Blog By: Thomas Fricker
In this blog, 2L staffer Thomas Fricker discusses the proposal of adding a "Green Amendment" to state constitutions in order to ensure that current and future generations have the constitutional right to a healthy environment. Green Amendments codify the inherent right to an environment that is protected from federal deregulation and industrial interests for current and future generations to enjoy and preserve. Fricker analyzes both sides of the movement and argues that Green Amendments should be included in state constitutions.
Blog By: Emily Sumrall
In this blog, 2L Staffer Emily Sumrall discusses the decades of back and forth between horse trainer Bob Baffert and the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, with an emphasis on Baffert's recent suspension following the 2021 Kentucky Derby. Sumrall argues that the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission should adopt a stricter procedure in disciplining violations of the rules and regulations governing horse racing in order to promote the health and safety of horses and participants.
Blog By: Luke Price
The SAFE Bet Act aims to establish federal standards for responsible gambling in the rapidly expanding American sports betting industry. In this blog, 2L Staffer Luke Price argues that despite facing opposition, the SAFE Bet Act could benefit the industry by creating a uniform regulatory framework while addressing public health concerns. Price also explores how the Act's provisions, particularly advertising restrictions and limitations on proposition bets, could significantly impact horse betting, potentially reshaping gambling in states like Kentucky.
Blog By: Abigail Barford
In this blog, 3L Staffer Abigail Barford discusses the recently passed Florida legislation which removed the term “climate change” from Florida law and changed the state's energy policies. Barford discusses criticism as well as Governor Ron DeSantis's justifications for the legislation, concluding that the state of Florida, a state heavily impacted by climate change, would benefit from consulting environmental and climate experts when drafting legislation.
Blog By: Sam Hilgeman
In this blog, 2L Staffer Sam Hilgeman argues that the Supreme Court has a unique opportunity to find a balance between reasonable environmental regulation and providing an efficient review process for major infrastructure projects. Hilgeman focuses on the broad scope permitted to government agencies in the environment effects they must address that create burdensome hurdles for developers to overcome.
