Oregon Public Records Advocates Defeat Attempt to Create Broad Taxpayer Information Exemption

Portland, Oregon – Public records advocates in Oregon have successfully campaigned against legislation that would have created a new exemption to state transparency laws, potentially limiting access to important taxpayer information. House Bill 4031 contained a provision that sought to prevent local governments from disclosing any taxpayer information they possess. The proposed exemption, which faced strong opposition from advocates, raised concerns about the potential impact on government accountability and transparency. Critics argued that the provision would have created significant barriers for journalists, researchers, and the public in accessing vital information. The victory for public records … Read more

Columnist’s Lawyer Raises Alarming Claim: Trump’s Hopes to Create Chaos during Defamation Case Verdict

Kansas City, Missouri – The lawyer representing a columnist warned a judge on Wednesday that former President Donald Trump hopes to “sow chaos” as the jury considers defamation damages. This comes after a battle lasting years, starting in February 2016 when the columnist accused Trump of sexual assault. The columnist claimed that Trump defamed her by publicly calling her a liar. The lawyer argued that Trump’s strategy is to “inflame his supporters, encouraging them to harass and intimidate” the columnist and her legal team. This warning came in response to Trump’s request to disclose the … Read more

New Alaska Alcohol Laws Create Delivery Hurdles for Western Alaska Communities

Bethel, Alaska – The implementation of new alcohol laws in Alaska has led to a significant setback in personal alcohol deliveries to Bethel and other Western Alaska communities. The focus of the discussion surrounding these new laws has mainly revolved around extended operating hours for breweries and distilleries. However, a particular provision in the legislation has effectively halted the transportation of alcohol to these communities. Under the new alcohol law, cargo carriers must register themselves to transport alcohol, and alcohol retailers are only permitted to use registered carriers. For instance, package stores fulfilling written orders … Read more