ANGELES — The California Legislature took a significant step Thursday by passing two bills aimed at increasing transparency for law enforcement officials on duty. These measures prohibit on-duty officers, including federal immigration agents, from concealing their identities with masks and require them to properly identify themselves. Senate Bill 627, co-authored by Senators Scott Wiener of San Francisco and Jesse Arreguín of Berkeley, includes specific exemptions for tactical units such as SWAT teams. The bill was introduced in response to recent immigration enforcement activities in Los Angeles, which involved federal officers wearing face coverings during … Read more

Legal Powerhouses: Mayer Brown Welcomes Top Trial Attorneys Davina Pujari and Chris Rheinheimer to Boost California Litigation Team

SAN FRANCISCO – Mayer Brown has bolstered its Litigation & Dispute Resolution practice in San Francisco with the addition of partners Davina Pujari and Chris Rheinheimer, both of whom previously practiced at WilmerHale. Their expertise, particularly in areas such as environmental law, product liability, and mass torts, is expected to significantly enhance the firm’s offerings. Michael Olsen, who leads the firm’s practice group, expressed enthusiasm about the new arrivals. He noted that their extensive trial backgrounds and specialized knowledge in environmental and mass tort law will strengthen the firm’s ability to tackle high-stakes disputes for … Read more

Revamped Arkansas Construction Laws Boost Clarity and Confidence for Developers and Lenders

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The 95th General Assembly of the Arkansas State Legislature wrapped up its session in May, resulting in the passage of 1,026 new laws. This legislative session proved to be busier than the previous one, presenting a substantial amount of new regulations and changes for various sectors, especially real estate development and construction. In particular, Act 479, which took effect on August 5, introduces significant modifications to the process of establishing priority for mechanic and materialman liens, referred to as construction liens. This amendment is especially pertinent for stakeholders within the construction … Read more

Michigan High School Coaches Get CPR Certification as New Laws Boost Athlete Safety

SAGINAW, Mich. — Coaches in Michigan high schools are about to undergo a change in their training as new legislative measures take effect, emphasizing the importance of emergency preparedness in athletics. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has enacted two bills, House Bills 5527 and 5528, mandating all head coaches and assistant coaches in high schools across the state to obtain certification in CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Furthermore, the new laws require schools to establish emergency response teams composed of trained staff members, aimed at enhancing the safety of student-athletes. Local educators have … Read more