Oregon Takes Charge: New Consumer Protection Laws Set to Shield Residents from Medical Debt and Unfair Auto Financing

Salem, Ore. — Beginning in 2026, Oregonians will see significant changes in consumer protections, as new state laws aim to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by residents. Under these laws, unpaid medical bills will no longer affect credit ratings, and car dealership financing terms cannot be altered after a sale is completed. Governor Tina Kotek recently convened with lawmakers and advocates in Salem to mark the passage of these measures. The legislation, which also includes a requirement for online retailers to disclose fees transparently before customers check out, is a response to gaps … Read more

Exploring the Shadows: Opaque Capital’s Role in Mass Tort Financing at Harvard Law Bankruptcy Roundtable

BOSTON — A recent discussion at Harvard Law School focused on the intersection of opaque capital and mass tort financing, shedding light on the complexities and challenges within this evolving legal landscape. Experts gathered to examine how financing has transformed the dynamics of mass torts, often leading to disputes over funding transparency and accountability. Mass tort financing has gained momentum as a pivotal strategy for law firms representing large groups of plaintiffs. This model allows attorneys to take on significant cases without the burden of upfront costs, as third-party investors provide the necessary capital. However, … Read more

Missouri Simplifies Commercial Financing: New Law Exempts Insurance Premiums from Disclosure Requirements

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Recent changes to Missouri’s commercial finance regulations include a significant exemption for insurance premium financing. The new provisions are part of a broader effort to clarify the state’s approach to commercial finance disclosures, a move that industry stakeholders are closely monitoring. Under the revised law, insurance premium financing will be exempt from certain disclosure requirements that typically apply to other forms of commercial financing. This exemption aims to reduce the regulatory burdens placed on businesses seeking to finance insurance premiums, which are crucial for maintaining the operations of various enterprises. The … Read more

Detainment of Former Chaplain Sparks Controversy as Ohio Lawmakers Face Veto Showdown and Legal Challenges Emerge Over Stadium Financing

Cincinnati, Ohio — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents detained Imam Ayman Soliman on July 9 following a scheduled meeting in Blue Ash. The former chaplain at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital’s detention comes after the revocation of his asylum status in December 2024. In a related development, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine recently vetoed several bills, including one that aimed to eliminate the state’s film tax credit program. This sets the stage for a legislative session on July 21, where state lawmakers are expected to review potential overrides of DeWine’s decisions. Also making headlines is a newly … Read more