How a common election integrity law is keeping Idaho from fixing its crumbling schools
An influential conservative group is targeting local bond and levy elections, which districts rely on heavily to build and repair schools.
Governors propose spending billions on overdue infrastructure projects
In State of the State addresses this week, several governors said they would prioritize ambitious and much needed infrastructure projects. Plus, more news to use from around the country in this week's State and Local Roundup.
Idaho Governor Vetoes Bill to Restrict Library Materials
The bill allows parents to sue libraries for giving out materials “harmful to minors." Of his veto, Gov. Brad Little said the state doesn't need a "library bounty" and that he’s more concerned about what kids can find on the internet.
A Library Struck by Controversy That Began Over a Book It Didn’t Own
In Boundary County, Idaho a local librarian decided to resign citing a “political atmosphere of extremism.” The situation there mirrors a trend affecting libraries around the country.
Localities Are Finding Creative Affordable Housing Solutions
There's an estimated shortage of 3.8 million housing units nationwide. Cities and towns are stepping up to help residents.
How One State Used Its Giant Budget Surplus
Idaho this year had extra revenue that was equal to nearly half the amount of its general fund revenues, and that was on top of federal aid. Here's what lawmakers did with the money.
Mayor Details Alarming Public Harassment of Her and Her Family
Boise, Idaho Mayor Lauren McLean described the threats and intimidation she and other city staff have dealt with during the past two years. She said she wouldn’t step down but understands why many public servants are calling it quits.
Idaho and Oklahoma Expected To Be First States To Pass Texas-inspired Six-week Abortion Bans
Clinics say they are preparing for bans to take effect as early as April. Texas offers a preview of what might happen if those bills go into effect.
Some Unusual State and Local Laws to Take Note of This Valentine's Day
A number of state and municipal laws deal with relationships—both good and bad ones.
8 Best Winter Festivals in the U.S.
A list from Travel + Leisure showcases festivals that include snow golf and volleyball, skiers hanging onto a cowboy on horseback and plungers jumping into the icy waters.
'An Absolutely Fascinating' Local Government Job
Coroners operate "in the shadows of local government" and their profession is misunderstood. Longtime coroner Dotti Owens explains why "this is my thing."
How Public Health Officials Overcame Vaccine Barriers in Minority Communities
A series of reports issued by the Communivax Coalition explores resistance to Covid-19 vaccinations in four states and strategies to improve immunization rates.
A Showdown Over Idaho Governor’s Authority
Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin issued an executive order to “fix” the state’s rules on vaccine mandates while Gov. Brad Little was away on business.
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.
Despite Federal Moratorium, Eviction Rates Returning to Pandemic Levels
But states and cities across the U.S. that set up their own eviction-prevention programs are seeing lower eviction rates than those where tenants were protected only by the federal rules.
Mid-Sized City Mayors Urge Feds Not to Forget Them in Climate Fight
The type of infrastructure investment needed to advance the Biden administration’s climate policy goals could be out of reach for many small and mid-sized cities without federal help.
Lawsuit: State Vaccination Program Should Prioritize Seniors
An 87-year-old Idaho man filed the suit, seeking to force the state to alter its Covid-19 vaccination program.
Attorneys General, FTC File Antitrust Lawsuits Against Facebook
Trump administration proposes $600 direct payments… Protests disrupt a vote on an Idaho mask mandate… Michigan undertakes an election audit.
Arizona Legislature Closed After Giuliani Hearing
STATE AND LOCAL ROUNDUP | Covid-19 patients flown out of South Dakota… Alabama sheriff takes down “thugshots” social media post… Republican governors call for Congress to pass Covid aid.
Rural Public Health Staff Strained by Covid Surge, Public Backlash
STATE AND LOCAL ROUNDUP | Two Minnesota state senators switch from Democratic caucus to independents, citing polarization … Plans for historic dam removal moving ahead … Matthew McConaughey for Texas governor?
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