WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;is headed into its final few weeks with about a third of the cases heard this year still undecided, including ones that could reshape the law on everything from guns to abortion to social media. The justices are also still weighing whether former President Donald Trump is immune from criminal prosecution in the election interference case against him, more than a month after hearing arguments.

The court heard 61 cases this term, and 19 remain unresolved.

Here's a look at some of the major undecided cases:

Donald Trump is arguing that former presidents are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-trump-capitol-riot-prosecution-immunity-72c885c07c77970d4380206f87b2d8ca">immune from prosecution</a>&nbsp;for official acts they took in office and that the indictment he faces on charges of election interference must be dismissed.

The Supreme Court has previously ruled that former presidents can’t be sued in civil cases for what they did in office, but it has never weighed in on criminal immunity.

The timing of the decision may be as important as the outcome. Trump’s trial in Washington, D.C., may not take place before the November election, even if the court rules he is not immune.

A former Pennsylvania police officer is challenging the validity of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-capitol-riot-obstruction-charge-trump-d4b01cb32cdbd2065e802902a90bd9f1">obstruction charges</a>&nbsp;brought against hundreds of people who took part in the violent assault on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump faces the same charge of obstructing an official proceeding.

The issue is whether a law meant to discourage tampering with documents sought in investigations can be used against the Capitol rioters.

There’s a second abortion case on the docket this year: whether doctors can&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-emergencies-hospitals-doctors-45766f0a1ab576ce0f6515c5a1bd9e2a">provide that medical procedure in emergencies</a>&nbsp;in states that banned abortion after the court overturned Roe v. Wade.

In a case out of Idaho, the Biden administration says abortions must be allowed in emergencies where a woman’s health is at serious risk.

The state argues that its strict abortion ban does allow abortions to save a woman’s life, and doesn’t need to expand exceptions for health risks.

The justices are weighing whether to uphold a federal law that seeks to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-guns-domestic-violence-b86948dc6103573898c3757b998a0a6c">protect domestic violence victims</a>&nbsp;by keeping guns away from the people alleged to have abused them. An appeals court struck down a law that prohibits people under domestic violence restraining orders from possessing firearms. That court found that the law violated the 2nd Amendment right to “keep and bear arms” following the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling that expanded gun rights and changed how courts are supposed to evaluate gun restrictions.

The most significant Supreme Court case in decades on homelessness centers on whether people can be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homelessness-supreme-court-oregon-fines-camping-ban-334d90536535ebb07ccb6d2dc76009c9">banned from sleeping outdoors</a>&nbsp;when shelter space is lacking.

A San Francisco-based appeals court decision said that amounts to cruel and unusual punishment.

Leaders from California and across the West say that the ruling makes it harder for them to regulate homeless encampments encroaching on sidewalks and other public places.

Advocates say it would criminalize homelessness just as rising costs have pushed the number of people without a permanent place to live to record levels.

The justices could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-chevron-regulations-environment-fish-e0c83212c892887860f7800c1ae1e02b">overturn a 40-year-old decision</a>&nbsp;that has been cited thousands of times in federal court cases and used to uphold regulations on the environment, public health, workplace safety and consumer protections. The decision colloquially known as Chevron calls on judges to defer to federal regulators when the words of a statute are not crystal clear. The decision has long been targeted by conservative and business interests who say Chevron robs judges of their authority and gives too much power to regulators.

Three cases remain unresolved at the intersection of social media and government.

Two cases involve social media laws in Texas and Florida that would limit how Facebook, TikTok, X, YouTube and other social media platforms regulate content posted by their users. While the details vary, both laws aimed to address conservative complaints that the social media companies were liberal-leaning and censored users based on their viewpoints, especially on the political right.

In the third case, Republican-led states are suing the Biden administration over how far the federal government can go to combat controversial social media posts on topics including COVID-19 and election security. A federal appeals court sided with the states in finding that administration officials unconstitutionally coerced the platforms to limit conservative points of view.

The Supreme Court controls the fate of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/purdue-pharma-trustee-bankruptcy-sackler-opioid-oxycontin-713134927e34ef071803b3983ddd01ac">nationwide settlement with OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma</a>&nbsp;that would allocate billions of dollars to combat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/opioids">the opioid epidemic</a>, but also provide a legal shield for members of the Sackler family who own the company. The settlement has been on hold since last summer after the Supreme Court agreed to weigh in.

Republican-led, energy-producing states and the steel industry want the court to put the Environmental Protection Agency’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-epa-good-neighbor-air-pollution-rules-9d29c120d276f4bad5b3ea2c75d107ff">air pollution-fighting “good neighbor” plan</a>&nbsp;on hold while legal challenges continue. The plan aims to protect downwind states that receive unwanted air pollution from other states.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;is headed into its final few weeks with about a third of the cases heard this year still undecided, including ones that could reshape the law on everything from guns to abortion to social media. The justices are also still weighing whether former President Donald Trump is immune from criminal prosecution in the election interference case against him, more than a month after hearing arguments.The court heard 61 cases this term, and 19 remain unresolved.Here's a look at some of the major undecided cases:<h2>Presidential immunity</h2>Donald Trump is arguing that former presidents are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-trump-capitol-riot-prosecution-immunity-72c885c07c77970d4380206f87b2d8ca">immune from prosecution</a>&nbsp;for official acts they took in office and that the indictment he faces on charges of election interference must be dismissed.The Supreme Court has previously ruled that former presidents can’t be sued in civil cases for what they did in office, but it has never weighed in on criminal immunity.The timing of the decision may be as important as the outcome. Trump’s trial in Washington, D.C., may not take place before the November election, even if the court rules he is not immune.<h2>Jan. 6, 2021</h2>A former Pennsylvania police officer is challenging the validity of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-capitol-riot-obstruction-charge-trump-d4b01cb32cdbd2065e802902a90bd9f1">obstruction charges</a>&nbsp;brought against hundreds of people who took part in the violent assault on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump faces the same charge of obstructing an official proceeding.The issue is whether a law meant to discourage tampering with documents sought in investigations can be used against the Capitol rioters.<h2>Emergency abortion</h2>There’s a second abortion case on the docket this year: whether doctors can&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-emergencies-hospitals-doctors-45766f0a1ab576ce0f6515c5a1bd9e2a">provide that medical procedure in emergencies</a>&nbsp;in states that banned abortion after the court overturned Roe v. Wade.In a case out of Idaho, the Biden administration says abortions must be allowed in emergencies where a woman’s health is at serious risk.The state argues that its strict abortion ban does allow abortions to save a woman’s life, and doesn’t need to expand exceptions for health risks.<h2>Guns</h2>The justices are weighing whether to uphold a federal law that seeks to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-guns-domestic-violence-b86948dc6103573898c3757b998a0a6c">protect domestic violence victims</a>&nbsp;by keeping guns away from the people alleged to have abused them. An appeals court struck down a law that prohibits people under domestic violence restraining orders from possessing firearms. That court found that the law violated the 2nd Amendment right to “keep and bear arms” following the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling that expanded gun rights and changed how courts are supposed to evaluate gun restrictions.<h2>Homelessness</h2>The most significant Supreme Court case in decades on homelessness centers on whether people can be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homelessness-supreme-court-oregon-fines-camping-ban-334d90536535ebb07ccb6d2dc76009c9">banned from sleeping outdoors</a>&nbsp;when shelter space is lacking.A San Francisco-based appeals court decision said that amounts to cruel and unusual punishment.Leaders from California and across the West say that the ruling makes it harder for them to regulate homeless encampments encroaching on sidewalks and other public places.Advocates say it would criminalize homelessness just as rising costs have pushed the number of people without a permanent place to live to record levels.<h2>Chevron</h2>The justices could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-chevron-regulations-environment-fish-e0c83212c892887860f7800c1ae1e02b">overturn a 40-year-old decision</a>&nbsp;that has been cited thousands of times in federal court cases and used to uphold regulations on the environment, public health, workplace safety and consumer protections. The decision colloquially known as Chevron calls on judges to defer to federal regulators when the words of a statute are not crystal clear. The decision has long been targeted by conservative and business interests who say Chevron robs judges of their authority and gives too much power to regulators.<h2>Social media</h2>Three cases remain unresolved at the intersection of social media and government.Two cases involve social media laws in Texas and Florida that would limit how Facebook, TikTok, X, YouTube and other social media platforms regulate content posted by their users. While the details vary, both laws aimed to address conservative complaints that the social media companies were liberal-leaning and censored users based on their viewpoints, especially on the political right.In the third case, Republican-led states are suing the Biden administration over how far the federal government can go to combat controversial social media posts on topics including COVID-19 and election security. A federal appeals court sided with the states in finding that administration officials unconstitutionally coerced the platforms to limit conservative points of view.<h2>Purdue Pharma</h2>The Supreme Court controls the fate of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/purdue-pharma-trustee-bankruptcy-sackler-opioid-oxycontin-713134927e34ef071803b3983ddd01ac">nationwide settlement with OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma</a>&nbsp;that would allocate billions of dollars to combat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/opioids">the opioid epidemic</a>, but also provide a legal shield for members of the Sackler family who own the company. The settlement has been on hold since last summer after the Supreme Court agreed to weigh in.<h2>Air pollution</h2>Republican-led, energy-producing states and the steel industry want the court to put the Environmental Protection Agency’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-epa-good-neighbor-air-pollution-rules-9d29c120d276f4bad5b3ea2c75d107ff">air pollution-fighting “good neighbor” plan</a>&nbsp;on hold while legal challenges continue. The plan aims to protect downwind states that receive unwanted air pollution from other states.<h2>SEC</h2>

Supreme Court still undecided on some very big cases

NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-sutherland">Donald Sutherland,</a>&nbsp;the Canadian actor whose wry, arrestingly off-kilter screen presence spanned more than half a century of films from “M.A.S.H.” to “The Hunger Games,” has died. He was 88.

Son&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f174fc712390468ca3bee33b0e9f24bf">Kiefer Sutherland</a>&nbsp;confirmed the death Thursday. No details were immediately available.

“I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film,” Kiefer Sutherland said on X. “Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that.”

The tall and gaunt Sutherland, who flashed a grin that could be sweet or diabolical, was known for offbeat characters like Hawkeye Pierce in Robert Altman's "M.A.S.H.," the hippie tank commander in "Kelly's Heroes" and the stoned professor in "Animal House."

Before transitioning into a long career as a respected character actor, Sutherland epitomized the unpredictable, antiestablishment cinema of the 1970s. He never stopped working, ultimately appearing in nearly 200 films and series.

Over the decades, Sutherland showed his range in more buttoned-down — but still eccentric — roles in Robert Redford's "Ordinary People" and Oliver Stone's "JFK." More, recently, he starred in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunger-games-suzanne-collins-sunrise-reaping-b30163b4707f4db55eb68513f197affc">the “Hunger Games” films.</a>&nbsp;A memoir, “Made Up, But Still True,” is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-sutherland-memoir-book-hunger-games-b62334825f72f00c4ab4042e5dc24fc3">due out in November.</a>

"I love to work. I passionately love to work," Sutherland told Charlie Rose in 1998. "I love to feel my hand fit into the glove of some other character. I feel a huge freedom — time stops for me. I'm not as crazy as I used to be, but I'm still a little crazy."

Born in St. John, New Brunswick, Donald McNichol Sutherland was the son of a salesman and a mathematics teacher. Raised in Nova Scotia, he was a disc jockey with his own radio station at age 14.

"When I was 13 or 14, I really thought everything I felt was wrong and dangerous, and that God was going to kill me for it," Sutherland told The New York Times in 1981. "My father always said, 'Keep your mouth shut, Donnie, and maybe people will think you have character.'"

Sutherland began as an engineering student at the University of Toronto but switched to English and started acting in school theatrical productions. While studying, he met Lois Hardwick, an aspiring actress. They married in 1959 but divorced seven years later.

After graduating in 1956, Sutherland attended the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art to study acting. He began appearing in West End plays and British television. After a move to Los Angeles, a series of war films changed his trajectory.

His breakthrough was "The Dirty Dozen" (1967), in which he played Vernon Pinkley, the officer-impersonating psychopath. 1970 saw the release of both the World War II yarn "Kelly's Heroes" and "M.A.S.H.," a smash hit that catapulted Sutherland to stardom.

"There is more challenge in character roles," Sutherland told The Washington Post in 1970. "There's longevity. A good character actor can show a different face in every film and not bore the public."

If Sutherland had had his way, Altman would have been fired from “M.A.S.H.” He was unhappy with the director’s unorthodox, improvisational style. But the film caught on beyond anyone’s expectations.

Sutherland identified personally with its anti-war message. Outspoken against the Vietnam War, he along with actress Jane Fonda and others founded the Free Theater Associates in 1971. Banned by the Army because of their political views, they performed in venues near military bases in Southeast Asia in 1973.

“I thought I was going to be part of a revolution that was going to change movies and its influence on people,” Sutherland told the Los Angeles Times.

His career as a leading man peaked in the 1970s, when he starred in films by the era's top directors — even if they didn't always do their best work with him. Sutherland, who frequently said he considered himself at the service of a director's vision, worked with Federico Fellini (1976's "Fellini's Casanova"), Bernardo Bertolucci (1976's "1900"), Claude Chabrol (1978's "Blood Relatives") and John Schlesinger (1975's "The Day of the Locust").

One of his finest performances came as a detective in Alan Pakula's "Klute" (1971). It was during filming that he met Fonda, with whom he had a three-year relationship that began at the end of his second marriage to actor Shirley Douglas. He and Douglas divorced in 1971 after having twins: Rachel and Kiefer, who was named after Warren Kiefer, the writer of Sutherland's first film, “Castle of the Living Dead.”

Nicolas Roeg's psychological horror film “Don't Look Now” (1973) was another high point. Sutherland starred with Julie Christie as a grieving married couple who move to Venice after their daughter's death. The film included a famous, explicit sex scene, artfully edited.

“Nic and I thought that maybe I would die in the process of it, so much were we committed,” Sutherland once said. His admiration for the film and Roeg was such that he and his next wife, actress Francine Racette, named their first-born child Roeg.

Sutherland married Racette in 1972 and remained with her the rest of his life. She survives him. They had two other children together: Rossif, named after the director Frederic Rossif; and Angus Redford, named after Redford.

Robert Redford's “Ordinary People" (1980) also dealt with the loss of a child. His directorial debut, starring Sutherland as the father of a family destroyed by tragedy, won four Oscars, including best picture.

Sutherland was never nominated for an Oscar but received&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-arts-and-entertainment-movies-ae3919aa51e942a8ba6458ebd15daf17">an honorary Oscar in 2017.</a>&nbsp;He did win an Emmy in 1995 for the TV film "Citizen X" and won two Golden Globes for "Citizen X" and the 2003 TV film "Path to War."

Sutherland's New York stage debut in 1981, though, went terribly. He played Humbert Humbert in Edward Albee's adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita," and the reviews were merciless; it closed after a dozen performances. A down period in the '80s followed, with failures like the 1981 satire "Gas" and the 1984 comedy "Crackers."

But Sutherland continued to work steadily and increasingly worked in television, most memorably in HBO's "Path to War," in which he played President Lyndon Johnson's defense secretary, Clark Clifford.

After son Kiefer emerged as a star, Sutherland appeared in numerous films with him, including the 1996 thriller “A Time to Kill” and 2015’s “Forsaken.” But he turned down the chance to play the father on the hit series “24.”

To a younger generation, Sutherland was most familiar as President Snow in “The Hunger Games” franchise beginning with the 2012 original. Sutherland sought out the part.

“The role of the president had maybe a line in the script. Maybe two. Didn’t make any difference,” Sutherland told GQ. “I thought it was an incredibly important film, and I wanted to be a part of it.” He said he hoped the movie would inspire young people who were “dormant” politically.

In his final years, the nonstop actor mused about dying onscreen, for real.

“I’m really hoping that in some movie I’m doing, I die — but I die, me, Donald — and they’re able to use my funeral and the coffin,” Sutherland&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-arts-and-entertainment-movies-ae3919aa51e942a8ba6458ebd15daf17">told the AP</a>. “That would be absolutely ideal. I would love that.”

NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-sutherland">Donald Sutherland,</a>&nbsp;the Canadian actor whose wry, arrestingly off-kilter screen presence spanned more than half a century of films from “M.A.S.H.” to “The Hunger Games,” has died. He was 88.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away. I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more… <a href="https://t.co/3EdJB03KKT">pic.twitter.com/3EdJB03KKT</a>&mdash; Kiefer Sutherland (@RealKiefer) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealKiefer/status/1803837822677225581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Son&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f174fc712390468ca3bee33b0e9f24bf">Kiefer Sutherland</a>&nbsp;confirmed the death Thursday. No details were immediately available.“I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film,” Kiefer Sutherland said on X. “Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that.”The tall and gaunt Sutherland, who flashed a grin that could be sweet or diabolical, was known for offbeat characters like Hawkeye Pierce in Robert Altman's "M.A.S.H.," the hippie tank commander in "Kelly's Heroes" and the stoned professor in "Animal House."Before transitioning into a long career as a respected character actor, Sutherland epitomized the unpredictable, antiestablishment cinema of the 1970s. He never stopped working, ultimately appearing in nearly 200 films and series.Over the decades, Sutherland showed his range in more buttoned-down — but still eccentric — roles in Robert Redford's "Ordinary People" and Oliver Stone's "JFK." More, recently, he starred in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunger-games-suzanne-collins-sunrise-reaping-b30163b4707f4db55eb68513f197affc">the “Hunger Games” films.</a>&nbsp;A memoir, “Made Up, But Still True,” is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-sutherland-memoir-book-hunger-games-b62334825f72f00c4ab4042e5dc24fc3">due out in November.</a>"I love to work. I passionately love to work," Sutherland told Charlie Rose in 1998. "I love to feel my hand fit into the glove of some other character. I feel a huge freedom — time stops for me. I'm not as crazy as I used to be, but I'm still a little crazy."Born in St. John, New Brunswick, Donald McNichol Sutherland was the son of a salesman and a mathematics teacher. Raised in Nova Scotia, he was a disc jockey with his own radio station at age 14."When I was 13 or 14, I really thought everything I felt was wrong and dangerous, and that God was going to kill me for it," Sutherland told The New York Times in 1981. "My father always said, 'Keep your mouth shut, Donnie, and maybe people will think you have character.'"Sutherland began as an engineering student at the University of Toronto but switched to English and started acting in school theatrical productions. While studying, he met Lois Hardwick, an aspiring actress. They married in 1959 but divorced seven years later.After graduating in 1956, Sutherland attended the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art to study acting. He began appearing in West End plays and British television. After a move to Los Angeles, a series of war films changed his trajectory.His breakthrough was "The Dirty Dozen" (1967), in which he played Vernon Pinkley, the officer-impersonating psychopath. 1970 saw the release of both the World War II yarn "Kelly's Heroes" and "M.A.S.H.," a smash hit that catapulted Sutherland to stardom."There is more challenge in character roles," Sutherland told The Washington Post in 1970. "There's longevity. A good character actor can show a different face in every film and not bore the public."If Sutherland had had his way, Altman would have been fired from “M.A.S.H.” He was unhappy with the director’s unorthodox, improvisational style. But the film caught on beyond anyone’s expectations.Sutherland identified personally with its anti-war message. Outspoken against the Vietnam War, he along with actress Jane Fonda and others founded the Free Theater Associates in 1971. Banned by the Army because of their political views, they performed in venues near military bases in Southeast Asia in 1973.“I thought I was going to be part of a revolution that was going to change movies and its influence on people,” Sutherland told the Los Angeles Times.His career as a leading man peaked in the 1970s, when he starred in films by the era's top directors — even if they didn't always do their best work with him. Sutherland, who frequently said he considered himself at the service of a director's vision, worked with Federico Fellini (1976's "Fellini's Casanova"), Bernardo Bertolucci (1976's "1900"), Claude Chabrol (1978's "Blood Relatives") and John Schlesinger (1975's "The Day of the Locust").One of his finest performances came as a detective in Alan Pakula's "Klute" (1971). It was during filming that he met Fonda, with whom he had a three-year relationship that began at the end of his second marriage to actor Shirley Douglas. He and Douglas divorced in 1971 after having twins: Rachel and Kiefer, who was named after Warren Kiefer, the writer of Sutherland's first film, “Castle of the Living Dead.”Nicolas Roeg's psychological horror film “Don't Look Now” (1973) was another high point. Sutherland starred with Julie Christie as a grieving married couple who move to Venice after their daughter's death. The film included a famous, explicit sex scene, artfully edited.“Nic and I thought that maybe I would die in the process of it, so much were we committed,” Sutherland once said. His admiration for the film and Roeg was such that he and his next wife, actress Francine Racette, named their first-born child Roeg.Sutherland married Racette in 1972 and remained with her the rest of his life. She survives him. They had two other children together: Rossif, named after the director Frederic Rossif; and Angus Redford, named after Redford.Robert Redford's “Ordinary People" (1980) also dealt with the loss of a child. His directorial debut, starring Sutherland as the father of a family destroyed by tragedy, won four Oscars, including best picture.Sutherland was never nominated for an Oscar but received&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-arts-and-entertainment-movies-ae3919aa51e942a8ba6458ebd15daf17">an honorary Oscar in 2017.</a>&nbsp;He did win an Emmy in 1995 for the TV film "Citizen X" and won two Golden Globes for "Citizen X" and the 2003 TV film "Path to War."Sutherland's New York stage debut in 1981, though, went terribly. He played Humbert Humbert in Edward Albee's adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita," and the reviews were merciless; it closed after a dozen performances. A down period in the '80s followed, with failures like the 1981 satire "Gas" and the 1984 comedy "Crackers."But Sutherland continued to work steadily and increasingly worked in television, most memorably in HBO's "Path to War," in which he played President Lyndon Johnson's defense secretary, Clark Clifford.After son Kiefer emerged as a star, Sutherland appeared in numerous films with him, including the 1996 thriller “A Time to Kill” and 2015’s “Forsaken.” But he turned down the chance to play the father on the hit series “24.”To a younger generation, Sutherland was most familiar as President Snow in “The Hunger Games” franchise beginning with the 2012 original. Sutherland sought out the part.“The role of the president had maybe a line in the script. Maybe two. Didn’t make any difference,” Sutherland told GQ. “I thought it was an incredibly important film, and I wanted to be a part of it.” He said he hoped the movie would inspire young people who were “dormant” politically.In his final years, the nonstop actor mused about dying onscreen, for real.“I’m really hoping that in some movie I’m doing, I die — but I die, me, Donald — and they’re able to use my funeral and the coffin,” Sutherland&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-arts-and-entertainment-movies-ae3919aa51e942a8ba6458ebd15daf17">told the AP</a>. “That would be absolutely ideal. I would love that.”

Donald Sutherland, star of ‘MASH,’ ‘Klute’ and ‘Hunger Games,’ dies at 88 

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

A lawsuit filed by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey accusing Planned Parenthood of transporting minors out of state for abortions will move forward, a judge ruled Tuesday evening.

The lawsuit is based on conversations between Planned Parenthood staff and a man with Project Veritas who secretly filmed the staff while<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article289159614.html">&nbsp;inquiring about an abortion for his fake 13-year-old niece.&nbsp;</a>

Planned Parenthood Great Plains, which runs the Kansas City area clinic where the video was taken, asked that the judge dismiss the lawsuit shortly after it was filed.&nbsp;

“We’re reviewing all our options and will continue to vigorously defend this case based on hypotheticals and fictitious patients,” Erin Thompson, general counsel with Planned Parenthood Great Plain, said in a statement Wednesday.

<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/10/planned-parenthood-andrew-bailey-project-veritas/">At a hearing in early June,</a>&nbsp;John Andrew Hirth, an attorney for Planned Parenthood, said there was no proof the Kansas City area clinic broke the law.

“There’s no allegation that any abortion has been performed either in Missouri or outside of Missouri, with or without parental consent here,” Hirth said. “The whole conversation is hypothetical.”

But Boone County Judge Brouck Jacobs found merit for moving forward with the case. He did not issue an opinion along with his ruling explaining his reasoning.

“This is the beginning of the end for Planned Parenthood in the State of Missouri,” Bailey said in a statement Tuesday following the ruling.

The video, captured in December, was posted on social media by Project Veritas, a self-proclaimed right wing news organization that often conducts undercover stings.&nbsp;

The man filming in the clinic told staff that the made-up girl’s parents couldn’t know about the abortion. Staff then directed him to their affiliate clinics in Kansas where they said he could “bypass” parental consent.&nbsp; When the man asked how often girls go out of state for abortions, the Planned Parenthood employee said it happens “every day.”

Kathryn Monroe, who represented the attorney general’s office at the hearing, said while the man’s questions were hypothetical, the employee at Planned Parenthood thought the situation was real.&nbsp;

“There was admitted conduct about what they would do in this actual situation,” she said.

The attorney general’s office in its arguments before the court pointed to Missouri law which states: “No one shall intentionally cause aid or assist a minor to obtain an abortion.”&nbsp;

That law was written before the state’s trigger law went into place in June 2022, effectively making all abortions — with the exception of life-threatening situations — illegal.

Missouri doesn’t have explicit laws requiring parental consent for minors getting abortions in other states, nor does it prohibit minors from going to other states to get abortions.

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2016/b2015_16/statute/065_000_0000_chapter/065_067_0000_article/065_067_0005_section/065_067_0005_k/">Kansas law</a>&nbsp;requires physicians to either obtain parental consent or to go through the judicial bypass process where a judge can authorize a minor to get an abortion without parental consent.

A spokesperson for Planned Parenthood Great Plains said in February that they do not provide any form of transportation directly to any patients, regardless of age or where they live.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665657486023.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>A lawsuit filed by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey accusing Planned Parenthood of transporting minors out of state for abortions will move forward, a judge ruled Tuesday evening.The lawsuit is based on conversations between Planned Parenthood staff and a man with Project Veritas who secretly filmed the staff while<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article289159614.html">&nbsp;inquiring about an abortion for his fake 13-year-old niece.&nbsp;</a>Planned Parenthood Great Plains, which runs the Kansas City area clinic where the video was taken, asked that the judge dismiss the lawsuit shortly after it was filed.&nbsp;“We’re reviewing all our options and will continue to vigorously defend this case based on hypotheticals and fictitious patients,” Erin Thompson, general counsel with Planned Parenthood Great Plain, said in a statement Wednesday.<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/10/planned-parenthood-andrew-bailey-project-veritas/">At a hearing in early June,</a>&nbsp;John Andrew Hirth, an attorney for Planned Parenthood, said there was no proof the Kansas City area clinic broke the law.“There’s no allegation that any abortion has been performed either in Missouri or outside of Missouri, with or without parental consent here,” Hirth said. “The whole conversation is hypothetical.”But Boone County Judge Brouck Jacobs found merit for moving forward with the case. He did not issue an opinion along with his ruling explaining his reasoning.“This is the beginning of the end for Planned Parenthood in the State of Missouri,” Bailey said in a statement Tuesday following the ruling.The video, captured in December, was posted on social media by Project Veritas, a self-proclaimed right wing news organization that often conducts undercover stings.&nbsp;The man filming in the clinic told staff that the made-up girl’s parents couldn’t know about the abortion. Staff then directed him to their affiliate clinics in Kansas where they said he could “bypass” parental consent.&nbsp; When the man asked how often girls go out of state for abortions, the Planned Parenthood employee said it happens “every day.”Kathryn Monroe, who represented the attorney general’s office at the hearing, said while the man’s questions were hypothetical, the employee at Planned Parenthood thought the situation was real.&nbsp;“There was admitted conduct about what they would do in this actual situation,” she said.The attorney general’s office in its arguments before the court pointed to Missouri law which states: “No one shall intentionally cause aid or assist a minor to obtain an abortion.”&nbsp;That law was written before the state’s trigger law went into place in June 2022, effectively making all abortions — with the exception of life-threatening situations — illegal.Missouri doesn’t have explicit laws requiring parental consent for minors getting abortions in other states, nor does it prohibit minors from going to other states to get abortions.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2016/b2015_16/statute/065_000_0000_chapter/065_067_0000_article/065_067_0005_section/065_067_0005_k/">Kansas law</a>&nbsp;requires physicians to either obtain parental consent or to go through the judicial bypass process where a judge can authorize a minor to get an abortion without parental consent.A spokesperson for Planned Parenthood Great Plains said in February that they do not provide any form of transportation directly to any patients, regardless of age or where they live.

Judge denies Planned Parenthood’s request to dismiss suit based on Project Veritas video

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Independent presidential candidate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;has failed to qualify for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-election-presidential-debates-biden-trump-6b1d1dbb2ed61c7637041b23662d7da8">next week's debate</a>&nbsp;in Atlanta, according to host network CNN, falling shy of benchmarks both for state ballot qualification and necessary polling.

The missed markers mean that the June 27 showdown will be solely between Democratic President Joe Biden and presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump. That denies Kennedy a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-rfk-cnn-debate-ballot-access-biden-trump-d3c5466a9a307ea4480508160f660a55">singular opportunity</a>&nbsp;to stand alongside the leading candidates in an attempt to lend legitimacy to his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-robert-f-kennedy-jr-rfk-097ac973a32ddf2e8e4edecd6a8f3153">longshot bid</a>&nbsp;and convince potential supporters that he has a shot at winning.

Both the Biden and Trump campaigns fear that Kennedy could play spoiler in what's anticipated to be a close general election.

According to the criteria set out by CNN, candidates would be invited to participate in the debate if they had secured a place on the ballot in states totaling at least 270 votes in the Electoral College, the minimum needed to win the presidency.

Biden and Trump have easily cleared the polling threshold but won’t be certified for the ballot until their parties formally nominate them later this summer. Both have secured enough delegates to lock in their nominations.

Kennedy’s campaign says he has satisfied the requirements to appear on the ballot in 22 states, with a combined 310 electoral votes, though not all have affirmed his name will be listed. California, the largest prize on the electoral map with 54 votes, will not certify any candidates until Aug. 29.

Candidates were also required to reach a polling threshold of 15% in four reliable national polls by June 20, another metric CNN said Kennedy failed to meet. According to the network, Kennedy has received at least 15% in three qualifying polls so far and is currently on the ballot in six states, making him currently eligible for 89 Electoral College votes.

Last month, Kennedy filed an election complaint alleging CNN is colluding with Biden and Trump to exclude him from the June 27 debate, alleging that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-rfk-cnn-debate-ballot-access-biden-trump-d3c5466a9a307ea4480508160f660a55">participation requirements</a>&nbsp;were designed to ensure only Biden and Trump would qualify and claiming that he is being held to a higher standard.

CNN has said the complaint is without merit. Kennedy's campaign did not immediately respond to a message Thursday seeking comment on CNN's announcement and asking if he planned to take any further action about his exclusion.

Last month, Biden and Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-election-presidential-debates-biden-trump-6b1d1dbb2ed61c7637041b23662d7da8">agreed to the CNN debate</a>&nbsp;and a second on Sept. 10 hosted by ABC, bypassing the nonpartisan commission that has organized debates for nearly four decades.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715712591224.png" alt="Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Independent presidential candidate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;has failed to qualify for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-election-presidential-debates-biden-trump-6b1d1dbb2ed61c7637041b23662d7da8">next week's debate</a>&nbsp;in Atlanta, according to host network CNN, falling shy of benchmarks both for state ballot qualification and necessary polling.The missed markers mean that the June 27 showdown will be solely between Democratic President Joe Biden and presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump. That denies Kennedy a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-rfk-cnn-debate-ballot-access-biden-trump-d3c5466a9a307ea4480508160f660a55">singular opportunity</a>&nbsp;to stand alongside the leading candidates in an attempt to lend legitimacy to his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-robert-f-kennedy-jr-rfk-097ac973a32ddf2e8e4edecd6a8f3153">longshot bid</a>&nbsp;and convince potential supporters that he has a shot at winning.Both the Biden and Trump campaigns fear that Kennedy could play spoiler in what's anticipated to be a close general election.According to the criteria set out by CNN, candidates would be invited to participate in the debate if they had secured a place on the ballot in states totaling at least 270 votes in the Electoral College, the minimum needed to win the presidency.Biden and Trump have easily cleared the polling threshold but won’t be certified for the ballot until their parties formally nominate them later this summer. Both have secured enough delegates to lock in their nominations.Kennedy’s campaign says he has satisfied the requirements to appear on the ballot in 22 states, with a combined 310 electoral votes, though not all have affirmed his name will be listed. California, the largest prize on the electoral map with 54 votes, will not certify any candidates until Aug. 29.Candidates were also required to reach a polling threshold of 15% in four reliable national polls by June 20, another metric CNN said Kennedy failed to meet. According to the network, Kennedy has received at least 15% in three qualifying polls so far and is currently on the ballot in six states, making him currently eligible for 89 Electoral College votes.Last month, Kennedy filed an election complaint alleging CNN is colluding with Biden and Trump to exclude him from the June 27 debate, alleging that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-rfk-cnn-debate-ballot-access-biden-trump-d3c5466a9a307ea4480508160f660a55">participation requirements</a>&nbsp;were designed to ensure only Biden and Trump would qualify and claiming that he is being held to a higher standard.CNN has said the complaint is without merit. Kennedy's campaign did not immediately respond to a message Thursday seeking comment on CNN's announcement and asking if he planned to take any further action about his exclusion.Last month, Biden and Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-election-presidential-debates-biden-trump-6b1d1dbb2ed61c7637041b23662d7da8">agreed to the CNN debate</a>&nbsp;and a second on Sept. 10 hosted by ABC, bypassing the nonpartisan commission that has organized debates for nearly four decades.

Kennedy fails to qualify for debate. It'll be a Biden, Trump showdown

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas legislators have approved major tax cuts and ended a political stalemate with Gov. Laura Kelly. Yet some of them sounded frustrated as they were doing it.

The Republican-controlled Legislature approved a bill Tuesday to cut income and property taxes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-cuts-kansas-special-legislative-session-b79d213f1a904dfd7604648ea9d2c454">by a total of $1.23 billion</a>&nbsp;over the next three years. The measure contains the exact terms of a compromise reached by the Democratic governor and the GOP leaders of the House and Senate, and Kelly promised to sign it.

But many lawmakers, particularly Republicans, said they'd wanted more for taxpayers, and legislators in both parties view its property tax relief as meager. The bill decreases what homeowners will pay to the state to help finance public schools, but the 15.6% cut in that tax for the owner of a $250,000 amounts to $76 a year and is lower than previous plans lawmakers considered this year.

The bill cleared the Legislature with huge bipartisan majorities during a one-day special session called by Kelly after she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-budget-tax-cuts-veto-9ebddf96cd35b614d8e96f2d8b8939c2">vetoed three previous tax-cutting plans</a>&nbsp;and lawmakers ended their regular annual session May 1. The GOP leaders who negotiated with her office warned colleagues that they risked another veto if they made any changes — and they didn't. They've worried that failing to cut taxes will anger voters in this year's elections.

“We can absolutely afford more tax cuts," said Senate tax committee Chair Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican. "I do support this legislation, but it is not the best we can get.”

The state's coffers have bulged with surplus revenue, but disagreements between Kelly and Republican leaders prevented Kansas from enacting major reductions.

Republican leaders wanted tax cuts worth at least $230 million more over three years, but Kelly argued that those larger cuts would lead to budget shortfalls in five years.

“Although this package is not perfect and emphasizes income tax reductions instead of property tax relief, it does provide significant relief,” she said in a statement.

Personal income tax cuts account for nearly 87% of the bill's relief, even though legislators repeatedly said their constituents' biggest concern is rising property taxes fueled in part by rising home values. But most property taxes are levied by local officials, and the state's school tax is a small portion of what people pay.

The bill moves Kansas from three personal income tax rates to two and cuts the highest rate from 5.7% to 5.58%. Other changes will increase the amount of income automatically exempted from taxes so that a married couple filing jointly will not pay any tax until they earn more than $25,000, whether they have children or not.

Kansas also will stop taxing retirees' Social Security benefits instead of taxing the entire amount once someone earns more than $75,000. The state also will double an income tax credit for child care expenses.

The measure also provides a 14% cut in the tax paid by banks, savings and loans and other financial institutions instead of the corporate income tax. That mirrors past cuts for other businesses.

By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas legislators have approved major tax cuts and ended a political stalemate with Gov. Laura Kelly. Yet some of them sounded frustrated as they were doing it.The Republican-controlled Legislature approved a bill Tuesday to cut income and property taxes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-cuts-kansas-special-legislative-session-b79d213f1a904dfd7604648ea9d2c454">by a total of $1.23 billion</a>&nbsp;over the next three years. The measure contains the exact terms of a compromise reached by the Democratic governor and the GOP leaders of the House and Senate, and Kelly promised to sign it.But many lawmakers, particularly Republicans, said they'd wanted more for taxpayers, and legislators in both parties view its property tax relief as meager. The bill decreases what homeowners will pay to the state to help finance public schools, but the 15.6% cut in that tax for the owner of a $250,000 amounts to $76 a year and is lower than previous plans lawmakers considered this year.The bill cleared the Legislature with huge bipartisan majorities during a one-day special session called by Kelly after she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-budget-tax-cuts-veto-9ebddf96cd35b614d8e96f2d8b8939c2">vetoed three previous tax-cutting plans</a>&nbsp;and lawmakers ended their regular annual session May 1. The GOP leaders who negotiated with her office warned colleagues that they risked another veto if they made any changes — and they didn't. They've worried that failing to cut taxes will anger voters in this year's elections.“We can absolutely afford more tax cuts," said Senate tax committee Chair Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican. "I do support this legislation, but it is not the best we can get.”The state's coffers have bulged with surplus revenue, but disagreements between Kelly and Republican leaders prevented Kansas from enacting major reductions.Republican leaders wanted tax cuts worth at least $230 million more over three years, but Kelly argued that those larger cuts would lead to budget shortfalls in five years.“Although this package is not perfect and emphasizes income tax reductions instead of property tax relief, it does provide significant relief,” she said in a statement.Personal income tax cuts account for nearly 87% of the bill's relief, even though legislators repeatedly said their constituents' biggest concern is rising property taxes fueled in part by rising home values. But most property taxes are levied by local officials, and the state's school tax is a small portion of what people pay.The bill moves Kansas from three personal income tax rates to two and cuts the highest rate from 5.7% to 5.58%. Other changes will increase the amount of income automatically exempted from taxes so that a married couple filing jointly will not pay any tax until they earn more than $25,000, whether they have children or not.Kansas also will stop taxing retirees' Social Security benefits instead of taxing the entire amount once someone earns more than $75,000. The state also will double an income tax credit for child care expenses.The measure also provides a 14% cut in the tax paid by banks, savings and loans and other financial institutions instead of the corporate income tax. That mirrors past cuts for other businesses.

Major tax cuts in Kansas but relief for home owners isn't seen as enough

KANSAS CITY- KC Scout, a bi-state initiative between Kansas and Missouri  Departments of Transportation to provide travel and traffic information and service for the Kansas City metro area, suffered a cyberattack on April 25.

After more than a week of successful testing, motorists in Kansas City are seeing real-time messages on the highway digital signs.&nbsp; Returning real-time information is considered the first step in restoring all KC Scout systems and services.

Additional restoration efforts continue and include having the website operational and camera views available online.

The Kansas and Missouri DOTs remind motorists that emergency services are still available in Kansas and Missouri. Kansas Highway Patrol Motorist Assist Vehicle (MAV) continue to proactively run routes and respond to incidents in their jurisdiction.

MoDOT Emergency Response Continue to proactively run routes and respond to incidents in their jurisdiction. Immediate and critical traffic information impacting the KC metro area is being shared through&nbsp;<a href="http://modot.org/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR09GLiozaM6T2M7ml6P9tPbFHXdqYtwrCawElwvj05vcTT7adsVux2-FbA_aem_AU_Pj1jPyIyhQQIuX9YBs7g64rJIJI0zcUP74BHHUcUWGNKr5V6JSNOc6OQKB_t2rPjMX4Npb6h1Ha9EekcQfDIV" target="_blank">modot.org</a>&nbsp;in Missouri and&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2FKanDrive.gov%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3xuYCQar7psg-4ovMKcjcjBnRurW9rZldPmJ8X4lSJruvNuClp4umCYgM_aem_AU93-LO_i4ikP37x8LdPD_NjgMMznedT8Z-TrwECmO1VSb-acK5dm1uNIeD2ZrGd4C2VNsQ6uRiZa20B6c9XiRkd&amp;h=AT3BvUtWPvA4w1Im4fah0k5j48u8IsudQy_HbogRx8mOPjt34IOQtB8a4tWUFjAomjHWnlcBtVDrWy32nrIZDgnu7IQNgHDpry6zW0IXU0TqtvsHctzxaRzE2Q3O5UFCX_RXBxY&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT2zLeQexISXF2s50qRhcxTGlrpA-O9NFCwI4JPBpA2BimQ9_NkpKAGYXZYOHl5rQcX7i6wZ2se4pk3WgCdfK-McTm9Tfa6tKz2_2fpuHkUcNOyxA6XiAboYbAqHxCSQ2yPJS0382FQbMQIKSYtdkztZ6lpjKF7QxRqlB4qZPACsKZTFZkcav_cmQDxFXacrAjyGuEAOF3svFc25dOxNIinoSsU5jmzmnTmtyzetW9AFIhzb2b0MOEdqiC48UAcn-56NL4WzhQGIf3CiVt7f" target="_blank">KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718886993366.png" alt="Image KC Scout" />
 <figcaption>Image KC Scout</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY- KC Scout, a bi-state initiative between Kansas and Missouri Departments of Transportation to provide travel and traffic information and service for the Kansas City metro area, suffered a cyberattack on April 25.After more than a week of successful testing, motorists in Kansas City are seeing real-time messages on the highway digital signs.&nbsp; Returning real-time information is considered the first step in restoring all KC Scout systems and services.Additional restoration efforts continue and include having the website operational and camera views available online.The Kansas and Missouri DOTs remind motorists that emergency services are still available in Kansas and Missouri. Kansas Highway Patrol Motorist Assist Vehicle (MAV) continue to proactively run routes and respond to incidents in their jurisdiction.MoDOT Emergency Response Continue to proactively run routes and respond to incidents in their jurisdiction. Immediate and critical traffic information impacting the KC metro area is being shared through&nbsp;<a href="http://modot.org/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR09GLiozaM6T2M7ml6P9tPbFHXdqYtwrCawElwvj05vcTT7adsVux2-FbA_aem_AU_Pj1jPyIyhQQIuX9YBs7g64rJIJI0zcUP74BHHUcUWGNKr5V6JSNOc6OQKB_t2rPjMX4Npb6h1Ha9EekcQfDIV" target="_blank">modot.org</a>&nbsp;in Missouri and&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2FKanDrive.gov%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3xuYCQar7psg-4ovMKcjcjBnRurW9rZldPmJ8X4lSJruvNuClp4umCYgM_aem_AU93-LO_i4ikP37x8LdPD_NjgMMznedT8Z-TrwECmO1VSb-acK5dm1uNIeD2ZrGd4C2VNsQ6uRiZa20B6c9XiRkd&amp;h=AT3BvUtWPvA4w1Im4fah0k5j48u8IsudQy_HbogRx8mOPjt34IOQtB8a4tWUFjAomjHWnlcBtVDrWy32nrIZDgnu7IQNgHDpry6zW0IXU0TqtvsHctzxaRzE2Q3O5UFCX_RXBxY&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT2zLeQexISXF2s50qRhcxTGlrpA-O9NFCwI4JPBpA2BimQ9_NkpKAGYXZYOHl5rQcX7i6wZ2se4pk3WgCdfK-McTm9Tfa6tKz2_2fpuHkUcNOyxA6XiAboYbAqHxCSQ2yPJS0382FQbMQIKSYtdkztZ6lpjKF7QxRqlB4qZPACsKZTFZkcav_cmQDxFXacrAjyGuEAOF3svFc25dOxNIinoSsU5jmzmnTmtyzetW9AFIhzb2b0MOEdqiC48UAcn-56NL4WzhQGIf3CiVt7f" target="_blank">KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.

Cyberattack: Real-time info returns to highway message boards in KC

HALL COUNTY, Neb. —Authorities investigating a a deadly attempted robbery at a highway rest area in Nebraska have identified the victims as Gary and Mary Weaver of Eureka, Missouri, according to the Hall County, Nebraska Sheriff's office.

James Thompson, Jr., 22,&nbsp;Elyria, Ohio, is being held in the Hall County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, robbery, fleeing in a motor vehicle to avoid arrest and traffic violations.

The Hall County Sheriff's office said deputies were called to an Interstate 80 rest area shortly after 7 a.m. Wednesday and found both victims with knife wounds.

Gary Weaver, 72,&nbsp; died at a Grand Island hospital. Mary Weaver, 71, is in critical condition at the hospital with life-threatening injuries, authorities said.&nbsp;

Thompson fled the rest area in a vehicle before authorities arrived, but Grand Island Police Captain Dean Elliott told television station KSNB that officers were able to get a description.

The Nebraska State Patrol tried to stop a vehicle matching that description near Wood River before that vehicle exited the interstate and turned south. Elliott said the vehicle eventually drove into the Platte River before the Thompson was arrested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718822090654.png" alt="Photo Nebraska State Patrol courtesy NTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo Nebraska State Patrol courtesy NTV</figcaption>
 </figure>HALL COUNTY, Neb. —Authorities investigating a a deadly attempted robbery at a highway rest area in Nebraska have identified the victims as Gary and Mary Weaver of Eureka, Missouri, according to the Hall County, Nebraska Sheriff's office.James Thompson, Jr., 22,&nbsp;Elyria, Ohio, is being held in the Hall County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, robbery, fleeing in a motor vehicle to avoid arrest and traffic violations.The Hall County Sheriff's office said deputies were called to an Interstate 80 rest area shortly after 7 a.m. Wednesday and found both victims with knife wounds.Gary Weaver, 72,&nbsp; died at a Grand Island hospital. Mary Weaver, 71, is in critical condition at the hospital with life-threatening injuries, authorities said.&nbsp;Thompson fled the rest area in a vehicle before authorities arrived, but Grand Island Police Captain Dean Elliott told television station KSNB that officers were able to get a description.The Nebraska State Patrol tried to stop a vehicle matching that description near Wood River before that vehicle exited the interstate and turned south. Elliott said the vehicle eventually drove into the Platte River before the Thompson was arrested.

Sheriff IDs couple in deadly knife attack at Nebraska highway rest area

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen accused in a&nbsp;violent attack on a Kansas teen is due in court Thursday.

Just after noon May 26, police responded to a disturbance in the 400 block of N Dodge in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses. The victim in this case, an 18-year-old girl later arrived at an area hospital with second degree burns to the face and neck believed to be caused by a suspect throwing an acidic liquid on her during a physical fight.&nbsp;

Immediately following the incident, investigators with the WPD Felony Assault unit along with patrol officers began looking for three suspects. 

On June 5, officers with the Patrol North Community Response Team located and arrested two 18-year-old suspects. Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins and Tayronnia Jontashia West were jailed in connection with the crime.

On June 7, West was charged with Aggravated Battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; Hollins met the requirement of bond and is scheduled for court Thursday morning, according to the district attorney's office.

Investigators are still attempting to locate a third suspect, a 16-year-old black female of Topeka.

If you have information related to this case, please call investigators at 316-268-4407 or make an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717690911383.png" alt="Hollins-photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Hollins-photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen accused in a&nbsp;violent attack on a Kansas teen is due in court Thursday.Just after noon May 26, police responded to a disturbance in the 400 block of N Dodge in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses. The victim in this case, an 18-year-old girl later arrived at an area hospital with second degree burns to the face and neck believed to be caused by a suspect throwing an acidic liquid on her during a physical fight.&nbsp;Immediately following the incident, investigators with the WPD Felony Assault unit along with patrol officers began looking for three suspects. On June 5, officers with the Patrol North Community Response Team located and arrested two 18-year-old suspects. Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins and Tayronnia Jontashia West were jailed in connection with the crime.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717690818288.png" alt="West photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>West photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On June 7, West was charged with Aggravated Battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; Hollins met the requirement of bond and is scheduled for court Thursday morning, according to the district attorney's office.Investigators are still attempting to locate a third suspect, a 16-year-old black female of Topeka.If you have information related to this case, please call investigators at 316-268-4407 or make an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Suspect accused of throwing acid in face of Kan. teen is due in court

DAMASCUS —A U.S. airstrike in Syria killed a Senior ISIS Official, according to a statement Wednesday from the U.S. Central Command.

On June 16, U.S. Central Command conducted an airstrike in Syria, killing Usamah Jamal Muhammad Ibrahim al-Janabi, a senior ISIS official and facilitator. His death will disrupt ISIS’s ability to resource and conduct terror attacks.

CENTCOM, alongside allies and partners in the region, will continue to execute operations to degrade ISIS operational capabilities and ensure its enduring defeat.

There is no indication any civilians were harmed in this strike.

In addition, U.S. forces destroyed a ground control station, command and control node in an area of Yemen controlled by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and destroyed two Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea.according to a statement from U.S. Central Command.

DAMASCUS —A U.S. airstrike in Syria killed a Senior ISIS Official, according to a statement Wednesday from the U.S. Central Command.On June 16, U.S. Central Command conducted an airstrike in Syria, killing Usamah Jamal Muhammad Ibrahim al-Janabi, a senior ISIS official and facilitator. His death will disrupt ISIS’s ability to resource and conduct terror attacks.CENTCOM, alongside allies and partners in the region, will continue to execute operations to degrade ISIS operational capabilities and ensure its enduring defeat.There is no indication any civilians were harmed in this strike.In addition, U.S. forces destroyed a ground control station, command and control node in an area of Yemen controlled by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and destroyed two Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea.according to a statement from U.S. Central Command.

U.S. Airstrike in Syria kills senior ISIS official

KANSAS CITY —A driver who died in an accident that occurred June 7, in Kansas City has been identified as 53-year-old Lashan Townsend-Gunnels, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

Just before 8a.m. June 7, a Chevrolet Silverado was speeding northbound on Troost from 89th Street when a Honda passenger vehicle pulled out into the first lane of Troost from 85th Street. This caused the pickup to swerve into southbound lanes of oncoming traffic.

At 83rd Terrace, the Chevrolet’s driver locked the pickup’s brakes as a GMC Terrain pulled into the southbound lanes of Troost. The pickup struck the GMC on the driver’s side and forced it into a metal utility pole on the passenger side. The pickup then overturned onto its passenger side.

EMS transported the driver of the GMC, later identified as Townsend-Gunnels, to an area hospital. She had life-threatening injuries. EMS transported the driver of the&nbsp;pickup to a local hospital for treatment of&nbsp; serious injuries.&nbsp; The driver of the GMC was properly restrained, according to KCPD. Police did not have details on the seat belt usage by the driver of the pickup.

On June 15, the KCPD reported Townsend-Gunnels died shortly before midnight on Friday, according to staff at&nbsp;Research Hospital. This is fatality #48 compared to #35 at this time in 2023.

KANSAS CITY —A driver who died in an accident that occurred June 7, in Kansas City has been identified as 53-year-old Lashan Townsend-Gunnels, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.Just before 8a.m. June 7, a Chevrolet Silverado was speeding northbound on Troost from 89th Street when a Honda passenger vehicle pulled out into the first lane of Troost from 85th Street. This caused the pickup to swerve into southbound lanes of oncoming traffic.At 83rd Terrace, the Chevrolet’s driver locked the pickup’s brakes as a GMC Terrain pulled into the southbound lanes of Troost. The pickup struck the GMC on the driver’s side and forced it into a metal utility pole on the passenger side. The pickup then overturned onto its passenger side.EMS transported the driver of the GMC, later identified as Townsend-Gunnels, to an area hospital. She had life-threatening injuries. EMS transported the driver of the&nbsp;pickup to a local hospital for treatment of&nbsp; serious injuries.&nbsp; The driver of the GMC was properly restrained, according to KCPD. Police did not have details on the seat belt usage by the driver of the pickup.On June 15, the KCPD reported Townsend-Gunnels died shortly before midnight on Friday, according to staff at&nbsp;Research Hospital. This is fatality #48 compared to #35 at this time in 2023.

Police ID driver who died a week after Kansas City crash

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; a violent attack and have a Kansas felon in custody.

Just before 3p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;June 15, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of SW Western Avenue in Topeka in reference to a stabbing, according to Police Lt. Jerry Monasmith.

First responders&nbsp;located a man suffering multiple lacerations. He was transported to a local hospital with life threatening injuries. Police did not have an update on the condition of the victim.

As a result of the investigation, Xavian Locke, 24, was jailed on requested charges of&nbsp; Aggravated Battery and a County Warrant.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and&nbsp;Criminal possess firearm; Convicted felon or drug offender, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718726438938.png" alt="Locke-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Locke-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; a violent attack and have a Kansas felon in custody.Just before 3p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;June 15, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of SW Western Avenue in Topeka in reference to a stabbing, according to Police Lt. Jerry Monasmith.First responders&nbsp;located a man suffering multiple lacerations. He was transported to a local hospital with life threatening injuries. Police did not have an update on the condition of the victim.As a result of the investigation, Xavian Locke, 24, was jailed on requested charges of&nbsp; Aggravated Battery and a County Warrant.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and&nbsp;Criminal possess firearm; Convicted felon or drug offender, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon jailed for violent knife attack

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man who rammed into a federal agent’s vehicle while attempting to escape arrest pleaded guilty in federal court last week to illegally possessing ammunition and assaulting a federal law enforcement officer, according to the United State's Attorney.

Charles D. Jackson, also known as “Grove Street” and “C Jackem,” 30, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition and one count of assaulting a federal law enforcement officer.

On Aug. 24, 2023, agents and task officers with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives executed a search warrant at Jackson’s residence. As officers approached on foot, an ATF agent pulled her vehicle into the driveway to pin in a black Kia sedan parked in the driveway and still running. All of the agents and officers were wearing clearly marked body armor identifying them as “ATF Police.”

The officers announced themselves and the ATF agent activated the emergency equipment on her vehicle. Jackson, who was fully reclined in the driver’s seat, popped up and put the car in drive. He rammed into the front of the ATF vehicle, then attempted to back up and drive forward several times in an apparent attempt to escape. However, the ATF agent pushed the Kia into the garage with her vehicle, immobilizing it.

The ATF vehicle was damaged as a result of Jackson ramming it. Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Jackson must pay restitution for the damage.

On the floorboard of the front’s driver’s seat where Jackson had been sitting, agents located a loaded AR-style 5.56-caliber pistol with no serial number and with an extended magazine, which contained 39 rounds of ammunition.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Jackson has a prior felony conviction for first degree robbery.

Under federal statutes, Jackson is subject to a sentence of up to 16 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Constance. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man who rammed into a federal agent’s vehicle while attempting to escape arrest pleaded guilty in federal court last week to illegally possessing ammunition and assaulting a federal law enforcement officer, according to the United State's Attorney.Charles D. Jackson, also known as “Grove Street” and “C Jackem,” 30, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition and one count of assaulting a federal law enforcement officer.On Aug. 24, 2023, agents and task officers with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives executed a search warrant at Jackson’s residence. As officers approached on foot, an ATF agent pulled her vehicle into the driveway to pin in a black Kia sedan parked in the driveway and still running. All of the agents and officers were wearing clearly marked body armor identifying them as “ATF Police.”The officers announced themselves and the ATF agent activated the emergency equipment on her vehicle. Jackson, who was fully reclined in the driver’s seat, popped up and put the car in drive. He rammed into the front of the ATF vehicle, then attempted to back up and drive forward several times in an apparent attempt to escape. However, the ATF agent pushed the Kia into the garage with her vehicle, immobilizing it.The ATF vehicle was damaged as a result of Jackson ramming it. Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Jackson must pay restitution for the damage.On the floorboard of the front’s driver’s seat where Jackson had been sitting, agents located a loaded AR-style 5.56-caliber pistol with no serial number and with an extended magazine, which contained 39 rounds of ammunition.Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Jackson has a prior felony conviction for first degree robbery.Under federal statutes, Jackson is subject to a sentence of up to 16 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Constance. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

KC man rammed ATF vehicle while attempting to avoid arrest

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Louisiana has become the first state to require that the Ten Commandments be displayed in every public school classroom under a bill signed into law by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry on Wednesday.

The GOP-drafted legislation mandates that a poster-sized display of the Ten Commandments in “large, easily readable font” be required in all public classrooms, from kindergarten to state-funded universities. Although the bill did not receive final approval from Landry, the time for gubernatorial action — to sign or veto the bill — has lapsed.

Opponents question the law’s constitutionality, warning that lawsuits are likely to follow. Proponents say the purpose of the measure is not solely religious, but that it has historical significance. In the law’s language, the Ten Commandments are described as “foundational documents of our state and national government.”

The displays, which will be paired with a four-paragraph “context statement” describing how the Ten Commandments “were a prominent part of American public education for almost three centuries,” must be in place in classrooms by the start of 2025.

The posters would be paid for through donations. State funds will not be used to implement the mandate, based on language in the legislation.

The law also “authorizes” — but does not require — the display of the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence and the Northwest Ordinance in K-12 public schools.

Not long after the governor signed the bill into law, civil rights groups and organizations that want to keep religion out of government promised to file a lawsuit challenging it.

The law prevents students from getting an equal education and will keep children who have different beliefs from feeling safe at school, the American Civil Liberties Union, Americans United for Separation of Church and State and the Freedom from Religion Foundation said in a joint statement Wednesday afternoon.

“Even among those who may believe in some version of the Ten Commandments, the particular text that they adhere to can differ by religious denomination or tradition. The government should not be taking sides in this theological debate,” the groups said.

Similar bills requiring the Ten Commandments be displayed in classrooms have been proposed in other states including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-01ad837a877143d6bc2f1681f9cd8a2a">Texas</a>, Oklahoma and Utah. However, with threats of legal battles over the constitutionality of such measures, no state besides Louisiana has had success in making the bills law.

Legal battles over the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms are not new.

In 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a similar Kentucky law was unconstitutional and violated the establishment clause of the U.S. Constitution, which says Congress can “make no law respecting an establishment of religion.” The high court found that the law had no secular purpose but rather served a plainly religious purpose.

Louisiana’s controversial law, in a state ensconced in the Bible Belt, comes during a new era of conservative leadership in the state under Landry, who replaced two-term Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards in January.

The GOP also has a two-thirds supermajority in the Legislature, and Republicans hold every statewide elected position, paving the way for lawmakers to push through a conservative agenda during the legislative session that concluded earlier this month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718826624556.png" alt="Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed the bill into law on Wednesday-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed the bill into law on Wednesday-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Louisiana has become the first state to require that the Ten Commandments be displayed in every public school classroom under a bill signed into law by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry on Wednesday.The GOP-drafted legislation mandates that a poster-sized display of the Ten Commandments in “large, easily readable font” be required in all public classrooms, from kindergarten to state-funded universities. Although the bill did not receive final approval from Landry, the time for gubernatorial action — to sign or veto the bill — has lapsed.Opponents question the law’s constitutionality, warning that lawsuits are likely to follow. Proponents say the purpose of the measure is not solely religious, but that it has historical significance. In the law’s language, the Ten Commandments are described as “foundational documents of our state and national government.”The displays, which will be paired with a four-paragraph “context statement” describing how the Ten Commandments “were a prominent part of American public education for almost three centuries,” must be in place in classrooms by the start of 2025.The posters would be paid for through donations. State funds will not be used to implement the mandate, based on language in the legislation.The law also “authorizes” — but does not require — the display of the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence and the Northwest Ordinance in K-12 public schools.Not long after the governor signed the bill into law, civil rights groups and organizations that want to keep religion out of government promised to file a lawsuit challenging it.The law prevents students from getting an equal education and will keep children who have different beliefs from feeling safe at school, the American Civil Liberties Union, Americans United for Separation of Church and State and the Freedom from Religion Foundation said in a joint statement Wednesday afternoon.“Even among those who may believe in some version of the Ten Commandments, the particular text that they adhere to can differ by religious denomination or tradition. The government should not be taking sides in this theological debate,” the groups said.Similar bills requiring the Ten Commandments be displayed in classrooms have been proposed in other states including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-01ad837a877143d6bc2f1681f9cd8a2a">Texas</a>, Oklahoma and Utah. However, with threats of legal battles over the constitutionality of such measures, no state besides Louisiana has had success in making the bills law.Legal battles over the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms are not new.In 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a similar Kentucky law was unconstitutional and violated the establishment clause of the U.S. Constitution, which says Congress can “make no law respecting an establishment of religion.” The high court found that the law had no secular purpose but rather served a plainly religious purpose.Louisiana’s controversial law, in a state ensconced in the Bible Belt, comes during a new era of conservative leadership in the state under Landry, who replaced two-term Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards in January.The GOP also has a two-thirds supermajority in the Legislature, and Republicans hold every statewide elected position, paving the way for lawmakers to push through a conservative agenda during the legislative session that concluded earlier this month.

First state will require Ten Commandments displayed in classrooms 

SALINA —The Salina Fire Department (SFD) is raising funds for a community Safe Haven Baby Box.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SFD said in a statement released Wednesday that the initiative aims to provide a secure, anonymous way for parents in crisis to surrender their newborns.

"I'm excited about it and we have great support from the Salina City Commission," said SFD Chief Tony Sneidar. "The City manager's office tasked the fire department with making this come to fruition."

This project, initiated by Mayor Bill Longbine and supported by city officials and the Salina Fire Department, will place a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2024_00_0000.pdf">fully compliant&nbsp;</a>Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station 1,&nbsp;<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/Vnsr61Dh4tVP7jp1A" target="_blank">222 W. Elm Street</a>.

Community support through donations is important and the lifeblood of this initiative. Donations will cover the costs of installation, maintenance, and awareness campaigns. The impact of Driven to Care's grant has given the initiative a great start, but SFD still needs help to make this initiative a reality.

The anticipated costs include the Baby Box, demolition, construction materials, installation, and electrical work, amounting to $21,000, and a $500 annual maintenance fee. The Salina Community Baby Box initiative is not just a project; it's a life-saving opportunity for parents in crisis, helping to secure the futures of our most vulnerable infants.

Go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shbb.org/">www.shbb.org</a>&nbsp;for more info. Donation checks may be sent to PO Box 185, Woodburn, IN 46797, with Salina, KS Baby Box in the memo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718839279597.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA —The Salina Fire Department (SFD) is raising funds for a community Safe Haven Baby Box.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LTiPo17E9gU?si=SecRVlXuAItes8jd" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>SFD said in a statement released Wednesday that the initiative aims to provide a secure, anonymous way for parents in crisis to surrender their newborns."I'm excited about it and we have great support from the Salina City Commission," said SFD Chief Tony Sneidar. "The City manager's office tasked the fire department with making this come to fruition."This project, initiated by Mayor Bill Longbine and supported by city officials and the Salina Fire Department, will place a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2024_00_0000.pdf">fully compliant&nbsp;</a>Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station 1,&nbsp;<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/Vnsr61Dh4tVP7jp1A" target="_blank">222 W. Elm Street</a>.Community support through donations is important and the lifeblood of this initiative. Donations will cover the costs of installation, maintenance, and awareness campaigns. The impact of Driven to Care's grant has given the initiative a great start, but SFD still needs help to make this initiative a reality.The anticipated costs include the Baby Box, demolition, construction materials, installation, and electrical work, amounting to $21,000, and a $500 annual maintenance fee. The Salina Community Baby Box initiative is not just a project; it's a life-saving opportunity for parents in crisis, helping to secure the futures of our most vulnerable infants.Go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shbb.org/">www.shbb.org</a>&nbsp;for more info. Donation checks may be sent to PO Box 185, Woodburn, IN 46797, with Salina, KS Baby Box in the memo.

Salina Fire Department to install Safe Haven Baby Box

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a drive-by shooting and asking for help to locate a suspect.

Just before 4:30p.m. Monday, police responded to the area of W. 149th and Hardy in Overland Park in reference an armed disturbance, according to a media release.

 Several young adult men were playing basketball in a cul-de-sac when a black vehicle drove up to them. 

 The driver of the vehicle asked if a specific person was in the area.  When the young men responded to the driver they did not know the person, the driver then shot several rounds into a nearby home. 

 There were no injuries.The suspect vehicle left in an unknown direction.  The driver is identified as a white male, in his mid to late twenties. 

 If you have any information regarding this incident please contact the lead Detective at 913-327-8750 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.&nbsp;

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a drive-by shooting and asking for help to locate a suspect.Just before 4:30p.m. Monday, police responded to the area of W. 149th and Hardy in Overland Park in reference an armed disturbance, according to a media release. Several young adult men were playing basketball in a cul-de-sac when a black vehicle drove up to them. The driver of the vehicle asked if a specific person was in the area. When the young men responded to the driver they did not know the person, the driver then shot several rounds into a nearby home. There were no injuries.The suspect vehicle left in an unknown direction. The driver is identified as a white male, in his mid to late twenties. If you have any information regarding this incident please contact the lead Detective at 913-327-8750 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.&nbsp;

Police investigating Kansas drive-by shooting

Dozens of Missouri doctors joined in asking the court to uphold a federal law that allows doctors to perform emergency abortions in states with bans

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

When a woman experiencing a second trimester miscarriage came into the hospital bleeding through her clothes, Dr. Jennifer Smith couldn’t immediately help her.&nbsp;

Not while her fetus still had a heartbeat.

Too scared to wait for the miscarriage to progress far enough to be admitted to the hospital in Missouri, the woman and her husband drove to Illinois where she could obtain an abortion.&nbsp;

Until the situation is life-threatening to the mother, her hands are tied, said Smith, an OB-GYN in St. Louis. But at least in the worst emergency cases, Smith knows she can help thanks to a federal law called&nbsp;Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA).

“It’s just hard to imagine that we’re living in a time where that actually may not be true,” Smith said.&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/2024/04/24/supreme-court-justices-appear-split-over-whether-to-protect-abortion-care-during-emergencies/">The U.S. Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;will soon decide whether a federal law mandating hospitals treat and stabilize every patient, regardless of their ability to pay, includes providing abortions where they are otherwise illegal.

In the case, the Biden administration sued Idaho to block enforcement of its abortion ban, arguing that it violated EMTALA by denying women abortions in emergency situations. Idaho bans abortions in almost all cases, with exceptions to save the life of the pregnant woman or when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.&nbsp;

In response,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/23/23-727/290151/20231120154722276_2023-11-20%20Motion%20with%20Appendix.pdf">Idaho argued</a>&nbsp;that the federal law only requires “stabilizing treatment for&nbsp;the unborn children of pregnant women.” Idaho is asking the court to lift a temporary injunction blocking enforcement of its abortion ban in hospital emergency rooms.

The government is arguing that EMTALA&nbsp;requires hospitals to provide abortions needed to stabilize or save the life of a pregnant patient It also protects doctors from prosecution.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718794587714.png" alt=" Jennifer Smith, an OBGYN, speaks about medical challenges without legal abortions in Missouri during a rally held by Missourians for Constitutional Freedom Friday morning (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Jennifer Smith, an OBGYN, speaks about medical challenges without legal abortions in Missouri during a rally held by Missourians for Constitutional Freedom Friday morning (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Dozens of Missouri doctors joined in asking the court to uphold a federal law that allows doctors to perform emergency abortions in states with bans</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>When a woman experiencing a second trimester miscarriage came into the hospital bleeding through her clothes, Dr. Jennifer Smith couldn’t immediately help her.&nbsp;Not while her fetus still had a heartbeat.Too scared to wait for the miscarriage to progress far enough to be admitted to the hospital in Missouri, the woman and her husband drove to Illinois where she could obtain an abortion.&nbsp;Until the situation is life-threatening to the mother, her hands are tied, said Smith, an OB-GYN in St. Louis. But at least in the worst emergency cases, Smith knows she can help thanks to a federal law called&nbsp;Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA).“It’s just hard to imagine that we’re living in a time where that actually may not be true,” Smith said.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/2024/04/24/supreme-court-justices-appear-split-over-whether-to-protect-abortion-care-during-emergencies/">The U.S. Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;will soon decide whether a federal law mandating hospitals treat and stabilize every patient, regardless of their ability to pay, includes providing abortions where they are otherwise illegal.In the case, the Biden administration sued Idaho to block enforcement of its abortion ban, arguing that it violated EMTALA by denying women abortions in emergency situations. Idaho bans abortions in almost all cases, with exceptions to save the life of the pregnant woman or when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.&nbsp;In response,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/23/23-727/290151/20231120154722276_2023-11-20%20Motion%20with%20Appendix.pdf">Idaho argued</a>&nbsp;that the federal law only requires “stabilizing treatment for&nbsp;the unborn children of pregnant women.” Idaho is asking the court to lift a temporary injunction blocking enforcement of its abortion ban in hospital emergency rooms.The government is arguing that EMTALA&nbsp;requires hospitals to provide abortions needed to stabilize or save the life of a pregnant patient It also protects doctors from prosecution.Without the law, hospitals and health care workers would have to wait until a mother is actually dying to proceed with a life-saving abortion, Smith said. St. Louis area hospitals still perform abortions for ectopic pregnancies, a nonviable pregnancy that if left unaddressed can be life-threatening to the mother, Smith said. But without EMTALA, she’s not so sure.“It leaves every person involved in the care open to be prosecuted,” Smith said.In May,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://19thnews.org/2024/05/doctors-letter-supreme-court-abortion-medical-emergencies/">nearly 6,000 physicians</a>&nbsp;across the country signed a letter on behalf of the Committee to Protect Health Care asking the Supreme Court to uphold the federal law.&nbsp;Smith was among 32 Missouri doctors to sign on.In June 2022, Missouri became the first state to ban abortion following the Supreme Court case overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. The ban was triggered under a law passed in 2019 that made it effective with the Supreme Court action.The 2019 law states abortions will only be permitted in cases of a medical emergency when “a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.”Health care providers who perform abortions not necessary to save the woman’s life can be charged with a class B felony. If convicted, they would face up to 15 years in prison and their medical license could also be suspended or revoked.&nbsp;Because of this ban, some doctors and hospitals in Idaho recently stopped admitting pregnant patients who came into the emergency room, potentially needing abortions to save their lives. Instead, women are being transferred to other states for treatment during emergency situations.&nbsp;Since Roe was overturned, a Missouri hospital became one of the first in the nation to be cited for violating EMTALA by denying a pregnant woman emergency care.&nbsp;In August 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/01/hospitals-in-joplin-kck-cited-for-denying-emergency-abortion-to-missouri-woman/">Mylissa Farmer entered a Joplin emergency room</a>&nbsp;after her water broke at about 18 weeks pregnant. Even though the pregnancy was no longer viable, because the fetus had a heartbeat, and because Farmer’s condition wasn’t immediately life-threatening, she was turned away. She returned the next day, was kept overnight and then released without additional treatment.Freeman Health in Joplin was later cited for being in violation of federal law.&nbsp;“Although her doctors advised her that her condition could rapidly deteriorate, they also advised that they could not provide her with the care that would prevent infection, hemorrhage, and potentially death because, they said, the hospital policies prohibited treatment that could be considered an abortion,” the report from the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services stated. “This was a violation of the EMTALA protections that were designed to protect patients like her.”Smith said that while she and her colleagues often aren’t able to immediately help patients who experience situations like Farmer, she can at least direct them to care a short drive away in Illinois.&nbsp;Prior to the Dobbs decision that overturned Roe, Smith said if a pregnant patient experienced premature rupture of the membranes, they could deliver the baby so the family could have some memories to hold on to.&nbsp;Often parents would get copies of their child’s footprints and say their goodbyes.Now, since they can’t act while the fetus has a heartbeat, Smith said she refers patients to abortion clinics in Illinois where they can receive a surgical abortion. But as a result, they don’t get to hold their baby, and often have to navigate anti-abortion protesters on the way.&nbsp;To Smith, it’s not worth risking the mother’s life and well-being to wait for her condition to deteriorate.&nbsp;“To delay the care of the mother based on the beating heart of the baby is so counterproductive,” she said. “ … It just takes one emergency that we don’t act on or that we delay to change the life of a whole community.”A decision in favor of Idaho could impair care for pregnant patients with serious injuries from car accidents or gunshots, or who suffer a stroke, Smith said. In those cases,&nbsp; saving the mother sometimes isn’t possible without first delivering the pregnancy, whether viable or not.&nbsp;Pregnant women can quickly lose blood in emergency situations, potentially putting the mother and child’s lives at risk, she said.&nbsp;“Unless you’re a trauma physician, it’s an amount of blood that nobody else in the hospital deals with. It’s an unbelievable amount and it can happen so fast,” she said. “If you have to wait and question your legal standing, the likelihood of saving that patient intact, saving the baby, saving her uterus, all of it, it just goes down all the time.”The Supreme Court could rule on the EMTALA case as early as next week. Until then, doctors continue holding their breath.&nbsp;“They’re just singling out pregnancy at this point,” Smith said. “But once you start chipping away at rights, it’s really unclear where the end point is.”