All of the major cellphone carriers — AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile — are planning to shut-down their older 3G networks this year. Millions of people in the United States who use 3G phones and other 3G devices will be unable to text, make calls, or even reach 911. If you are currently relying on a 3G network for your devices – phones, home security systems, vehicle navigation services, personal medical alert devices, or some e-readers – you will be affected by this change. To encourage the transition to newer devices, some service providers are offering substantial discounts and/or trade-in options on new smartphones. However, even discounted phones may be financially out-of-reach for many users. Marginalized or low-income users and the elderly, as well as rural and prepaid mobile customers, will feel the impact of this change.
Read moreDiversity in the Courts
Today, following Justice Stephen Breyer’s announcement that he will retire at the end of the current term, the conversation surrounding his replacement is focused on diversity. Whoever President Biden nominates to fill the upcoming vacancy on the Court, one thing is clear – the federal court system is designed to be impartial and just. Appointing judges who reflect the lives, values, and experiences of the parties that come before the court is fundamental to a system that honors the spirit and traditions of the judicial body.
Read moreComing to a Passport Near You: Non-Binary Gender Marker
The U.S. Department of State currently allows people to select a binary gender marker (M or F) for their U.S. passports, “even if the gender [they] select does not match the gender on [their| supporting documentation such as a birth certificate, previous passport, or state ID.” In addition, passport holders may “request a new passport with a different gender than the one [they] have on [their] current passport” by following the instructions on the Department of State’s “Selecting your Gender Marker” webpage. Further, there are plans for an “X” gender marker on U.S. passports for non-binary, intersex, and gender non-conforming people, which is expected to be available in early 2022.
Read moreSupply Chain Disruption - Mitigating Risk
Some say that shortages are the new normal while others confidently say that the global supply chain will be just fine. Either way, if you work in the law representing manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, or any other links in the supply chain, you will probably find yourself navigating rough terrain for a while. According the two sources cited here, you may wish to consider these legal strategies to mitigate global supply chain risks.
Read moreRecent Legal Challenges (Un)masked
With the number of cases of COVID-19 surging here in Texas and the rest of the country and students of all ages heading back to the classroom in the coming weeks, many local governments and independent school districts are scrambling to not only contain the spread of the virus but also balance the rights and liberties of all those affected. On July 29, 2021, Governor Greg Abbott issued Executive Order No. GA-38, which, among other things, prohibited governmental entities, including county authorities and school districts, from requiring or mandating individuals to wear face coverings. Jurisdictions that act in contravention of this executive order or issue orders that conflict with the executive order are subject to a fine of up to $1,000. Despite the language of Executive Order No. GA-38, some local entities have opted to defy the order.
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