Budget Planning
House proposes slashing $4B from the EPA
The GOP funding cuts, passed along party lines, would significantly impact state and local efforts to improve drinking water and reduce water pollution. Additional cuts would severely hamper environmental justice projects.
Interest rates are rising, but states aren’t worried yet. Here’s why.
State and local governments generally use bonds to finance major infrastructure projects. But higher rates won’t bust budgets just yet. Plus, more news to use from around the country in this week's State and Local Roundup.
Blue and red states slash taxes despite warnings of hard times ahead
Since 2021, half the states have cut personal income tax rates.
Building trust in local government with better budgeting
A more transparent, collaborative and data-driven budget process can help municipalities implement real change.
The threat of another government shutdown looms
National, state and local government associations have warned their members that “fractious issues” could derail any efforts to meet a November deadline, affecting key housing and transportation funding.
Disaster recovery projects stall nationwide as FEMA runs out of money
The agency has paused $2.8 billion in spending as it braces for a looming government shutdown.
With the farm bill set to expire, Congress is still months away from a new version
A looming government shutdown has slowed the process even more. Among the key areas of disagreement is the SNAP program, a huge spending portion of the bill that helps low-income families buy food.
Funding for WIC food assistance remains uncertain amid budget fight
As food costs increase, more women than expected have been signing up for the program. Without increased funding, states may have to turn women and their children away.
Should states and localities be worried about the U.S. downgrade?
Or about the possibility of another one amid the budget showdown in Congress? Fitch Ratings’ decision to knock the federal government’s credit rating down a notch last month doesn’t directly affect state and local credit quality. But it’s a warning shot.
How one city is looking to future-proof its budgeting process
Nationwide, cities are attempting to improve their budgeting. But none appear to be taking more dramatic steps than fast-growing Fort Worth, Texas.
States put buying power to work for local governments
When states drive cooperative procurements, local agencies can take advantage of volume discounts, experienced contracting officers and a streamlined process.
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