Passes

Louisiana Legislature Passes Suite of Punitive Changes, Reignites Debate on Criminal Justice Reform

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Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Once known as the “prison capital of the world,” Louisiana had managed to shed that dubious title through criminal justice reforms in 2017. However, the state is now poised to regain that reputation as lawmakers recently passed a suite of punitive changes. These new laws, which are set to be signed by Gov. Jeff Landry, will eliminate the possibility of parole for most new convictions and increase the length of time individuals must serve before being released for good behavior. Additionally, these changes will limit the tools available to local prosecutors … Read more

Michigan House of Representatives Passes Legislation to Repeal Surrogacy Act, Paving the Way for Reproductive Freedom

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LANSING, Mich. — The state of Michigan may soon see changes to its surrogacy laws as lawmakers in the House of Representatives pass a package of legislation aimed at updating the existing Surrogate Parenting Act. The Act, which was enacted on September 1, 1988, prohibits compensated surrogacy parenting in the state. However, after 36 years, lawmakers are now looking to repeal and replace this law with the Assisted Reproduction and Surrogacy Parentage Act. If signed into law, House Bill 5207, which is the primary legislation in the package, would establish the new Act and repeal … Read more

Former Ohio Speaker and Judge Charles F. Kurfess Passes Away at 94

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COLUMBUS, Ohio – Charles F. Kurfess, former Ohio Speaker of the House and judge, passed away at the age of 94. Born in 1930, Kurfess served as a representative in the Ohio House from 1956 to 1978, representing parts of northwestern Ohio. He held the position of Speaker from 1967 to 1972 before retiring from politics. Following his retirement, Kurfess became a judge in the Wood County Court of Common Pleas. Presidents Nixon and Ford appointed him to the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations. Throughout his career, Kurfess embodied a dedication to public service and … Read more

Renowned Defense Lawyer Richard Hibey, Known for High-Profile Clients and International Dramas, Passes Away at 82

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Richard Hibey, a well-regarded defense lawyer known for his courtroom flair and international expertise, passed away at the age of 82, his son David Hibey confirmed. Hibey built a reputation as a strategic legal thinker, attracting high-profile clients involved in cases that captivated public attention and sparked international intrigue. During the 1980s and ’90s, he found himself at the center of some of the biggest global dramas. He represented Jonathan Pollard, the Navy intelligence analyst who leaked secrets to Israel, in a case that reverberated through US-Israeli relations. Hibey also took on … Read more