Italy's Senate has officially banned citizens from seeking surrogacy abroad, a move that expands upon a pre-existing ban established in 2004. The legislation, passed after a lengthy seven-hour debate, is backed by the government's conservative majority, which argues that the law aims to protect women's dignity. However, critics contend that the law disproportionately targets same-sex couples. Under the new measure, Italians who pursue surrogacy in countries like the United States or Canada could face penalties of up to two years in prison and fines exceeding $1 million.
In other news, a tragic bridge collapse in Mississippi has resulted in three fatalities and four critical injuries. The incident occurred while the bridge, located approximately 40 miles south of Jackson, was undergoing demolition. Details surrounding the cause of the collapse remain scarce, and traffic in the area has been restricted since mid-September.
In Nebraska, the state’s high court ruled that felons who have completed their sentences are eligible to register to vote. This decision follows a law passed earlier this year that restored voting rights to felons, which had been deemed unconstitutional by Republican Secretary of State Bob Evnan. The ruling could have significant implications, particularly in the context of Nebraska's unique electoral college vote distribution.
In Nevada, a former politician has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for the murder of investigative journalist Jeff Geraman. Robert Tellus was convicted of the crime, which stemmed from Geraman's critical reporting on Tellus' conduct while in office. The judge imposed an additional eight years on top of the minimum sentence due to the use of a deadly weapon.
In a shocking incident, Liam Payne, a former member of the boy band One Direction, fell to his death from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The 31-year-old succumbed to severe injuries sustained in the fall, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and the music community.
Ethel Kennedy, the widow of Robert F. Kennedy, was honored at a funeral service in Washington, D.C., attended by former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, with President Joe Biden delivering the eulogy. Ethel Kennedy passed away last week at the age of 96, remembered for her character and empathy.
As the legal proceedings surrounding former President Donald Trump's election interference case continue, questions arise regarding the Justice Department's handling of the case. Legal analysts are scrutinizing the timing of disclosures made by Special Counsel Jack Smith, particularly in light of the upcoming election. Jack Goldsmith, a former assistant attorney general, emphasized the need for clarity from the DOJ regarding its adherence to norms that prevent actions from influencing elections.