North Carolina’s Strict Occupational Licensing Laws Stifle Economic Growth and Opportunities

RALEIGH, North Carolina — The state of North Carolina may be hindering its future economic performance by imposing strict occupational licensing requirements. In order to enter many professions in the state, individuals must possess specific education credentials, undergo a certain amount of training, or pass licensure exams. While it is common for states to license certain professions like physicians and civil engineers, North Carolina stands out by requiring licenses for occupations such as eyelash technicians, apprentice manicurists, and drama movement therapists. In recent rankings of state licensing laws, North Carolina ranked poorly. A report by … Read more

German Citizen Arrested in Russia for Carrying Cannabis-Infused Gummy Bears: Another Case of Moscow’s Strict Stance on International Travelers

ST. PETERSBURG, Russia — Moscow’s strict stance on international travelers caught with cannabis on Russian soil has once again led to the arrest of a foreign citizen. This time, a German man found himself in custody after Russian authorities discovered cannabis-infused gummy bears in his luggage at Pulkovo Airport. Identified as 38-year-old Patrick Schobel, the man was detained late last month and is expected to remain in custody until at least March 15. According to the Russian Federal Customs Service, Schobel had flown from Hamburg, Germany, to St. Petersburg via a connecting flight in Istanbul. … Read more

Miami Beach Cracks Down on Spring Breakers and Reinforces Strict Marijuana Laws, Sending a Clear Message to Reckless Partiers

Miami Beach, Florida – In anticipation of the upcoming spring break season, Miami Beach commissioners have made a move to tighten marijuana laws within the city. The commission recently voted to eliminate the optional civil penalty that had been in place for individuals found with 20 grams or less of marijuana. This decision was made in an effort to crack down on reckless behavior and create stricter consequences, effectively putting an end to the anything-goes party atmosphere. Commissioner Alex Fernandez, who sponsored the change, expressed his support for the decision, stating, “We’re shutting the door … Read more

Controversial Utah Law Imposes Strict Bathroom Regulations Based on Assigned Sex at Birth

Salt Lake City, Utah – A new law in Utah has stirred controversy as it requires individuals to use public school and government building restrooms based on the sex assigned to them at birth. This legislation only permits exceptions for those who can prove they have undergone gender-affirming surgery and have legally changed their gender on their birth certificates. Trespassing, loitering, or lewdness charges could be imposed on those who violate this law. While ten other states already have similar restrictions on restroom usage, bills proposing similar laws are being considered in states like West … Read more