Municipal

Illinois Governor Pritzker Signs Key Legislation Enhancing Abortion Medication Access and Shielding Students from Municipal Fines

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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Governor J.B. Pritzker finalized the legislative session’s agenda by signing two crucial bills on Friday, bringing his total approvals for the year to over 430 measures. This extensive legislative activity includes significant changes aimed at enhancing reproductive health care access and modifying school discipline practices. The newly signed legislation aims to ensure continued access to abortion medication, irrespective of potential federal restrictions. Under House Bill 3637, Illinois healthcare providers will be permitted to prescribe specific medications for abortion, even if the federal government rescinds approval for those drugs. This provision affirms that … Read more

Manhattan Welcomes Sarah Smith Barr as New Municipal Court Judge, Promising a Legacy of Fairness and Justice

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MANHATTAN, Kan. — The city has appointed Sarah Smith Barr as its new Municipal Court Judge, a transition announced by City Manager Danielle Dulin last week. Barr steps into the role following the retirement of James R. Kepple, who served in the position for three years and concluded his tenure on June 30. Barr brings over two decades of legal experience to the bench, having recently retired from her role as Student Legal Services Attorney at Kansas State University, where she worked for 23 years. In her new position, she will oversee all cases adjudicated … Read more

Courtney Holm Appointed as Vail’s New Municipal Judge, Bringing Two Decades of Legal Expertise to Her Hometown

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Vail, CO – The town of Vail has appointed Courtney Holm as the new municipal judge. Following the retirement of Judge Cyrus “Buck” Allen III, Holm will step into this pivotal role on April 1, poised to uphold the legal framework of her hometown for a two-year term. Courtney Holm, a seasoned attorney with a specialization in civil litigation, family law, and criminal law, brings over two decades of legal expertise to the bench. During her career, she has handled cases across various levels including municipal and state courts, as well as in higher courts … Read more

New Jersey Judge Upholds Implementation of Groundbreaking Affordable Housing Law Amid Municipal Pushback

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TRENTON, N.J. — A Mercer County Superior Court Judge issued a decision on Tuesday that supports the continuation of New Jersey’s rigorous new affordable housing legislation, striking down a request to halt the law’s implementation. The motion to pause, brought forward by two dozen municipalities known for their resistance to inclusive housing policies, was decisively rejected by Judge Robert T. Lougy. In September, these municipalities had jointly filed a lawsuit challenging the state’s affordable housing framework. The legislation mandates every city allows a quota of affordable housing to accommodate its population’s needs. A hearing to … Read more