State

US Supreme Court Grapples with State Laws Impacting Social Media Content Regulation

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WASHINGTON (AP) — The US Supreme Court grappled on Monday with state laws that could impact how social media platforms regulate user content. The cases being heard this term have the potential to establish free speech standards in the digital age. During the four-hour argument session, the justices scrutinized laws recently enacted by Republican-led legislatures in Florida and Texas. The laws target concerns raised by conservatives that social media platforms favor liberal viewpoints and engage in censorship. Although the specifics of the laws differ, they both aim to address these grievances. The Texas law includes … Read more

Potential Class-Action Lawsuit Unveils Secret Recordings by MA State Police, Jeopardizing Criminal Cases Statewide

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FITCHBURG, MA — The Massachusetts State Police are facing a potential class-action lawsuit after it was revealed that troopers secretly recorded almost 200 people without their consent, violating federal and state law. The recordings, which took place between approximately 2017 and March 2023, may have implications for criminal cases throughout the state. The lawsuit, filed against the state police and Motorola, alleges that the troopers violated the state’s two-party consent law and failed to disclose the recordings in court. The lawsuit was brought on behalf of three Fitchburg residents and a Gardner man, all of … Read more

Iowa Supreme Court Set to Revisit Abortion Rights: A Key Battle for Reproductive Freedom in the State

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Des Moines, Iowa – The Iowa Supreme Court is once again facing the task of determining the extent of abortion rights protected by the state’s constitution. This marks the third time in as many years that the court has grappled with this issue. In 2022, the court ruled that there is no “fundamental right” to abortion, overturning its previous 2018 precedent. However, the following year, the court was deadlocked in a 3-3 vote on whether to revive the state’s six-week “fetal heartbeat” abortion ban. The ban had been passed by the Legislature in 2018 but … Read more

Demystifying Jury Duty: Answers to Common Questions About Serving in New York State Courts

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New York, NY – Jury duty is an important civic responsibility for residents of New York. Summoned by their local commissioner of jurors, individuals are called to serve as jurors in state court. While the notice may initially evoke feelings of apprehension, it is essential to understand the process and what to expect. Gothamist has compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help New Yorkers navigate their jury service experience. Jury duty is deeply rooted in American democracy and can be traced back to the country’s founding documents. The U.S. Constitution guarantees every individual … Read more