NATO Secretary-General Calls for Penalties Against China for Supporting Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg called for penalties against China for supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing the need for consequences. Stoltenberg highlighted the interconnected global challenges and the importance of a strong Western deterrence against aggressive powers like Russia and China. China denounced Stoltenberg's remarks, accusing him of shifting blame and sowing discord.

Cockfighting Laws in Oklahoma

Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states and a federal crime, but there is a push in Oklahoma to lower the penalties for cockfighting.

Texas Supreme Court Upholds Abortion Ban with Medical Exceptions

The Texas Supreme Court upheld the state's abortion ban, rejecting a lawsuit challenging its medical exceptions. The court ruled that the law's exceptions are broad enough and allow for life-saving abortions. Doctors who perform abortions risk severe penalties under the law.

Shipping companies fined for oil dumping

Two shipping companies agreed to pay $2 million in penalties after pleading guilty to federal charges related to the dumping of oil in the Atlantic Ocean by a ship bound for New Orleans last year.

Alabama Woman Fakes Own Kidnapping

Carlee Russell, the Alabama woman who faked her own kidnapping, pleaded guilty to falsely reporting a crime and avoided jail time. A bill increasing penalties for false reporting is heading to Gov. Kay Ivey's desk in Alabama.

NFL Taunting Rules

The NFL has strict rules against taunting, but some players, like Joe Burrow, are in favor of allowing more taunting during games.

Tennessee Senate Bill on Gender Transition Procedures for Minors

Tennessee Senate passes bill making it a felony for adults to aid minors in seeking gender transition procedures. Similar to a bill penalizing adults who help minors obtain abortions without parental consent. Tennessee Democrats opposed the bills, arguing they violate constitutional rights.

Book Challenges and Censorship in Libraries

Book challenges and bans have increased in recent years, leading to self-censorship in libraries due to laws imposing penalties for distributing materials deemed inappropriate. Missouri, Utah, and Indiana have passed legislation targeting librarians and educators for providing 'harmful' or 'obscene' materials to minors.

California Democrats Introduce Bills for Harsher Penalties on Retail Theft

California Democrats are introducing bills seeking harsher penalties for retail theft, including making theft under $950 a misdemeanor and allowing warrantless arrests for shoplifting. Republicans support the bills to address the critical issue of retail theft impacting businesses. Some Democrats disagree, expressing concerns about the impact on black and brown folks.

Florida Squatting Law

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation into law that eliminates squatters’ rights in the state, increasing penalties against offenders and allowing property owners to quickly remove squatters. The law will take effect on July 1.

NFL Bans Hip-Drop Tackles

The NFL has banned hip-drop tackles, a controversial technique that has caused injuries to players. The rule change will penalize teams with a 15-yard penalty and fines for players using the technique.

Cockfighting Resurgence in Oklahoma

Some in Oklahoma are pushing to reduce penalties for cockfighting, which was outlawed in 2002. Despite federal bans on rooster fighting, recent incidents and political support suggest a resurgence of the illegal activity. The debate highlights ethical concerns and challenges in enforcement.

South Carolina Gun Law Bill

South Carolina is close to approving a bill allowing open carry of guns without a permit, with stiffer penalties for those who violate rules. The bill includes free gun training for concealed weapons permits and has faced opposition from some lawmakers and law enforcement.

Missouri Bill on Transgender Students' Social Transition

Missouri legislature introduces bill that would classify assistance to transgender students under 18 in their 'social transition' as a felony, with educators facing penalties for supporting students' gender identity.

Donald Trump ordered to pay $355 million in penalties for financial deception

Former President Donald Trump and his companies were ordered by a New York judge to pay $355 million in penalties for deceiving banks and insurers by exaggerating his wealth on financial statements. Trump has appealed the verdict and is challenging the judge's findings.