The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) frequently challenges anti-panhandling ordinances, arguing they violate the First Amendment's protection of free speech. Many of these ordinances, often disguised as public safety measures, are deemed unconstitutional for restricting the content of speech or targeting specific groups. Here's a more detailed breakdown: Key Arguments in ACLU Lawsuits: Free Speech: The ACLU argues that panhandling, which involves asking for money, is a form of speech protected by the First Amendment. Content-Based Restrictions: Laws that specifically target panhandling or restrict it based on the content of the speech (asking for money) are often considered unconstitutional. Public Safety as a Pretext: The ACLU frequently challenges ordinances that claim to be based on public safety concerns but are, in reality, designed to suppress panhandling and remove people experiencing homelessness from public spaces. Discrimination: In some cases, the ACLU highlights the discriminatory impact of panhandling laws, noting that they disproportionately affect people of color and those experiencing homelessness. Examples of ACLU Involvement: Albuquerque, New Mexico: The ACLU of New Mexico successfully challenged an ordinance that restricted panhandling, arguing it violated the First Amendment. Illinois: The ACLU of Illinois fought an ordinance prohibiting panhandling in public streets and medians, resulting in a federal court declaring the law unconstitutional. Slidell, Louisiana: The ACLU of Louisiana sued the city of Slidell over an ordinance requiring panhandlers to register with the police, leading to a temporary halt in enforcement while the ordinance's legality was being reviewed. Worcester, Massachusetts: The ACLU of Massachusetts challenged two anti-panhandling ordinances, arguing they violated the right to solicit donations in public, and a federal judge eventually struck them down. Greeley, Colorado: The ACLU of Colorado successfully challenged a "median ban" that targeted panhandlers, leading the city to agree to stop enforcing the ban. Sacramento, California: The ACLU Foundation of Northern California and Legal Services of Northern California filed a lawsuit against an ordinance that restricts panhandling, arguing it violates First Amendment rights. Overall, the ACLU's litigation on panhandling demonstrates a commitment to defending the First Amendment rights of individuals, particularly those who are vulnerable and marginalized, by challenging laws that restrict their ability to express themselves in...
   Read moreUsed to be one of my preferred liquor stores, purely because I enjoy the London underground themed decor, it has no other discerning qualities that make it better or worse than any other liquor store of similar size. But I'm disappointed to say they don't seem to be taking the pandemic seriously enough. I went in today looking to stock up my depleted alcohol supply and I was hardly two steps in the door when I saw at least two people without masks. Because of where they were standing and the direction they were facing I'm reasonably sure at least one was an employee. I turned around immediately and I don't imagine I'll be back. It's a small and rather closed in store, and if they aren't even bothering to enforce mask wearing with employees then I doubt they enforce it with customers. Not a safe place. There is no good reason to be without a mask in an enclosed space outside of your own home. I'm very...
   Read moreI've been here a couple of times. Their prices are on the high side and the counter help isn't what I'd call friendly or helpful. The last time I was there, I picked up a six pack of a Stone IPA. When I opened one it tasted off, then I saw that it was well past its expiration date.
I called the store and asked what I should do. Since I no longer had a receipt: It was, I gambled, I lost. I understand that I should have checked the bottles before I purchased them. So I'm willing to shoulder the blame, but you'd think they'd be better about checking their stock.
However, Superior Liquor is not that much more of a drive. They're very customer oriented. Their cashiers and clerk are always pleasant, professional and helpful. Their prices are better than Union Jack. They even love my dog. He's welcome in the store and they give him cookies!
I haven't been back to...
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