Episode Details

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a light on some remarkable legislative advancements and community initiatives that are making a positive impact across the nation. We kick off with Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signing a groundbreaking law that removes restrictions on abortions after 24 weeks, ensuring that patients can receive necessary care without having to leave the state. This pivotal change has garnered praise from advocates, including the ACLU of Massachusetts, who emphasize the importance of accessible healthcare for all.

In Missouri, the campaign opposing a ballot measure to reinstate an abortion ban has successfully raised over $6.5 million, bolstered by significant contributions from notable figures like former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. This financial support underscores the growing movement for reproductive rights in the state.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has also been busy, signing 75 new bills into law that empower rideshare drivers to unionize, limit the construction of immigration detention centers, and protect students’ rights at public universities. These measures reflect a commitment to workers' rights and social equity.

We also highlight a heartwarming story from Atlanta, where two entrepreneurs are making recycling easier and more efficient through their company, Peace of Mind Recycling, which focuses on glass recycling to reduce plastic waste.

Additionally, we explore the impactful Youth Mental Health Corps initiative in Colorado, where young mental health navigators are helping students while also addressing the mental health workforce shortage.

Finally, we celebrate the transition from coal to solar energy in Minnesota, as Xcel Energy announces the completion of the Sherco Solar project, now the largest solar facility in the state, creating jobs and promoting sustainable energy.

Today's Stories: 

Signing expanded abortion law, Gov. Healey cites stories of 'anguish and heartache' | WBUR News
Bloomberg gives $1.25 million to Missouri abortion rights campaign as fundraising gap grows | KCUR - Kansas City news and NPR
Rideshare unionization, drug-pricing oversight, plastic pellet and light pollution bills become law | Capitol News Illinois
Atlanta entrepreneurs recycle 30,000 pounds of glass through Peace of Mind Recycling's doorstep pickup service - CBS Atlanta
Colorado youth mental health corps aids student attendance, behavior
Minnesota just plugged a 710-megawatt solar farm into a coal plant that once burned 30,000 tons a day, the two sharing wires until the last boiler dies in 2030 — and one retired coal unit will keep spinning, fuel-free, to steady the solar that replaced it

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