Illinois Rolls Out New Laws in 2023: Tighter Security on Catalytic Converter Sales, Aid for Vehicle Theft Victims, Enhanced Road Safety Measures, and Honors for Gold Star Families

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois will usher in the new year with several newly enacted laws spearheaded by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, aiming to enhance public safety, support crime victims, and honor military families. These measures, passed by the Illinois General Assembly and signed into law, respond to growing concerns over catalytic converter theft, vehicle crimes, and the challenges faced by those affected. One significant change targets the rampant increase in the theft of catalytic converters—essential car components often targeted for the precious metals they contain. To combat this, Illinois has implemented stringent requirements for … Read more

Texas’ Gold Card Experiment Stalls: Why Few Providers Win Exemption from Prior Authorizations

Austin, Texas — To streamline the medical preauthorization process for physicians, several states, including Texas, have introduced “gold card” laws aimed at exempting commonly approved procedures or prescriptions from repetitive checks. However, the anticipated simplification has not unfolded as expected, and the laws often fall short of their promise. Under the 2021 Texas gold card law, a health insurer or health maintenance organization (HMO) is required to waive preauthorization if a provider has had a 90% or higher approval rate during a six-month evaluation. This exemption, designed to be automatic, should relieve some of the … Read more

Senator Bob Menendez Found Guilty on Multiple Bribery Charges Involving Cash, Gold, and Luxury Vehicle

Washington, D.C. — The political career of U.S. Senator Bob Menendez was upended following a sweeping conviction on numerous charges, including the acceptance of bribes, which prosecutors outlined as payments in cash, gold, and luxury automobiles. This significant decision came after an extensive scrutiny of Menendez’s interactions with wealthy donors and influential businessmen, which raised questions about the integrity of his public office. The trial, encapsulating a broader analysis into congressional ethics, has underscored the persisting issues around political donations and the potential for these contributions to morph into illegal incentives. The case against Menendez … Read more

Star-Studded Jury Announced for the 81st Venice International Film Festival Gold Lion Competition

VENICE, Italy — The prestigious Venice International Film Festival, scheduled for August 28 to September 7, has finalized its International Jury for the eagerly awaited Venezia 81 competition. The panel comprises a diverse group of nine cinema luminaries from around the globe, tasked with selecting the best film for the coveted Golden Lion award among various other accolades. Leading the jury this year as president is renowned French actress Isabelle Huppert, whose illustrious career includes accolades such as two Best Actress awards at Venice Film Festival and a Special Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. Joining … Read more