Program

Harris County Judge Proposes Controversial Penny Tax to Fund Child Care Program Amid Budget Concerns

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HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is set to present a proposal for a tax increase to the county commissioners during Thursday’s meeting at Commissioners Court. The plan, referred to as a penny tax, would impose an additional charge of $10 annually for every $100,000 of residential property value. Hidalgo noted that this increase aims to secure ongoing funding for the Early REACH program, which provides free child care for eligible children aged four and under, previously supported by federal COVID-19 relief funds. With those resources dwindling, Hidalgo indicated that alternative funding … Read more

Vietnamese Investors File Lawsuit Over Alleged Conflicts in Immigration Visa Program Representation

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ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A group of Vietnamese investors has filed a federal lawsuit alleging that a law firm and two attorneys failed to navigate significant conflicts of interest while representing them in an immigration visa program tied to a redevelopment project in Gulfport, Mississippi. The lawsuit, lodged Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, involves 14 plaintiffs who participated in the EB-5 program. This federal initiative offers a pathway to legal permanent residency in the United States through qualifying investments of $500,000 or $1 million, aimed at fostering job creation. … Read more

Jury Duty Awareness Program Launches in St. Lucie County: No-Shows Face Consequences as Community Seeks Civic Engagement

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FORT PIERCE, Fla. — A new initiative in St. Lucie County underscores the significance of fulfilling jury duty obligations. This program aims to educate the public about the consequences of neglecting this civic responsibility. On June 9, several residents failed to report for their jury duty assignments, and on Thursday, they had the opportunity to present their cases before a judge. Approximately 100 individuals were summoned, and those without valid excuses were subjected to a $100 fine. Among those facing penalties was Yossi Bernstein, who expressed frustration over the situation. “I recognize that jury duty … Read more

Judge Roberts Champions Transparency and Efficiency in Philadelphia’s Mass Torts Program

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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is redefining its approach to mass tort litigation as Judge Michael B. Roberts leads efforts aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency within the court system. The Mass Torts Program in the city is implementing strategies designed to streamline complex cases, which often involve numerous plaintiffs contending with similar injuries or damages caused by a common defendant. In recent discussions, Judge Roberts emphasized the importance of fostering a clear and structured environment for all parties involved in mass tort cases. His focus on transparency seeks to ensure that parties understand the procedures and timelines, … Read more