Pennsylvania “Cruel Punishments” Decision Nods Toward International Human Rights Law
In striking down mandatory life-without-parole sentences for felony murder, the Pennsylvania justices differed on the appropriateness of looking to international law.
Cases, Courts, and Constitutions Across the 50 States
How Far Does the Kansas Constitution Go in Protecting Bodily Autonomy and Dignity?
Two recent transgender rights cases may help answer this question.
Texas Primary Election Highlights the Hazards of Unnecessary Election Changes
A dubious change to procedures and competing court decisions caused voter confusion on March Election Day; the change will be reversed for the upcoming run-offs.
How Does State and Local Law Impact Mayor Mamdani’s Policy Agenda?
New York City needs state cooperation for initiatives like free childcare and buses.
Religious Freedom and Abortion
Religious liberty protections have been steadily extended in both state and federal court over the last two decades. In some states, plaintiffs are arguing religious liberty includes a right to an abortion, with some success.
Commentary
State Court Oral Arguments to Watch for in April
Issues on the dockets include ranked-choice voting, de facto life sentences, so-called “shadow” foster care, and defamation against a drag performer.
The Tenacious Power of Constitutional Torts
Despite hurdles, civil rights litigation is a critical tool for people who have been harmed by the government and for those seeking long-lasting change.