Radio Free Asia Shuts Down Hong Kong Bureau Due to Concerns Over New National Security Law

HONG KONG – Radio Free Asia has made the decision to close its bureau in Hong Kong, citing concerns for the safety of its staff following the implementation of Article 23, a new national security law. The law, enacted by the Hong Kong government, has raised serious questions about the ability of Radio Free Asia to operate safely in the Chinese territory. “Actions by Hong Kong authorities, including referring to RFA as a ‘foreign force,’ raise serious questions about our ability to operate in safety with the enactment of Article 23,” said Bay Fang, the … Read more

Republican-Appointed Judge Denounces Trump’s Attacks on Judge Presiding Over Hush Money Trial, Warns of Threats to Rule of Law

Washington, D.C. – A federal judge appointed by a Republican president condemned Donald Trump’s social media attacks against the judge presiding over the former president’s hush money trial in Manhattan. The judge, Reggie B. Walton, called these attacks on the rule of law “troubling” and warned that they could incite violence and threaten democracy. In a live interview with CNN, Judge Walton emphasized the importance of protecting judges and their families from threats. The judge’s public statement came after Trump criticized New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan and his daughter, Loren Merchan, falsely attributing … Read more

Backlash Grows Over Florida Law Excluding Chinese Grad Students from Universities

Gainesville, Florida – A law in Florida is facing criticism from professors, students, and advocates who believe it may exclude Chinese graduate students from the state’s universities. State Bill 846, which came into effect last July, prohibits the hiring of graduate students from “countries of concern,” including China, the largest source of international students in the state. The law has sparked protests as universities issue offer letters in the spring. Critics argue that the measure poses a threat to academic freedom, scientific advancements, and the state’s education system. They claim it is discriminatory and will … Read more

New Hampshire Becomes the Latest State to Pass Comprehensive Privacy Law, Taking Effect in 2025

Concord, New Hampshire – The state of New Hampshire has recently signed its second comprehensive privacy law for the year 2024. Starting from January 1, 2025, this law will be in effect, aligning with similar legislation in other states such as Iowa, Delaware, and New Jersey. Notably, the law does not include a definition of “consumer” within an employment context, and its enforcement powers lie with the New Hampshire Attorney General’s office. Furthermore, it does not provide a private right of action, following the lead of several other states. One key aspect of the new … Read more