Latest news with #GeneralAssembly
Yahoo
6 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Pritzker to consider Illinois bill mandating gun owners lock up firearms
A bill that would require gun owners to keep any firearms in a locked box whenever a minor is present will soon head to Gov. JB Pritzker. Senate Bill 8, also referred to as the Safe Gun Storage Act, is the latest gun safety measure pushed by Democrats in the General Assembly. It passed the House 69-40, with Republican lawmakers warning that it could be found unconstitutional if challenged in court. The bill mandates that gun owners store their firearms in a secure, locked box in any place where they know or 'reasonably should know' that a minor without permission to access a firearm, an at-risk person or someone who is prohibited from obtaining a firearm can access the weapon. Gun owners who violate the act would be subject to civil penalties. The law would apply to both handguns and long guns, such as rifles and shotguns. Under the state's current criminal code, firearm owners are required to store their guns in a place that's inaccessible to a child under the age of 14 – SB8 raises the age requirement to a child under 18 and mandates that the gun must be locked away or equipped with a device making it temporarily inoperable. It also defines an at-risk person as someone who has shown behavior or made statements that a 'reasonable person' would consider indicative that the individual may physically harm themselves or others. 'An estimated 30 million children in our country live in a home with at least one firearm, with 4.6 million children living in homes with unlocked and loaded guns,' bill sponsor in the House, Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, said during floor debate. 'We are all familiar with the chilling statistics that guns are the No. 1 cause of death for our children in the United States.' The bill exempts firearms carried on a person who has a concealed carry license. The gun owner also would not be liable if a minor, at-risk or prohibited person uses the firearm in self-defense or uses it after accessing it illegally – for instance, in circumstances like breaking and entering. The Safe Gun Storage Act also makes changes to a variety of existing Illinois gun laws, including a mandate that firearm owners report a lost or stolen firearm within 48 hours of the owner finding the firearm missing, instead of the current 72-hour timeframe. Illinois State Police would also be given the ability to revoke a firearm owner's identification, or FOID, card if a gun owner fails to report a stolen or lost firearm twice or more under the bill. If a minor, at-risk or prohibited person gains access to an unlocked firearm, the bill provides the gun owner could face civil penalties ranging from $500 to $10,000 if the gun to hurt or kill another person in a crime. A separate section of the bill allows for a $1,000 fine and a Class C misdemeanor charge against a gun owner if a minor under the age of 18 causes death or bodily harm while accessing a firearm without permission. That language previously only applied to minors under the age of 14. 'Safe firearms storage and responsible gun ownership are practices on which all of us in this room, gun owners and non-gun owners alike, can agree,' Hirschauer said. 'Safe gun storage can reduce unintentional injuries, suicides and intentional harm, like school shootings, by stopping unauthorized access.' Under SB8, if a firearm owner fails to store their firearm in a secure, locked box and a minor, at-risk or prohibited person illegally obtains the firearm and uses it to hurt themselves or others – the owner could be charged with negligence. The Safe Gun Storage Act also requires Illinois State Police to expand an online database that was required under a previous law to house all information on the make, model and serial number of reported lost or stolen firearms. By Jan. 1, 2027, ISP would have to make the portal accessible to licensed firearm dealers, who would be required to cross-reference the database to ensure any firearms they are selling or transferring are not a firearm listed in the database. Another aspect of the bill classifies anyone traveling through the state with a firearm that's prohibited under state law as gun trafficking – a felony charge that can result in up to a 15-year prison sentence. During debate about the bill on the Senate floor in April, Sen. Neil Anderson, R-Andalusia, took issue with the bill giving Illinois State Police the ability to revoke a person's FOID card. He said that aspect of the bill would not pass the Rahimi test – referencing the 2023 United States v. Rahimi Supreme Court case, which ruled a court can temporarily revoke a perron's firearm rights if the court determines the firearm owner is a threat to public safety when in possession of a firearm. SB8 would allow Illinois State Police to revoke a person's FOID card, which Anderson said is in direct conflict with the Rahimi decision – which said only courts had the power to revoke a person's firearm rights. Bill sponsor Sen. Laura Ellman, D-Naperville, disagreed with Anderson, saying the Rahimi case did not exclude law enforcement from being able to revoke a person's FOID card. The bill passed the Senate on a vote of 33-19. A similar debate happened on the House floor Wednesday before the bill's eventual passage. Rep. Patrick Windhorst, R-Metropolis, took issue with the bill's creation of a potential negligence charge for gun owners who do not safely secure a gun that's used by a minor, at-risk or prohibited person to harm someone. He said he believed such a burden shift to be unconstitutional. Hirschauer responded that the burden shift only applies when the reasonable standard is met – when it's reasonably found that the gun owner should have known to safely store their firearm – or, if 'some terrible negligence' occurs. Windhorst also raised concerns about the fact that cable locks, which are locked cables inserted through a firearm's chamber and out of the magazine well, are not considered 'safe storage' under the bill. Under existing law about storing guns away from minors, a cable lock is considered safe storage of a firearm. Windhorst said that conflicts with the new language pertaining to gun storage, which does not mention devices that render a gun temporarily inoperable. 'Under the criminal code of this bill where we are changing our current child access protection law, a cable lock would suffice,' Hirschauer said. 'Under the new Safe Storage Act, it would not.' He also argued that the bill impeded the rights of concealed carry license holders who carry a gun in a vehicle, as some firearms owners currently store their gun in the center console or glove box. Under the Safe Gun Storage Act, the center console or glove box would have to be lockable in order to render the firearm safely stored. Windhorst also voiced concerns that the gun trafficking charges in the bill could be brought against a person passing through Illinois with firearms in their vehicle that are legal in their home state – a point which Hirschauer responded to by reading language in the bill that expressly excluded non-residents from the charges. 'If someone is a non-resident of Illinois and is passing through and they are a legal gun owner in the state in which they reside, if that state doesn't have a FOID card system and if they are authorized under federal law to own a gun, then they would not be subject to this,' she said. Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer, R-Murrayville, raised concerns about the bill's definition of 'lawful permission' and its limitations on minors who hunt. The bill requires firearm owners to safely secure their firearm in a locked box when around a minor who does not have 'lawful permission' from a parent or guardian to access a firearm. On the House floor, Davidsmeyer asked what constitutes 'lawful permission,' to which Hirschauer answered it, 'could be several things.' When asked whether permission must be written down or notarized for parental permission of a minor using a firearm to hunt to be considered lawful, Hirschauer answered that 'hypothetical points are fact dependent.' Davidsmeyer said the question was not a hypothetical, and that it is an issue that will crop up in 'daily life' for minors who hunt. 'This bill, I believe, violates recent Supreme Court decisions under the Second Amendment and will likely be found unconstitutional,' Windhorst said at the end of debate. Hirschauer disagreed. 'Firearm theft compromises the effectiveness of our commonsense gun laws and often results in these weapons being acquired by people who are legally prohibited from possessing them,' she said. 'The reporting measures strengthened in this bill will give law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on lost and stolen guns.' Opponents to SB8 include the ACLU of Illinois, Illinois State Rifle Association and the Illinois State Crime Commissions; the Illinois State Police did not officially oppose or support the bill. SB8 passed the Senate 33-19 last month and awaits approval from the governor before it can become law. Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service that distributes state government coverage to hundreds of news outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
Scoop
15 hours ago
- Politics
- Scoop
‘Justice Is Long Overdue': Guterres Calls For Reparations For Enslavement And Colonialism
'Africa is a continent of boundless energy and possibility. But for too long, the colossal injustices inflicted by enslavement, the transatlantic slave trade and colonialism have been left unacknowledged and unaddressed,' he said. The United Nations has repeatedly said that slavery and the transatlantic slave trade constituted crimes against humanity, and the Secretary-General has repeatedly called for redress for these injustices. Speaking to the Africa Dialogue Series — which is focused on the theme of justice through reparations — the Secretary-General noted that the movement for reparatory justice is gaining momentum around the world as reflected by the declaration of the Second Decade for People of African Descent, which runs through 2035. The last decade, which ended in 2024, yielded tangible results, with over 30 Member States revising laws to better tackle racial discrimination. However, the Secretary-General noted that much work remains. 'We point to the poisoned legacies of enslavement and colonialism, not to sow division but to heal them,' he said. 'Long shadow of colonialism' Mr. Guterres underlined the entrenched nature of racism and exploitative systems, saying that these systems have disadvantaged African countries and people of African descent beyond the end of colonialism and enslavement. 'Decolonization did not free African countries, or people of African descent, from the structures and prejudices that made those projects possible,' he said. In fact, when the United Nations was founded and many of the global structures established, some African countries were still colonies. 'When African countries gained their independence, they inherited a system built to serve others — not them,' the Secretary-General said. The President of the General Assembly, Philémon Yang, underlined the importance of teaching this history through national curricula and monuments such as The Ark of Return at UN Headquarters. 'Knowledge of our true history can serve as a powerful compass in our onward march towards progress,' he said. The Ark of Return, the Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, located at the Visitors' Plaza of UN Headquarters in New York. Transforming 'poisoned legacies' To address the inequities of this system, the Secretary-General called upon the global community to take action on international financial systems which are burdening developing economies in Africa and the Caribbean. Specifically, he emphasized the importance of restructuring debt systems which are 'suffocating' these countries' economies. Previous UN reports have noted that some poor countries spend more on debt repayments than they do on health, education and infrastructure combined Mr. Guterres also called for massive investments into clean energy infrastructure in Africa which has been deeply impacted by climate change. 'African countries did not cause the climate crisis. Yet the effects of our heating planet are wreaking havoc across the continent,' he said. He also reiterated his call for the establishment of a permanent Security Council position for an African Member State. Mr. Yang, the General Assembly President, underlined the urgency of the Secretary-General's remarks, urging member states to act imminently. 'Now is the moment to turn recommendations into rights, apologies into action and aspirations into accountability.'
Malaysia Sun
15 hours ago
- Politics
- Malaysia Sun
UAE wins presidency of General Assembly of UN-Habitat
Abu Dhabi [UAE], May 31 (ANI/WAM): The UAE has achieved a new diplomatic milestone by winning, for the first time, the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and securing membership in its Executive Board. This well-deserved and unprecedented achievement was shared with the Kingdom of Malaysia, following a highly competitive election during the Assembly meetings being held in Nairobi, Kenya. This international recognition reaffirms the UAE's leading role in supporting sustainable urban development, housing initiatives, and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN-Habitat General Assembly, composed of 193 member states, is the programme's highest decision-making body. It is responsible for guiding global policies aimed at improving living conditions in cities and enhancing the quality of life in urban communities. On this occasion, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed his pride and honour in this international achievement, which adds to the UAE's distinguished record of successes. He emphasised that the UAE's election as President of the UN-Habitat General Assembly is a recognition of its significant efforts, guided by the vision of its wise leadership, in establishing the nation as a comprehensive model for adequate housing and sustainable urban environments. Al Mazrouei said, 'This remarkable achievement reflects the vision and directives of the UAE's wise leadership, which has made housing and urban development a strategic priority, recognising it as a fundamental pillar for social stability and quality of life. The leadership has directed efforts toward providing an integrated housing environment that ensures well-being and dignity for all citizens and residents. It has also launched numerous national initiatives and programs that have contributed to developing a modern housing system and offering innovative and sustainable solutions to meet the needs of various segments of society.' He added, 'The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme stands as a prominent example of this integrated national vision. Since its establishment in 1999, the programme has successfully enhanced family stability, met the demand for government housing, and provided decent housing for Emirati citizens. Through this victory, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to continue contributing to global housing and urban planning efforts. The country will work to deepen cooperation with all 193 member states of the General Assembly, with the goal of developing sustainable, inclusive cities that are capable of meeting future challenges.' He affirmed that the UAE will leverage this leadership role to support the implementation of Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which focuses on 'making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.' He also pointed out that the joint presidency with Malaysia and membership in the UN-Habitat Executive Board will open new avenues for strengthening dialogue among member states and for exchanging the best international experiences and practices. He stressed that the UAE will lead joint efforts to promote innovation in urban housing and to present pioneering models for addressing the challenges of rapid urban growth and climate change. The Minister continued, 'We will continue working with member states, civil society organisations, and the private sector to develop clear visions and innovative action plans that meet the needs of global communities and provide adequate and safe housing for all people. We consider this responsibility a great honour and an opportunity to further enhance the UAE's international record.' He added, 'We will work hand in hand with all international partners to embed the principles of sustainable urban development and lead global efforts toward urban transformation, aiming to create a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable living environment for all.' For his part, Eng Mohamed Al Mansouri, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, said, 'This achievement is a true reflection of the UAE's dedicated efforts in developing a sustainable and smart urban housing system. The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme remains one of the most vital national pillars that has strengthened the UAE's global standing in this field by offering innovative housing solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and environmental and social sustainability.' Al Mansouri also extended his appreciation to the national team from the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in Nairobi, for their outstanding efforts over the past three and a half years, which began with the candidacy file and culminated in successfully securing international support for key UN-Habitat leadership positions. He added, 'We are fully geared to enhance cooperation with member states and share the UAE's pioneering experience in building integrated urban communities characterised by diversity and innovation, in line with our leadership's vision for achieving sustainable development.' He further noted that the UAE's presidency of the UN-Habitat General Assembly will bolster its status as an influential international partner in shaping future urban policies and support the country's drive to maintain momentum in sustainable development efforts both regionally and globally. (ANI/WAM)
Dubai Eye
a day ago
- Politics
- Dubai Eye
UAE secures presidency of UN-Habitat General Assembly
The UAE has achieved a new diplomatic milestone by winning the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) for the first time and securing membership in its Executive Board. The UN-Habitat General Assembly, composed of 193 member states, is the programme's highest decision-making body. It is responsible for guiding global policies aimed at improving living conditions in cities and enhancing the quality of life in urban communities. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed his pride and honour in this international achievement. He emphasised that the UAE's election as President of the UN-Habitat General Assembly is a recognition of its significant efforts, guided by the vision of its wise leadership, in establishing the nation as a comprehensive model for adequate housing and sustainable urban environments. Al Mazrouei said, 'This remarkable achievement reflects the vision and directives of the UAE's wise leadership, which has made housing and urban development a strategic priority, recognising it as a fundamental pillar for social stability and quality of life. The leadership has directed efforts toward providing an integrated housing environment that ensures well-being and dignity for all citizens and residents. It has also launched numerous national initiatives and programs that have contributed to developing a modern housing system and offering innovative and sustainable solutions to meet the needs of various segments of society.' He added, 'The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme stands as a prominent example of this integrated national vision. Since its establishment in 1999, the programme has successfully enhanced family stability, met the demand for government housing, and provided decent housing for Emirati citizens. Through this victory, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to continue contributing to global housing and urban planning efforts. The country will work to deepen cooperation with all 193 member states of the General Assembly, with the goal of developing sustainable, inclusive cities that are capable of meeting future challenges.' He affirmed that the UAE will leverage this leadership role to support the implementation of Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which focuses on 'making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.' He also pointed out that the joint presidency with Malaysia and membership in the UN-Habitat Executive Board will open new avenues for strengthening dialogue among member states and for exchanging the best international experiences and practices. He stressed that the UAE will lead joint efforts to promote innovation in urban housing and to present pioneering models for addressing the challenges of rapid urban growth and climate change. The Minister continued, 'We will continue working with member states, civil society organisations, and the private sector to develop clear visions and innovative action plans that meet the needs of global communities and provide adequate and safe housing for all people. We consider this responsibility a great honour and an opportunity to further enhance the UAE's international record.' He added, 'We will work hand in hand with all international partners to embed the principles of sustainable urban development and lead global efforts toward urban transformation, aiming to create a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable living environment for all.' For his part, Eng Mohamed Al Mansouri, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, said, 'This achievement is a true reflection of the UAE's dedicated efforts in developing a sustainable and smart urban housing system. The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme remains one of the most vital national pillars that has strengthened the UAE's global standing in this field by offering innovative housing solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and environmental and social sustainability.' Al Mansouri also extended his appreciation to the national team from the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in Nairobi, for their outstanding efforts over the past three and a half years, which began with the candidacy file and culminated in successfully securing international support for key UN-Habitat leadership positions. He added, 'We are fully geared to enhance cooperation with member states and share the UAE's pioneering experience in building integrated urban communities characterised by diversity and innovation, in line with our leadership's vision for achieving sustainable development.' He further noted that the UAE's presidency of the UN-Habitat General Assembly will bolster its status as an influential international partner in shaping future urban policies and support the country's drive to maintain momentum in sustainable development efforts both regionally and globally.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
NC community college enrollment climbs
CHARLOTTE, N.C. () – Student enrollment at community colleges is on the rise, and growth at North Carolina-based institutions outpaces the national average. New data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center suggests undergraduate enrollment is up across the board, but community colleges saw the largest increase from Spring 2024 to Spring 2025 (5.4%). Overall post-secondary enrollment rose 3.2%, translating to 562,000 students. The report estimates the U.S. now has a total of 18.4 million students pursuing graduate or undergraduate degrees. Charlotte teen finishes in top 4 at Scripps National Spelling Bee Community college enrollment in North Carolina jumped 8.3% since Spring 2024. Governor Josh Stein advocated for increased investment in community college and targeted training programs through his proposed budget in April. 'My budget proposes providing free community college to students pursuing credentials in high-demand industries,' Stein said. 'I'm also proposing we expand apprenticeships in state government to recruit and retain talent to serve the public and establish a rural apprenticeship program to connect small businesses and farmers to apprentices.' The General Assembly allocated $1.5 billion for the North Carolina Community College System in 2023. The proposed House budget allocates $1.7 billion for the next two fiscal years, while the proposed Senate budget allocates $1.8 billion for NCCCS. The state's total enrollment across education sectors remains lower than pre-pandemic enrollment. 2025 data shows 2.3% fewer students than in 2020. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
