Featured Articles
Book Banning in Libraries: First Amendment Controversies
Book bans in public and school libraries have been on the rise across the country, and the controversies associated with them have included lawsuits against states and public school districts initiated by book supporters, book publishers, librarians and first amendment groups. Book bans have taken several forms, including both state legislation and local school boards directing bans on certain types of books in public schools.
Juul Labs Settlements with Public Entities Exceed $3 Billion
In June of 2021, North Carolina became the first state to reach a settlement with Juul Labs, the leading e-cigarette manufacturer, after suing for alleged false advertising (Juul did not disclose that its products contained nicotine) and aggressively targeting underage middle and high school students in marketing its products. The settlement was in the amount of $40 million.
Remote Work and Return-to-Office Policies: How Best to Avoid Risks
Remote work has remained a popular option in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic when it proliferated to protect the health and safety of workers. Many employees favor remote work due to the reduced commute, less time spent on appearance and the flexibility to allow for doctors’ visits, family obligations, etc.
Student Athlete Sports Injuries: Exposure and Standards for Liability
In March of this year, the University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky paid $14 million to the family of a university wrestler who died of heat stroke following a practice session in 2020. According to allegations in the lawsuit, the student died a few hours after he begged for water during practice, which involved running outdoors in 83-degree heat, first on a track and then up and down seven times some very steep terrain known as “punishment hill.”
U.S. Supreme Court Strikes Down Affirmative Action Admissions Policies of Institutions of Higher Learning
In June of this year, in a landmark decision overturning 40 years of Supreme Court precedent, the U.S. Supreme Court held in two cases that the affirmative action admissions policies of certain institutions of higher learning (IHL) violated the equal protection clause of the Constitution and were illegal.