Author Archive
Andrea Noble
Tech & Data
Cyber Insurance for Local Governments Costs More, Covers Less
More governments have cyber incident coverage than ever before, but the escalated risk of ransomware and cyberattacks means higher premiums, rising deductibles and greater scrutiny of security protocols.
Tech & Data
The 311 Lifeline: How Governments Enhanced Call Centers During the Pandemic
State and municipal governments established special hotlines or expanded the type of services residents could access through 311 call centers during the pandemic.
Management
States Decide if Workers Fired Over Vaccine Mandates Can Collect Unemployment
When employers fire people because they fail to follow company policy, employees are generally not eligible for benefits. But three states have or could make non compliant workers eligible.
Health & Human Services
The Cost for States to Expand Free Pre-K Under the Biden Plan
The Build Back Better proposal provides money for free preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds. States are required to contribute a percentage and will likely incur costs for workforce development, pay increases and adjusting elementary school curriculum.
Infrastructure
House Passes ‘Long Overdue’ Infrastructure Package
President Biden and local government leaders hailed Congress’ approval of the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill, which will provide funding for roads, bridges, transit, broadband and water projects across the country.
Management
House Prepares for Votes on Social Spending, Infrastructure Bills
Paid family and medical leave was introduced to the latest House version of the $1.75 trillion package.
Management
Moderate Democrats Prevail in Notable Local Races, as a High Profile Police Reform Initiative Fails
But progressives also scored some key wins. Experts caution that off-year elections typically do not serve as a great barometer for the nation's political leanings.
Management
Thousands of City Workers Suspended Without Pay Over Vaccine Noncompliance
About 91% of New York City’s municipal workforce is vaccinated, but the police and fire departments are getting vaccinated at lower rates.
Finance
These Cities Raised Wages for Municipal Workers to $15 an Hour
To attract and keep employees in a tight labor market, some local governments are bumping up hourly pay.
Finance
Biden Releases $1.75T Social Spending Framework to Win Over Democrats
The White House scaled back the original $3.5 trillion proposal, dropping paid family and medical leave and some Medicare expansions.
Tech & Data
Most Local Governments Provide Cyber Awareness Training. Why Do 25% Let Elected Leaders Opt Out?
A new survey from the CompTIA Public Technology Institute highlights cybersecurity concerns among municipal IT professionals, including remote work and rising insurance premiums.
Featured eBooks
Health & Human Services
Public Health Workers Make Case for Student Loan Repayment Program
The House Energy and Commerce Committee heard testimony Tuesday on a bill that would forgive up to $35,000 annually in student loans for individuals who work in public health for three years.
Infrastructure
What Stays and Goes as Democrats Trim Biden’s Domestic Spending Bill
Funding for free community college tuition is likely to be cut and a child tax credit and paid family and medical leave could be limited.
Management
Supply Chain Issues, Poll Worker Shortages Worry States Ahead of Elections
Election officials in some states are recruiting more poll workers but say getting power supplies and extension cords are also problems.
Public Safety
Cities Crack Down on Unvaccinated Municipal Workers
New York City expanded its vaccine mandate to all employees Wednesday while Chicago began to place police officers who refused to disclose vaccine status on unpaid leave.
Public Safety
Public Health Workers Request Federal Aid to Combat Threats
After the Justice Department said it would intervene to assist school boards and educators who have become the target of harassment during the pandemic, a public health association wants the same resources.
Public Safety
‘An Insurrection’: When Police Reject a City’s Vaccine Mandate
Chicago employees were required to report their vaccination status by Friday or risk losing pay. The local FOP is encouraging officers not to do so.
Public Safety
Using Rapid Drug Analysis to Reduce Opioid Overdose Deaths
A partnership between the Maryland State Police and Maryland Department of Health will allow for faster and broader testing of illicit drugs found in the state.
Health & Human Services
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.
Finance