RUSSIAN CHARITIES

Russia’s upper house of parliament has voted in favor of legislation that would place restrictions on nongovernmental organizations, which the bill’s sponsors say is necessary to curb terrorism and extremism, reports the Associated Press. Critics, however, have charged that the bill is an attempt by the Kremlin to consolidate power and curb groups critical of its policies. President Vladimir Putin must sign the bill before it becomes law. Read The Chronicle’s story about the legislation. (A paid subscription is required to view the article).