New York Governor Vetoes Bill Permitting Felons to Serve on Juries, Citing Implementation Challenges

ALBANY, N.Y. — In a move that has stirred controversy and disappointment among criminal justice reform advocates, New York Governor Kathy Hochul vetoed legislation on Saturday that would have permitted individuals with felony convictions to serve on juries after completing their sentences. This bill, lauded by its proponents as a step toward inclusivity and balance in the judicial system, sought to overturn the enduring statewide prohibition affecting these individuals. The proposed legislation had cleared both houses of the state legislature earlier in the year, signaling a potential end to the lifelong exclusion of felons from … Read more

California Spearheads AI Regulation with New Laws on Transparency and Safety Measures, Governor Newsom Vetoes High-Profile Safety Bill

Sacramento, CA – California, a major hub for technological innovation, has solidified its stance on the regulation of artificial intelligence with the passage of several significant legislative measures, although not without controversy. The state’s latest legislative session saw a flurry of activity around AI regulation, leading to the enactment of new laws set to reshape the industry’s landscape by enhancing transparency and accountability among developers. Despite this, a high-profile bill meant to institute stringent safety measures was vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom, sparking debate about the best way to manage AI’s potential risks. Assembly Bill … Read more

Governor Roy Cooper Signs Key Legislation on Vaping and Transportation, Vetoes Two Bills in North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. — Governor Roy Cooper of North ametlina demonstrated a committed stance towards evolving state laws with his recent enactment of four legislative measures on Wednesday, addressing varied domains from vaping product regulations to alterations in transportation legislation. In a move to regulate the increasing market of vaping, Governor Cooper’s administration introduced an obligatory registry for vapor products through the North Carolina Department of Revenue. Set to come into full force by year’s end, this registry will require manufacturers of e-cigarettes and other nicotine-containing consumables to attain certification. This legislation also imposes strict penalties … Read more

Arizona Governor Vetoes GOP Proposal to Arrest and Deport Migrants, Sparks Controversy

Phoenix, Arizona – Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs delivered a powerful blow to Republicans in the state by vetoing a GOP-backed bill that aimed to grant Arizona the authority to arrest and deport migrants. The veto marks the first of the 2024 legislative session for Hobbs, who issued a record-breaking 143 vetoes last year, and deepens the divide between the governor and the Republican majority. The legislation, titled the “Arizona Border Invasion Act,” would have criminalized crossing the state’s southern border outside of designated ports of entry and allowed local police to arrest migrants suspected of … Read more