Laws

Maryland State’s Attorneys Rally for Reform of Juvenile Justice Laws, Urging Action to Address Youth Offenses

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ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — State’s Attorneys from across Maryland are urging lawmakers to provide relief from the state’s reform laws, which they argue have proven crippling since their passage two years ago. The plea comes as supporters of a new bill designed to reform the juvenile justice system make their case before Maryland’s Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee. The proposed legislation would enable the prosecution of juveniles under 13 for specific firearm offenses, third degree sexual abuse, animal abuse, and vehicle theft. Currently, those under 13 cannot be prosecuted for non-violent offenses. Baltimore County State’s Attorney … Read more

Malaysia’s Top Court Rules Dozens of Islamic Laws Unconstitutional, Ignites Controversy Over Sharia Legal System

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PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia – Malaysia’s highest court has declared more than a dozen Islamic laws in the state of Kelantan unconstitutional, citing their infringement on federal authority. The decision, reached by an 8-1 judgment of the Federal Court, has stirred debate, with some conservative Muslim critics suggesting that it could undermine the country’s Sharia legal system. Among the 16 laws deemed “void and invalid” are those related to sodomy, sexual harassment, intoxication, incest, and defiling or destroying a place of worship. Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat emphasized that the verdict should not be interpreted as … Read more

Virginia House Unanimously Passes Bill to Expand Roadkill Laws: Turkeys and Elk Now Included

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Richmond, Virginia – The Virginia House of Delegates has unanimously passed a bill that would change the laws regarding drivers’ rights to claim roadkill. The bill, submitted by Del. Tony Wilt (R-34), received a 98-0 vote in favor on February 6th. Currently, if a driver hits a game animal with their vehicle, they must call a conservation officer or local law enforcement to verify the animal and grant permission to take it. Only the driver is allowed to claim the animal, and it must have been hit during the animal’s hunting season. If the bill … Read more

Greenville Family Sparks Hope for Stricter Anti-Hazing Laws with Lawsuit Against College of Charleston

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GREENVILLE, S.C. – A recent lawsuit filed in January by a Greenville family against the College of Charleston and one of its fraternities has reignited the discussion surrounding hazing and the need for stricter anti-hazing laws in South Carolina. Cindy Hipps, who tragically lost her son Tucker in 2014, believes that this lawsuit could push for the implementation of more comprehensive legislation to combat hazing practices. While some argue that locking up students may not be the solution, Hipps sees stricter penalties as a necessary deterrent. The case stems from the death of Tucker Hipps, … Read more