New Democratic Majorities Lead to Rush of Bills—and Conflict
With new trifectas, Democratic leaders in six states had the opportunity to push through many new laws. But there were also clashes, both internally and with Republicans.
Marijuana Banking Legislation Gets Attention in U.S. Senate
Meanwhile, Democrats have introduced bills in both chambers of Congress that would decriminalize cannabis at the federal level.
With Tough to Fill Jobs, Some States and Localities Turn to ‘Gig’ Workers
A new survey highlights the trend, which can be found in fields ranging from building and grounds maintenance to accounting.
Allowing Paramedics to Treat Injured Police Dogs
Only a handful of states have laws that explicitly allow EMTs to treat injured K9s. Some Massachusetts lawmakers hope their state will be next.
Becoming the Lionfish King
The state of Florida encourages divers to remove an invasive species of fish from its waters in an annual challenge, naming the winner the Lionfish King (or Queen).
Letting Homeless Students Sleep on Campus—In Their Cars
A bill in the California State Legislature would require community colleges to allow many homeless students to sleep in their cars in campus parking lots.
How a State Police Agency Goes Viral (and Maybe Teaches People How to Drive)
The Colorado State Patrol develops relationships with the community and grows its online presence by posting humorous topical videos, a project spearheaded by one of its public information officers.
Socking Away Money for the Bad Times Requires Strategic State Practices
The Volcker Alliance report grades states on their reserve fund balances and policies and makes 10 recommendations for how states can control withdrawals from rainy day funds, replenish spent funds, and address revenue volatility.
Feds Don't Regulate Election Equipment, So States Are On Their Own
Election technology companies design voting machines. But are they secure?
A State Opts to Use Added Online Sales Tax Revenue to Offer Income Tax Cuts
Wisconsin will soon begin collecting sales taxes from companies that provide online marketplaces for other vendors.
Planning Transportation Projects Using 'Ultrasound for Roads'
A research partnership between the University of Arkansas and the state's Department of Transportation uses seismic imaging to help officials visualize the earth beneath the ground.
Ending Natural Hair Discrimination
Measures at both the state and local level seek to protect natural hairstyles that African Americans are sometimes asked to change.
When a Kid's Lemonade Stand is Illegal
Children's lemonade stands are technically prohibited in 34 states. Several state legislatures are considering proposals to change that.
State Savings Policies Evolve Amid a Decade of Economic Growth
The amount states have in reserve is at a high mark and savings practices have become more sophisticated. But lawmakers are at times still drawn to tap the large pots of money.
These Police Can't Use Radar and Changing That Could Be an Uphill Battle
Pennsylvania is the only state in the country where local police departments can't use speed-detecting radar. Multiple bills aim to give them access.
State Lawmakers Seek to Close Marital Rape Prosecution Loopholes
Marital rape is technically illegal in all 50 states, but some have legal exemptions that make it difficult to prosecute offenders.
DNA Evidence Will be Stored for 50 Years Under New State Law
The policy aims to give victims of sexual assault and prosecutors ample time to track down and convict offenders.
Supreme Court’s Gerrymander Decision Shifts Fight Back to States
Reformers are likely to focus on independent commissions and transparency efforts to overhaul partisan gerrymandering before maps are redrawn in 2021.
States Authorize Ridesharing for Medical Transport
Medicaid recipients in Arizona can now use Lyft to travel to non-emergency medical appointments, with similar laws on the way in Florida and Texas.
Trump Has Blessed States’ Exploration Of Importing Drugs. Will It Catch On?
Frustration among consumers — especially those shouldering greater portions of their health bills through high-deductible health plans — is putting pressure on federal and state officials.
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