Hot Button Issues
DC v. Heller (2008)
Ruling that allows an individual to possess and use a firearm for lawful purposes, such as self defense, in accordance with the 2nd Amendment.
Oyez offers background, findings and summary related to case.
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Thought Co. offers an analysis of this case and its continued impact on gun rights in the US.
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Annenberg Classroom 20 minute video covers how this court decision transformed our understanding of the 2nd Amendment
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McDonald v. Chicago (2010)
Ruling that allows individuals the right to bear arms, and applying that right to state and local governments, in addition to the federal government.
Gonzalez v. Oregon (2006)
Ruling that the US Attorney General may not prohibit doctors from prescribing regulated drugs for use in physician-assisted suicide in states where it is sanctioned.
Arizona v. United States (2012)
Decision that states Arizona local law enforcement may inquire about a resident's legal status during lawful encounters, but may not implement its own immigration rules that are not in accordance with federal statutes.
Oyez offers oral arguments, facts of the case and conclusion of the case
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NY Times offers interpretation of ruling and related coverage to this case
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The Atlantic offers background, documents, and analysis related to this case
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Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992)
Ruling that determined that states may put restrictions on abortion procedures so long as it does not cause “undue burden,“ still upholding basic principles of Roe v Wade decision.
PBS offers background, related links and an image related to case.
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Oyez offers oral arguments, facts of the case and conclusion of the case
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ProPublica offers a wealth of resources, including first-person narratives and links related to this and other abortion rights cases.
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Decision stating that it is a 1st Amendment violation to ban the sales of violent video games to minors without parental supervision.
United States vs. Lopez (1995)
Overruled Congress' authority, under the Commerce Clause, to prohibit guns in schools
Hawaii v. Trump (2018).
Decision that the president has "broad discretion to suspend the entry of aliens into the United States", in reference to immigration law and presidential authority over immigration through proclamation.