Beijing allows Hong Kong to elect its leader by 2017

"HONG KONG: Hong Kong will be allowed to directly elect its leader in 2017 and all of its lawmakers by 2020 at the earliest, China said Saturday, an announcement that sparked protests by pro-democracy activists who sought an earlier date. "A timetable for obtaining universal...

New Jersey scraps death penalty

"Lawmakers in the US state of New Jersey have approved a bill abolishing the death penalty. In a 44-36 vote, the Democrat-run state assembly replaced the death sentence with life in prison without parole. The bill is expected to be signed into law by Democratic Governor Jon...

US credibility damaged by CIA tape affair, lawmakers

""Burning tapes, destroying evidence ... I don`t know how deep this goes. Could there be obstruction of justice? Yes," Republican Senator Chuck Hagel said on CBS. "How far does this go up in the White House, who knew it? I don`t know," Hagel said. The White House has stopped...

Challenges Brew Over 'State Secrets'

No matter the opinion on the subject, I think it is important for this subject to be brought before the courts. Just a blurb in the news today, but very important to our constitutional rights."WASHINGTON - In federal courts and on Capitol Hill, challenges are brewing to a key...

Experts Warn Fla. About Climate Change

" Scientists say Florida can expect more frequent and destructive hurricanes, hotter weather and rising sea levels that could inundate coastal areas"

House summons defense minister over alleged arms procurement brokerage

"The planned meeting between the House Commission I and the defense minister was very important to find the truth of alleged brokerage in the procurement of weapons and equipment for the TNI, he said. "Let`s wait...

James Benzoni Once Faced Murder Charges Now Lawyer Honored

 James Benzoni, a champion of immigrants and the poor, will be honored Oct. 27th for his fight against the death penalty.  James Benzoni, a Des Moines lawyer, will be honored at the Iowans Against the Death Penalty's 45th anniversary dinner Oct. 27th for his...

Clashes break out at Venezuela Protest

Is the honeymoon over? Venezuelan citizens reaction to the rapid political changes has brought to light many possible civil abuses, that have been part of the Cuba experience over the years. The road to socialism...

Michigan tax increases, programs could face tough budget times

"Now that a temporary budget deal has been struck and a protracted partial shutdown of government avoided, Michigan lawmakers have 30 days to work out the specifics of the state's overall spending plan for the new...

Missouri Bridge Repair Plan Could Be Model for Other States

"Missouri lawmakers approved a massive bridge repair project Wednesday that could serve as a national model following the deadly Minneapolis bridge collapse. The state plans to quadruple the pace of its bridge...

A Permanent Ban On Internet Taxes?

"WASHINGTON, D.C. - By all accounts, it's fairly safe to say that Congress is not going to allow state and local taxes on Internet service, at least for the next several years. A bill proposed by Sens. Tom Carper,...

Lawmakers OK Chavez's reforms

Is this what Sean Penn wants for the U.S.? Some military wacko to consolidate power with his military cronies. Then take money from the treasury and buy off the congress and senate. Move immediately to remove major corporations (ABC, CBS, Warner, Microsoft, Apple... you get...

Suing Your Boss: No Longer Just a Fantasy?

If some lawmakers have their way, getting sweet, sweet revenge on one's boss won't just be the subject of a Dolly Parton movie, but all-too-real life:"Lawmakers across the country are considering legislation that...

Sens. Warner and Levin Travel to Iraq, Praise Surge Results

"WASHINGTON — After a brief trip to Iraq, Sen. Carl Levin said Monday that the Iraqi Parliament should vote no confidence in the government of Prime Minister Nouri Al Maliki because of its sectarian nature and...

Error in Arkansas law permits young kids to marry

A law passed this year allows Arkansans of any age — even infants — to marry if their parents agree, and the governor may have to call a special session to fix the mistake, lawmakers said Friday. The legislation was intended to establish 18 as the minimum age to marry...

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