Court questions law barring offensive trademarks

Compiled from news services

WASHINGTON — In a First Amendment clash over a law barring offensive trademarks, the Supreme Court on Wednesday raised doubts about a government program that favors some forms of speech but rejects others that might disparage certain groups.

The justices heard arguments in a dispute involving an Asian-American band called the Slants that was denied a trademark because the U.S. Patent and Trademark office said the name is offensive to Asians.

Justice Elena Kagan reflected the concerns of several justices when she said government programs are not supposed to make a distinction based on viewpoint.

The Oregon-based band says the 70-year-old law violates free-speech rights. A federal appeals court had ruled that the law is unconstitutional, but the government appealed. But the justices also seemed concerned that imposing no limits on trademark names might go too far.

The Supreme Court also considered whether highlevel U.S. government officials can be held liable for the alleged unconstitutional treatment of a group of Muslim noncitizens after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer seemed particularly troubled during oral arguments Wednesday about the length of their incarceration and treatment even after government officials knew the men had no ties to terrorism.

JPMorgan bias claims

WASHINGTON — The Obama administration accused JPMorgan Chase in separate lawsuits of discriminating against minorities in home lending and against its own female employees by paying them less than male counterparts.

The nation’s biggest bank has confronted claims of bias since at least 2009.

The bank disputed both sets of claims and pledged to fight the gender lawsuit, while agreeing to pay $55 million to settle the race case, according to a person familiar with the matter. JPMorgan said in a statement it’s committed to diversity in the workplace.

USDA rules on eggs, meat

WASHINGTON — Organic meat and egg producers will have to abide by stricter animal welfare standards under a new rule announced by the Agriculture Department.

The rule is a victory for animal rights groups. The regulations will ensure that organically grown livestock have enough space to lie down, turn around, stand up and fully stretch their limbs. Poultry will have enough room to move freely and spread their wings. Beaks can’t be removed and cattle tails can’t be cut. Living conditions will have to include fresh air, proper ventilation and direct sunlight.

Oldest zoo gorilla dies

COLUMBUS, Ohio — On Tuesday, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium announced that Colo, the oldest known living gorilla in the country, had died. She departed in her sleep overnight, less than a month after celebrating her 60th birthday. In 1956, Colo made history, becoming the world’s first gorilla born in a zoo.

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