Protecting

Ohio Judge Halts Enforcement of Parental Consent Law, Protecting Social Media Access for Minors

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CINCINNATI, Ohio – A judge has issued a temporary block on a new Ohio law requiring parental consent for minors to use social media platforms. The decision comes amid ongoing debate over the regulation of online activities for young people. The legislation, known as House Bill 33, was set to go into effect on July 1st, but Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Charles Kubicki Jr. halted its implementation pending further legal review. The law would have required individuals under the age of 18 to obtain parental consent in order to create and maintain accounts on … Read more

Iowa Court Upholds Farm Trespassing Laws, Sparking Debate Over Free Speech Rights and Protecting Agricultural Industry

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DES MOINES, Iowa – A federal appeals court has upheld enhanced penalties in Iowa for trespassing on farms. The court ruling affirms two state laws that aim to deter trespassing on farmland and livestock confinements. These laws criminalize lying on a job application to gain access to an agricultural facility and prohibit the recording of video or audio while trespassing on farming properties. Critics argue that these laws impede the free speech rights of individuals concerned about environmental hazards and animal abuse. The decision comes amidst a debate between supporters who see the laws as … Read more

Landmark Court Decision Reverses Housing Appeals Committee’s Approval, Protecting Nantucket’s Community and Zoning Code Rights

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Nantucket, Massachusetts – In a significant and rare ruling, Superior Court Judge Gildea has reversed the decision made by the Housing Appeals Committee regarding the Surfside Crossing project. This decision has now placed the project in violation of the Town of Nantucket’s zoning code, resulting in the revocation of the building permit that was issued in November. Judge Gildea’s ruling is a testament to the fact that the citizens’ voices were not only heard but carried weight in this case. Despite the developers’ opposition, the judge recognized the community’s standing and acknowledged their disadvantage. Consequently, … Read more

Jury Rules in Favor of Stamford in Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit, Protecting Municipalities

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STAMFORD, Connecticut — A Stamford jury has reached a verdict in a slip-and-fall case, favoring the defendant, the city of Stamford, under a law that protects municipalities. The plaintiff, Daniel Young, suffered injuries after slipping and falling on ice outside an elementary school. His injuries were severe enough to require a back-fusion surgery, and his medical expenses exceeded $500,000, as documented in court records. Following the incident, Young filed a lawsuit against the city of Stamford. However, the jury’s decision ultimately favored the defendant, ruling in favor of the city under the municipal protection law. … Read more