Laws

Roofing Company Faces Hefty Fines for Violating Child Labor Laws After Fatal Fall of Teen Worker

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Cullman, Alabama – A roofing company in Cullman, Alabama is facing a hefty fine of $117,175 from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) for violating child labor laws following the tragic death of a teenage worker. The DOL found that Apex Roofing & Restoration LLC employed a 15-year-old who suffered a fatal fall while working on a roof. The incident took place on July 1, 2019, at a building owned by Cullman Casting Corporation. The young worker fell approximately 50 feet and sustained severe injuries, including fractures to the skull, ribs, and wrist. Sadly, the … Read more

Sioux City School Board Faces Violation of Iowa Open Meetings Laws: Judge’s Verdict Delivers Accountability for January 2022 Meeting

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Sioux City, Iowa – The Sioux City School Board has been found to have violated open meetings laws in Iowa during their meeting in January 2022, according to a judge’s ruling. The court determined that the board’s actions were in violation of state regulations regarding open and transparent proceedings. This ruling sheds light on the importance of adherence to regulations for public meetings. The violation occurred when the Sioux City School Board convened its meeting earlier this year. The court found that the board failed to provide adequate notice and public access to the meeting, … Read more

Michigan Implements Stricter Gun Safety Laws to Protect Children

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DETROIT, Michigan – In an effort to improve gun safety and reduce the risk of accidents or harm to children, new laws will go into effect in Michigan on February 13th. These laws mandate that firearms be unloaded and locked with a trigger-locking mechanism or stored in a locked container whenever a child may be present. To support gun owners in complying with the law, the state police are making free locks available at their posts. Aside from the requirement for safely secured firearms, Michigan is also implementing red flag laws and expanding background checks. … Read more

Native-led Guidebook Empowers Tribal Nations to Embrace Rights of Nature Laws for Environmental Protection

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In recent years, countries such as Ecuador, New Zealand, and India have passed laws recognizing the rights of nature. This growing movement aims to protect the environment by legally acknowledging its inherent right to exist and thrive independently of human use. Now, tribal nations in the United States are taking the lead in incorporating the rights of nature into their governance structures. A newly published guidebook, titled “Guide to Rights of Nature in Indian Country,” offers strategies and resources for Indigenous communities interested in enacting laws that grant legal rights and personhood to ecosystems, landscapes, … Read more