Maryland Introduces Groundbreaking Legislation to Protect Freedom of Reading

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – A bill known as the “Freedom to Read Act” has sparked concern among librarians in Maryland. House Bill 785, recently introduced in the state’s General Assembly, aims to prevent libraries from excluding or removing materials based on the origin, background, or views of the creators. It also seeks to protect librarians from any form of retaliation. The bill addresses the growing trend of book challenges and bans that have been observed not just in politically conservative states like Texas and Florida, but also in progressive states like Maryland. Tiffany Sutherland, President of … Read more

Georgia Moves Towards Implementing ‘Addy’s Law’ to Protect Students from Dangerous Bus Stops

HENRY COUNTY, Ga. – A bill named “Addy’s Law” in Georgia is gaining momentum after a tragic incident involving the death of an 8-year-old girl. The family of Adalynn Pierce, who was killed in a car accident while crossing the road to board her school bus, has been advocating for this legislation. The bill, also known as SB 492, aims to prevent children from having to cross busy streets to access their school buses. The proposed law states that school districts must ensure that students only enter or exit the bus on the side of … Read more

Nebraska Lawmakers Propose “Stand Your Ground” Law to Protect Self-Defense Rights

LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraska lawmakers are pushing for an expansion of the state’s self-defense laws. State Sen. Brian Hardin from Scottsbluff believes firmly in the right of individuals to protect themselves and their loved ones from harm. In line with this belief, he has proposed Legislative Bill 1269, which would establish a “Stand Your Ground” law in Nebraska. Hardin argues that passing this bill would align Nebraska with 38 other states, including all neighboring states, that already have Stand Your Ground rights either through case law or written legislation. The main objective of LB 1269 … Read more

Michigan Implements Stricter Gun Safety Laws to Protect Children

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