New York’s cannabis licensing is driven by unlawful discrimination

January 30, 2024

New York recently legalized the sale of cannabis, and entrepreneurs looking to get in on the green rush are now free to submit license applications. But, because of their race, some applicants will find it harder than others to obtain a license. New York requires “priority licensing” to individuals on the basis of race and … ...

In Corner Post, the Supreme Court will decide when federal regulations can be challenged

January 29, 2024

Taking the government to court  When the federal government takes an action that hurts you, you probably assume there is a legal remedy available—that you can challenge the government in court. And indeed, you can: Under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) “a person suffering legal wrong because of agency action, or adversely affected o ...

Discourse: The Constitution’s Overlooked Road Map for an Accountable Bureaucracy

January 29, 2024

The Constitution grants executive power to the president, but presidents cannot do all the work of the executive branch alone. They need subordinates to help them carry out their work: cabinet secretaries, undersecretaries and thousands of other political appointees throughout the federal government. But the Constitution also promises a government ...

Great legal quotes of the week: January 26, 2024

January 26, 2024

“Lawsuits can prompt institutional learning when they carry real consequences for defendant agencies.” — The Cato Institute in a January 19 amicus brief in Benning v. Oliver   “Modern connected humankind is trying to determine its position backwards.” — Playwright David Mamet in a January 23 amicus brief in NetChoic ...

Can AI interpret the law?

January 26, 2024

Could artificial intelligence soon replace lawyers and judges? That is a question on the minds of many in the legal profession, even Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. In his annual report, the Chief Justice mentioned that federal courts are looking into the ways artificial intelligence can be used in the courts. He even said … ...

Event Full

January 24, 2024

Registration is now full. Thank you for your interest. Go back to events … ...

New lawsuit targets racial discrimination in Minnesota farming grants

January 24, 2024

Lance Nistler met all of the eligibility requirements when he applied for the grant. Out of 176 applicants, Lance was picked ninth in the grant lottery. But despite his apparent luck, he was put at the back of the list. Unbeknownst to Lance, the grant program prioritizes so-called “emerging farmers” when awarding funds, regardless o ...