North Carolina GOP Sues State Elections Board for Transparency in Supreme Court Race Data

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The North Carolina Republican Party initiated legal action against the North Carolina Board of Elections this Monday, alleging that the election authority has failed to provide necessary information and data related to the 2024 Supreme Court race in the state. This move came after continuous requests for transparency from the board were reportedly ignored by the officials, which has raised concerns among various stakeholders about the integrity and efficacy of the electoral process. The lawsuit underscores a growing tension between the state party and election officials as the critical judicial elections approach. … Read more

Oregon’s Early Release Policy for Mentally Ill Defendants Linked to Surge in Recidivism, Judicial Data Shows

Salem, Oregon – A recent policy aimed at addressing bed shortages at Oregon State Hospital by releasing mentally ill criminal defendants early is linked to an increase in recidivism, according to new data from the Oregon Judicial Department. Implemented in 2022, the policy intended to reduce the backlog in the state psychiatric facility, which specializes in treating those deemed incompetent to stand trial. However, judges have highlighted that the initiative not only failed to resolve the bed shortage but also exacerbated public safety issues. Judicial data indicates a significant surge in crime among those released … Read more

Cummins Behavioral Health Agrees to $2.1 Million Settlement in Data Breach Class-Action Lawsuit

Avon, Indiana – Cummins Behavioral Health, a prominent healthcare provider specializing in mental health and addiction services, has agreed to settle a data breach lawsuit for up to $2.1 million. The settlement resolves allegations concerning a breach that reportedly exposed the sensitive information of thousands of its patients. The incident, first discovered in April 2020, involved unauthorized access to the electronic health records system containing detailed personal and medical information. According to reports, the breach potentially compromised data including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and medical treatment details. Under the terms of the settlement, Cummins … Read more

Montana Enacts New Comprehensive Data Privacy Law; California and FCC Strengthen Consumer Protections

WASHINGTON — A sweeping series of new data privacy regulations and enforcement actions have recently taken effect across the United States, reflecting a growing emphasis on consumer and data protection at both the state and federal levels. These measures range from state-specific privacy laws and sweeping federal rules around cybersecurity and data dealings to penalties against corporations for lapses in safeguarding consumer information. The Montana Consumer Data Privacy Act, modeling after laws in Colorado, Connecticut, Virginia, and Utah, began on October 1, 2024. This regulation enhances protections for state residents, excluding those in commercial or … Read more