Government

Since the beginning of 2013, and as of August 6, 2013, restrictive voting bills have been introduced in more than half the states: At least 82 restrictive bills were introduced in 31 states. Of those, 7 restrictive bills are still pending in 4 states. Eight states have already passed nine restrictive bills this session. Just recently, North Carolina passed a law that mandates a Photo ID is required to vote, eliminates same-day registration, eliminates pre-registration for 16- and 17-year-old citizens, and reduces the early voting period. more »

The GAO found that in 2011, a TSO at the Orlando International Airport pleaded guilty to federal charges of embezzlement and theft for stealing more than 80 laptop computers and other electronic devices, valued at $80,000, from passenger luggage. TSOs engaging in misconduct raise security concerns because these employees are charged with helping to ensure the security of our nation's aviation system. more »

"Child prostitution remains a persistent threat to children across America," said Ron Hosko, assistant director of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. "This operation serves as a reminder that these abhorrent crimes can happen anywhere, and the FBI remains committed to stopping this cycle of victimization and holding the criminals who profit from this exploitation accountable."     During the past 72 hours, the FBI; its local, state, and federal law enforcement partners; and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Child… more »

Julia Sneden writes: The last time I crossed from a red to a blue state, I don’t seem to recall a discernible difference. Oh, the license plates were different, but the language was the same (even if the accent was not), and the federal government was still in charge. In both states I saw churches of every denomination, as well as temples and mosques, and in speaking with citizens of both states, I witnessed wide differences of political opinions (the latter within one family, never mind within one state). more »