It’s not that type of bills. Editor’s Note: Mentions of transphobia
Happening in the World: Two Kansas men have been arrested by the Justice Department for allegedly exporting aviation-related technology to Russia and providing repair services for the equipment without the required license. The men owned and operated KanRus Trading Co., which reportedly supplied aircraft electronics to Russian companies and provided repair services for equipment used in Russian-manufactured aircraft. The charges come amid the U.S.’s increased sanctions and financial penalties on Russia since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The accused face up to 35 years in prison if convicted. (AP)
Happening in the US: Tennessee Governor, Bill Lee, signed a bill banning drag shows in public spaces, which may force drag shows to go underground. The bill was signed hours after it was passed in the Senate, and at the same time, Lee signed a ban on gender-affirming healthcare for youth in the state. The bill defines drag performers as “male or female impersonators,” which concerns the LGBTQ community, as it could impact queer Tennesseans across the board, not just drag performers. Drag shows are referred to as “adult cabaret” that “appeal to a prurient nature,” but the ACLU of Tennessee says drag performances are not inherently obscene. The way the law is written should not make drag shows illegal in the state, and the ACLU will challenge the law if it is used to punish a drag performer or shut down an LGBTQ event. (NPR)
Happening in NYC: The New York City Council has passed several bills aimed at regulating lithium-ion batteries used in electric bikes and scooters, which have been associated with a growing number of fires, injuries, and deaths across the city. Although the Council Speaker assured delivery workers that the restrictions were not aimed at them, concerns have been raised that the new rules would disproportionately affect low-income communities that rely on e-bikes for their livelihoods. Advocates are calling for a follow-up package of bills that would address the infrastructure needs of delivery workers, including citywide access to charging stations and safe parking locations. (Gothamist)
Happening in Our Community: The Columbia School of Arts continues with its Kit Noir Film Festival tonight at 7 pm, as the Athena Film Festival in Barnard also begins with its first day of movie screenings starting at 6 pm. Further screenings and conversations will continue throughout the weekend.
Bill via Flickr
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@Anonymous Rememebr the Mr Bill Show on Saturday Nuts Live?