“These generative AI chatbots are programmed to give you an answer, no matter whether that answer is complete garbage or not.”

Al Palacio, a Florida police officer and official with the state Fraternal Order of Police, referring to people who record videos of officers. Palacio praised a bill passed by the legislature this year that allows officers to require onlookers to keep a distance of at least 25 feet. Indiana and Louisiana have also enacted laws that allow citizens to witness and record police activity but require them to maintain a distance. (NPR – Aug. 13, 2024)

Sally Mathess, director of the Gilmer County Senior Center in West Virginia. Due to low Medicaid reimbursement rates, caregivers in homes and at senior centers in the state generally make about $11 an hour. Advocates are hoping lawmakers will increase funding, arguing that it will ultimately cost the state more if seniors have to leave their homes due to lack of care. (West Virginia Watch – Aug. 12, 2024)

Douglas County, Neb., Sheriff Aaron Hanson, citing what he described as the impact of the legalization and taxation of marijuana in Missouri. In testimony before Nebraska’s Judiciary Committee, Hanson expressed his opposition to proposed legislation to legalize and tax cannabis. (Nebraska Examiner — Aug. 2, 2024)

South Carolina resident Adrienne LeBlanc after counting eight alligators swimming in her flooded Bluffton backyard. Tropical Storm Debby has brought over a foot of rain to parts of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. (CNN — Aug. 8, 2024)