Ohio voters approve gerrymandering reform for U.S. House seats
Ohio voters approved a gerrymandering reform proposal Tuesday that would change how the state draws congressional district lines following the next US Census.
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Global clean energy sector now employs more than 10 million for the first time ever
More than half a million jobs around the world were created in the renewable energy sector in 2017, bringing the total number of people employed in the sector to more than 10 million for the first time
Hawaii legislature passes bill banning sunscreens containing chemicals that kill coral reefs
The Hawaiian state legislature just passed a bill that would ban the sale of sunscreens containing the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate. Research has shown these chemicals are toxic to coral.
Blockchain companies take aim at clean energy transaction costs
Advocates argue that blockchain platforms can reduce certification costs and eliminate the need for audits altogether. In turn, the platforms could provide a leg-up to small-scale distributed generators.
California laws seek to limit surveillance technology
California privacy advocates say it is “more critical than ever that the amount of surveillance and personal data collected be the bare minimum, to ensure the safety of our community from unlawful and inhumane targeting.”
22 Major League Baseball teams to host LGBT Pride nights in 2018
Pride nights will be a big draw in Major League Baseball this season, with 22 of the 30 teams hosting an event for their LGBT fans.
California hits new utility-scale solar generation record of 10.5 GW
For the first time in the state’s history utility-scale solar generation surpassed 10.5 gigawatts. Then two days later, that record was broken when 10,539 megawatts were generated.
E.U. plans to spend a quarter of its budget on climate protection
A quarter of the €1.279 trillion budget for 2021 to 2027 will be dedicated to spending designed to combat climate change. That includes funding for renewable energy, efficiency improvements, and adaptation to the effects of climate change.
Illinois Senate votes to require LGBT history curriculum be taught in schools
The Illinois Senate has approved a bill that requires public schools to teach “the role and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in the history of this country and this State.”
N.J. governor signs law requiring paid employee sick leave
New Jersey becomes the 10th state to enact sick-leave legislation. Under the law, employers are required to provide one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked.