Category: state legislature
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Idaho Lawmakers Move to Modernize Child Custody Laws After Years of Family Court Complaints
Idaho lawmakers are initiating significant reforms to the state’s outdated child custody and family court laws, responding to long-standing concerns about inefficiencies and negative impacts on children. A bipartisan task force is drafting legislation aimed at modernizing statutes, improving law enforcement involvement, and ensuring that children’s voices are heard in custody matters.
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Colorado Bill Raises New Questions About Parental Rights and Family Court Authority
A new Colorado bill, SB26-018, aims to protect minors’ privacy regarding name changes and gender identity in family law. Supporters view it as a privacy measure, while critics argue it may undermine parental authority in custody decisions by favoring affirming parents. The bill has sparked national debate on family rights and state influence.
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Oregon Lawmaker Revives Foster Youth Rights Bill After Gov. Kotek’s Veto
An Oregon lawmaker reintroduces legislation aiming to expand rights for foster children, previously vetoed by Governor Kotek due to cost and legal concerns. The bill seeks to enhance care standards, but critics argue existing system failures must be addressed first. The renewed push reflects ongoing public pressure for meaningful reform in Oregon’s foster care system.
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California Legislature Begins 2026 With New Bills Rolling In
The California State Legislature reconvened on January 5, 2026, beginning the second year of its 2025-2026 session. Lawmakers are introducing a mix of new bills amid a projected $18-20 billion budget deficit and election year pressures. Major themes include budget management, housing affordability, and climate policy.
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California’s 2026 Law Wave: What Hundreds of New Rules Mean for Families, Workers, and Businesses
California will enact over 900 new laws in 2026, mostly on consumer protections and regulations, igniting debate between supporters who see equity benefits and critics who warn of increased costs and reduced flexibility. These laws span various sectors, affecting daily life, health, education, and public safety, raising concerns about governance and affordability.
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California’s 2026 Laws: What Concerned Citizens Need to Know About the State’s Next Wave of Regulation
California is implementing numerous new laws in 2026 affecting various sectors, including tenant privacy, insurance practices, and law enforcement. Supporters argue these measures enhance protections and transparency, while critics warn they may increase costs and regulatory burdens. The overall sentiment raises questions about their effectiveness in addressing fundamental issues.
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California’s AB 495: A “Family Preparedness” Plan or a Backdoor Attack on Parental Rights?
California’s Assembly Bill 495, marketed as a way to assist families in crisis, raises alarm among critics for its vague language allowing almost anyone to become a child’s caregiver without parental consent or oversight. This bill potentially undermines parental rights, creates risks for children, and simplifies the process for potential predators to exploit loopholes.
California Bay News 