bobdina
06-18-2009, 06:18 PM
Judge tosses Calif. cities’ recruiter ban
The Associated Press
Posted : Thursday Jun 18, 2009 16:21:01 EDT
OAKLAND, Calif. — A federal judge has struck down ordinances in two California cities banning military recruitment of minors.
Voters in Arcata and Eureka passed the laws in November. The Justice Department promptly sued, arguing the measures interfered with the government’s ability to raise an army and protect the country.
U.S. District Judge Saundra Armstrong agreed Thursday with the federal government and invalidated the laws.
She also tossed out a countersuit by Arcata and Eureka, claiming government employees violated the constitutional rights of some city residents.
Lawyers for the cities have said they expected the judge to rule against them but wanted a chance to present their arguments in court.
The Associated Press
Posted : Thursday Jun 18, 2009 16:21:01 EDT
OAKLAND, Calif. — A federal judge has struck down ordinances in two California cities banning military recruitment of minors.
Voters in Arcata and Eureka passed the laws in November. The Justice Department promptly sued, arguing the measures interfered with the government’s ability to raise an army and protect the country.
U.S. District Judge Saundra Armstrong agreed Thursday with the federal government and invalidated the laws.
She also tossed out a countersuit by Arcata and Eureka, claiming government employees violated the constitutional rights of some city residents.
Lawyers for the cities have said they expected the judge to rule against them but wanted a chance to present their arguments in court.