Legislation & Lobbying

Litigation finance tax, limits on contempt power dropped from Senate’s version of budget megabill

Two proposals of concern to many lawyers are being dropped in the U.S. Senate's version of a budget megabill, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Jul 1, 2025 9:21 AM CDT

Gains from litigation funding would be taxed at nearly 32% in latest Senate version of budget megabill

The U.S. Senate's version of a budget megabill, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, released Saturday sets a proposed tax of 31.8% on earnings from litigation finance contracts, down from 40.8% in the first version of the bill.

Jun 30, 2025 3:19 PM CDT

Federal sex-trafficking law has led to an increase in suits against hotel chains

Hundreds of lawsuits have been filed against hotel chains in recent years based on claims they were complicit in sex trafficking. The lawsuits push the hospitality industry to take seriously the potential for trafficking on hotel premises and appropriately train their employees, according to lawyers who represent survivors.

Jun 1, 2025 1:00 AM CDT

States grapple with regulating seltzer drinks with THC

As controversy ensues across the states, some say low-THC products should be outlawed completely.

Jun 1, 2025 12:50 AM CDT

Protecting fair and impartial courts is a key tenet of ABA advocacy

Given the fundamental role that fair and impartial courts have in upholding the rule of law, the American Bar Association has long made judicial independence a cornerstone of its advocacy.

Jun 1, 2025 12:10 AM CDT

Proposal to limit courts’ contempt power, part of spending bill, is ‘terrible idea,’ Chemerinsky says

A budget bill by the U.S. House of Representatives contains a “stunning” provision that would limit federal courts’ ability to hold government officials and other litigants in contempt for disobeying their orders, according to Erwin Chemerinsky, the dean at the University of California at Berkeley School of Law.

May 21, 2025 9:27 AM CDT

During ABA Day Online, have your voice heard on Capitol Hill from home

When it comes to shaping policy and defending justice, lawyers have a powerful voice—but only if it’s heard. You don’t need a plane ticket to make an impact in Washington. You just need an internet connection and the will to stand up for justice.

Apr 3, 2025 12:30 PM CDT

Future Forward: How lawyers can embrace sustainability

Sustainable development means more than “being green,” says John Dernbach, an emeritus professor at Widener University Commonwealth Law School and the founding director of its Environmental Law and Sustainability Center. Rather, he says, sustainable development balances environmental protection, economic development and social justice.

Apr 1, 2025 3:00 AM CDT

Companies challenge National Labor Relations Board rulings favoring unions and organizers

If you are a Starbucks enthusiast and like the ease of ordering on the mobile app, chances are great that in the past few years at least one of the locations listed in your favorites tab was closed because staff was on strike.

Apr 1, 2025 12:50 AM CDT

Going Green: Oday Salim works with Michigan Law students to amend city code

Oday Salim and his students at the University of Michigan Law School have launched a new partnership with the city of Dearborn to create a healthier and more sustainable environment for its residents.

Apr 1, 2025 12:45 AM CDT

‘Our Finest Hour’: ABA ‘will not shrink from the things we believe in,’ President Bill Bay says

While 2025 will bring changes to the organization and challenges to the rule of law, the American Bar Association will continue to do its work “safeguarding the fundamental American values of due process and access to justice,” ABA President Bill Bay said in February in a speech to the ABA House of Delegates at the midyear meeting in Phoenix.

Apr 1, 2025 12:40 AM CDT

Advancing Global Dispute Resolution: ABA pushes for US ratification of the Singapore Convention

In an era of globalization, lawyers are increasingly called upon to navigate the complexities of cross-border disputes and international commerce. Recognizing the importance of clear and enforceable international legal frameworks, the American Bar Association has been a steadfast advocate for treaties and other measures that facilitate trade and commerce, streamline dispute resolution and promote the rule of law.

Apr 1, 2025 12:20 AM CDT

ABA Day 2025: Advocacy for every lawyer, everywhere

For decades, ABA Day has brought together legal professionals from across the country to advocate for critical issues affecting the legal profession and access to justice. In 2025, we are expanding this tradition to ensure that every lawyer—whether in Washington, online, or at home—can play an active role in shaping the future of the law.

Mar 20, 2025 3:00 PM CDT

ABA rapid-response series explains evolving legal and policy concerns

In a new rapid-response project, the ABA is providing guidance on pressing legal and policy issues that have unfolded under President Donald Trump’s administration.

Mar 13, 2025 11:24 AM CDT

Supreme Court will review Colorado ban on conversion therapy for LGBTQ minors

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday agreed to decide whether a Colorado ban on conversion therapy for LGBTQ minors—which aims to change sexual orientation or gender identity through counseling—violates the First Amendment.

Mar 10, 2025 1:38 PM CDT