New Mexico Legislators Propose Tougher Measures to Combat Human Trafficking, Enhancing Victim Protections and Penalties

SANTA FE, N.M. — New Mexico lawmakers, amid the second week of the state’s 60-day legislative session, are tackling the issue of human trafficking with a bill poised to improve legal protections for victims and refine the definitions and penalties associated with these crimes. The proposed legislation aims to bolster the state’s response to human trafficking by updating several key aspects of the current laws. The bill introduces broader definitions of human trafficking to incorporate actions like “harboring” and “securing,” thus steering toward a more encompassing framework. Such modifications are designed to give prosecutors better … Read more

New York Strengthens Data Breach Laws: Governor Hochul Signs Bills Enhancing Privacy Protections and Notification Requirements

ALBANY, N.Y. — Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has recently enacted new legislation that modifies the state’s data breach notification laws, introducing stringent requirements for how breaches must be reported and expanding the scope of information that qualifies as private. The changes are set to enhance consumer protections amid rising concerns over data security and privacy. Under the new laws signed by Gov. Hochul, businesses will face more specific timelines for notifying New York residents about data breaches. Prior to these amendments, the law mandated that notifications be made as promptly as possible and … Read more

Scott MacCormack Joins Holland & Knight, Enhancing Firm’s Footprint in Pacific Northwest with Expertise in M&A and Finance

TAMPA, Fla. — Holland & Knight, a prominent law firm, recently announced the appointment of Scott MacCormack as a partner in its Corporate, M&A and Securities Practice Group, indicating a strategic expansion into Seattle, thereby strengthening its influence across the Pacific Northwest. This move capitalizes on the booming innovative sectors in that region. MacCormack joins the firm from Davis Wright Tremaine where he distinguished himself in multiple leadership roles, including that of managing partner. With his extensive background in business transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and finance, MacCormack brings invaluable expertise to his new role, which … Read more

Tara Pehush Appointed as New Partner at Venable’s New York Office, Enhancing Its Product Liability and Mass Torts Group

New York, NY – Venable LLP has expanded its legal team with the addition of Tara Pehush as a partner in the New York office’s product liability and mass torts group. The firm, which made the announcement on Monday, is bolstering its capabilities in several key areas of litigation with Pehush’s hire. Pehush brings a wealth of experience in handling complex legal issues, particularly in the realms of products liability, commercial disputes, and toxic tort litigation. Her role at Venable will involve not only representing clients but also advising them on risk management strategies and … Read more