Agencies are blinded by science; biotechnology

Article Abstract:

There is a difference of opinion between the federal government, citizen groups, the general public and the regulatory community on whether or not biotechnology poses risk to the environment and human health. As a result, there is no regulation of biotechnology per se and an amalgam of regulations that apply to parts of it. The agencies that hold primary jurisdiction over biotechnology are the EPA, the Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Agriculture and they have defined their duties in the 'Coordinated Framework for Regulation of Biotechnology' statement, issued in 1986.

Biotechnology

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Public electric utilities will vie under new rules; under the FERC proposal, utilities will be able to sell to customers in other states

Article Abstract:

Regulations issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commisssion on April 24, 1996, set the stage for the emergence of true competition in wholesale bulk power and promise lower-cost power for consumers. The so-called Open Access Rules require utilities with transmission facilities to file open-access tariffs, and explore the separation of transmission from power distribution and generation. Called unbundling, this process raises ethical concerns for counsel. Changes in state and federal regulatory structures are discussed.

Public utilities, United States. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

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Guidance is lacking on religious accommodation; courts are divided on how fully businesses must accommodate employees' religious practices

Article Abstract:

Courts follow several approaches to protecting employees against religious discrimination despite the US Supreme Court's narrow interpretation of Sec 701(j) of the Civil Rights Act of 964. The 9th and 10th Circuits read the employer's duty to accomodate workers' religious needs far more broadly than does the 11th Circuit. However, these decisions tend to be fact-intensive, and legislative efforts seek to overturn restrictive interpretations. Employers should therefore work with employees to seek a compromise.

Freedom of religion, Protection and preservation, Employment discrimination

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