U.S. bans slave-related imports
ASSOCIATED PRESS: President Barack Obama signed a bill that disavows the U.S. from supporting slave trade.
Federal Aviation Administration proposes new regulations for micro-drones
BLOOMBERG: The Federal Aviation Administration announced plans to make a new category for micro-drones. An advisory panel will draft requirements.
House passes renter protections, hotel tax, firearm background check
House passes protections for renters that restrict rent increases, a hotel tax to benefit Eugene and closes gun background check loophole.
Astoria Planning Commission approves Reach Break Brewing
The microbrewery will set up shop on Duane Street, with hopes of establishing a food cart lot.
PDC pass 15-story high-rise near Portland State despite zoning conflict
The Portland Design Commission approved the tower, which will hold 424 apartments, an underground parking, a grocery store and other retailers.
Phil Knight donates $400M to Stanford University
The sizable donation from Nike’s co-founder will help create the world’s largest fully endowed scholarship program.
Health Republic sues feds for $5B
The state insurer filed a class action lawsuit to reclaim Obamacare funds.
TriMet seeks legislative funds for Vancouver light rail
The bill would also fund the Columbia River Crossing light-rail project.
MasterCard Identity Check uses selfies for security
THE WASHINGTON POST: “Selfie pay” will use biometric face recognition and fingerprint scans for internet shopping protection.
Portland tops nation’s home price index
Portland hit the highest annual home value gains for third straight month in December.