Many States Resist Adapting Worker Safety Rules to Pandemic
The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued no new rules during the pandemic. And states with their own workplace safety agencies lack a strong benchmark to follow.
State Capitols on 'High Alert' Amid Talk of Armed Protests
Governors in multiple states were beefing up security at statehouses in preparation for rumored protests through the presidential inauguration on Jan. 20.
Michigan Commission Bans Firearm Open Carry Inside State Capitol
The decision comes in the wake of the siege of the U.S. Capitol and as statehouses across the country are on heightened alert for security threats.
Report: Stop Lines do Little to Encourage Drivers to Stop
Stop lines, the thick white bars painted ahead of intersections, do little to prevent crashes or influence driver behavior, a 14-year study found.
Many State Capitols Have Security Holes
“We're deeply concerned for what's likely to come in the coming months in state capitols."
In 2021, States Are Poised to Tighten Abortion Restrictions
The more conservative Supreme Court will likely embolden lawmakers to pass restrictions that could run afoul of Roe v. Wade.
After Mob Attack on U.S. Capitol, State Governments Take Precautions
Washington's governor announced plans for a heavy law enforcement presence at the state Capitol next week. Other states have taken extra security measures as well.
Lawmakers from Multiple States Involved in Capitol Chaos, or Related Activities
Republican state lawmakers from across the country traveled to D.C. on Wednesday. At least one joined the siege of the U.S. Capitol Building.
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.
With Schools Deemed Low-Risk for Covid, One State Urges a Return to Hybrid Learning
Delaware Gov. John Carney asked schools to resume at least some in-person instruction by Monday, saying that state health data showed that schools have not been significant sources of infection.
Kentucky Lawmakers Who Catch Covid Can Vote From Their Cars
Parking lot participation for those stricken by the virus, or quarantining because of exposure, is just one way that legislatures are adapting to the pandemic era.
Texas' Move to Control Coal Ash Pollution Could Shield Industry from Tougher Rules Under Biden-led EPA
Texas is close to finalizing a years-long effort to wrangle control of coal ash pollution from the EPA, a move that could, for a time, keep coal companies insulated from tougher rules expected from the next administration.
She Noticed $200 Million Missing, Then She Was Fired
Alice Stebbins was hired to fix the finances of California’s powerful utility regulator. She was fired after finding $200 million for the state’s deaf, blind and poor residents was missing.
Trump Signs $900 Billion Covid Relief Package
The law funds special unemployment programs and $600 stimulus payments, as well as providing aid to people who need help with rent, struggling transit, schools and businesses.
One State is Reforming Its Sex Offender Registry. Criminal Justice Advocates Aren’t Happy.
Michigan legislators passed legislation to revamp the sex offender registry, which courts have concluded is unconstitutional. Advocates say the new policies miss the mark.
A Burnout Crisis Hits Government
COMMENTARY | A soon-to-be released survey reveals some surprising findings about local and state public sector employees’ struggles and how helping them feel connected to each other can reduce burnout.
'A Lost Generation:’ Community Colleges Report Record Enrollment Declines
New data shows total enrollment decreased by more than 10% since last fall, with the most precipitous drop seen with first-year students.
Hit the Hardest, Closed the Longest: Artists Make the Case for More Covid Aid
Nearly 3 million jobs in the creative industries were lost during the coronavirus pandemic. While some local and state governments have offered assistance, advocates say more is needed.
Biden Urges Governors to Support Reopening Schools by April
In a virtual call with members of the National Governors Association, President-elect Joe Biden reiterated his desire for most schools to return to in-person learning in the first 100 days of his administration.
Time for an Update: How States Can Improve IT Systems to Use Data More Effectively
COMMENTARY | State governments have data, but aren’t using it well. A strategic approach is needed to rebuild their data infrastructure.
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