Legislators

New Mexico Legislators Propose Tougher Measures to Combat Human Trafficking, Enhancing Victim Protections and Penalties

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SANTA FE, N.M. — New Mexico lawmakers, amid the second week of the state’s 60-day legislative session, are tackling the issue of human trafficking with a bill poised to improve legal protections for victims and refine the definitions and penalties associated with these crimes. The proposed legislation aims to bolster the state’s response to human trafficking by updating several key aspects of the current laws. The bill introduces broader definitions of human trafficking to incorporate actions like “harboring” and “securing,” thus steering toward a more encompassing framework. Such modifications are designed to give prosecutors better … Read more

Maryland Legislators Propose National Gun Licensing Bill, Aiming to Curb Firearm Homicides

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BALTIMORE — In an effort to strengthen gun control measures, Maryland legislators have reintroduced a proposal aimed at encouraging state and local governments nationwide to adopt stricter gun licensing laws. Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Rep. Jamie Raskin, both Maryland Democrats, are spearheading the Handgun Permit to Purchase Act, which mandates that individuals obtain a license before purchasing a handgun. This legislative initiative, originally launched by Van Hollen in 2015, has gained additional traction following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to maintain Maryland’s stringent gun licensing regulations. These regulations, which emerged from the state’s 2013 … Read more

South Korean Legislators Grill Military Chiefs Over Presidential Martial Law Directive

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SEOUL, South Korea — South Korean lawmakers are calling for an investigation into the military’s actions following allegations that a martial law order was considered by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s administration amid political turmoil. The scrutiny stems from explosive claims that such measures were contemplated to quell civilian protests and maintain order during previous political protests. The controversy was ignited by media reports suggesting that close aides to President Yoon, while he was the presidential candidate, prepared plans to impose martial law. These plans allegedly involved taking control of communication networks and media organizations to … Read more

Push for Accountability: Pennsylvania Legislators Call for Impeachment of Judge Over Controversial Bail Decisions

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PITTSBURGH — Five Pennsylvania House Republicans are spearheading a campaign to impeach Magisterial District Judge Xander Orenstein of Allegheny County. At issue is the judge’s approach to setting bail, which critics claim has consistently jeopardized public safety. A resolution set forth by the lawmakers argues that Orenstein has repeatedly failed to ensure adequate protective measures for violent offenders. The calls for investigation and potential impeachment gained traction after notable incidents where suspects in severe crimes were allegedly released under lenient bail conditions. One such suspect charged with trafficking a substantial quantity of suspected fentanyl, and … Read more