In the early 20th century, young women known as the Radium Girls worked in factories painting watch dials with glowing radium paint, unaware of the dangers of radiation poisoning. Their fight for justice and workers' rights led to groundbreaking legal battles and significant changes in workplace safety standards. [... more]

North Carolina is still recovering from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which tore through the state nine months ago, causing widespread destruction and flooding. The town of Black Mountain has received $800,000 in FEMA funding, but still faces significant challenges in rebuilding its infrastructure and economy. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has vetoed a slew of DEI bills, and the General Assembly is expected to return to session later this month to consider override votes. Additionally, the state is implementing new occupational licensing laws, which aim to streamline the process for licensed professionals to work in North Carolina. [... more]

The North Carolina legislature has given final approval to the Power Reduction Act, which eliminates the state's statutory goal to cut carbon emissions by 70% by 2030. Supporters say this policy change could save North Carolinians up to $15 billion in future energy costs and will help meet skyrocketing power demands. Meanwhile, the Foster Care in NC Act aims to modernize and strengthen the state's child welfare system through a wide-ranging set of reforms. Additionally, the Neighbor State License Recognition Act advances occupational licensing reform by allowing individuals licensed in neighboring states to apply for equivalent licenses in North Carolina without having to start the process from scratch. Wolfspeed, a Durham-based company, is one step closer to filing for bankruptcy after creditors secured a $750 million financing deal. The company manufactures wide bandgap semiconductors and has faced financial woes and layoffs in recent months. [... more]

A landmark case in Texas challenged the state's cosmetology laws, which required eyebrow threaders to spend nine months in a private beauty school learning nothing about their craft. The case, defended by the Institute for Justice, established that under the Texas Constitution, there must be a real and substantial connection between government regulations and how they function in the real world. [... more]

Taylor Dooley shares her experience as a child actor, from her early days on the set of 'Sharkboy and Lavagirl' to her decision to step away from the industry and focus on her education and personal growth. Meanwhile, an Institute for Justice attorney defends a Texas business owner against occupational licensing regulations, arguing that they are unconstitutional and unduly burdensome. Additionally, a woman shares her story about managing her breast cancer risk and the importance of learning her full family history of cancer. [... more]

The story of how a small toy company, Kenner, took the risk of manufacturing Star Wars toys after the big toy companies passed on the opportunity. Meanwhile, in Texas, a landmark case on economic freedom was fought by the Institute for Justice, with attorney Wesley Hoddet defending Ash Patel, who employed eyebrow threaders, against the state's requirement for cosmetology licenses. [... more]

The American Center for Law and Justice represents the Heritage Foundation in a lawsuit against the Biden administration's employer vaccine mandate, citing constitutional grounds and challenging the authority of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Meanwhile, concerns are raised about China's nuclear weapons program and the Biden administration's handling of the issue. [... more]

Firefighters are battling a growing cancer risk, with many diagnosed with the disease despite being young and healthy. Meanwhile, the transcontinental railroad is being celebrated with a historic steam locomotive, and Minecraft has become a phenomenon with its simple and easy-to-understand gameplay. The Winklevoss twins are making a fortune investing in Bitcoin, and the origins of Father's Day are being honored with a special award. Tim Allen is reflecting on his career and personal struggles, and Jim Gaffigan is announcing his retirement as a father. [... more]