Supreme Court curbs civil asset forfeiture for justice not profit
The Supreme Court rules state seizures tied to crimes fall under the Eighth Amendment excessive fines clause, limiting civil asset forfeiture. Tyson Timbs, who had a $42,000 Land Rover seized after pleading guilty to heroin purchase, gains a path to challenge proportionality. Justice Ginsburg notes fines have long protected liberties, but the ruling remains limited and reform may require new legislation.
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Te Supreme Court
Tyson Timbs
Indiana
Timbs
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
California
Short thoughts on victim, survivor language in abuse discourse
A commentary questions why sexual abuse victims are called survivors while other crimes label victims. It argues that survivorship implies life‑threat, noting abuse lacks constant imminent danger for many, and suggests labeling reflects MeToo era language rather than enduring truth.
So what’s going on with tax refunds and shopping trends
Steve Hansen discusses tax refunds down for many due to lower withholding but smaller refunds. He notes fewer sedan models from Ford and GM, a shift to bigger pickups and SUVs, and a shakeout in physical stores with more online shopping. He rues losing in-person shopping and aging transitions.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Amarillo
Ford
Hemp bill legalizes industrial hemp nationwide
Tom McDonald reports on the 2018 Farm Bill legalizing hemp for industrial use while maintaining federal and state regulatory controls. The measure allows interstate commerce under 0.3 percent THC, with USDA oversight and criminal penalties for violations, and cautions growers it remains illegal for home gardens.
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America
New Mexico
U.S. Navy
U.S
Trump
Brookings Institution
U.S. Department of Agriculture
United States
Contact as Letters and Columns Directory Note
Community columnists and readers are invited to send letters and opinion pieces to the newspaper office. Submissions should include the writer's full name address and a brief bio. Letters may be edited for length clarity and style.
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