This Week in Federal Funding
In the July 20 edition we check in with the state and local lead for the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee, a federal watchdog overseeing ARPA programs. Also: the outlook for broadband spending and updates from Massachusetts and Maine.
The Many Flavors of 'Transformative' State and Local ARPA Spending
Transformative government projects using American Rescue Plan Act funds can run the gamut from improving a local park, to spending tens of millions to alleviate homelessness.
Why There’s Rising Interest in Giving More Updates to Bondholders
Investors and others would like to see more timely information about developments with municipal borrowers’ finances. “Voluntary disclosure” can help, experts say.
Judge Declines to Block ARPA Tax Cut Mandate Before Case is Heard
At least six lawsuits are challenging the legality of a provision included in the American Rescue Plan Act that prevents states from using federal relief funds to offset tax cuts.
How State Finances Fared During the Covid-19 Crisis
A new survey of budget officials shows that economic activity and tax revenue improved or fully recovered for most states by the end of 2020.
This Week in Federal Funding
In the July 13 edition we talk with Erie County, New York executive Mark Poloncarz about plans there for $124 million in recovery spending. And we have a roundup of ARPA action in Alabama, Virginia, Milwaukee and St. Louis.
Best and Worst States for Job Opportunities
South Dakota tops the list while Kentucky is No. 50 based on an analysis using 35 economic metrics.
How Local Governments Can Spend Their Federal Funds to Boost Equity
Several county leaders and others offered suggestions for helping communities most in need using American Rescue Plan Act funds at the National Association of Counties annual conference.
The Hemp Boom is Over. What Now?
Farmers facing low hemp CBD prices are storing their plants and hoping to someday sell them for a higher price.
Best and Worst States to Retire In
The top states for retired people age 60 and older have affordable homes, lower costs of living and crime rates and higher life expectancies, according to a recent analysis.
Pandemic Growth Led This State to Slash Taxes, Issue Rebates
Tax policy experts and state officials believe Idaho’s rapid economic growth will offset the tax cuts, making them feasible under federal funding rules.
Only 2 of Top 25 Hotel Markets Have Recovered From Pandemic Revenue Crash
Total hotel revenues in urban markets are down 52% since May 2019, but Tampa and Miami are outpacing pre-Covid-19 sales, according to the American Hotel & Lodging Association.
This Week in Federal Funding
In the July 6 edition we look at how states have approached their American Rescue Plan Act allotments so far.
A 5-Step Guide to Spending the American Rescue Plan Money
States and localities have an enormous opportunity to create a better future if they spend the federal rescue funds wisely. Here’s how to do that.
Federal Rescue Funds Provide 'Critical Breathing Room' in Era of Tight Budgets
COMMENTARY | Total aid to states ranges from about 5% to more than 20% of their annual spending, but those receiving the most aren’t necessarily facing the greatest fiscal distress.
Judge Sides With Ohio in Fight Against ARPA Tax Cut Restrictions
The ruling curtails Treasury's ability to enforce the so-called "tax mandate" in the American Rescue Plan Act, but only applies to the Buckeye State. Similar legal disputes are pending in other courts.
The States With the Stiffest Liquor Taxes
Washington has the highest excise tax rate on distilled spirits ($35.31 per gallon) while New Hampshire and Wyoming have the lowest rates (less than $1), according to the Tax Foundation.
Why Managing Billions in Federal Aid for Small Towns Will be a Huge Lift
Some localities are even foregoing the cash because it's too challenging to deal with.
How to Manage Federal Funds to Ensure Sustainability
COMMENTARY | Here’s what state and local government leaders can do to effectively use the American Rescue Plan Act funding and show voters long-lasting results.
This Week in Federal Funding
In the June 29 edition we give an update on the Treasury Department guidance for the American Rescue Plan Act aid to states and localities.
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