Legal
Legal matters are a core focus for local and state government agencies, encompassing the creation, interpretation, and enforcement of laws and regulations that govern public affairs. Legal frameworks ensure that government actions are consistent with the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights. Though by no means a perfect system – enforcement inequities continue to make the headlines – local leaders strive to create laws that work fairly for all.
Bernard Waddell Sr. was not given any personal protective equipment from March until his last day of work
Protesters injured by police filed a lawsuit in August alleging that their First Amendment free speech rights were violated
Despite two finalists being interviewed in a public forum, Boise Mayor Lauren McLean named Meridian Chief Mark Niemeyer to the top position at the Boise Fire Department
The database includes information from 12,000 internal affairs investigations, which has been redacted in accordance with California public records laws
Trump administration officials say this practice is needed to safeguard ICE officers and their families from being harassed or threatened in public and online
A longtime Danville city councilmember was doused in gasoline and set on fire inside a magazine office by a man with a personal grievance, not linked to politics
The complaint argues suppressors are commonly used for lawful purposes such as hearing protection, hunting and home defense, and are legal in 42 states
ICE officials have defended the practice of officers wearing masks, saying immigration agents have faced harassment as they have gone about their enforcement
The county blocked delivery of key rescue equipment to Spokane after accusing the city of ending emergency preparedness agreements
Two of three judges agreed the law “meaningfully constrains” the constitutional right to keep arms by forcing gun owners to get rechecked before each purchase of bullets
The proposed legislation is named in honor of fallen Kansas City firefighter/paramedic Graham Hoffman, who was fatally stabbed by a patient
Waco’s police and fire chiefs are requesting a dedicated staff psychologist to support the mental health of more than 500 public safety personnel
After an investigation revealed years-long delays in Public Safety Officers’ Benefits claims, Sen. Chuck Grassley is demanding leadership changes and accountability at the DOJ
“We are taking bold steps now to protect our people and our skies before tragedy strikes,” Gov. Jeff Landry said
Forty-eight active shooter incidents were reported in 2023; in 2024, the FBI identified 24 incidents
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