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Slate of new Virginia laws address health care and housing affordability
Addressing health care and housing affordability were prominent pillars of Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s successful campaign and Virginia Democrats’ legislative agenda this year. Cost-conscious proposals saturated the 2026 legislative session and many have become law.
Watch: As AI Makes More Health Coverage Decisions, the Risks to Patients Grow
Major health insurers and even Medicare are using artificial intelligence to make coverage decisions. But class action lawsuits have accused insurers of using AI to wrongfully withhold treatment, and new research illuminates the risks.
Note to Colorado lawmakers — parents protecting kids isn’t abuse, it’s their job
By Matt Sharp and Sharon Supp During the last few years, the U.S. Supreme Court has made at least one thing clear: Colorado is consistently overreaching to apply its laws in unconstitutional ways. Colorado treated a cake artist with hostility because of his religious beliefs in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission. The state […]
Texas' smokable hemp ban hits businesses as lawsuit challenges new rules
It has been just over a week since Texas' ban on smokable hemp took effect, and some business owners say the new rules are already taking a financial toll - while a legal challenge aims to overturn it.
3L Rachel Sadler Charts Path in Brain Health, Technology, and Policy Through UC Law SF’s Health Law Concentration - UC Law San Francisco (Formerly UC Hastings)
3L Rachel Sadler studies health law and policy at UC Law SF while researching the legal implications of neurotechnology and other emerging tools that may affect human cognition. 3L student Rachel Sadler shares how UC Law SF’s Health Law Concentration prepared her for a career focused on the intersection of brain health, government policy, and technology. Gained a detailed understanding of how U.S. health care is regulated and where policy reform is needed through coursework and research. Interned with state and federal agencies that regulate health care services and worked with a major health care provider’s bioethics department. Plans to pursue a career focused on protecting cognitive liberty and mental privacy as new technologies reshape healthcare. 3L Rachel Sadler: The Health Law Concentration has given me fluency in one of the most complex regulated industries and the tools to become an effective advocate for better health policy. Before coming to law school, I spent a decade teaching and working with teachers and administrators on high school programming for multilingual learners. Healthcare kept emerging as the most powerful driver of student outcomes. I wanted to understand how to make effective policy change in this area and how to use existing law to defend people’s health rights in California. Through the concentration’s coursework, I gained a sophisticated understanding of how U.S. healthcare is regulated. I also learned where the pressure points for reform exist. The courses gave me space to develop what became my central research interest: how law and policy can be built to protect human cognition and healthy brain development, particularly regarding new technologies such as generative AI and neurotechnology. The health law faculty were instrumental in that process, genuinely invested in helping me and other students define and pursue our own intellectual vision. During law school, I interned at the General Counsel’s Office for Region IX of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I also externed at the California Department of Justice’s Health, Education and Welfare Division. Additionally, I externed at Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s Bioethics Department. Alongside those placements, I conducted extensive independent research on mental privacy and emerging neurotechnology, working closely with Professors Emily Murphy and George Horvath. That research became the throughline of my law school experience and the foundation of my current policy focus. I must also credit Nicole Ozer of the Center for Constitutional Democracy (CCD), whose deep knowledge of California privacy law and the public-interest privacy landscape deeply informed my work. I currently serve a research assistant with the CCD, where I spearhead the development of K-12 educational resources in partnership with law faculty and students. I’ve found UC Law SF to be an ideal place for second-career, nontraditional students. There is a tremendous diversity of life and career experience here, and I felt fully welcomed into the community, despite returning as a student at a different stage of life. I came to law school wanting to promote equity in California’s healthcare system. I am leaving with a sharper and more specific ambition: to build a policy career focused on protecting cognitive liberty and mental privacy from technological intrusion. This is both an urgent and underserved area of law, and I want to be part of defining this landscape going forward. Whether as a practicing attorney or a policy advisor, I plan to work on these issues after law school. I strongly recommend UC Law SF and the Health Law Concentration. When I arrived in law school, I worried the concentration would be narrow and that my non-clinical background would be a disadvantage. The opposite was true. The health law faculty thinks about health expansively, encompassing social determinants of health, structural inequity, and emerging technologies alongside the regulatory mechanics of the industry. The faculty are accessible, intellectually generous, and genuinely invested in students’ development. I found my research vision here, and I deeply appreciate the concentration’s role in this. The Evidence of Success series highlights UC Law SF students as they share how the College’s opportunities equip them with the experience, skills, and confidence to excel in the legal profession.
Live Nation Entertainment (LYV) Is Up 7.2% After DOJ Antitrust Settlement Eases Breakup Fears – Has The Bull Case Changed?
In recent days, Live Nation Entertainment reached a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice over an antitrust lawsuit, agreeing to divest 13 exclusive booking agreements and cap ticketing service fees at its owned amphitheaters. This resolution has eased concerns about a potential structural breakup, prompting analysts to highlight how reduced legal uncertainty may support the company’s operational plans and growth ambitions. We’ll now examine how the DOJ settlement, which removes...
'We Released a Game With Flaws for a Number of Reasons' — Samson Dev Promises Improvements Amid 'Mixed' Reception
The creative director of Samson has promised the team is "committed to the future" of the game despite launching to a 'Mixed' reception on Steam amid complaints about performance, gameplay, optimization, and more.
Conservative Activists Take Aim At Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship
A new lawsuit filed by a legal advocacy nonprofit says a 35-year-old federal scholarship program that brought Native Hawaiian doctors to the islands is unconstitutional.
Iran cannot ‘hijack’ strait of Hormuz with shipping tolls, says Yvette Cooper
As Keir Starmer continues his Gulf visit, foreign secretary says laws of the sea prevent Tehran from charging for passage of ‘international transit route’
High Health Care Costs Are Fueling a New Fight Over Old Laws
The White House wants states to drop certificate of need laws in hopes of lowering health care costs. Researchers and state leaders are split.
The danger of when government goes rogue
It’s dangerous, even fatal, when government goes rogue whether in a democracy or autocracy. Government officials who ignore or taunt laws that constrain bad acts should be given the heave ho. We’re witnessing these egregious scenarios now at the federal and the Douglas County level. Scorn of basic rules of governance at the federal level […]
Teen takeover concerns grow in Columbus as business tightens security
Concerns over so-called teen takeovers are growing in Columbus as flyers circulating on social media suggest March gatherings could happen locally.
New York Small Businesses Win Legal Challenge to Onerous New Wetlands Regulations
NFIB joined a lawsuit in 2025 challenging a harmful, vague wetlands mandate in New York.
LinkedIn scanning users' browser extensions sparks controversy and two lawsuits
LinkedIn says claims fabricated by extension maker suspended for scraping data.
Trump Administration Investigating L.A. Schools’ Gender Disclosure Policies
The investigation into the nation’s second-largest school district was prompted by a lawsuit from parents who say the policies contributed to their child’s death.
New Virginia economic laws: Gov. Spanberger signs legislation addressing cost of living, health care
Gov. Abigail Spanberger has signed another batch of legislation into Virginia law, the most recent bills addressing cost of living and health care, according to a news release from her office.
Battles over business regulation resume in California's Capitol with new legislation
Lawmakers discussed bills that allow lawsuits against business monopolies and businesses that affect climate change.
How smoking fell to lowest level ever and other public health wins
High tobacco taxes and comprehensive smoke-free laws that made smoking expensive to start and disruptive to continue. But federal cuts may make that progress difficult to sustain.
Chicken companies were found liable for pollution. Why finding a solution is complicated
A decades-long lawsuit seeks to protect the Illinois River watershed from poultry pollution. It's turned into a political feud.
SC Democrats want to break GOP supermajority in House. Can they swing 6 seats?
South Carolina Republican lawmakers dominate both chambers, allowing them to pass laws without support from the other parties. Will Democratic candidates upset the supermajority this year?
Rollback of state minority business program will damage Harris County’s tax revenue, legal filing says
The comptroller's action, according to the lawsuit, will damage the stability of the county's procurement system, narrow the universe of potential bidders and reduce investment, workforce development and tax revenues in Harris County. The comptroller's office could not immediately be reached for comment.
Protect Girls Sports in Maine files motion to intervene in lawsuit over signatures
The lawsuit alleges there were problems with the signature-gathering process.
Howard Stern's ex-assistant exposes 'immense pressure' and 'questionable business operations' in lawsuit
Is sports betting legal in Alabama? Here's what to know
Sports betting is booming nationwide, but is it still off limits in Alabama? Here's what we know about sports betting laws in AL.
Judge tosses PETA’s lawsuit against the American Kennel Club over dog breed health
NEW YORK (AP) — The animal rights group PETA's lawsuit over the health of French bulldogs and some other popular dog breeds has been dismissed, with a judge saying a New York law was misapplied to the…
Xtreme One Entertainment Secures Temporary Restraining Order Against Lender Williamsburg Venture Holdings, Halting Alleged Fraudulent Transfer and Sale of $XONI Stock
Emergency Court Order Requires Immediate Return of Shares by Williamsburg and Securities Intermediaries Based on Alleged Breach of Contract and Fraudulent TransferGRAND RAPIDS, Mich., April 07, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Xtreme One Entertainment, Inc. (OTCQB: XONI), a diversified media and live-event sports company, and parent company of Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC), today announced it was granted a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) based on the Company’s lawsuit that alleges fraud, breach
Beshear signs bills aimed at college access, retired teacher pay
Gov. Beshear signs new laws enhancing education access and increasing pay for retired teachers re-entering the workforce.
Phil Weiser’s health plan emphasizes primary care, using courts to lower costs
Weiser’s plan called for the state to shift investment toward preventive care, build on the Colorado Option and use the courts to challenge health care consolidation and enforce laws limiting surprise medical bills.
Google Adds Mental Health Tools to Gemini Chatbot After Lawsuit
Alphabet Inc.’s Google plans to introduce new mental health support features for its Gemini chatbot as the company and rivals, like OpenAI, have faced several lawsuits accusing their artificial intelligence tools of leading to harm.
Google Adds Mental Health Tools to Gemini Chatbot After Lawsuit
Alphabet Inc.’s Google plans to introduce new mental health support features for its Gemini chatbot as the company and rivals, like OpenAI, have faced several lawsuits accusing their artificial intelligence tools of leading to harm.
Science group to court: Stop Trump’s threat to climate supercomputers
It's the latest move in a lawsuit against the administration's plans to shutter the National Center for Atmospheric Research.
Trump administration stops enforcing protections for transgender students in several schools
The Education Department said Monday it has terminated agreements that previous administrations reached with five school districts and a college aimed at upholding rights and protections for transgender students.
Arizona cardiology practice paying $3.85M to resolve lawsuit after data breach
The 2023 incident potentially gave an attacker access to the names, addresses and Social Security numbers of thousands of heart patients.
Three YouTubers accuse Apple of illegal scraping to train its AI models
The lawsuit claims that Apple "improperly circumvented" YouTube's platform protections to scrape videos.
Florida Bar, Supreme Court discipline 8 lawyers for misconduct
Most of the lawyers were suspended, while one had his license revoked.
Dental student died in ICU overseen by remote 'tele-health' physician: lawsuit
Neal Schon and bandmate Jonathan Cain battle lawsuits and politics as Journey's farewell tour rolls on
Journey bandmates Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain are feuding over politics, religion and lawsuits even as their farewell world tour moves forward.
Mesa-based Copa Health files lawsuit against former CEO
Mesa-based Copa Health Inc. filed a lawsuit accusing former CEO Sharareh Najafi-Piper of misusing the nonprofit's resources and funds.
Pinky's Revenge Arcade and Game Lounge set to close, citing South Carolina liability laws
Pinky Revenge Arcade will soon be closing its doors.
Frescoes, bird-feeding lawsuit, judicial politics. Our top stories
Other popular reads: URI introduces new women's basketball coach; and Newport Creamery sold to Cape Cod developer.
Mastery of sex offender registry attracts major investment in Mandeville small business
Mandeville-based Watch Systems makes OffenderWatch and other software solutions to track the sex offender registry and help law enforcement agencies ensure compliance with evolving state laws.
Georgia lawmakers pass bill that lets property owners sue over homeless encampments
Homelessness advocates say the bill would cause law enforcement to arrest people because they have nowhere to sleep and spur frivolous lawsuits paid for by taxpayers.
Colorado Supreme Court intervenes in 4 ongoing cases
The Colorado Supreme Court recently moved to intervene in four ongoing cases, including two criminal prosecutions, a civil lawsuit, and a child welfare proceeding. At least four of the court’s seven members must agree to hear a case outside of the normal appellate process. The issues raised before the justices include the ability of prosecutors […]
Colorado sues Trump administration, calling new election order ‘unconstitutional’
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser has joined a multistate coalition suing President Donald Trump over a new executive order on elections, arguing the directive unlawfully intrudes on states’ authority to run their own voting systems and threatens access to mail ballots for millions of voters. The lawsuit argues that Trump’s executive order is unconstitutional because […]
WA to sue Trump over national voting list, vote-by-mail restrictions
The lawsuit argues that the Constitution places states in charge of administering elections and says Trump's order violates the separation of powers.
Democratic-led states sue to stop Trump's mail-in ballots executive order
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Tuesday to create a national list of eligible voters and limit mail-in ballots
Democrats sue to block Trump's executive order targeting mail ballots
Democrats sued Wednesday to block President Donald Trump's latest executive order restricting mail voting, arguing that the U.S. Constitution empowers states and Congress, not the president, to determine who is eligible to vote by mail. The lawsuit marks the second round of battles over the president's power to control elections. Trump's opponents handily won the first round last year, blocking his initial executive order intended to reshape election procedures by convincing multiple federal judges that
Federal judge dismisses South Texas woman’s wrongful arrest lawsuit
The lawsuit stems from the woman’s arrest four years ago in the Rio Grande Valley over a self-induced abortion.
Cisco Patches 9.8 CVSS IMC and SSM Flaws Allowing Remote System Compromise
Cisco patches two 9.8 CVSS flaws (CVE-2026-20093, CVE-2026-20160), preventing authentication bypass and root access.
NFL star Nacua enters rehab: US reports
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has checked himself into rehab, his attorney told US media Wednesday.Last month, a Jewish woman filed a lawsuit against Nacua alleging that he made an antisemitic statement and later bit her during a night out in Los Angeles on New Year's Eve.
WA Senate leader Jamie Pedersen's business benefits from CCA, We the Governed finds
Glen Morgan found Washington State Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen is writing laws that benefit the company he works for.
Why women's college basketball star Mikayla Blakes was invited to Team USA camp
Vanderbilt sophomore Mikayla Blakes is the youngest player at Kara Lawson's Team USA camp in Phoenix, surrounded by WNBA stars like Sabrina Ionescu.
Texas judge rejects push to let churches make political endorsements
Several Texas churches and national Christian groups brought the lawsuit challenging the Johnson Amendment.
Texas judge rejects push to let churches make political endorsements
A federal judge in Texas has dismissed a lawsuit seeking to allow churches to endorse political candidates without losing their tax-exempt status
Gov. DeSantis signs Florida Save Act as ACLU sues to overturn it
DeSantis implied that a lawsuit was likely coming as he signed the legislation.
Eve-of-election hearing set for lawsuit to delay Surfside runoff due to Passover
Judge Lourdes Simon will weigh religious liberty claims against risks of disrupting an election already in motion.
500-million-year-old spider relative has claws where it shouldn’t
‘Megachelicerax cousteaui’ is named for French explorer Jacques Cousteau.
New Chrome Zero-Day CVE-2026-5281 Under Active Exploitation
Chrome patches 21 flaws including exploited CVE-2026-5281 in Dawn, marking fourth zero-day fixed in 2026, reducing active attack risk.
Wisconsin judicial panel dismisses Democratic attempt to redraw congressional maps
MADISON, Wis. — A three-judge panel in Wisconsin on Tuesday dismissed a lawsuit brought by Democratic voters that sought to redraw the battleground state’s Republican-friendly congressional boundary lines ahead of
Detroit Axle pushes forward on tariffs lawsuit as business booms
The company braced for \
Judge Dismisses Lawsuit That Challenged Ban on Endorsements by Churches
Conservatives had expected a victory in the case after the I.R.S. agreed to a settlement that allowed churches to voice support for candidates.
Homeschool family sues Virginia High School League over sports eligibility
A Roanoke County homeschooling family has filed a federal lawsuit against the Virginia High School League.
Manhattan DA pushes state lawmakers for tougher 3D-printed gun laws
The top Manhattan prosecutor is supporting Gov. Kathy Hochul’s effort to crack down on both 3D-printed ghost guns and 3D-printed auto sears.
Lawsuit: BLM abandoned best-available science for Montana, Wyoming sage grouse
Second legal challenge in four weeks contends that the federal government’s policy for about half of the world’s remaining sage grouse has failed to halt ongoing population declines.
FBI agents who worked on Trump election probe sue, saying they were unjustly fired
FBI agents who say they were summarily fired for investigating President Donald Trump following his first term have filed a class-action lawsuit arguing they were improperly dismissed from the agency.
Prince Harry's final suit against British tabloids could hang on private eye's disputed statement
i e counterfeiting-and-forgery lawsuits courts legal-proceedings journalism general-news royalty entertainment world-news | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM
Prince Harry's final suit against British tabloids could hang on private eye's disputed statement
i e counterfeiting-and-forgery lawsuits courts legal-proceedings journalism general-news royalty entertainment world-news | 104.1 FM KMOX
Judge dismisses lawsuit against Fox News in sick leave dispute with fired journalist
w e n general-news lawsuits entertainment washington-news | 104.1 FM KMOX
Judge dismisses lawsuit against Fox News in sick leave dispute with fired journalist
w e n general-news lawsuits entertainment washington-news | KNX News 97.1 FM
Airbnb Externship Shows 3L Isabel Samayoa How Legal Strategy Drives Business Growth - UC Law San Francisco (Formerly UC Hastings)
An externship at Airbnb provided 3L Isabel Samayoa exposure to areas such as contracts, licensing, risk management, and growth strategy, helping her develop the skills and experience to thrive in her future career as a corporate transactions attorney. 3L student Isabel Samayoa reflects on her work with Airbnb’s in-house legal team through UC Law SF’s Corporate Counsel Externship Program. Supported Airbnb’s legal team on commercial contracts, open-source licensing, external partnerships, product counseling, and legal research. Observed how legal advice aligns with business strategy and risk management. Gained exposure to strategic decision-making while preparing for a career in corporate transactions. Q: What did you do in this corporate externship? A: I supported the Airbnb legal team across several functions, including commercial contracts, open-source licensing matters, strategic external partnerships, legal research, real estate matters, internal AI integration, and product counseling. I also gained exposure to corporate structure counseling, litigation, patent counseling, and the company’s broader business strategy. Q: What did you take away from this experience? A: One of the most valuable parts of this experience was learning how a business actually operates. I had never worked on such a large team in the private sector, so I had little exposure to how companies run internally. I learned how lawyers can provide valuable advice to support business goals, seeing how leadership evaluates risk and develops growth strategies. Understanding those priorities allows me to calibrate my legal advice to clients, balancing the client’s goals against the level of risk they are willing to take. Q: How does this experience support your career goals? A: Exploring the anatomy of a successful company was incredibly valuable because I plan to pursue a career as a corporate transactions lawyer. Being in the room with the teams discussing important decisions allowed me to see firsthand the factors that contribute to that success and how lawyers help guide those decisions. Q: Would you recommend UC Law SF and this externship? Why? A: I would absolutely recommend this opportunity. While the team worked on high-stakes matters at a highly successful company, they still created an environment where I felt welcomed. They trusted me with meaningful work and supported me every step of the way. This helped me build confidence in my analytical abilities. Q: What’s your favorite UC Law SF memory so far? A: Some of my favorite UC Law SF memories, aside from my time at Airbnb, involve mentorship. I have benefited from mentorship and have also had the chance to mentor other law students. Watching the students I mentored go on to mentor others has been particularly rewarding. I think mentorship is integral to the legal profession, and it has been inspiring to see that culture thrive at UC Law SF and continue beyond the classroom. The Evidence of Success series highlights UC Law SF students as they share how the College’s opportunities equip them with the experience, skills, and confidence to excel in the legal profession.
BLM abandoned best-available science for Wyoming, Montana sage grouse, lawsuit argues
by Mike Koshmrl, WyoFile A new lawsuit argues that the Bureau of Land Management’s recently revised sage grouse plans for Wyoming and Montana are
BLM abandoned best-available science for Wyoming, Montana sage grouse, lawsuit argues
by Mike Koshmrl, WyoFile A new lawsuit argues that the Bureau of Land Management’s recently revised sage grouse plans for Wyoming and Montana are
Health, Green Groups Sue EPA Over Mercury Standards Rollback
The lawsuit challenges the Trump administration's recent repeal of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) for power plants.
VA family suing over rules preventing homeschool students from participating in public HS sports
A family is taking legal action against the Virginia High School League, challenging rules that prevent homeschooled students from participating in public high school sports.
Boone Health sues cardiology group; coverage change to affect over 20K patients
Boone Health filed a lawsuit against Missouri Heart Center, alleging the cardiology group is trying to open a new clinic in Columbia.
Violent video game spurred fatal attack on veteran at Minnesota mental health facility, lawsuit says
Trump administration sues Minnesota over transgender athlete participation in girls' sports
The 45-page lawsuit is a key step toward yanking the state’s federal funding after the administration advanced its investigation in January.
Exclusive: Federal prosecutors are exploring whether prediction market bets trip insider trading laws
Federal prosecutors in Manhattan are exploring whether certain lucrative bets placed on prediction markets have violated insider trading and other laws, multiple sources told CNN.
Lawsuit claims Maine transgender sports referendum signatures are not valid
The lawsuit was filed by Jane Gilbert, Mark Sayre and Kaitlin Webber in Cumberland County Superior Court on Friday.
Delaware Judge reassigns Musk cases following allegations of bias over LinkedIn-emoji claims
Musk's lawyers accused a Delaware judge of bias over a LinkedIn post, but she denied the claim and reassigned his lawsuits to avoid media disruption.
Chris Christie pushes back on calls to rein in sports gambling
Chirs Christie chuckled recalling how quickly signing New Jersey’s first legalized sports gambling law in 2012 sparked a lawsuit from the NCAA and …
Trans sports referendum signatures are not valid, legal challenge argues
The lawsuit was filed last week in Cumberland County Superior Court.
Lawsuit Accuses Americans of Political Killings for Hire Overseas
Three men working for an American security contractor say the United Arab Emirates paid them to carry out targeted killings in Yemen. One of their targets is suing them in U.S. federal court.
This week on The V: Faith, politics and unfinished business
Panel examines faith in campaigns, Tuberville lawsuit, IVF debate and legislative priorities as Alabama's legislative session nears its end.
Major health nonprofit accuses its fired CEO of misusing funds
The former CEO of Mesa-based Copa Health used money meant for vulnerable people on items like trips, concert tickets and shoes, a new lawsuit says
With stricter laws across the Southeast, NC remains an access point for abortion care
Out-of-state patients got more than one-third of the abortions provided in North Carolina in 2025, as telehealth expands as a pathway to care.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
California Politics 360 Full Episode | Push for stricter voting laws
What’s known as the SAVE ACT would require voters to show proof of citizenship in person to register to vote.
Kansas Officials Are Being Sued Over Raids Against Hemp Businesses
“The lawsuit is a tactic to distract from the fact that Indy Vapes and Abilene Vape and CBD made a business decision to ignore state law.” By Maya Smith, Kansas Reflector Three smoke and vape shops are suing the state of Kansas, accusing officials of Fourth Amendment violations in a series of October raids. The […]
UPFRONT: Online sports betting lawsuit?
The latest and the pushback as a bill to legalize online sports betting heads to Gov. Evers
Pressure, possible lawsuits swirl ahead of Evers decision on online sports betting bill
"UPFRONT" recap: Potawatomi Casino & Hotel CEO Dominic Ortiz and WILL's Lucas Vebber discuss the latest.
How the landmark verdict against Meta and YouTube could hit their businesses
People use social media to keep up with their friends and family, but teens can also feel inadequate, sad or anxious when they compare themselves to a curated version of other people's lives online.
Bank of America agrees to $72.5M to settle Epstein case
Bank of America is settling a lawsuit claiming it facilitated Epstein's sex-trafficking operation without admitting wrongdoing.
AI deepfakes blur reality in 2026 U.S. midterm campaigns
There is no federal regulation constraining the use of AI in political messaging, leaving only a patchwork of largely untested state laws.
New York City and Dr. Phil’s son resolve dispute over NYPD reality show
a e n general-news television media-and-entertainment-industry law-enforcement lawsuits u-s-news entertainment | NewsRadio 1080 KRLD
BLM abandoned best-available science for Wyoming, Montana sage grouse, lawsuit argues
Second legal challenge in four weeks contends that the federal government’s policy for about half of the world’s remaining sage grouse has failed to halt ongoing population declines.
Musician who canceled Kennedy Center holiday performance asks for suit to be dismissed
w e courts legal-proceedings lawsuits general-news entertainment u-s-news washington-news | WBBM Newsradio 780 AM & 105.9 FM
Musician who canceled Kennedy Center holiday performance asks for suit to be dismissed
w e courts legal-proceedings lawsuits general-news entertainment u-s-news washington-news | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM