Gang patch ban may make it illegal to wear patches in your own home
A late amendment to the Gangs Bill may make it illegal for repeat offenders to display gang insignia even in the privacy of their own homes. Critics say the change is a step too far, invading personal freedoms and undermining democracy.
The amendment would require courts to issue gang insignia prohibition orders for those convicted of publicly displaying patches three times in five years.
UCSF researchers identify major driver behind COVID and long COVID
Researchers at the University of California – San Francisco (UCSF) have identified fibrin, a blood-clotting protein, as a major factor in driving COVID and long COVID symptoms.
The government is rolling out reforms to the Resource Management Act (RMA) aiming to cut red tape, streamline regulations, and double the value of exports within 10 years.
Health Minister Shane Reti puts an end to free healthcare based on ethnicity in Hawke’s Bay
In August, OurHealth Hawke’s Bay posted that Māori and Pasifika aged 14-24 would qualify for additional free healthcare services. Todd Stephenson, ACT’s health spokesman, called the policy “lazy and divisive,” prompting Health Minister Shane Reti to intervene.
Tomato juice, trans rights, and unexpected outcomes
In March 2023, trans rights activist Eli Rubashkyn made headlines after pouring a litre of tomato juice on anti-trans activist Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull (aka Posie Parker) during an event in Auckland.
