Planned Parenthood of Illinois settles reverse racism lawsuit with EEOC
Facing accusations that it discriminated against white employees, Planned Parenthood of Illinois decided Thursday to pay $500,000 to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to settle an investigation into the nonprofit’s DEI programs (Fast Company). The EEOC had found in its investigation that Planned Parenthood held “race-based affinity groups” that barred employees from other races from attending. In addition to paying a $500,000 fine, Planned Parenthood also agreed to fire the manager who oversaw its diversity, equity and inclusion programs. The settlement and preceding investigation are considered an example of the Trump administration’s aggressive approach to investigating diversity, equity and inclusion programs, writes Fast Company.
Dogs with "adverse" history could not rehomed under proposed bill
Illinois animal shelters and rescue organizations would be barred from rehoming a dog deemed dangerous, and would also have to reveal any history of “adverse” behavior, including but not limited to biting or scratching, under a proposed bill (My Stateline). In addition, shelters and rescue groups would need to log microchip information into a national database, rather than leaving it to adopters to register their pets’ microchips. Some animal welfare experts are concerned the bill would worsen an already dire shortage of people fostering and adopting dogs, and an increase in euthanasia.
Senate bill proposes stronger child protection measures from cannabis products
Warning labels on cannabis products, storage requirements for cannabis products, and child-safety education would be required of Illinois dispensaries under a bill proposed in the Illinois Senate (Advantage News). The bill is proposed by Sen. Michael Hastings, D-Frankfort, and focuses strongly on cannabis edibles. The Cannabis Business Association of Illinois has said it strongly supports effort to keep cannabis away from children and teens but also wants the state to consider the threats posed to children by unregulated hemp products. The bill has until next Friday to be assigned to a Senate committee.
