Maryland passes law requiring half of advertising dollars be spent with community news outlets
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Maryland passes law requiring half of advertising dollars be spent with community news outlets

Maryland senators recently passed a bipartisan law mandating state agencies to allocate 50 percent of their advertising budgets to local news outlets. This unprecedented measure aims to support community journalism and is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, potentially channeling millions into Maryland's local newsrooms.
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Alberta school divisions, including BRSD, banned books to comply with provincial order

Alberta school divisions have removed over 170 books from libraries, including poetry collections and graphic novels, to comply with a provincial order from Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides. This directive, aimed at eliminating materials depicting sexual acts, required schools to submit lists of the removed items by January 5.
Edmonton council candidates returned almost $68K in campaign contributions
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Edmonton council candidates returned almost $68K in campaign contributions

Edmonton's 2025 civic election saw significant corporate donations, leading candidates to return over $67,000 due to ineligible contributions. The Better Edmonton party returned around $54,000, with mayoral candidate Tim Cartmell's campaign refunding over $34,000. Confusion over donation rules contributed to these returns among various candidates.
Suspected asbestos exposure shuts down Tofield Hotel
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Suspected asbestos exposure shuts down Tofield Hotel

On March 30, the Tofield Mercury reported that the Tofield Hotel was shut down due to asbestos exposure concerns. Alberta Occupational Health and Safety issued a stop work order on March 26. Hotel management stated that after initial tests were negative, a comprehensive assessment was underway before reopening to ensure safety.
Medical drip with patient in the hospital blurred background
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Justice Minister hosts rural roundtable on MAID concerns

Minister of Justice Mickey Amery introduced Bill 18, aimed at establishing stringent protections for Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) in Alberta. The bill restricts MAID eligibility for individuals with mental illnesses, under 18, and those lacking decision-making capacity. It seeks to prevent coercion in MAID decisions and impose sanctions on violators.
Wildfire-affected Jasper utilities require $9 million in repairs
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Wildfire-affected Jasper utilities require $9 million in repairs

Repairs to the water and sewer infrastructure in Jasper following the 2024 wildfire may exceed $9 million. The council recommends a $2 million initial phase to replace damaged valves, with further extensive repairs planned for affected neighborhoods. Additionally, a $14.2 million federal loan guarantee for affordable housing is under consideration, alongside a potential property acquisition for redevelopment.