Blog By: Antonio C. Ellzey
In this Blog, 3L Staffer Antonio C. Ellzey discusses the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry, particularly the impact of Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code, which limits deductions for businesses engaged in the cannabis trade due to federal prohibition. Ellzey discusses the potential benefits of rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, which he argues would alleviate financial burdens on cannabis businesses, enhance safety, and stimulate economic growth.
Blog By: Yuha Jung
In this Blog, outgoing 3L Staffer Yuha Jung explores two recent youth climate cases, one resolved in Montana (Held v. State) and another ongoing in California (Genesis v. EPA), emphasizing their implications for future climate litigation. Jung contends that youth-led climate lawsuits will ultimately contribute positively to safeguarding a clean and healthy climate for future generations.
Blog By: Camille Camp
In this blog, 2L Staffer Camille Camp discusses the threat black vultures pose to the livestock industry and the proposed bill aimed at assisting livestock producers. Additionally, she highlights the essential ecological function served by black vultures and stresses the importance of finding a sustainable solution that both addresses the threat to livestock and preserves the black vulture population.
Blog By: Daniel Martell
In his blog, Vol. 17 Executive Editor Daniel Martell reports on a barrier in the transition to clean energy: local opposition to solar projects in rural communities. While opposition groups have delayed and derailed solar projects in the past, Martell argues that there are steps that solar farm developers can take to the conflict and cost that come with public opposition to their energy projects.
Blog By: Daniel Short
2L Staffer Daniel Short discusses the Kentucky legislature's decision to create an acreage requirement for hunting and fishing licenses, exempt private landowners. Shortly after, the legislature rescinded the rule, which Short argues was the right decision because of the requirement's uncertainty in enforcement and effectiveness, as well as the detriment to resident outdoorsmen.
Blog By: Jose Herrera
In this blog, 3L Staffer Jose Herrera examines the extensive consequences of the booming avocado industry in Michoacán, Mexico. Herrera highlights environmental and social concerns that result from deforestation and corruption and advocates for regulatory reforms to address environmental degradation and safeguard community well-being.
Blog By: Sydney LaRue
The cruise ship industry has a history of harming the environment but has recently implemented energy-efficient technology to limit the amount of greenhouse gases and other waste produced by cruise liners. In this blog, 3L Staffer Sydney LaRue argues that these actions are not enough and that increased regulations on cruise ships are the answer to decreasing the harm cruise liners have on the environment.
Blog By: Nathaniel Richey
In this blog, 3L Staffer Nathaniel Richey discusses how the patent system has the potential to hinder innovation in the agricultural industry. Richey argues in favor of a statutory research exemption from infringement of plant utility patents, drawing parallels with the statutory research exemption applicable to pharmaceuticals and medical devices under the Hatch-Waxman Act.
Blog By: Shelton Owen
In her blog, 3L Staffer Shelton Owen explores the competing views regarding the proposed EATS Act. Animal rights activists support Prop-12, granting states control over which producers can sell within their borders, while states' rights advocates aim to protect farmers by prohibiting state regulations from hindering trade. Owen argues that while Prop-12's intentions are good, many farmers struggle to keep up. She argues that the EATS Act is essential for meeting consumer demands and sustaining farming operations.
Blog By: Julia Giordano
In this blog, 3L Staffer Julia Giordano discusses Kentucky's transition to renewable energy sources like solar, highlighting the legislative efforts to regulate the decommissioning of solar panels and address concerns regarding land use, local input, and protection of landowners' rights.
Blog By: Kaitlyn Willis
In her blog, 3L Staffer Kaitlyn Willis discusses the Supreme Court's recent oral arguments, where herring fishermen contested a 2020 rule mandating costly onboard observers. The cases will hinge on the Chevron doctrine, and Willis argues in favor of retaining Chevron because ensures a clear legal framework, protects agency expertise, and maintains accountability to elected officials, crucial for effective governance in complex regulatory matters.
Blog By: Julia Ray
In her blog, 3L Staffer Julia Ray discusses the use of synthetic food dyes in the United States and the negative impact these dyes have on human health and the environment. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) acknowledges the possibility of negative health effects on individuals but places the burden on the consumer to avoid dyes if they choose. Ray argues that the negative effects of synthetic dyes—along with the fact that they add no nutritional value to food—results in the need for banning their use.
Blog By: Sarah Turri
In this blog, 2L Staffer Sarah Turri explores the history of animal welfare protection in the United States, specifically with respect to animal standing in court. She argues for statutory standing to extend to animals, thus providing an avenue for animals to fully vindicate their rights.
Blog By: Sallie Sutton
In this blog, 2L Staffer Sallie Sutton argues that the healthcare industry, specifically within the United States, is rapidly increasing and leading to record-high annual deaths. Sutton suggests that the United States turn to other countries with implemented efforts to decrease greenhouse gases, thus saving lives.
