Enacts

Louisiana Enacts Groundbreaking Legislation to Support Sexual Assault Survivors

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Baton Rouge, LA — Louisiana has recently enacted several new laws specifically designed to aid victims of sexual assault, marking a significant stride in the state’s legislative efforts to support those affected by such crimes. These laws, which took effect at the start of August, aim to enhance protections and provide key rights for survivors as they navigate through the challenging consequences of sexual assault. Among these legislative advancements is a notable law that mandates law enforcement agencies to inform victims about the availability and progress of forensic medical examinations, often referred to as rape … Read more

California Enacts Groundbreaking Safety and Consumer Rights Laws; Restaurants Exempt from Junk Fee Ban

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Sacramento, California – An emergency bill signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom late Sunday provides a temporary shield for California’s restaurants from a broader legislation targeting “junk fees,” which takes effect Monday. This swift legislative action underscores the balancing act between consumer protection and the operational realities of businesses. The exempted establishments can now breathe a sigh of relief, as they navigate an ever-evolving regulatory landscape. The law initially aimed to eliminate unexpected or excessively high fees across various services. Legislators agreed that immediate enforcement could pose logistical challenges for small-scale eateries already grappling with thin … Read more

North Carolina Enacts New Mask-Wearing Restrictions, Overriding Governor’s Veto Amid Political and Public Backlash

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RALEIGH, N.C. — A new law restricting the public wearing of masks is now in effect in North Carolina, following a veto override by the state’s Republican-led General Assembly. This development marks another successful challenge against Governor Roy Cooper, a Democrat, as the GOP continues to utilize its supermajorities in both the Senate and House. On Thursday, the final approval from the Senate came through a 30-13 vote strictly divided along party lines. This action wrapped up an effort that began in the House, where members engaged in a protracted session the day before, stretching … Read more

Florida Enacts Law to Ban Homeless from Public Property, Sparks Controversy and Concerns of Forced Encampments

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Tampa, Florida – Stephanie Bennett has called a tent in the woods her home for the past eight years. Recently, she learned about a new law that could make living in her tent illegal. The legislation, known as “Unauthorized Public Camping and Public Sleeping” (HB 1365), has been sent to Governor Ron DeSantis to sign. If passed, the law will prohibit people from camping or sleeping on public property in local municipalities. Under the proposed law, municipalities will be required to designate a specific public space for camping and sleeping, provided they receive approval from … Read more