SUMMARY: The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), aimed at holding social media companies accountable for cyberbullying, has divided Republicans in Congress. While it passed the Senate with strong support, it faces opposition in the House, with Speaker Mike Johnson expressing concerns over potential First Amendment violations and the bill’s “duty of care” provision. Advocates, including parents whose children died due to online harassment, pressure Johnson to act. However, some Republicans fear it could restrict free speech, and critics from both conservative and LGBTQ+ communities worry about censorship. Despite the bill’s bipartisan backing, its future remains uncertain, especially as the deadline for a government shutdown approaches.

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SUMMARY: New Orleans Police Officer Dan Anderson, a 27-year veteran, was involved in a shooting incident during a traffic stop related to a stolen vehicle on December 4th. Body camera footage shows the officer discharging his weapon when the suspect’s vehicle reversed into an unmarked cruiser, then struck another officer’s vehicle. No injuries occurred. Anderson has previously faced investigation and suspension following a 2020 incident but appealed the decision. Retired officer Frank Robinson supports Anderson’s actions as justified under policy. The investigation, adhering to NOPD procedures, is ongoing, and the suspect remains at large. Police request any information about the suspect.

The New Orleans Police Department released body camera footage of an officer-involved shooting near the French Quarter at the …

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SUMMARY: Several new laws will take effect in Louisiana on January 1, 2025, impacting insurance, hemp sales, social media advertising, and seafood transparency. Notably, House Bill 611 modifies homeowners’ insurance rules, allowing companies to drop customers after three years if approved by the insurance commissioner. House Bill 952 restricts hemp products to 5 milligrams of THC and bans sales at gas stations. Additionally, House Bill 577 prohibits targeted ads to minors on social media, while Senate Bill 166 mandates restaurants disclose imported seafood and requires schools to use local shrimp or crawfish, imposing fines for misleading packaging.

Dozens of bills signed into law in 2024 are going into effect on New Year’s Day 2025.

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