Today in History: Rhode Island Becomes the 13th State to Ratify the Constitution

On May 29, 1790, Rhode Island ratified the Constitution of the United States, becoming the last of the original founding colonies to enter the Union. Rhode Island was the only state that failed to send a representative to the Philadelphia Convention, which had approved the final draft on Sept. 17, 1787. The state acted slowly…

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New Jersey Bill Would Expand Medical Marijuana Program Through Reciprocity With Other States

TRENTON, N.J. (May 29, 2018) – A bill introduced in the New Jersey assembly would expand access to medical marijuana by instituting reciprocity with other medical marijuana states. The bill would further expand the medicinal cannabis market in the New Jersey and further nullify federal prohibition in practice. Rep. Annette Quijano (D) introduced Assembly Bill…

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The Struggle for American Independence: The Townshend Acts

In this episode, I cover the Townshend Acts, the crafty attempt by Chancellor of the Exchequer Charles Townshend to enact taxes which would allay some of the colonists’ arguments against parliamentary taxation. Introduced here is John Dickinson, a lawyer from Pennsylvania, who would play a critical role in the struggle. I also cover other Townshend…

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California Committee Passes Bill Ending Unrestricted Federal Militarization of Local Police

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (May 24, 2018) – Yesterday, a final California Assembly committee passed a bill that would require law enforcement agencies in the state to get local governmental approval before acquiring or using military equipment. Passage of the bill into law would set the stage to limit federal programs that militarize local police. Asm. Todd Gloria…

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Rhode Island Bill Would Legalize Marijuana; Foundation to Nullify Federal Prohibition

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (May 24, 2018) – A bill filed in the Rhode Island Senate would legalize marijuana, setting the foundation to nullify federal cannabis prohibition in effect in the state. Sen. Joshua Miller (D-Cranston) introduced Senate Bill 2985 (S2985) on May 16. The legislation would allow adults 21 or older to use, purchase or transport…

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Congress Follows the Leaders, Passes Right to Try After Years of State Action

WASHINGTON (May 23, 2018) – The U.S. House gave final approval to federal Right to Try law that will allow terminally ill patients to access investigational treatments that have not received final FDA approval. Passage of this bill was a direct result of action that started in the states five years ago. The U.S. Senate…

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