GOOD DAY FOR: Teleconferencing, after the Homeland Security Department clarified that customs and border agents can seize a U.S. or foreign traveler’fs laptop or other electronic device for an indefinite period without any suspicion of wrongdoing. The contents of laptops can be shared with other agencies or private contractors. The DHS said the rules are needed to counter terrorism. (The Washington Post)
BAD DAY FOR: California state employees, after Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) signed an executive order firing 10,000 part-time state workers and cutting the pay of almost 200,000 full-time public employees to the minimum wage of $6.55 an hour. The temporary pay cut will stay in effect, Schwarzenegger said, until the state legislature passes its overdue budget. It is unclear if the order will take effect. (Los Angeles Times)
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