Oregon’s Public Transit War on Drugs: New Law Turns Buses and Trains into ‘Safe Zones’ with Tough Penalties for Onboard Drug Use

Salem, Oregon — Oregon has taken a significant step to curtail illegal drug use on public transit by classifying such activities as a crime under the state law known as Interfering with Public Transportation. This legislative change, effected through the recent approval of Senate Bill 1553, categorizes the ingestion, inhalation, or any method of drug consumption on transit vehicles as a Class A misdemeanor, carrying penalties that could include nearly a year in jail or fines up to $6,250. The enactment of this policy came into effect on January 1, 2025, marking a stringent shift … Read more

Call for Transparency: Harold Hongju Koh Urges Congressional Action Against ‘Secret Law’ Amid National Security Concerns

Washington, D.C. – In his latest book, “The National Security Constitution for the 21st Century,” Professor Harold Hongju Koh advocates for a significant shift in legislative oversight to strengthen transparency on secret law. His recommendations come at a time when the stakes for maintaining the rule of law across government operations have rarely been higher, underscoring the urgency of reform. Secret law often remains hidden owing to national security concerns, encompassing undisclosed legal opinions by the Department of Justice, classified presidential directives, and unreleased court decisions. This concealed body of law poses challenges to democratic … Read more

CMS Portugal Elevates Three New Partners, Bolstering Expertise in Corporate M&A, Tax, and Labor Law

Lisbon, Portugal – CMS Portugal, a prominent law firm, has recently elevated three of its attorneys to the position of equity partners, strengthening its leadership across various key practice areas, including corporate M&A, tax, and labour law & pension funds. The promotions are a testament to the firm’s commitment to recognizing and advancing talent within its ranks according to José Luís Arnaut, the managing partner of CMS Portugal. Margarida Vila Franca, now a partner in the corporate M&A practice, has carved out a niche in handling complex transactions, such as acquisitions, public offerings, mergers, and … Read more

Stay Ahead in 2023: Key Labor and Employment Law Updates and Compliance Checklist for January

Navigating the ever-evolving landscape of labor and employment law can be daunting for businesses and human resources professionals. Keeping abreast of new legal requirements is crucial for ensuring compliance and mitigating risks associated with non-compliance. Recently, there have been several significant updates in employment laws that warrant attention from employers planning for the new year. Labor laws continuously adapt in response to changing economic conditions, worker needs, and technological advancements. For instance, recent amendments and regulatory adjustments focus on enhancing worker protections, providing clear guidelines on remote work, and addressing wage disparities. With the legal … Read more