This Week in Civil Liberties: Militarization, Marriage, Civil Rights and Arkansas

Each Friday, we’ll bring you updates on the latest civil liberties news from Maine and the nation.

Militarization of the Police
Earlier this week, we participated in a nationwide coordinated public records requests with other ACLU affiliates to learn more about the increasing militarization of the police. Click here to read about disturbing examples of police use of military training and equipment. Zach’s blog summarizes our concerns.

Voting Rights Act Before the Supreme Court
Last Week the supreme court heard the case of Shelby County V. Holder--a challenge to Section V of the Voting Rights Act. Laura Murphy, director of the ACLU's Washington Legislative Office, has her thoughts on that day here. Stephen Colbert hilariously weighs in with his take here.

DOMA
We hope the Supreme Court will rule in our favor on the upcoming DOMA case. Bill Clinton, the president who signed DOMA into law, concludes in this Op-Ed that DOMA is unconstitutional. We’re optimistic that Edie Winsor will find success and justice before the Supreme Court. 
 
Reproductive Freedom
This week, Arkansas passed the most restrictive abortion laws in the country, banning abortions after 12 weeks. The ACLU of Arkansas has vowed to fight the new laws in court. Read more here.
 
Compromise
A bill proposed to address teacher concerns would have gutted recently passed Maine laws designed to protect students from unnecessary physical restraint.  However, the updated version assuages teacher concerns while leaving student protections intact. The ACLU of Maine was pleased to find solutions that protect both safety and civil liberties. Read more here.