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October 1, 2014
Beyond the Bushes: Political Dynasties in State and Local Government
American politics is a forest filled with intricate family trees, and many offices seem almost hereditary.
September 1, 2013
The Feds' Plan to Win Over Anti-Obamacare States
When residents in places that aren't expanding Medicaid or setting up their own health exchanges are denied insurance, the feds will tell them who to blame: their state.
September 1, 2013
Will Common Core Help or Hurt Schools' Cheating?
From Georgia to Texas, teacher evaluation systems always seem to lead to dishonest behavior. States hope the new Common Core standards will be different.
August 19, 2013
A Revenue Boost States Are Reluctant to Get Behind
Nevada's health insurance exchange plans to sell ads on its website to boost revenue and keep consumers' costs down, but their peers are reluctant to follow.
August 5, 2013
Feds Offer States Deal to Seal HIV-Testing Holes
Even though poverty is often linked with higher risks of HIV infection, less than half the states cover routine testing for Medicaid recipients. The feds are offering states an incentive to change that.
July 31, 2013
How the DOMA Ruling Could Affect State Programs
With most state-run social service programs, such as Medicaid and food stamps, funded by the feds, who decides whether gay couples will receive those benefits?
July 26, 2013
3 States Expand Medicaid Preventive Services Under Obamacare
The states will receive a one percent increase in the matching rate to their Medicaid program to pay for services that include counseling for healthy diet habits as well as screenings for various cancers and other diseases.
July 25, 2013
America's Wasting Its Renewable Energy Potential
The practice of converting waste into energy isn't new, but its advocates argue that it's underutilized in America.
July 24, 2013
Maryland County Pioneers Call for Fair E-Book Prices for Libraries
Despite pent-up demand for e-books, Montgomery County, Md., libraries are stymied by book publishing pricing practices that are straining budgets. A county resolution calls for a remedy to the problem.
July 19, 2013
U.S. House Passes No Child Left Behind Reauthorization
The U.S. House on Friday passed a bill reauthorizing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), known as No Child Left Behind, the first passage of major K-12 legislation in more than a decade.
July 18, 2013
Why the Common Core Rebellion Fell Short
More than a dozen states introduced legislation to pull out of the Common Core State Standards, but most bills went nowhere.
July 17, 2013
Maryland County Tests New School Governance Structure
Prince George's County last month became the first in the nation to give the chief executive the authority to appoint a superintendent and school board members.
July 15, 2013
Kentucky is 1st State to Raise Dropout Age
President Barack Obama called for every state to raise the legal age students can drop out of high school to 18 last year. But states haven't been quick to make any changes.
July 15, 2013
Abortion Regs: Protections or Political Restrictions?
Two states have passed laws this month that require doctors to have hospital privileges to perform abortions. Critics say the laws will have little impact on women's health and are purely politically motivated.
July 8, 2013
Some State Health Exchanges Won't be Finished by Deadline
Because of a tight schedule, a number of state-based marketplaces will still be finalizing their payment functions after the Oct. 1 launch.
July 3, 2013
Obamacare-Mandate Delay to Have Little Impact on Public Employers
State and local governments aren't likely to have a big reaction to the news that the White House would delay Obamacare's employer mandate for one year.
July 1, 2013
Arkansas Could Crack Health-Care Cost Containment
The state is making an unprecedented effort to cut health costs by instituting performance pay into its health-care industry and paying doctors based on quality instead of quantity.
June 28, 2013
Lines Blurred Between Medicinal & Recreational Pot
In creating regulations for its now-legal pot industry, Colorado referred to the rules already in place for its medical marijuana system – so much so that it can be hard to distinguish between the two.
June 28, 2013
Is Florida Gov. Rick Scott Misunderstood?
The Florida governor came into office with no political experience and promising to overturn Obamacare. But his switch to support Medicaid expansion suggests he's learning on the job.
June 28, 2013
Can Libraries Survive the E-Book Revolution?
Facing higher prices and limited access to e-books from the major publishers, one man has inspired a national movement to promote smaller, digitally based presses and self-published authors.
June 27, 2013
Feds Offer States $12M to Better Coordinate Medicaid, Medicare
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced Thursday that they would offer up to $12 million in funding for states to develop ombudsmen programs for their efforts to better coordinate care between Medicare and Medicaid.
June 26, 2013
What the Court's Prop. 8 Ruling Means for Voters
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that private citizens can't defend a state law in federal court -- a decision with potentially widespread implications for cases involving voter-approved laws.
June 25, 2013
It's Getting Hot in Here
Noting that last year was the warmest ever for most states, President Obama released a plan to combat climate change that builds on states' actions around renewable energy development and energy efficiency.
June 24, 2013
Court Avoids Major Affirmative Action Ruling
The U.S. Supreme Court sent the University of Texas case back to the lower courts Monday without ruling on the general merits of affirmative action.
June 19, 2013
Analysis: Obamacare Premiums Lower Than Expected
The new estimates are good news for consumers and advocates for the Affordable Care Act.
June 17, 2013
States Offer More Subsidies for Health Exchanges
While much of the debate over Obamacare has centered on some states' refusal to implement the law, at least three are going beyond what the law prescribes.
June 13, 2013
Most Graduation Requirements Don't Align with Common Core, Report Says
Most of the 45 states that adopted the Common Core State Standards haven't updated their high school graduation requirements to comply with the new K-12 academic standards, according to a new report.
June 11, 2013
Bloomberg: NYC Ready to Fight Climate Change
New York City is more than halfway toward its goal of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions 30 percent by 2030, and has a new plan to prepare for future extreme weather events.
June 10, 2013
Ohio Officials Battle over Auditing of Economic Development Money
When the state auditor tried to subpoena records from a private firm using public money, the governor and legislature moved to stop him.
June 10, 2013
Private-School Tax Credits: Welfare for the Rich?
Wisconsin not only wants to join the more than handful of states that give families tax breaks for sending their kids to private schools, its lawmakers are proposing what would be the most generous tax deduction of them all.
June 7, 2013
Should Charter School Teachers be Evaluated?
Some education reformers say mandated teacher evaluations infringe on the independence of charter schools.
June 5, 2013
Governments Weigh Nixing Retiree Health Benefits
States and localities are considering having their retired workers buy health coverage through Obamacare's insurance exchanges instead. The move would likely save employers money but not necessarily employees.
June 1, 2013
Tornado Stirs Emergency-Preparedness Debate
Because of its geographic location, there's little that policymakers can do to prevent the severe natural disasters that hit Oklahoma year after year. The best they can do is prepare for them -- but not everyone agrees how.
May 31, 2013
Could Gay Marriage, Guns and Marijuana Lead to a Fragmented United States of America?
Without strong federal policies, states have become more active and divergent.
May 30, 2013
Report Reveals Biggest Barrier to Health Exchanges
A new federal report questions whether the insurance marketplaces will be ready in time for Oct. 1.
May 28, 2013
3 GOP Governors, 3 Medicaid-Expansion Approaches
Florida's Rick Scott, Arizona's Jan Brewer and Ohio's John Kasich developed three very distinct strategies to try to convince their Republican legislatures to adopt a key component of Obamacare.
May 22, 2013
States Racing to Build Health Exchanges in Time
The pressure mounts as 18 states work to build Obamacare's online insurance marketplaces before the deadline -- a task that some health care veterans say is the most challenging they've ever faced.
May 21, 2013
Feds Approve Va. Project Coordinating Medicare, Medicaid
Virginia is the sixth state to reach an agreement with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to run a pilot project coordinating care for dual eligibles.
May 10, 2013
5 Regulations for Legal Marijuana in Colorado
The state is the first to establish regulations for legalized marijuana. But hanging over them is the possibility that the feds will take action.
May 9, 2013
Which States Have the Highest Hospital Prices?
New federal data sheds light on hospital pricing for the most common diagnoses and treatments. View data for your state.
May 7, 2013
Should Food Stamps Pay for Junk Food?
So far, no state has successfully set rules about what people can buy with food stamps. Wisconsin and South Carolina want to be the first.
May 2, 2013
Study: Medicaid Improves Mental But Not Physical Health
A new study reveals that uninsured adults who receive Medicaid coverage experience negligible effects on their physical health, but substantially improve their mental well-being. It previews how the federal law could impact poor, childless adults who get coverage through the Medicaid expansion.
May 1, 2013
Florida Dems Filibuster to Force Medicaid Expansion Debate
Both sides of the aisle are using parliamentarian tricks to maneuver around the most controversial issue of the session, which ends Friday.
April 30, 2013
The Future of Insurance in an Era of Health Reform
Nobody knows exactly what the Affordable Care Act will do to the insurance industry. But many in the private sector, including Aetna's CEO, are saying it's time for the industry to change.
April 30, 2013
Should School Boards be Expelled?
Local boards were designed to take politics out of education. But increasing politicization of the boards themselves has led to calls to eliminate them.
April 30, 2013
L.A. Builds Mini Parks to Drive Away Sex Offenders
Many municipalities prohibit sex offenders from living near parks. L.A. and Miami are taking it one step further and calling patches of grass "parks" in order to rid their cities of the offenders who currently reside there.
April 29, 2013
State Pre-K Funding Hits Historic Low
As Obama pushes for universal preschool, a new report shows that states endured a historic drop in pre-K funding last year, and enrollment stagnated for the first time in years.
April 25, 2013
What's the Back-Up Plan for Health Insurance Exchanges?
Nobody knows for sure, as critical deadlines approach.
April 23, 2013
Conservatives Target Illinois for Job Poaching
Red states are trying to convince businesses to leave Illinois as the state struggles economically and fiscally.
April 19, 2013
Colorado Wants Its Own Aerial Firefighters
Most states rely on federal crews to fight fires from the air. But with those resources often stretched, Colorado wants to become the second state to respond to such emergencies on their own.
April 18, 2013
Should Doctors Help the Terminally Ill Die?
Bills to regulate and prohibit physician-assisted suicide failed this session in Montana, but the debate continues nationwide.
April 16, 2013
Michigan Moves to Regulate Mixed Martial Arts
Following the death of a fighter, Michigan is the latest state to consider rules to protect participants in amateur MMA matches.
April 11, 2013
Could Postponing Medicaid Hospital Cuts Become the Next 'Doc Fix'?
Obama's budget proposes delaying certain Medicaid cuts another year, complicating the politics of the Medicaid expansion and possibly setting the administration up for an annual headache.
April 10, 2013
Obama Calls for Delay in Medicaid Cuts to Hospitals
If President Barack Obama's proposal to postpone Medicaid cuts to hospitals for one more year is enacted, it would likely complicate the politics of the Medicaid expansion.
April 10, 2013
Obama Proposes $75 Billion for Universal Preschool
Following up on his pledge to expand early education to all American children, President Barack Obama proposed pumping $66 billion over the next 10 years into a "Preschool for All" initiative.
April 10, 2013
Obama Proposes Energy Program Modeled on 'Race to the Top'
As part of his plan for greater energy efficiency across the U.S., President Barack Obama proposed a competitive grant program to help states cut waste.
April 9, 2013
CMS Administrator Sails Through Senate Confirmation Hearing
The position has been left officially unfilled in part because of the political turmoil around Obamacare, but Marilyn Tavenner appeared to enjoy bipartisan support at Tuesday's hearing.
April 8, 2013
Arkansas' Game-Changing Medicaid Expansion Plan
A lot of information is floating around about the state's first-of-its-kind plan to expand Medicaid under Obamacare. Arkansas' Medicaid director sets the record straight.
April 2, 2013
6 Ways States Are Addressing the Doctor Shortage
States are trying to ensure there will be enough health professionals to provide care to the millions expected to get insurance next year under Obamacare.
April 1, 2013
States Choose Managed Care for Medicare, Medicaid
California is the latest state to join a national movement to coordinate care for people who qualify for both public health insurance programs.
April 1, 2013
Latest Move in School Safety? A Panic Button.
Not all emergencies give people the time or ability to call 911. One Georgia city has installed panic buttons in all of its schools, and similar plans have been introduced in California and New Jersey.
March 29, 2013
Gender-Neutral Language Written into State Laws
Many states -- Washington being the latest -- have revised decades-old codes and statutes to remove any gender bias.
March 27, 2013
States' Rights Debated in Supreme Court DOMA Case
The U.S. Supreme Court clashed over whether it's constitutional for the federal government to ignore state decisions to legalize gay marriage.
March 26, 2013
Should Private Citizens Defend State Laws in Court?
The U.S. Supreme Court's answer will determine whether the justices rule on California's gay marriage ban at all.
March 26, 2013
Supreme Court Appears Divided on Gay Marriage
The justices appeared torn Tuesday over whether it's too soon to make a broad decision on the issue and whether they should even make a ruling at all.
March 26, 2013
Mississippi Dems Weigh 'Nuclear Option' to Force Medicaid Debate
House Democrats say they're willing to let the state's entire Medicaid program expire to force a debate on Obamacare's expansion.
March 25, 2013
Gay Marriage in Court: What States Need to Know
Two cases covering same-sex marriage go before the U.S. Supreme Court this week. Here's a primer on the cases and the different routes the court might take.
March 20, 2013
Premature Death Twice as Likely in Least Healthy U.S. Counties
Though premature deaths across the United States have reached a 20-year low, the gap between the healthiest and unhealthiest counties is still wide, according to a new report.
March 20, 2013
Public Unaware of State's Decisions on Health Reform
A new poll underlines the disconnect between the debate among lawmakers and the public's knowledge about the federal health law's central provisions.
March 20, 2013
Philly Feuds with Feds over Calorie Counts on Menus
Philadelphia city officials want an exemption for a 2008 local ordinance that goes further than Obamacare on nutrition labeling.
March 13, 2013
Maryland's One-of-a-Kind Plan to Simplify Switching Health Insurance
The bill would allow residents to go ahead with approved procedures and keeping seeing the same doctors, even after changing insurance.
March 11, 2013
7 Rules for Colorado's New Marijuana Industry
Pot vending machines? Perhaps, under new recommendations from a governor-appointed task force on regulating legalized marijuana.
March 8, 2013
State Regulators Want Insurers Better Prepared for Climate Change
Most insurance companies aren't adequately preparing for the challenges of climate change, according to a new report, but they are still well-positioned to take the lead on the issue and become vocal advocates in statehouses and on Capitol Hill.
March 7, 2013
How to Craft an After-School Program That Doesn't Suck
Providence, R.I.'s after-school system has become a national model. Its leader has some advice for those looking to improve their after-school opportunities for at-risk youth.
March 6, 2013
Should Medicaid Incentivize Healthy Behavior?
Critics killed an experiment in West Virginia to incentivize Medicaid patients to be healthier. Some say it's time for states to revisit such ideas if they're serious about controlling health costs.
March 6, 2013
Big Money Starts Seeping into School Board Elections
Record amounts of money are being spent to elect school boards. Advocates worry it's the start of a disturbing trend.
February 28, 2013
Sequestration's Impact on Public Health
If the automatic budget cuts are allowed to take full effect, public health advocates warn the impact on the safety net could be devastating.
February 28, 2013
Companies Hire 'Green' Activists to Promote Coal
Coal companies have recruited former environmental activists to combat the local backlash against increased coal exports in the Northwest.
February 28, 2013
Veterans Seek Help from States and Localities
Some states and localities are stepping in to fill the void left by federal aid. One successful model is emerging in Utica, N.Y.
February 28, 2013
To Promote Health Exchanges to the Public, States Get Creative
As many as 20 million Americans are supposed to enroll in the online marketplaces and purchase health insurance this year. But many people still aren't aware that the exchanges even exist.
February 28, 2013
Obamacare Loophole Opens Path for Conservative Health Reforms
A drafting error in the Affordable Care Act is playing a key role as red states propose alternatives to the federal law.
February 25, 2013
States Work to Smooth Transition from Medicaid to Health Exchanges
When income changes move millions of Americans from public to private insurance next year, states want to make the switch simple.
February 25, 2013
How Data Can Improve Afterschool Programs for At-Risk Youth
As cities strive to improve afterschool programs, they're using data to figure out which kids to serve and how to serve them better.
February 22, 2013
Red States May Take Advantage of Obamacare Loophole
Thanks to a mistake in the Affordable Care Act's language, some Republicans -- including Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker -- see a way to push more people to private insurance.
February 19, 2013
The Story Behind the Biggest Mistake in Obamacare
A Governing exclusive: Because of an error in the language of the Affordable Care Act, millions of people will be able to purchase private health insurance next year.
February 15, 2013
Health Exchanges: States Avoid 'Partnership' But Claim Regulatory Power
Some states are defaulting to a federal-run insurance marketplace, but hoping to keep their regulatory authority.
February 14, 2013
Details of Obama's Plan to Expand Early Education Emerge
In his State of the Union address Tuesday night, President Barack Obama pledged to support state efforts to expand early education access to all American children.
February 13, 2013
How to Market a Health Insurance Exchange
Many Americans still don't know about the online health insurance marketplaces that are being created under the Affordable Care Act. The District of Columbia is trying to figure out how to change that.
February 12, 2013
Phoenix Hospitals Tax Themselves to Cash In on Federal Funds
The city expects to bring in hundreds of millions in federal dollars through the initiative.
February 12, 2013
Universities Test 'Tuition Guarantees' to Reduce Debt
A few schools are guaranteeing four-year tuition rates for incoming students while the higher education world watches to see how the experiment works.
February 8, 2013
Tavenner Nominated to Officially Head CMS
Though she has been acting administrator for more than a year, Marilyn Tavenner, who is leading the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, was officially nominated for the post by President Barack Obama Thursday.
February 8, 2013
States Will be Pushed to Take Control of Health Exchanges
Insurers will likely lobby states to transition from federal to state control, an idea that's already on some states' minds.
February 6, 2013
Can Medicaid Dental Coverage Boost Massachusetts' Economy?
Few states provide comprehensive dental coverage. Massachusetts is hoping that better teeth will lead to better jobs for low-income adults.
February 6, 2013
Property Tax Revenue Limits Squeeze School Budgets
Limits on how much property tax revenue localities can raise -- which nearly every state has -- are coming under increased scrutiny in Wisconsin.
February 5, 2013
States Send Warning to Feds with Medicaid Expansion 'Triggers'
Even as they embrace the expansion, some governors are signaling that they'll pull out if federal funding drops in later years.
February 1, 2013
Washington to Hire Professional Pot Consultant
For perhaps the first time, an intimate knowledge of marijuana -- its consumption, growth and distribution -- isn't going to land you in jail in Washington. It just might earn you a job with the state government.
February 1, 2013
CMS Official Pledges Health Exchanges Will Open On Time
With the deadline for the Affordable Care Act's health insurance marketplaces officially eight months away, Gary Cohen, who is overseeing their implementation for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), assured health care advocates Thursday that they would open on schedule.
January 31, 2013
How Can States Eliminate Medicaid Fraud?
The federal government has compiled some best practices to eradicate a problem that costs up to $30 billion annually.
January 31, 2013
The $20 Eye Surgery That Could Save the World
At India's innovative Aravind hospitals, each doctor performs as many as 2,000 cataract surgeries annually.
January 31, 2013
Performance-Based College Funding is Coming Stateside
For years, states have dallied over pay-for-performance in higher education. In Britain, they've been doing it for decades.
January 30, 2013
Maryland Lt. Gov. Redefines the Job to Work for Him
There's a running joke in state government that nobody is sure what a state's lieutenant governor is actually supposed to do.
January 25, 2013
Rebranding "Get Your Flu Shot": Localities Test New Messages
Foregoing the old-fashioned public service announcement, local health departments are trying new ways to get the word out.
January 25, 2013
Montana Has Highest Rate of Health Insurance Denials
A new analysis shows how the ACA provision banning the denial of health insurance to people with preexisting conditions will impact various states.
January 24, 2013
Poll: Health Exchanges Should Be Top Priority for Legislatures
Americans want their governors and state lawmakers focused on creating health insurance marketplaces in the current legislative sessions, according to a poll released Tuesday by the Kaiser Family Foundation, while a solid majority of the public also wants their state to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
January 23, 2013
Health Reform Timelines Called Into Question Again
Some state officials think the upcoming deadlines for health exchanges are unrealistic. A few are even floating the idea of an extension.
January 23, 2013
Florida Gov. Scott Proposes Pay Raise for Teachers
Though his administration has often clashed with teachers unions, Florida Gov. Rick Scott extended an olive branch of sorts Wednesday: a $2,500 for all full-time public school teachers in the state.
January 22, 2013
Outgoing Nebraska Senator to Head Insurance Commissioner Group
Retiring U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson (D-Neb.) is moving from the Capitol to the association circuit, where he will take over as president of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
January 21, 2013
Delaware Sets Early Example for Partnership Health Exchanges
States have until Feb. 15 to decide if they want to partner with the feds on their health exchange. Delaware is one state to already choose that route.
January 18, 2013
Agriculture Secretary Asks Mayors to Push Farm Bill
Lost in the chaos of Congress's last-minute passage of legislation to avoid the fiscal cliff this month was the farm bill -- ever the undercard -- and the reality that the hodgepodge of food and agriculture provisions is still sitting on the U.S. House's proverbial desk, expired and needing reauthorization.
January 16, 2013
Why GOP Governors Are Coming Around on the Medicaid Expansion
Despite their opposition to Obama's health-care reform law, a handful of Republican governors have come out in support of expanding Medicaid recently.
January 16, 2013
HHS Rebrands Health Exchanges as 'Marketplaces'
In an effort to raise public awareness about the ACA, health insurance exchanges -- websites similar to Expedia where people can purchase health coverage -- will now be called 'health insurance marketplaces.'
January 16, 2013
What if State Law Doesn't Comply with the Affordable Care Act?
Nearly a dozen states haven't passed laws to conform their state code with the federal law's health insurance reforms.
January 15, 2013
Space Satellite Connects Rural Health Clinics to Broadband
To connect mobile health units in the hills of rural New England with broadband access, policymakers are looking up -- all the way to space.
January 14, 2013
Design Plays Limited Role in Improving School Safety
In the wake of the Newtown, Conn., shootings, some states are pumping money into school safety improvements. But there are few options for change.
January 11, 2013
Brown Proposes County-Level Medicaid Expansion in California
In one of two plans he proposed for implementing the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion, California Gov. Jerry Brown has suggested that his state try something different: expand the low-income insurance program on a county-by-county basis.
January 10, 2013
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Uncommitted on Medicaid Expansion
A coalition is coalescing in support of the Medicaid expansion, sparking a nationwide effort to convince skeptical governors and legislators that accepting a windfall of federal money to expand the low-income insurance is a good thing for their state. But those advocates shouldn't expect the ready help of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce any time soon.
January 9, 2013
Nation's Governors Focus Energy on Federal Deficit Reduction
Entering the new year, the nation's governors are focused on having a role in the federal conversations around deficit reduction and comprehensive tax reform, according to the vision laid out by Delaware Gov. Jack Markell and Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin at the National Governors Association's inaugural State of the States address Wednesday.
January 9, 2013
Mental Health Care Transformation Coming to America
Two federal laws -- and state implementation of their provisions -- are overhauling insurance coverage for the mentally ill.
January 8, 2013
FCC Puts $400 Million Toward Telemedicine Capability
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is putting $400 million toward improving the nation's telemedicine infrastructure, the commission announced Monday.
January 7, 2013
Rick Scott Still Skeptical of Federal Health-Care Reform
After meeting with U.S. HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, the Florida governor sounded decidedly unswayed as he continues to weigh how much of the Affordable Care Act his state will implement.
January 4, 2013
Report: Washington's Gregoire To Head EPA
Outgoing Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire, a former Governing Public of the Year, will be named administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) soon, according to a report by the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
January 4, 2013
7 More State Health Exchanges Approved by HHS
Seven more states have received the necessary approval from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a state-run health insurance exchange.
January 2, 2013
5 Pending Medicaid Waivers to Watch in 2013
States have frequently criticized the laborious process for getting a Medicaid waiver approved by CMS. Here are five awaiting a federal stamp in the new year.
January 2, 2013
Fiscal Cliff Deal Fixes Medicare Doctor Payments -- for Now
Lost among the tax and spending debate, the fiscal cliff bill passed by the House and Senate this week also averted a significant pay cut for doctors who treat Medicare patients, the Washington Post reports.
December 28, 2012
Top 10 Legislative Issues to Watch in 2013
Here are 10 of the biggest topics states will tackle in the year ahead.
December 28, 2012
Millennials in the Mayor's Seat
Young leaders -- like Holyoke, Mass., Mayor Alex Morse who was 22 years old when he took office -- are injecting cities with a new energy.
December 20, 2012
Libraries Readying for Flood of E-Readers After Christmas
Strained by budget cuts, libraries are preparing to handle more questions and more customers after the gift-giving season.
December 19, 2012
The Government Guide to the End of the World
Apocalyptic hysteria has raised some public health concerns and larger questions about science education in America.
December 18, 2012
Health Enterprise Zones: Maryland's Unique Approach
Offering financial incentives to boost services in select areas is common for economic development -- but rarely, if ever, used to reduce health disparities.
December 18, 2012
25 States Pledge to Improve Teacher Preparation
States are looking at how they can revise licensing policies and preparation programs to strengthen the teaching workforce.
December 14, 2012
BREAKING: Nearly 30 Reported Dead in Connecticut School Shooting
At least 27 people, including 14 children, were shot and killed at an elementary school in Newtown, Conn., according to multiple reports coming out of the city.
December 14, 2012
Obama: Marijuana Crackdown Not a "Top Priority"
In his first comments on the issue, President Barack Obama said that prosecuting pot smokers in Colorado and Washington should not be a "top priority" of the federal government.
December 11, 2012
HHS: No Partial Medicaid Expansion Under the Affordable Care Act
Answering a popular question from the states, U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius told governors in a letter Monday that her department would not support a partial Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
December 10, 2012
Nebraska Lawmakers Could Override Veto on Medicaid Expansion
A Nebraska legislator says he can get enough votes to overturn a veto by Gov. Dave Heineman, who opposes the expansion.
December 6, 2012
Graduation Data Shows States Struggle with English Learners
Half of states graduate less than 60 percent of their students with limited English proficiency.
December 4, 2012
How a Minnesota County Solved the Medicaid Expansion Problem
A pilot program in Hennepin County, Minn., is providing better and cheaper care to low-income childless adults.
December 3, 2012
Public Health Makes Its Case During Fiscal Cliff Talks
Advocates are trying to save public health programs from further cuts -- and persuade Congress that they can be their own deficit reduction tool.
November 30, 2012
Medicaid Expansion & States: Will They or Won't They?
Faced with the decision to expand Medicaid or not in the wake of the federal health law ruling, states can be divided into three categories.
November 26, 2012
State Savings in Medicaid Expansion Outweigh Costs
If all 50 states choose to expand Medicaid under the federal health law, they would collectively save more than they would spend, reports a new analysis.
November 26, 2012
Waiting to Exhale: GPS Inhalers Identify Asthma Hotspots
Louisville, Ky., is pushing the limits of how government can use data to create a healthier living environment.
November 21, 2012
Medicaid Teetering on the Fiscal Cliff
How Washington resolves its looming financial obligations could have major implications for the low-income insurance program.
November 21, 2012
HHS Releases Final Rules on Essential Health Benefits
With reelection in its rearview mirror, the Obama administration released a flurry of Affordable Care Act (ACA) regulations Tuesday, including new specifics about health plans to be sold on health exchanges.
November 20, 2012
HHS Proposes Coverage Rules for Medicaid Expansion
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has outlined for the first time the coverage that states must offer new Medicaid enrollees if they decide to expand the program.
November 15, 2012
State Courts Go Digital as Budget Pressures Mount
State judiciaries see technology as a means of becoming more efficient and saving money.
November 15, 2012
Republican Governors Ask Obama for More Time on Health Exchanges
Faced with the reality that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will be fully implemented after President Barack Obama's reelection, Republican governors are asking for a sitdown with the White House to discuss state-level implementation -- and more time to plan their health exchanges.
November 13, 2012
How Higher Education Could Save Medicaid
Three states have experimented with bringing public universities on as full partners in administering the low-income insurance program.
November 9, 2012
Health Exchange Deadline Extended for States
Just days after President Barack Obama's reelection, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has extended the deadline for states to file their health insurance exchange plans.
November 9, 2012
Health Exchange Plans Become Clearer After Election
Governors are making their health exchange plans known as the Nov. 16 deadline approaches.
November 7, 2012
What's Next for the Affordable Care Act?
Obama's reelection means implementation will continue, but much is left to the states.
November 7, 2012
Instagramming Your Ballot? It Might be a Crime
Some Americans snapped a photo of their ballot and uploaded it to the social network of their choice. It's a practice that more than 30 states prohibit.
November 7, 2012
Death Penalty, Assisted Suicide Measures Fail in California, Massachusetts
Two efforts to change policies on state-prescribed death failed at the ballot boxes.
November 7, 2012
Marijuana Legalized in Colorado and Washington
They're the first states to allow recreational use of the drug, setting up a potential showdown between state laws and federal prohibition.
November 7, 2012
Charter Schools Score Victories in Georgia and Washington
Education reform advocates won two efforts to expand charter schools Tuesday night.
November 7, 2012
Maryland Supports DREAM Act, Oklahoma Bans Affirmative Action
Maryland is one of 11 states to have passed some version of the DREAM Act.
November 6, 2012
Affirmative Action, Dream Act Put in Front of Voters
Oklahoma and Maryland voters will decide on questions of access and equality.
November 6, 2012
Charter Schools Get Another Chance at the Ballot
Multi-year fights over education reform will be on the ballot in Georgia and Washington.
November 5, 2012
Massachusetts,California Voters to Decide on Death
Bay State voters will decide whether to allow physician-assisted suicide, while people in the Golden State will vote on abolishing the death penalty.
November 2, 2012
Individual Mandate, Health Exchanges Taken to State Ballots
Votes in five states on the individual mandate and health exchanges are set for next week.
November 2, 2012
HHS Sets Medicaid Primary Care Payments to Match Medicare
For the next two years, doctors who provide primary care to Medicaid patients will receive the same payments as those who serve Medicare recipients, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Thursday.
November 1, 2012
New Jersey Postpones Halloween Until Nov. 5
With his state still recovering from Sandy's wrath, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie issued an executive order Wednesday, postponing Halloween celebrations in the state until Nov. 5.
October 31, 2012
Marijuana Legalization Close to Passage in 2 States
Support for marijuana legalization ballot initiatives in Colorado and Washington exceeds 50 percent, according to recent polls.
October 31, 2012
Poll: Health Law, Medicaid Potent Undercards in 2012 Election
While still ranking behind the economy and jobs as the most important issues of the campaign, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and state-run Medicaid are still important factors for voters heading to the polls next Tuesday, a new Kaiser Family Foundation poll found.
October 31, 2012
The U.S. as an Energy Exporter?
The country is poised to transition from one of the world's biggest consumers of energy to one of its largest producers.
October 30, 2012
Mid-Atlantic States Begin Cleaning Up After Sandy
From the Carolinas to New York City, state and local authorities have begun the long process of cleaning up billions of dollars in damage and restoring power to millions after Hurricance Sandy hit the region Monday.
October 29, 2012
Romney Restates Pledge to Return FEMA to States
As Hurricane Sandy approaches, Romney's pledge in the GOP primary to return FEMA's responsibilities to the states has been revisited.
October 26, 2012
Without Medicaid Expansion, Hospital Uncompensated Care Would Grow
If states decide not to expand Medicaid in 2014, the uncompensated care provided by hospitals could ballon by more than $53 billion by 2019, according to a new analysis from the National Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems (NAPH).
October 25, 2012
25 States Don't Know What Kind of Health Exchange They'll Have
With less than a month before applications to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) are due, half of the states still don't know what kind of health insurance exchange model they're going to have.
October 25, 2012
As Retiree Health Benefits Decline, Exchanges Seen as Saviors
Companies view the new state health exchanges as a viable alternative to employer-based support, according to a new report.
October 25, 2012
Medicaid Spending and Enrollment Slow as Economy Recovers
Medicaid enrollment and spending slowed dramatically in FY 2012 as the nation's economy began to improve, according to a new 50-state survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation, and those trends are expected to continue in FY 2013.
October 24, 2012
Massachusetts Leading the Way on Dual Eligibles
Massachusetts, the first state to get approval to coordinate care between Medicaid and Medicare, based its plan on two existing programs that have shown positive results.
October 23, 2012
How Does Opening a Casino Impact Public Health?
As Kansas lawmakers consider making it easier to open a casino, public health advocates are assessing the residual health effects.
October 23, 2012
Massachusetts Leading the Way on Dual Eligibles
Massachusetts, the first state to get approval to coordinate care between Medicaid and Medicare, based its plan on two existing programs that have shown positive results.
October 23, 2012
Food-Safety Inspectors Struggle to Keep Up
Whether food is locally or nationally distributed, public health officials face a growing challenge to ensure the safety of what you eat.
October 18, 2012
Why Isn't Education a Bigger Political Issue in 2012?
The candidates agree education is essential to American prosperity. So why aren't they talking more about it?
October 17, 2012
Local Health Departments Tested by Meningitis Outbreak
As local health departments scramble to respond to the fungal meningitis outbreak that has spread to 15 states, infecting more than 200 and killing 15, it serves as a sobering reminder that the nation's ability to confront such a crisis has been significantly reduced in recent years.
October 16, 2012
Races (Besides the White House) You Should Watch
The folks at Ballotpedia have highlighted 15 federal, state and local races that they say could dictate the future of the country. For full election coverage, go to Governing's Election Center.
October 15, 2012
Meningitis Outbreak Puts State Regulations Under Microscope
The health crisis, which has led to more than 200 infections, could lead to shift from state to federal oversight of compounding pharmacies.
October 11, 2012
A Fresh Start: City Requires Corner Stores to Sell Healthy Produce
The Minneapolis experiment, which started in 2008, could serve as a model for other cities.
October 10, 2012
Supreme Court Tackles Affirmative Action in Texas Case
In oral arguments Wednesday, the Court has been asked to decide if public universities can use race to determine admissions.
October 9, 2012
New Tests for Common Core Standards Make Public Debut
The new computerized assessments, which states will begin piloting in 2013, mark a radical new approach to testing.
October 9, 2012
Local Governments Prepare for Health Law's Employer Requirements
Like any other employers, local governments are preparing themselves for full implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the coming year, weighing their options about improving health coverage for employees or letting their workers test the private markets on the health insurance exchanges.
October 5, 2012
Arizona Tabs State Employee Plan for Essential Health Benefits
Add Arizona to the short list of states, joining Maryland and Utah, that have selected their state employee health policy as the benchmark for essential health benefits sold on its health insurance exchange.
October 4, 2012
Are State Employee Health Plans The Best? 2 States Say Yes
Maryland and Utah have picked state employee health plans as benchmarks for the insurance policies sold on their health exchanges.
October 4, 2012
Obama, Romney Spar on Medicaid in First Debate
Medicare may continue to be the marquee showdown between President Barack Obama and Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney as they lay out visions for the future of the country's health-care sector, but Medicaid is proving to be a feisty undercard.
October 2, 2012
Ohio Colleges Will Create Formula for Performance-Based Funding
Some states are considering tying higher ed funding to performance. Ohio has asked the schools themselves to craft a funding model.
October 2, 2012
Obamacare v. Romneycare: Which States Would Be Most Affected?
Two analyses released in the last week estimated the number of uninsured would increase if the ACA were repealed and replaced by the Republican plan.
October 1, 2012
As America Ages, States Prepare for Alzheimer's Crisis
One in eight older Americans live with Alzheimer's disease, costing the health-care sector up to $200 billion annually. So what are states doing about it?
September 28, 2012
How More Access to Data Can Transform Health Care
States are gaining access to Medicare data for the first time and using it to target high-risk populations in an effort to lower health costs. View our series on aging in America at governing.com/generations.
September 28, 2012
Telehealth's Chance to Revolutionize Health Care
If states can get out of the way, advances in telehealth could lead to savings by reducing unnecessary hospitalizations and catching chronic problems early.
September 28, 2012
States Seek to Keep Seniors Out of Nursing Homes
States are searching for affordable ways to allow seniors in need of long-term care to remain in their homes. View our special series on aging in America at governing.com/generations.
September 27, 2012
Is It Do-or-Die Time for Parent Trigger Laws?
As states weigh whether to allow parents to take over struggling schools, reformers are still waiting for a successful trigger.
September 27, 2012
HHS Awards New Health Exchange Grants to Five States
Five states and the District of Columbia received another round of health exchange establishment grants, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Thursday.
September 26, 2012
Gallup: Americans Have Growing Faith in State and Local Government
Public trust in state and local government has reached a more than 10-year high, according to a Gallup poll released Wednesday.
September 26, 2012
Medicaid Consumes More of Federal Aid to States and Localities
Medicaid has tripled as a share of federal outlays to state and local governments since 1980.
September 25, 2012
New Jersey Senate President Wants to Ban NFL Replacement Refs
New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney plans to introduce legislation prohibiting the use of replacement referees for professional sports, his office announced Tuesday morning, in the wake of controversy over the NFL's substitute officials' apparently botched call cost the Green Bay Packers a win in their game against the Seattle Seahawks Monday night.
September 25, 2012
Education Woes Place Focus on Common Core
With more news that the nation's students are falling behind, attention is returning to the next great hope in reform: the Common Core State Standards.
September 24, 2012
States Continue Plugging Into Digital Textbooks
22 states have officially endorsed digital textbooks, and the White House has set a deadline of 2017 for all students to use electronic materials
September 21, 2012
Can Employee Health Clinics Save Cities and States Money?
Cities and states are taking a page from the private sector and opening on-site health clinics for public workers.
September 19, 2012
How to Increase Infrastructure Investments in Era of Budget Cuts
State and local transportation are ever more important to America's global competitiveness, but in a climate of budget cuts and deficit reduction, policymakers have to make a better argument about the importance of infrastructure investments and find alternate ways to fund those projects.
September 19, 2012
How Can States and Cities Create a Healthy Public Workforce?
As states and localities strive to rein in employee health-care costs, innovations might become the norm.
September 18, 2012
Strict Federal Rules for Health Exchange Data Rankle States
States are anxious to use federal data for other human services programs, but the IRS has prohibited it.
September 14, 2012
Health Exchange Grants Would Be Cut Under Sequestration
Though they are a small sliver of the $1.2 trillion in automatic cuts that would take effect on Jan. 1, 2013, the health exchange establishment grants—which are expected to fund almost all state planning for the online insurance marketplaces through 2014—would be cut $66 million if Congress and the White House can't agree on a plan for avoiding sequestration.
September 14, 2012
More People Covered by Public Insurance as Uninsured Rate Declines
While private health insurance coverage remained steady in 2011, government enrollment increased and the overall uninsured rate fell from 2010, according to new figures released this week by the Census Bureau.
September 14, 2012
States Have Room for Improvement in Voter Guides
Just 9 states have "excellent" or "very good" voter guides explaining ballot initiatives, according to a new study.
September 13, 2012
Kansas Helps Developmentally Disabled Get to Work
An offshoot of the state Medicaid program lets individuals control their own budget for assistance they need to stay employed.
September 12, 2012
Hacking of Utah Health Exchange Raises Security Questions
States' online insurance marketplaces must meet federal technology standards, but they have leeway in how they do that.
September 12, 2012
Could the Chicago Teachers Strike Spread? Not Likely
A change in union leadership preceded Chicago's teacher strike, unlike other cities where labor disputes simmer.
September 10, 2012
7 More States Request NCLB Waivers
Seven more states have applied for No Child Left Behind waivers.
September 10, 2012
Massachusetts Businesses Pleased with Health Reform
The law, a model for federal reform, increased insurance coverage and minimally impacted business profits.
September 7, 2012
North Dakota Investigation Implicates Petition Fraud
Paid contractors have been charged with falsifying signatures for two ballot initiatives.
September 6, 2012
States Have Mixed Record Serving Homeless Youth
Some have expanded access to social services for homeless minors, but many still cycle them through the legal system.
September 5, 2012
Gallup: State, Local Governments Hiring Most Since Economic Collapse
For the first time since the start of the economic downturn, state and local governments created more jobs than they lost last month.
September 5, 2012
Health Exchange Navigators Still an Unknown for Most States
As exchange planning winds down, states still have to figure out contracts and funding for these public outreach entities.
September 4, 2012
Emanuel to Leave DNC Early as Teacher Strike Looms
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is dramatically cutting back his time at the Demoncratic National Convention, as the city's teachers prepare for a walkout in the first weeks of school, the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
August 31, 2012
Senior Job Training: Growing Need, Shrinking Budgets
As Americans work longer, state and local officials worry a senior job training program doesn't have the funding to meet its demand.
August 31, 2012
Immigrant-Friendly Cities Want What Arizona Doesn't
In contrast to some states' anti-immigration policies, a few cities are actively trying to attract immigrants to boost their own economies.
August 31, 2012
Texas Confronts Human Trafficking With Its Own Policies
The Lone Star state is one of many trying to combat human trafficking and help its victims with state programs.
August 31, 2012
San Antonio Mayor Echoes Obama's Education Goals
Julian Castro, who gave the keynote speech at the Democratic convention Tuesday, is working to expand pre-K access to all.
August 29, 2012
States Test Ways to Keep Employee Health Costs Down
States are trying a variety of reforms, most of which give public workers financial incentives to be healthy.
August 29, 2012
More Low-Income Children Insured Because of State Programs
Increased Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage has led to a drop in the number of low-income who are uninsured, despite an increase in child poverty, according to a report released Wednesday by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
August 28, 2012
States Fail to Set Up Medicaid Verification for Long-Term Care
States are behind in implementing a federal law that requires electronic verification for Medicaid long-term care patients.
August 23, 2012
Biggest Problem for Public Education? Lack of Funding, Poll Says
Americans believe a lack of financial support is the biggest problem currently facing public schools, according to the 44th annual Phil Delta Kappa International/Gallup poll of public attitudes toward public schools released Wednesday, but they also say that balancing the federal budget is more important than improving the quality of education.
August 21, 2012
GAO: States Spending More on Medicaid Supplemental Payments
Payments increased from 2006 to 2010, but the exact number remains unknown.
August 20, 2012
Gallup: Americans Ambivalent Toward No Child Left Behind
A plurality of Americans don't think No Child Left Behind, the most comprehensive education legislation passed in decades, has had much effect on public education, according to a new Gallup poll. But among those who do have an opinion, more believe that it has made public education worse.
August 16, 2012
Report: Third-Grade Remediation Could Benefit Students
As new laws require third graders to pass reading before moving up, research suggests it may improve performance.
August 16, 2012
Poll: Health Care Will Play Key Role in 2012 Elections
Nearly three-quarters of Americans say that the cost of health care and health insurance will be an important factor in their vote this November.
August 16, 2012
How a Big County and a Small Village Solved a Major Health Problem
Lincoln Heights, Ohio's turnaround may be a model for other troubled areas.
August 15, 2012
HHS Partners With Local Pharmacies to Advocate for Health-Care Law
With the debate over Medicare heating up in the presidential campaign, the Obama administration has partnered with local pharmacies to inform seniors about how the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will benefit their Medicare coverage.
August 14, 2012
Gallup: Hawaii Residents Most Likely to Say They're 'Thriving'
Residents in Hawaii, Utah and South Dakota were most likely to say that they are "thriving", according to a new poll from Gallup, while those in West Virginia, Maine and Delaware were least likely to feel that way.
August 14, 2012
HHS Outlines Final Guidance for State Health Insurance Exchanges
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has finalized its guidelines for states to develop their health insurance exchanges created by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and set a Nov. 16 deadline for states to submit their plans.
August 13, 2012
CDC: Adult Obesity Rates Above 30 Percent in 12 States
States in the South and Midwest had the highest proportion of obese residents, according to new estimates.
August 13, 2012
Louisiana Challenges Residents to Get Healthy
The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals is challenging its residents to live well, eat right and get enough exercise.
August 13, 2012
Paul Ryan VP Nomination Ignites Medicaid Questions
Mitt Romney's running mate wants to make Medicaid a block grant. How could this controversial proposal affect states?
August 9, 2012
K-12 Infrastructure Investments in Steep Decline Since 2009
State and local construction spending on K-12 education has dropped by more than 35 percent since 2009.
August 9, 2012
Study: Kentucky Residents Exposed to Most Toxic Air Pollution
Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania are home to the most toxic air pollution from power plants, according to an analysis of 2010 data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), conducted by the Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC).
August 8, 2012
Nevada Granted NCLB Waiver
Nevada became the 33rd state Wednesday to receive a No Child Left Behind (NCLB) waiver, the U.S. Department of Education announced.
August 8, 2012
What Impact Will Health Care Have on 2012 State Elections?
Since the Court upheld the ACA, campaign contributions with tangible connections to health reform have flowed into gubernatorial races.
August 8, 2012
Study: Access to Soda Declines in U.S. Schools
Students have significantly less access to soda in schools than they did four years ago, but their access to other sugary drinks still remains high
August 7, 2012
Massachusetts Health-Care Cost Control Bill Signed
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick signed the state's landmark health-care cost control bill into law.
August 7, 2012
Gallup: Utah Named Best State to Live in the Future
In the future, Utah looks like it will be the best state to live, according to a new Gallup poll that combines a cross-section of metrics to determine a state's livability.
August 6, 2012
CMS: States Could Adopt Medicaid Expansion, Then Drop It
No deadline exists for states to decide whether or not they will voluntarily participate in the Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), according to reports from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) annual summit in Chicago this week.
August 6, 2012
Charter Schools Awarded $11 Million in Federal Grants for Facilities
One of the chief challenges for charter schools is securing a quality facility. The U.S. Education Department handed out $11 million last week to make that process a little bit easier.
August 2, 2012
Michigan Emergency Managers Outsource Education
The Highland Park Public Schools emergency manager has contracted with a private company to oversee student instruction.
August 2, 2012
Poll: Americans Open to Drastic Forms of Education Reform
A solid plurality of Americans would be amenable to their local school districts seriously shaking up the way they operate, according to a new poll from the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, which portrayed the poll's results as good news for education reform advocates.
August 1, 2012
Dual-Eligible Demonstrations Push Forward After Court Ruling
A dozen or more states are expected to submit their plans in September for improving care for those eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare.
July 31, 2012
For-Profit Colleges Called Into Question by Senate Report
Enrollment is rising, but a new report highlights weak retention and high student loan default rates.
July 31, 2012
Poll: More Americans Favor Medicaid Expansion Than Oppose It
Americans slightly favor states' volutarily expanding their Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), according to a new poll from the Kaiser Family Foundation.
July 31, 2012
Medical Marijuana: Do States Know How to Regulate It?
Colorado's decade-long debate over how to manage medical marijuana has produced a tightly controlled approach that more states are starting to emulate.
July 27, 2012
Chick-fil-A Controversy: Chicago, Boston Threaten Bans
After the company's president expressed opposition to gay marriage, two mayors said they'll try to prevent it from expanding.
July 25, 2012
CBO: Supreme Court Decision Will Decrease Cost of ACA
Between decreased Medicaid enrollment and increased health insurance subsidies, the federal government will save $84 billion implementing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) through 2022, according to new estimates from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).
July 24, 2012
Pot Legalization Could Set Up State-Federal Showdown
Voters in three states will decide whether to legalize marijuana for commercial use, while it remains banned under federal law.
July 24, 2012
Rhode Island Health Exchange Director Talks Implementation
Christine Ferguson is in charge of what she expects to be one of the nation's first online insurance marketplaces.
July 20, 2012
Localities Respond to 'Dark Knight Rises' Shooting
After at least a dozen people were killed in Aurora, Colo., Friday morning at a midnight showing of the latest Batman film, law enforcement agencies across the country are working to prevent copycat crimes and ease the public's fears.
July 19, 2012
Maine's LePage Has History with Reducing Medicaid Rolls
The governor, who wants to cut Medicaid enrollment after the Supreme Court ruling, proposed a similar plan earlier this year.
July 19, 2012
HHS Offers New Funding for State Health-Care Innovation
States will be able to draw on a $275 million pot of federal money to pursue health-care innovation initiatives, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Thursday.
July 19, 2012
Map: 6 More States Granted NCLB Waivers
Another six states and the District of Columbia were granted waivers from the No Child Left Behind Act, bringing the number of waivers to 33.
July 18, 2012
Report: Stimulus Funding Saved Teaching Jobs
Almost 70 percent of school districts said they used stimulus money to save or create education jobs, according to a new report.
July 17, 2012
House GOP Budget Proposes Defunding Health-Care Reform
U.S. House Republicans have followed through on their pledge to defund the Affordable Care Act, including the exchange establishment grant program that's funding state efforts to implement health insurance marketplaces.
July 12, 2012
Extended Learning Schedules Catch On at Struggling Schools
Schools receiving federal improvement grants in 46 states have added learning time to improve student performance, according to a new report.
July 12, 2012
9 States Apply for Health Exchange Establishment Grants
Nine states asked for health exchange establishment grants during the latest round of applications, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) official told Governing.
July 11, 2012
HHS to Exempt Low-Income from Mandate in States That Opt Out of Medicaid Expansion
In a letter sent to all 50 governors Tuesday, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said that her department would exempt low-income individuals in states that choose not to expand their Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) from the law's individual mandate.
July 11, 2012
Nebraska Governor Says State Can't Afford Medicaid Expansion
Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman came down firmly against expanding the state's Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which is now voluntary for states after the Supreme Court's ruling at the end of June.
July 10, 2012
State-Run Pensions for Private-Sector Employees Proposed
The idea has been introduced in at least a dozen states since 2006, including four this year.
July 9, 2012
Medicaid Directors Question CMS on Supreme Court Decision
The National Association of Medicaid Directors sent nearly 30 questions to the federal government last week on the health-care reform law's now optional Medicaid expansion.
July 6, 2012
Jobs Report: Government Employment, Jobless Rate Relatively Unchanged
The U.S. economy added 80,000 jobs in June, unemployment remained steady at 8.2 percent and state and local governments added another 4,000 jobs, according to Friday's monthly employment report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
July 6, 2012
Map: 2 More States Receive NCLB Waivers
Washington and Wisconsin are the latest states to receive No Child Left Behind Act waivers -- something more than half the states now have.
July 3, 2012
Hospitals Likely to Lobby States on Medicaid Expansion
Hospitals could push states to expand their Medicaid enrollment, as they stand to gain millions if more people have insurance -- or lose millions if they don't.
June 29, 2012
Medicaid Expansion: Which States Have Most at Stake?
Nearly half of uninsured Americans could qualify for the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion, if fully implemented. View a map for details on your state.
June 29, 2012
HHS Announces New Exchange Funding Opportunities for States
States will have 10 new opportunities to apply for federal funding to develop their health insurance exchanges outlined in the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Friday.
June 29, 2012
Health Ruling Sets Up Potential Fallout for Federalism
For the first time, the U.S. Supreme Court declared an act of Congress to be unconstitutionally coercive toward states.
June 29, 2012
Five More States Receive NCLB Waivers
Another five states will receive waivers from federal education mandates under No Child Left Behind, the U.S. Department of Education announced Friday, bringing the total number of waiver states to 24.
June 29, 2012
Southern States Have Become Job-Training Leaders
Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana and South Carolina have quietly positioned themselves as leaders in the job-training effort. Each state's program is unique, but they share some commonalities.
June 29, 2012
Legislating Social Media in the States
States are confronting the challenges of protecting passwords, regulating status updates and other issues surrounding a new world with Facebook and Twitter.
June 29, 2012
Twitter Impersonators Take Public Officials' Image
Satirical accounts for politicians and public officials are almost as numerous as their real-life counterparts.
June 29, 2012
States, Cities Use Social Networks to Test Open Records Laws and Transparency Goals
Governments' Facebook and Twitter activity presents a distinct challenge for states and localities committed to transparency.
June 28, 2012
Supreme Court Ruling: Uncertain Future for Medicaid Expansion
The decision leaves an apparent loophole for states to opt out of the law's Medicaid eligibility expansion.
June 28, 2012
Supreme Court Upholds Health-Care Law with Mandate
The justices voted 5-4 to uphold the Affordable Care Act, effectively declaring the law's individual mandate and Medicaid expansion to be constitutional.
June 28, 2012
After Court Ruling, States Turn to Health Exchanges
Some states are set to pick up the pace on establishing their insurance exchanges, while others could wait for the November election.
June 27, 2012
Alaska Medicaid Fined $1.7M for Possible Patient Data Breach
Alaska's Medicaid office will pay $1.7 million to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for possible violations of a federal law that protects patient privacy.
June 26, 2012
Report: School Nutrition Standards Could Improve Health and Revenue
New nationalized nutrition standards for schools could improve student health, while also increasing revenue, according to a new report from the Health Impact Project.
June 25, 2012
Citizens United Supersedes State Laws: Supreme Court
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that the 2010 Citizens United decision, which allowed corporations to spend unlimited money on elections, superseded a Montana law that limited corporate election spending.
June 20, 2012
Report: ACA Prevention Fund at Work in State and Local Public Health
Federal, state and local public health initiatives have received more than $1 billion from the ACA funding stream, with billions more to come if the law stands.
June 19, 2012
Community Commons Brings Local Health Initiatives Together
A new social network helps local health departments and community organizations connect, stay up-to-date on emerging trends and mine through extensive data sets.
June 15, 2012
Top CMS Official to Step Down in July
Steve Larsen, head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Center for Consumser Information and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO), an agency that has played a key role in overseeing the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), will resign from his position some time in July.
June 15, 2012
Kasich Urges Ohio Local Governments to Better Coordinate
Ohio Gov. John Kasich's administration released a report this week that aims to allow local governments in the state to better coordinate and share services, reports the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
June 12, 2012
CMS: State Medicaid Spending Outpaces National Averages
Medicaid spending is expected to grow faster than any other health sector in the next 10 years, according to new federal projections.
June 11, 2012
U.S. Youth Spend More Time on Computers, Less in Front of TV
Check the GOVERNING Data interactive for individual state trends in computer and television use by high school students.
June 8, 2012
HHS Announces New Round of State Consumer Assistance Grants
States can apply for another round of consumer assistance grants, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Thursday, federal money that aids states in implementing some of the customer-oriented elements of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
June 8, 2012
Young Adults in South Less Likely to Be Covered by Parent Insurance
Families in the Midwest were most likely to take advantage of the Affordable Care Act's provision, while those in the South were the least likely, according to a new report.
June 7, 2012
Governing Featured on "The Colbert Report"
Please pause for a moment of self-promotion: Stephen Colbert featured a Governing story on his Wednesday night show in a segment about Bald Knob, Ark., and its ban on bingo.
June 6, 2012
2012 Health Datapalooza Takes Pulse of Open Data Movement
The future of health IT and open data were on display in Washington, D.C., this week at the 2012 Health Datapalooza, co-sponsored by the Health Data Initiative and the Obama administration.
June 5, 2012
Medicaid Payment Reform Being Tested in Colorado
Colorado will test ways to lower the cost of Medicaid under a new law signed by Gov. John Hickenlooper.
June 5, 2012
If ACA is Overturned: What Happens to $1 Billion in Exchange Grants?
Some state officials say they believe the health exchange funding would continue, but the Obama administration remains silent.
June 4, 2012
If ACA is Overturned: What Happens to Medicaid?
Stronger vetting and enrollment reductions are two likely outcomes, analysts say, while the fallout for early state adoption efforts is unclear.
May 31, 2012
Report: States Must Address Veterinary Workforce Needs
Faltering public support for veterinary training could contribute to a pending shortage of qualified animal care doctors, according to a new report from the National Academy of Sciences.
May 30, 2012
What Will Common Core Standards Cost States?
Estimates range from $3.1 billion to $15.8 billion, as states look toward implementing for the 2014-2015 school year.
May 30, 2012
Wisconsin Officials Expect Record Turnout for Walker Recall
Wisconsin election officials are projecting a record level of voter turnout when the recall election for Gov. Scott Walker is held.
May 30, 2012
Map: 8 More States Receive NCLB Waivers
Another eight states received waivers from federal education requirements under the No Child Left Behind law. See which ones they are.
May 25, 2012
CDC Faults State Spending on Anti-Smoking Efforts
States spend just 2.3 percent of tobacco-related revenue on anti-smoking initiatives, according to a CDC analysis.
May 24, 2012
Keystone Pipeline Opponents Take Nebraska to Court
Keystone pipeline opponents are taking the state of Nebraska to court, seeking to block a new state law that allows environmental reviews of the project to resume.
May 24, 2012
Ohio Casinos Open with High Hopes for Tax Revenues
Ohio became the 23rd state with legalized commercial gaming last week. View pictures of two of its new casinos.
May 23, 2012
Louisiana Plan Would Restructure Higher Education Governance
A plan working its way through the Louisiana House would overhaul the governance structure of the state's higher education system.
May 22, 2012
Alabama and Maine Adopt Pension Forfeiture Laws
Twenty-five of the 50 states now have laws that revoke the public pensions of convicted criminals.
May 22, 2012
New Jersey Bill Would Ease Marijuana Possession Penalties
New Jersey lawmakers moved toward decriminalizing marijuana possession Monday with a bill that would allow offenders to pay a fine rather than go to jail, NJ.com reports.
May 21, 2012
K-12 Education's Broadband Internet Needs Continue to Grow
Almost 80 percent of schools say their current broadband access is inadequate.
May 21, 2012
Sunday Alcohol Sales Begin in Connecticut
Connecticut became the 49th state to allow Sunday alcohol sales, leaving Indiana as the only state to still ban the practice.
May 18, 2012
Red States Unswayed By Federal Health Exchange Plan
Some states opposed to the Affordable Care Act are still declining to move forward with its implementation, unmoved by new guidance for a federally-run insurance marketplace.
May 17, 2012
Michigan Audit Finds 1,500 Dead or Imprisoned Voters
Nearly 1,400 deceased individuals and more than 100 prisoners voted in MIchigan elections from October 2008 to June 2011, according to a report released by the Michigan state auditor's office this month.
May 16, 2012
HHS Awards More State Health Exchange Establishment Grants to Six States
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) doled out another $181 million in health insurance exchange establishment grants Wednesday, bringing the total amount of money that the federal government has pumped into state efforts to craft the online marketplaces to more than $1 billion.
May 16, 2012
Chris Christie, Cory Booker Co-Star in YouTube Video
Who says public officials don't have a sense of humor? New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (a Republican) and Newark Mayor Cory Booker (a Democrat) teamed up for a video presented at the New Jersey Press Association's Legislative Correspondents Club Show.
May 15, 2012
Rhode Island Awaiting Proposals for Health Exchange Software
Vendors must outline how they will complete nine specific tasks to construct the marketplace's digital infrastructure. The third story in Governing's ongoing series.
May 15, 2012
Washington Works to Curb Whooping Cough Epidemic
Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire released emergency funds to the state department of health earlier this month as state officials aim to curb a whooping cough epidemic that has persisted throughout the first half of 2012.
May 15, 2012
'Wrongful Birth' Laws Proposed in Several States
Several states are considering legislation, known as "wrongful birth" laws, that would prevent parents from suing their doctors for not warning them about potential problems with unborn babies, National Public Radio reports.
May 14, 2012
America's Most Bike-Friendly Communities Named
The United States has 214 bicycle-friendly communities, according to the League of American Bicyclists. Is yours one of them?
May 11, 2012
Family Responsibilities Discrimination Laws Being Raised by States
States are seeking to protect workers from discrimination for their family duties.
May 10, 2012
Christie Vetoes New Jersey Health Exchange Bill
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has vetoed a bill that would have created a state health insurance exchange, NJToday.net reports.
May 10, 2012
National Coalition Launches Extended Learning Campaign
State and local officials are joining a broad coalition, spearheaded by the National Center on Time and Learning (NCTL) and the Ford Foundation, to push for a cultural shift toward extended school schedules for schools in low-income areas.
May 10, 2012
State and Local Officials React to Obama's Support for Same-Sex Marriage
President Barack Obama told ABC News Wednesday that he personally supports same-sex marriage. Within minutes, state and local officials and political candidates took to Twitter to stake out their positions on the president's first formal declaration of support for gay marriage.
May 9, 2012
State Student Aid Could Broaden College Access
Need-based state grant programs could increase college completion. Check out our map to see how much of your state's aid is based on fiscal circumstances.
May 8, 2012
Local School Board Officials to Lobby Congress on ESEA Reauthorization
The National School Boards Association is organizing a national call-in day for school board members and other local officials to call their Congressional representatives and urge them to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.
May 7, 2012
Repurposing Schools Gives Life to Vacant Buildings
District-wide initiatives in Kansas City, Mo., and Tulsa, Okla., have aimed to turn abandoned school sites into financial opportunities that will simultaneously improve the surrounding neighborhoods. Click to view our slideshow.
May 4, 2012
Colorado Bill Targets Driving Under Influence of Marijuana
A Colorado bill that would facilitate the prosecution of drivers operating under the influence of marijuana passed through a House committee Thursda, the Denver Post reports.
May 3, 2012
State and Local Leaders Urge Congress to Reauthorize ESEA
State and local groups representing a wide range of interests sent a letter Thursday to Capitol Hill, urging Congress to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).
May 3, 2012
Gretna, Nebraska Official Charged With Stealing From Senior Citizen Fund
A Nebraska city official has been charged with felony theft for allegedly taking nearly $1,000 from a fund for senior citizen meals and spending it at Victoria Secret and a liquor store, among other places, the Omaha World-Herald reports.
May 2, 2012
States, Localities Aid Prescription Drug Collection Drive
Local, state and federal authorities coordinated to collect a record number of used medications last Saturday. How much did your state collect?
May 2, 2012
State CHIP Enrollment Bonuses Would Be Eliminated Under GOP Plan
House Republicans have approved a provision that would eliminate funding bonuses for states meeting enrollment targets for their Children Health Insurance Program (CHIP), POLITICO reports.
May 1, 2012
Five Men Arrested for Planning to Blow Up Ohio Bridge
Five men were arrested Monday for attempting to blow up a bridge near Cleveland, the Plain Dealer reports.
May 1, 2012
HHS Funds Community Health Centers' Construction and Renovation
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is pumping more than $725 million into community health centers nationwide, facilitating construction and renovation projects, the department announced Tuesday.
May 1, 2012
Pennsylvania Senate Votes to Cap Superintendent Payouts
After the controversy over former Philadelphia schools superintendent Arlene Ackerman's nearly $1 million buyout, the Pennsylvania Senate voted this week to limit the severance pay to departing school leaders to one year's salary and benefits if they have more than two years of their contract remaining.
April 30, 2012
'Green' Municipalities Cut Ties with Utilities
A growing number of cities and counties dedicated to energy efficiency are deciding that local sustainability initiatives can't coexist with for-profit utilities.
April 27, 2012
States To Receive More Federal Medicaid Funding for Community-Based Services
States could receive an increased federal Medicaid match if they provide home-based services that allow enrollees to remain in the community rather than be admitted to a hospital or a nursing home, according to a new Affordable Care Act (ACA) rule released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services this week.
April 26, 2012
Health Impact Assessments: Bringing Health to All Policies
Studying the health impact of projects in various sectors, particularly transportation, could influence future policymaking.
April 25, 2012
Video Games in the Classroom?
A Brookings panel explored how to harness the potential of new technologies while analyzing challenges and benefits, both practical and fiscal.
April 20, 2012
Health Exchange Special Sessions Could Be Called
If the Supreme Court upholds the health care reform law, state legislatures may take action to avoid having health exchanges set up by the federal government.
April 19, 2012
Report: Zoning Laws Could Hinder Low-Income Student Achievement
Local zoning laws could be limiting access to a quality education for low-income children, according to a new report by the Brookings Institute's Metropolitan Policy Program.
April 17, 2012
Duncan, Vilsack Highlight Need for Rural Ed Investments
Secretaries Duncan and Vilsack encouraged state and local leaders to take advantage of federal programs.
April 16, 2012
New York Takes Rhode Island Route: ACA Exchange Via Executive Order
Like Rhode Island's Gov. Lincoln Chafee, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo stepped in after legislation stalled in the statehouse.
April 12, 2012
Omaha Hosts Online PTSD Treament for Veterans Pilot
Veterans in the Omaha, Neb., area will have access to a new form of online PTSD treatment under a pilot program led by Creighton University and the University of Nebraska, the Omaha World-Journal reports.
April 11, 2012
Political Demographic Trends Brighter for Democrats
Though long-term impact is hard to gauge, experts say, the effects of such trends are likely to be felt in state legislatures and governorships.
April 10, 2012
State Pre-K Funding Stagnates After Economic Downturn
Even as enrollment increases, state per-child funding has decreased.
April 6, 2012
Boston School Sees Success With Extended Schedule
The turnaround effort hinged on adding hours to the school day.
April 6, 2012
Maryland Health Insurance Exchange Approved by Legislature
Maryland lawmakers approved legislation Thursday establishing the Maryland Health Benefits Exchange, an online insurance marketplace outlined in the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
April 5, 2012
7 State Education Accountability Systems Examined in New Study
With states taking on a bigger role in assessing accountability for school reforms, the Thomas B. Fordham Institute released a paper this week outlining its thoughts on how states can craft effective accountability systems.
April 5, 2012
Detroit to Allow Schools to Self-Govern, Sell Administrative Services
The Detroit Public Schools emergency manager has unveiled plans that allow 10 schools to self-govern and put the services of the district's central office for sale for charter schools and others in the area, the Detroit Free Press reports.
April 4, 2012
South Dakota Hires Firm to Recruit Out-of-State Workers
State businesses faced a shortfall of qualified candidates, leading to a plan to find 1,000 workers to fill jobs...
April 4, 2012
Want to See How Your Federal Tax Dollars Are Spent?
This week, the White House has updated its Federal Tax Reciept calculator to reflect current spending levels in time for the April tax season. President Barack Obama proposed such a calculator that would allow Americans to observe in very specific ways how their federal tax dollars are spent; the effort launched last year.
April 3, 2012
2012 County Health Rankings Highlight Income Gap
While a myriad of factors determine a community's overall health, a strong correlation exists between median household income and health outcomes, according to Governing's analysis of data from the 2012 County Health Rankings, conducted by the University of Wisconsin and sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
March 30, 2012
Occupy Salt Lake City Ends Peacefully
Police Chief Chris Burbank's diplomatic ways helped the city avoid the violent clashes that plagued other places.
March 29, 2012
The Supreme Court and Health Care Reform: Reactions
Different parties saw different omens during last week's oral arguments.
March 28, 2012
Supreme Court Possibly Divided on Medicaid Expansion
The Supreme Court's sharp political divide took center stage again during Wednesday's arguments on the expansion of the Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
March 28, 2012
Federalism on Trial at the Supreme Court
Justices raised questions about the fundamental relationship between the federal government and the states.
March 28, 2012
Supreme Court Confronts Mandate's Severability
The central question during the Court's morning session Wednesday was: Would Congress have passed the health law without the individual mandate?
March 27, 2012
Individual Mandate Debated Before the Supreme Court
Can the federal government require people to buy health insurance? The two-year debate finally came before the Supreme Court Tuesday during the second day of oral arguments on the Affordable Care Act.
March 26, 2012
Do States Have Standing to Challenge the Individual Mandate?
Several Supreme Court justices raised the question during Monday's hearing...
March 26, 2012
Supreme Court Begins Hearings on Affordable Care Act
The opening day of the Supreme Court's hearings on the Affordable Care Act made strange bedfellows: both the law's opponents and the federal government argued that the Court should rule on the individual mandate now.
March 23, 2012
The Affordable Care Act: Implications for Federalism
Some think overturning the Medicaid expansion could have far-reaching effects.
March 23, 2012
Rhode Island's Health Exchange Evolution
This is the second in a series of articles about Rhode Island's implementation of its health insurance exchange.
March 21, 2012
Rhode Island's Health Insurance Exchange Implementation: A Case Study
The state's quick progress reveals the challenges of creating exchanges.
March 17, 2012
Spring Break! How Cities Prepare for an Increase in Tourists
Fun-loving college students present some public safety challenges for local officials.
March 16, 2012
Final Rule on ACA Medicaid Expansion Released
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released Friday its final rule on the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
March 15, 2012
What Will the Supreme Court Ask About Health Reform?
A Kaiser Family Foundation panel outlined what will be at stake for states when the high court hears arguments on the Affordable Care Act's constitutionality.
March 14, 2012
Poll: Americans Still Split on Affordable Care Act
Americans remain almost evenly split about the Affordable Care Act (ACA), according to the latest poll released Tuesday by the Kaiser Family Foundation, although many provisions are popular aside from the individual mandate.
March 12, 2012
How Can Localities Support Job Growth?
Finding funding opportunities and communicating with area businesses are key, a National League of Cities panel said...
March 12, 2012
HHS Releases Final Rule on State Health Insurance Exchanges
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released its final rule on state health insurance exchanges Monday, setting the framework under which states must develop their online marketplaces.
March 8, 2012
Some States Still Skeptical of NCLB Waivers
States that haven't applied for waivers are worried about an overreach of federal influence on their education policy.
March 7, 2012
House Republicans Introduce Legislation Overhauling Medicaid
States would receive total authority to determine Medicaid eligibility, benefits and provider reimbursement rates under legislation to be proposed Wednesday by U.S. Rep. Todd Rokita (R-Ind.).
March 6, 2012
Four-Day School Week Could Boost Student Performance
A shorter school week could not only save money for school districts, but may also lead to improved student achievement, according to a recent study by professors from George State and Montana State universities.
March 2, 2012
Proposed Cuts to Critical Access Hospitals Draw Fire
Rural health advocates fear cuts in the president's budget could impede health-care delivery for at-risk populations.
March 2, 2012
NCLB Waivers Under Scrutiny After Second Round of Applications
The effectiveness and legitimacy of the Obama's administration No Child Left Behind (NCLB) waivers came under scrutiny during a panel discussion Friday at the Thomas B. Fordham Institute.
March 1, 2012
Former Governors Recommend Reforms to Medicaid Waivers
Can the federal government make it easier for states to adapt their Medicaid programs to ever-changing circumstances? That is the core question asked by the Bipartisan Policy Center's Governors' Council in their new paper recommending reforms to Medicaid waivers.
February 29, 2012
Map: 26 More States Apply for NCLB Waivers
Another 26 states plus the District of Columbia have sought waivers from certain requirements of No Child Left Behind (NCLB), according to the U.S. Department of Education, as the second submission window for applications ended Tuesday.
February 29, 2012
Can Education Data Build the Perfect Teacher?
How student test scores are used to evaluate teachers is at the heart of the unresolved issues causing Chicago's first strike in 25 years.
February 29, 2012
ESEA Reauthorization Passes House Committee
Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) took another step forward Tuesday, as two bills passed the House Education and Workforce Committee along party lines, but the political viability of the legislation outside the GOP-dominated House remains in question.
February 29, 2012
Scandals Spur Action on Pension Forfeitures
Should convicted public workers keep their pensions? States typically ask that question only after a high-profile scandal. Check out this map to see which states have forfeiture laws.
February 27, 2012
Scott Walker Will Not Challenge Wisconsin Recall Signatures
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, who faces a recall election this spring after one million signatures were gathered by his opponents, will not challenge the legitimacy of those signatures, the Wisconsin State Journal reports.
February 27, 2012
HHS Proposes Cost-Sharing Rules for Insurance Exchanges
States have received further guidance and additional flexibility for the plans sold on their health insurance exchanges, as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released Friday its first bulletin on the cost-sharing aspects of exchange products.
February 24, 2012
NYC Releases Teacher Performance Data
After Freedon of Information Act requests from various local news outlets and an accompanying lawsuit, the New York City Department of Education released data reports Thursday on the 18,000 teachers in the city's public schools, the New York Times reports.
February 24, 2012
Census: More Than 30 Percent of Americans Have a Bachelor's Degree
For the first time in U.S. history, more than 30 percent of Americans 25 years and older have attained a bachelor's degree, according to figures released Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau.
February 23, 2012
State Legislators Advocate for Medicaid Expansion in ACA
More than 500 state legislators from all 50 states filed a brief with the Supreme Court of the United States this week, defending the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
February 22, 2012
Superintendent of the Year Talks Education Reform
Heath Morrison, Washoe County (Nev.) schools' leader, urges Congress to reauthorize the federal education law.
February 22, 2012
HHS Awards 10 States With Exchange Establishment Grants
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded Wednesday nearly $230 million in establishment grants to 10 states to aid in their development of health insurance exchanges created by the Affordable Care Act.
February 22, 2012
Report: States With Legal Raw Milk Sales See Higher Rate of Disease
Outbreaks due to raw milk were 150 times greater from 1993 to 2006.
February 21, 2012
University of New Haven Dean Opens Contest for Free Tuition
The cost of higher education has become a focal point for the Obama administration, but a dean at the University of New Haven's business school is putting his money where his mouth is: he's offering students a chance for a free undergraduate education if they impress him with their entrepreneurial idea, the Hartford Courant reports.
February 17, 2012
Watch Education Secretary Arne Duncan on The Daily Show
U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan appeared on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart Thursday night, fielding questions on the Race To The Top program and other education initiatives undertaken by the Obama administration.
February 17, 2012
Washoe County, Nev., Schools Leader Named Superintendent of the Year
The American Association of School Administrators (AASA) has named Heath Morrison, superintendent of the Washoe County School District in Reno, Nev., the organization's 2012 National Superintendent of the Year.
February 16, 2012
Questions of Equity and Flexibility Meet Obama's Teacher Grant Proposal
Another competitive education grant program from the Obama administration -- this one designed to overhaul the teaching profession -- has state and local policymakers concerned about equity and flexibility.
February 15, 2012
New Mexico's NCLB Waiver Receives Approval
New Mexico's application for a waiver from No Child Left Behind (NCLB) requirements has been approved, the U.S. Department of Education announced Wednesday, meaning each of the 11 states that applied for waivers in November received them.
February 15, 2012
Two Paths Toward Common Core Standards Assessments
A state-led effort to apply national academic standards across the United States will have two assessment models, and they're not necessarily competing with each other.
February 15, 2012
Education Department Introduces New Flexibility for NCLB Waivers
States still developing their No Child Left Behind (NCLB) waiver applications can also request a one-year extension of their student achievement targets, according to a letter sent by the U.S. Department of Education Tuesday to chief state school officers.
February 15, 2012
Preventive Health Efforts Could Be Hindered by Proposed Budget
Proposed cuts to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Prevention Fund and other grant programs in President Barack Obama's fiscal year 2013 budget have state and local advocates concerned that the administration is undercutting communities' ability to address their population's health needs.
February 15, 2012
Education Department Releases Recommendations for NCLB Waivers
As states prepare to submit more applications for waivers from No Child Left Behind (NCLB) requirements, the U.S. Department of Education has released recommendations for strengthening their requests.
February 13, 2012
Obama's Budget Could Shift Medicaid Costs to States
President Obama sought to address escalating Medicaid costs and states' upcoming implementation of the health reform law in his FY 2013 budget.
February 13, 2012
Obama's Education Budget Focuses on Teachers and Higher Ed
President Barack Obama's budget, released Monday, built on the education priorities that he laid out during his State of the Union speech last month: an increased focus on higher education and strengthening the nation's teaching workforce.
February 10, 2012
Report: Grant Program Led to More Urban School Turnarounds
After undergoing a major expansion under the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA), the School Improvement Grant (SIG) program is funneling more money to underachieving urban schools, which are in turn pursuing more intervention initiatives, according to a report released Friday by the Council of Great City Schools.
February 9, 2012
Govs. Heineman, Markell Encourage More Entrepreneur-Friendly State Policies
To foster economic growth and job creation, state policymakers must encourage a culture of success within their boundaries, Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman and Delaware Gov. Jack Markell said during a panel discussion Thursday at the Kauffman Foundation's State of Entrepreneurship event at the National Press Club.
February 9, 2012
Report: FY 2012 Medicaid Spending At or Below Most Projections
State Medicaid spending and enrollment for fiscal year 2012 is at or below projections from the beginning of the year, according to a mid-year survey released on Thursday by the Kaiser Family Foundation.
February 9, 2012
Health Information Exchange Implementations Encounter Obstacles
States face questions about governance and cost as they develop data-sharing exchanges.
February 7, 2012
Report: State K-12 Education Funding Should Rebound in 2012
State K-12 education funding seems to have bottomed out in 2011 and should recover overall this year, according to a report released Tuesday by the Center on Education Policy.
February 7, 2012
Obama Announces Funding for Science and Math Teachers
Prior to President Barack Obama's hosting of the White House Science Fair, the White House announced a series of new funding opportunities and priorities focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) teachers.
February 7, 2012
States Begin Implementing Common Core Standards
Early implementing states, like Kentucky and West Virginia, are setting an example for others to follow...
February 6, 2012
Congressional Members Push for State and Local Control of Education
No Child Left Behind (NCLB) represented an unfortunate overstep of the federal government's role in education, members of the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce told National School Boards Association (NSBA) attendees Monday.
February 3, 2012
States Face Crucial Choices Over Essential Health Benefits
States must decide what to use as a benchmark for their health insurance exchanges, but dissimilarities among plan benefits and costs cause concerns.
February 3, 2012
Former Philly Schools Super's Unemployment Claim Denied
Former Philadelphia schools superintendent Arlene Ackerman, who left her post with a controversial buyout worth nearly $1 million from the district, had her unemployment claim denied by the state of Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.
February 2, 2012
Senate HELP Committee Explores Making College More Affordable
Following up on ideas introduced by President Barack Obama in his State of the Union address last week, the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) held an initial hearing Thursday to further explore how to make college more affordable.
February 1, 2012
Dean, Engler Call for Changes in Political Leadership
Reflecting on the political climate facing state and local governments in 2012, former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean and former Michigan Gov. John Engler pointed to a lack of leadership in Washington as a hindrance.
January 31, 2012
Denver Health Becomes Profitable After Using Toyota as a Template
Lean manufacturing has made Denver Health a model for public health care.
January 31, 2012
Water Shortage Tests El Paso's Conservation Efforts
El Paso began preparing for shortages two decades ago. Now, it's seen as a leader in confronting a crisis that many expect to spread beyond Texas.
January 31, 2012
CBO Estimates Falling Deficits in 2012,
If current fiscal policy is maintained, the federal budget deficit will dip slightly in 2012 before falling significantly in the coming years, according to a budget and economic outlook released Tuesday by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).
January 30, 2012
Iowa and Nebraska State Parks Struggle With Tight Budgets
Iowa and Nebraska, Midwest states known for their picturesque vistas, are straining to make money for their state parks go as far as it can, the Omaha World-Herald reports.
January 27, 2012
CMS Estimates Medicaid Drug Rules Would Save Billions for States
Proposed regulations under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) would save states nearly $18 billion on Medicaid prescription drugs in the next five years, according to estimates released Friday from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
January 27, 2012
White House Introduces Race To The Top for Colleges
The Obama administration has introduced a Race To The Top program for College Affordability and Completion, allowing states and colleges to compete for $1 billion in federal grants.
January 26, 2012
Google Launches New Online Education Resource
Google has launched an online warehouse for education resources called Google in Education, designed for teachers, administrators and advocates, the company announced Thursday.
January 26, 2012
HHS Releases More Details on Essential Health Benefits Packages
States received more guidance Wednesday from HHS about what the essential health benefits package for plans offered in states' health insurance exchanges should look like.
January 26, 2012
Proposed Georgia Amendment Would Allow State to Open Charter Schools
A group of Georgia legislators introduced this week an amendment to the state's constitution that would give the state the ability to create charter schools, the Associated Press reports.
January 25, 2012
Are States Willing to Require School Attendance Until Age 18?
Last year, a handful of states considered changing their school attendance laws without Obama's prodding.
January 25, 2012
Obama: States Should Require Students to Graduate
Obama proposes states require students to graduate or remain in school until age 18.
January 20, 2012
States Lead Effort to Utilize Data in Education
Education Secretary Arne Duncan said that the federal government's role in the sustained push toward more data-driven decision-making in education was to provide funding and resources to states pursuing those initiatives.
January 20, 2012
Michigan Grassroots Group to Push Marijuana Legalization Amendment
The Committee for a Safer Michigan, a grassroots organization that supports the repeal of marijuana prohibition, announced Friday that it plans to push an amendment to the Michigan state constitution that would legalize cannabis use for residents 21 years and older.
January 19, 2012
D.C., Colorado Top List for LEED-Certified Buildings
More than 100 buildings used by the federal government along with dozens of local government, private and non-profit buildings in D.C. are LEED-certified.
January 19, 2012
Watch Wisconsin Board Scan Recall Signatures
Welcome to "democracy in action," as the Wisconsin State Journal called it: the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board is livestreaming Thursday morning its efforts to scan more than 300,000 pages of signatures for a petition to recall Gov. Scott Walker.
January 19, 2012
States Turn to Technology to Improve Medicaid and CHIP Programs
Improvements in technology are allowing states to better serve Medicaid and CHIP populations, according to a recent survey.
January 17, 2012
Can States and School Districts Cut Costs Through Digital Learning?
A new study finds digital learning could be cheaper than traditional education. But education experts say that cost shouldn't be the primary reason to pursuing this mode.
January 17, 2012
Editorial Round-Up: Solutions for State Checkbooks
Newspapers nationwide had suggestions for their governors and legislatures on the fiscal issues that they're confronting.
January 17, 2012
Connecticut to Hire Health Insurance Appeals Expert
The Connecticut Department of Children and Families is hiring an outside expert to review insurance companies' denials of mental and behavioral services for children, the Connecticut Mirror reports.
January 13, 2012
Study: Medicaid Anti-Smoking Programs Lead to Significant Savings
State Medicaid programs could see a significant return on their investment into anti-smoking programs, according to a recently released study by George Washington University.
January 12, 2012
Missouri Lawmaker Introduces New Immigration Legislation
As the nationwide debate over immigration continues, Missouri could be the next nexus after legislation introduced in the state Senate would require schools to check the immigration status of their students and require law enforcement officers to check a person's immigration status when they have reasonable cause, the Kansas City Star reported Thursday.
January 12, 2012
HHS: Insurance Premium Increases 'Unreasonable'
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared insurance premium hikes of 13 percent or more in five states to be unreasonable.
January 12, 2012
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Lays Out Goals for 2012
In his State of American Business speech, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Tom Donohue outlined the organization's vision and focuses for the coming year.
January 11, 2012
Patchwork Nation Gives New Hampshire GOP Primary Analysis
The project director of Patchwork Nation delves into the New Hampshire primary and what it means for the remainder of the 2012 presidential race.
January 11, 2012
Calif. Cities Scrambling After State Law Eliminates Redevelopment Agencies
A new California law eliminating city redevelopment agencies could put dozens of projects in danger of being halted and lead to the layoffs of dozens of employees in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Times reports.
January 11, 2012
California GOP Worried About Lack of Relevance in Presidential Race
California Republicans told the Sacramento Bee that they are resigning themselves to the possibility that the GOP presidential race could already be over by the state's June 5 primary.
January 10, 2012
Editorial Round-Up: Raising Revenue and Eliminating Waste to Close Deficits
Pennsylvania newspapers have taken an opportunity at the onset of a new year to review the accomplishments of Gov. Tom Corbett after his first 365 days in office.
January 6, 2012
New NCLB Reauthorization Bills Introduced in U.S. House
U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce Chairman John Kline, R-Minn., introduced draft legislation Friday that would reauthorize and reform No Child Left Behind.
January 6, 2012
Ten Years, Two Administrations Under No Child Left Behind
Sunday marks the 10th anniversary of No Child Left Behind, enacted on Jan. 8, 2002. Experts say that the focus on data has changed education reform for years to come.
January 6, 2012
DOJ Files Brief in Defense of Health-Care Reform Law
The U.S. Department of Justice filed a brief Friday in the U.S. Supreme Court, defending the Affordable Care Act (ACA) against a legal challenge brought by Florida and 25 other states.
January 6, 2012
State School Officers Urge Congress to Reauthorize ESEA
The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) sent a letter Thursday to President Barack Obama and top congressional members of both parties, urging Congress to pass and the president to sign a bill reauthorizing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act before the 2012-2013 school year begins.
January 5, 2012
ACLU Sues Over Michigan Law Denying Benefits to Domestic Partners
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and ACLU Michigan are suing the state over a new law that prohibits public employers from providing health insurance to the domestic partners of public employees.
January 4, 2012
HHS Denies Medical Loss Ratio Waivers for Kansas and Oklahoma
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) denied waiver requests Wednesday from Kansas and Oklahoma to lower the required minimal medical loss ratios (MLR) under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
January 4, 2012
How Will the Iowa Caucuses Affect the GOP Nominination Race?
Mitt Romney's razor-thin victory at the Iowa Caucuses Tuesday provided pundits and the general public with a first taste of the 2012 election.
January 4, 2012
Wisconsin Outlines Plan for Early Reading Improvement
Taking recommendations from his Read to Lead task force, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker outlined Wednesday a new agenda to improve reading scores among the state's students.
January 3, 2012
Wisconsin Committee Finalizes Presidential Primary Nominees
Primary season is underway and while the nation watches for the results from Iowa, Wisconsin certified Tuesday the list of candidates for its April 3 presidential primary.
January 3, 2012
Editorial Round-Up: New Year's Resolutions
Newspapers nationwide offered their advice for federal, state and local policymakers in the coming year.
January 2, 2012
HHS Rewards States for Enrolling Children in Medicaid
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded nearly $300 million to 23 states for enrolling more children in government health insurance programs.
January 1, 2012
Defending the Right to Vote in Denver
Although she faced a lawsuit from Colorado's Secretary of State, City and County Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson stood by her decision to send ballots to inactive voters in November's elections.
December 30, 2011
Legislative Issues to Watch in 2012
These nine topics will shape debate in state legislatures in 2012.
December 28, 2011
Putting the Brakes on Buy Here, Pay Here Dealerships
Such car dealerships, where the company serves as both the seller and the loan holder, have largely eluded scrutiny from policymakers.
December 23, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Government Budgets and Economy Recovery
Much as it began, 2011 is ending with state governments -- and the newspapers that cover them -- focused on the economy and government budgets.
December 23, 2011
Conn. Communities Plan to Consolidate Polling Stations
As city officials in Bristol, Conn., debate how to redraw council districts, some neighborhoods in the city are planning to reduce the number of polling in their communities to cut the costs of poll workers and moderators, the Hartford Courant reports.
December 23, 2011
Top 10 Daily Digits from 2011
With the end of the year arriving, Governing collected the Top 10 Daily Digits from 2011.
December 22, 2011
Report: States and Localities Face Reduced Support for Health Emergencies
Are local and state health agencies prepared for epidemics, natural disasters and acts of bioterrorism? An annual report says that potential cuts could put governments at risk of being unprepared.
December 22, 2011
Colo. Gov. Will Appeal Court Decision on School Funding
Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper plans to appeal the state supreme court's decision in a lawsuit regarding public school funding, the governor announced Wednesday.
December 21, 2011
Checking Up on Health Insurance Exchanges
States are scrambling to set up their health insurance exchanges as the 2014 deadline looms.
December 20, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Maintaining Accountability in Wisconsin
Newspaper in Wisconsin rebuked the Assembly Speaker's call for eliminating a non-partisan government accountability board.
December 20, 2011
HHS Announces New Initiative for Accountable Care Organizations
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Monday a new Pioneer accountable care organizations (ACO) initiative with 32 health care organizations participating in an effort that could save up to $1.1 billion over five years.
December 16, 2011
HHS Releases Proposal for Essential Health Benefits Package
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) outlined its approach for defining the essential health benefits package that insurers must offer under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
December 16, 2011
Nine States Receive Race To The Top Early Learning Grants
Nine states will receive Race To The Top Early Learning grants, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius announced Friday.
December 16, 2011
Wis. Increases Penalties for Driving Without a License
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker signed legislation Thursday that increases the penalties for unlicensed drivers who are found guilty of causing great bodily harm or killing another person.
December 15, 2011
48% of U.S. Schools Failed Federal Benchmarks
Although Ed Secretary Arne Duncan previously said up to 80 percent of schools would be labeled failing in 2011, he says one thing is clear, "No Child Left Behind is broken."
December 15, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Cell Phones and Driving
Following a call by the National Transportation Safety Board this week for a nationwide ban on nearly all cell phone use by drivers, imploring all 50 states to adopt such legislation, newspapers reacted on their editorial pages with a mix of support and caution.
December 14, 2011
CDC Estimates 2.5 Million More Young Adults Insured Because of ACA
About 2.5 million young adults have become insured because of a provision in the Affordable Care Act (ACA), according to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wednesday.
December 13, 2011
Indiana Adopts Free Online Tax Filing Service
Indiana has joined 21 other states that offer Free File tax services for lower-income residents to file their state and federal income taxes, the state Department of Revenue announced Tuesday.
December 13, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Open Meetings and Public Records
Newspapers in Tennessee and New York urged policymakers to provide open access to the public.
December 13, 2011
NEA Embraces Reforms for Teacher Preparation and Development
The nation's largest teachers union has voiced its support for a variety of reforms to improve the teaching workforce.
December 9, 2011
Six State Waivers for Health Insurance Rules Approved in 2011
Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) finalized the rules, stemming from the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which affect the minimum medical loss ratio (MLR) for insurance plans.
December 9, 2011
Twitter Launches @Gov Account for Tracking Civic Engagement
Twitter unveiled its own @gov account on Thursday, an account that will track "creative and effective uses of Twitter for civic engagement."
December 8, 2011
Berwick Lambasts Critics, Lays Out Principles for Health Care
Donard Berwick, the recently departed head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), delivered a harsh rebuke of his critics during a speech delivered Wednesday.
December 8, 2011
HHS Awards $14 Million to School-Based Health Centers
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded more than $14 million, funded through the Affordable Care Act, to 45 school-based health centers throughout the country on Thursday.
December 8, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: School Vouchers and Improving Schools
Newspaper took a look at school vouchers and other education proposals in their editorial pages this week.
December 7, 2011
Significant Disparity Persists in State Medicaid Spending
Spending on Medicaid was the most dynamic variable among states, according to a CMS report about total personal health care spending.
December 7, 2011
How Does Your State Fare in U.S. Health Rankings?
The nation's rate of smokers, preventable hospitalizations and cardiovascular deaths improved; but were all offset by increases in obesity, diabetes and children in poverty.
December 7, 2011
Gates Foundation Announces $40 Million for District-Charter Collaboration
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation announced Tuesday that it would make $40 million in competitive funding available for cities that have signed compacts for collaboration between charter schools and their school districts.
December 7, 2011
Minn. Teachers Union Approved as Charter School Authorizer
Following approval from the Minnesota Department of Education last month, the Minnesota Guild of Public Charter Schools became the first charter authorizer in the United States to be sponsored by a teachers union.
December 6, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Tax Initiatives in California
California Gov. Jerry Brown has made raising taxes a priority for his administration as the state continues to confront a substantial budget deficits.
December 5, 2011
HHS' CHIP Program Launches Medicaid.gov
The Center for Medicaid and Children Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Services launched a new website last Friday.
December 5, 2011
Arkansas Will Not Establish Its Own Health Insurance Exchange
Arkansas will not establish its own state-run health insurance exchange program, as opposition from the state legislature has stalled efforts to plan the state's program, Arkansas Insurance Commissioner Jay Bradford announced Friday afternoon.
December 2, 2011
Retiree Groups Promise Political Fallout for Mich. Pension Tax
Groups representing Michigan's public and private retirees continued to push their opposition to a new pension tax policy approved this year, threatening political repercussions in the next election for legislators who supported the tax.
December 1, 2011
Study: Some Title I Schools Receiving Less State and Local Money
A U.S. Department of Education study found that a sizable portion of Title I schools spent less state and local funding on teachers and other personnel than their non-Title I peers.
December 1, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Focus on Finances
Newpapers' editorial boards took a look at their states and localities' checkbooks over the last week.
November 30, 2011
Teaching Workforce Could Take Hit From Sequestration Cuts
Substantial layoffs could be one piece of the fallout from the automatic cuts now likely to be adopted after the super committee failed to reach a deal before Thanksgiving.
November 30, 2011
Minn. Task Force to Review School Bullying Prevention Policies
Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton has established a task force to review the state's school bullying policies.
November 30, 2011
Two Mich. Lawmakers to Propose Amendment to Ban For-Profit Schools
Michigan lawmakers plan to propose a constitutional amendment that would ban for-profit schools.
November 29, 2011
HHS Awards $220 Million to 13 States for Insurance Exchanges
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded $220 million in establishment grants for states that have made progress in setting up their health insurance exchanges.
November 29, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: The Amazon Tax Debate
As another Cyber Monday passes, newspapers nationwide are arguing in favor of a state sales tax for online purchases.
November 28, 2011
Mich. Lawmakers Seek Common Ground on Anti-Bullying Bill
Michigan legislators are looking for common ground on anti-bullying legislation.
November 24, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: After the Super Committee
Newspaper editorials this week took a look at what comes next now that the supercommittee has failed to reach a deficit reduction deal.
November 23, 2011
Medicare Chief Stepping Down, Tavenner to Head CMS
With Don Berwick stepping down, Marilyn Tavenner has been appointed as administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
November 23, 2011
Report: Ind. Losing Up to $114 Million From Online Sales
Indiana is projected to lose between $40 million and $114 million in revenue because of uncollected taxes on online purchases, according to a new report.
November 23, 2011
Ill. Targets Abuse of Disability Parking During Holiday Shopping
Illinois is cracking down on illegal use of the state's disability parking program.
November 22, 2011
Report: No Long-Term Impact from Minn. Government Shutdown
The Minnesota state government came out of its summer shutdown about even, a state budget office reported this week.
November 22, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Pepper Sprayed Protesters Draws Condemnation
Newspapers nationwide condemned the use of pepper spray to suppress protests.
November 22, 2011
HUD Sustainable Communities Grants Awarded to 56 Communities and Regions
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded $98 million in sustainable planning grants to communities and regions nationwide
November 21, 2011
Detroit Schools Drop Deficit By More Than $43 Million
Detroit Public Schools reduced its structural deficit by more than $43 million in FY 2011.
November 21, 2011
Retirements Could Lead to Significant Turnover in Ill. Legislature
A slew of retirements could lead to significant turnover in the Illinois state legislature.
November 18, 2011
Wis. Legislation Would Restrict Rehired Retirees from Receiving Pensions
Legislation under consideration in Wisconsin would prohibit retired public workers who are rehired from collecting their pension along with a paycheck.
November 18, 2011
Ind. Lawmakers Turn Down Plan to Simplify State Code
Indiana lawmakers opted against a plan to simplify the state's code.
November 18, 2011
Manufacturing Tax Breaks Suggested to Spur Job Creation in Iowa
Tax breaks for manufacturing suppliers was one of the proposed job creation mechanisms from a state economic development agency.
November 17, 2011
10 States Take U.S. EPA to Court over Air Quality Standards
10 states have asked a federal court to require the EPA revise its air quality standards for fine particles, as required by a 2009 court order.
November 17, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Divided Response to Keystone XL Pipeline Delay
The nation's newspaper editorial boards had mixed reactions to the Obama Administration's decision to explore new routes for the Keystone XL pipeline.
November 17, 2011
Ind. Legislature Plans to Take Time Off for Super Bowl
Indiana lawmakers are taking two days off prior to the Super Bowl, to make way for a potential 100,000 visitors to the city.
November 17, 2011
Detroit Mayor, Mich Gov. At Odds Over Shared Revenue
Detroit and the Michigan state government are at odds over shared revenue that the city claims it lost.
November 16, 2011
Report: States Slash Support for Public Media Outlets
Twenty-four state have significant reduced their support for public media outlets.
November 16, 2011
Medicaid Savings Contribute to $18 Billion in Waste Reductions
The federal government cut spending waste by $18 billion in 2011.
November 15, 2011
NCLB Waiver Requests Present New Path Forward
Four state education officials spoke about their states' waiver requests, allowing them more flexibility with meeting No Child Left Behind goals.
November 15, 2011
11 States Apply for NCLB Waivers
Less than a quarter of the states sought exemptions from the federal education law, but the U.S. Education Department expects every state to eventually apply.
November 15, 2011
Ind. Lawmakers Will Soon Do Official Business on iPads
Indiana lawmakers will soon be doing official business on iPads.
November 15, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Reactions to the Penn State Scandal
Newspapers nationwide tried to make sense of the Penn State scandal.
November 14, 2011
HHS Announces New Grants For Innovative Care Programs
The Department of Health and Human Services announced $1 billion in funding for innovative health care solutions.
November 14, 2011
Mich. Bill Would Fund Dual Enrollment For Private School Students
Legislation under consideration in Michigan would funnel state dollars to private high school school students to pay for their enrollment in college level courses.
November 11, 2011
New Website Allows Educators to Share Online Resources
Open-source website allows educators to share online resources.
November 10, 2011
Higher Education Confronts Its Own Achievement Gap
As college enrollments increase, policymakers explore what they can do to ensure students are successful once they get there and graduate within a reasonable amount of time.
November 10, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Questions About Transparency and Local Control
Newspaper editorials focused on government transparency and local control this week.
November 9, 2011
Ga. Municipalities Approve Alcohol Sales On Sunday
Georgia cities and towns approved Sunday sales of alcohol.
November 9, 2011
N.Y. Town Clerk Opposed To Same-Sex Marriage Wins Reelection
A New York town clerk who refuses to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples won reelection.
November 9, 2011
Miss. Voters Turn Down Personhood Initiative
Mississippi voters rejected a constitutional amendment that would have declared life begins at fertilization.
November 9, 2011
Gambling Initiative Passes In N.J., Fails In Maine
Gambling initiatives passed in New Jersey and failed in Maine.
November 8, 2011
Low-Performing Head Start Programs Must Compete For Federal Funding
President Obama announced a new initiative that will require more accountability for Head Start programs that receive federal funding.
November 8, 2011
Federal Court Upholds Individual Mandate
A federal appeals court has upheld the health-care reform law's individual mandate.
November 8, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Personhood Tops Ballot Debate
The debate over personhood and collective bargaining on the 2011 election ballots ring through the nation's newspaper opinion pages.
November 8, 2011
Ill. Lawmakers Want Cap For Public Worker Pay Raises
Illinois lawmakers want to cap pay raises for public employees.
November 8, 2011
Could More High School Vocational Programs Prep for Jobs?
As lawmakers look for new avenues to provide jobs, some are turning toward high school vocational programs as a means of building a better workforce.
November 8, 2011
Protesters Challenge Wis. Assembly Ban On Signs and Cameras
The Wisconsin Assembly is reevaluating its policy that prohibits signs and cameras in its chambers.
November 7, 2011
States Find SORNA Non-Compliance Cheaper
Many states have decided that not following a federal law regarding sex offender registration -- and taking a financial hit -- would be cheaper than implementing it.
November 7, 2011
Wis. Lawmakers Split Over Success Of Special Session
Lawmakers are split over whether the Wisconsin special legislative session on job creation was a success.
November 4, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Redistricting And Voter Registration Laws
Redistricting and election laws have the focus on many newspapers' editorial pages this week.
November 4, 2011
How Are State Fairs Faring During Tight Times?
Some states have cut or closed their state fairs to address their budget shortfalls, but supporters of the century-old pasttime remain optimistic about the future.
November 4, 2011
School Buses Could Be Target For Wash. Budget Cuts
Washington may eliminate its funding for school buses as part of its plan to address a $2 billion budget deficit.
November 4, 2011
Md. Gas Tax Increase Becoming Likely
Maryland legislators will likely pass a gas tax increase soon.
November 4, 2011
Wis. Lawmakers Approve "Castle Doctrine"
Wisconsin lawmakers approved a bill that allows property owners to injure or kill intruders without fear of liability.
November 3, 2011
Repeal Of Mich. Motorcycle Helmet Mandate Passes House
Repeal of Michigan's requirement that motorcycle riders wear helmet passed the state House this week.
November 3, 2011
Calif. Hospitals Sue State Over Cuts To Medicaid Program
California hospitals are suing the state over cuts to its low-income insurance plan.
November 2, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Collective Bargaining And Pension Reform
The nation's newspapers took a hard look at collective bargaining and pension reform on their editorial pages.
November 2, 2011
U.S. Students Make Modest Gains In Math And Reading
American student made modest gains in math and reading, according to data released Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Education.
November 2, 2011
Justice Dept. Probes Ala. Immigration Law's Effect On Student Enrollment
The U.S. Justice is making a preliminary inquiry into whether a new Alabama immigration law has resulted in the state's school districts violating federal law.
November 2, 2011
Uncertainty Surrounds Proposed Penn. Department For Drug And Alcohol Programs
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett and a state lawmaker are disputing whether a new department focused on drug and alcohol prevention should be established.
November 2, 2011
Wis. Legislature Reexamines Policy Of Rehiring Retired Public Employees
Wisconsin lawmakers are examining the state's policy toward rehiring retired public workers.
November 1, 2011
Tight Budgets Force State Medicaid Officers To Get Creative
With increased pressures on their finances, state Medicaid officers are looking for innovative ways to reduce costs while improving care.
November 1, 2011
Efforts Underway To Consolidate Oklahoma State Agencies
An Oklahoma committee will study the state's efforts to consolidate numerous state agencies.
November 1, 2011
Changes To Massachusetts Pensions Would Raise Retirement Age
Changes to the Massachusetts pension system would raise the state employee retirement age.
November 1, 2011
Penn. Lawmakers Want To Ban Texting While Driving
The Pennsylvania state legislature is pushing a bill that would ban texting and driving.
November 1, 2011
Fla. Legislature Challenges Court Order Blocking Privatization Of Prisons
The Florida state legislature is challenging a judge's order blocking the privatization of the state's prisons.
October 31, 2011
Ala. Offical Warns Of Liquor-Laced Halloween Candy
Alabama officials are warning parents and trick-or-treaters about alcohol-laced candy.
October 31, 2011
Ariz. Border Patrol Ships Deportees To Other States To Deter Illegal Re-Entry
The Arizona Border Patrol is busing arrested illegal immigrants to other states to deter reentry.
October 31, 2011
The Man Behind U.S. Transportation's Future
Ron Thaniel guides the transportation conversation for the nation's cities, and he wants to talk about infrastructure.
October 31, 2011
Ala. School Board Divided Over Compensation For Superintendent
Mobile County officials are divided about how much to pay their next school superintendent.
October 31, 2011
Ballot Question Would Reverse Calif. Law Prohibiting Federal E-Verify Software
A proposed California ballot question would overturn a state law that prohibits the use of federal e-verify employment software.
October 31, 2011
Renewed Push For D.C. Statehood Underway
D.C. council members are launching a new push for statehood.
October 31, 2011
Wis. County Officials Oppose Elected Comptroller
County supervisors are expressing their opposition to legislation that would create an elected county comptroller.
October 31, 2011
Wis. Bill Would Allow High School Students To Obtain Vocational Degree
A Wisconsin bill would allow high school students to pursue a vocational degree.
October 28, 2011
Steve Jobs Exploited Calif. License Plate Loophole
A California loophole allowed Steve Jobs to avoid purchasing a state license plate for years.
October 28, 2011
Mayors Opt For Balanced Response To Occupy Protests
Mayors across the country have tried to communicate guarded support for the demonstrations while stressing the need for public safety when addressing the Occupy protests.
October 28, 2011
Developing The Perfect Teacher Evaluation Policies
Teacher evaluations have become a focal point for policymakers interested in education reform. Following a report on the state of state policies, experts weighed in on what should evaluation systems should look like.
October 28, 2011
New York's 'Millionaire Tax' Set To Expire
A tax on New York's wealthiest residents is set to expire at the end of the year, reports NPR, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo is urging lawmakers not to extend it.
October 28, 2011
Some Minn. Lawmakers Content To Let Vikings Move To L.A.
Minnesota lawmakers may be content to let the state's NFL franchise move to Los Angeles.
October 28, 2011
Little Headway In Ill. Debate Over Gambling Expansion
The debate about expanding gambling in Illinois is going nowhere.
October 28, 2011
Ala. Constitutional Amendment Would Tie Legislative Pay To Household Income
A amendment to the Alabama constitution would link legislative pay with median household income.
October 27, 2011
State Spending on Medicaid Will Increase 28.7 Percent
The expiration of federal stimulus funding is forcing states to pay more toward Medicaid. In response, most states are making cuts to the program.
October 27, 2011
BREAKING: Medicare Premium Increase Lower Than Expected
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday that Medicare Part B would increase less than projected.
October 27, 2011
Study: Outsourcing Red-Light Cameras Puts Profits Before Safety
Nearly 700 communities have contracted companies to operate them.
October 27, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Obama's Mortgage Refinancing Solution
A round-up of the nation's newspapers' response to Obama's mortgage refinancing plan.
October 27, 2011
Okla. Lawmakers Want To Clamp Down On Coal Tax Credits
Oklahoma lawmakers want to clamp down on coal mining tax credits.
October 27, 2011
Calif. Medical Marijuana Supporters Advance Statewide Regulations
California's medical marijuana advocates are pushing for a statewide regulatory system.
October 27, 2011
Ala. Officials Aims To Attract More Film Productions
Alabama officials are making efforts to attract more film productions to the state.
October 26, 2011
Report Chronicles Progress Of State Teacher Evaluation Laws
The National Council on Teacher Quality released a report on the state of state teacher evaluation laws.
October 26, 2011
Duncan: Changes To Student Loan Repayment Will Aid Economy
President Obama announced he would accelerate plans to restructure student loan repayments.
October 26, 2011
Chicago Residents Could Be Ticketed For Unlicensed Pets
Chicago will begin enforcing a law that requires dog owners to license their pets.
October 26, 2011
Wash. Constitutional Amendment Would Set Aside Savings During Economic Boom
A proposed constitutional amendment would require Washington to save excess tax revenue gained during an economic boom.
October 26, 2011
Ill. Lawmakers Push Forward With Electricity Smart Grid
The Illinois state legislature is pursuing plans to construct a $3.2 billion electricity smart grid.
October 26, 2011
Penn. Legislature Considers School Vouchers For Low-Income Families
Pennsylvania is moving forward with a school voucher program for low-income families.
October 25, 2011
Ariz. Proposes Tolling On Section Of Interstate 15
Arizona has proposed turned a section of I-15 into a toll road.
October 25, 2011
CAP, Fordham Offer Solutions to Teacher Pension Crisis
New reports give recommendations for reforming teacher pension programs.
October 25, 2011
Combined State Debt: More Than $4 Trillion for FY 2011
Connecticut has the most debt, owing $5,402 for each resident, while Nebraska owes only $21 for each citizen.
October 25, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: Sunshine Laws and A Medical Marijuana Crackdown
Editorial round-up takes a look at responses to a proposed change to Tennessee's open-meeting laws and the federal government's crackdown on medical marijuana dispensaries.
October 25, 2011
GOP Governors Ask Super Committee To Avoid Shifting Costs, Raising Taxes
The Republican Governors Association asked members of the congressional deficit reduction committee to avoid shifting Medicaid to the states or increasing taxes.
October 25, 2011
A New Tradition? Conn. Lawmaker Wants To Change Halloween Date
A Connecticut state legislator has proposed setting Halloween to the last Saturday in October, rather than its traditional Oct. 31 date.
October 25, 2011
Mass. Bill Would Raise Cap On Alcoholic Beverage Licenses
The Massachusetts Legislature is considering lifting the ban on the number of alcoholic beverage licenses that businesses can hold.
October 24, 2011
Changes To Wyoming Coal Mining Taxes Could Cost State Millions
Wyoming lawmakers have proposed simplifying the tax code for coal mining operations.
October 24, 2011
As Deficits Grow, States Abandon Tax Exemptions for Energy-Efficient Automobiles
Revenue has taken priority over the environment in cash-strapped states.
October 24, 2011
Calif. Ballot Petitions Would Eliminate Death Penalty, Impose Tax On Fossil Fuels
Two California ballot petitions would eliminate the death penalty and impose a tax on oil and gas extractions in the state.
October 21, 2011
Report: Poverty Rates On The Rise In The U.S.
Poverty rates rose in every state but two from 2009 to 2010, according to a U.S. Census Bureau report.
October 21, 2011
Audit Finds N.M. State Fair Running In The Red
A state audit has declared the New Mexico State Fair to be financially insolvent.
October 21, 2011
Obama, Senate GOP Still At Odds Over Funding For State Employees
President Obama and Senate Republicans are still at odds over a portion of his jobs plan that would give money to state and local governments to pay salaries for teacher, police officers and firefighters.
October 21, 2011
NCLB Reauthorization Passes Senate Committee
The NCLB reauthorization bill passed its Senate committee on Thursday, sending it to the full Senate for a vote.
October 20, 2011
What States Allow Ownership of Exotic Animals?
The Humane Society of the United States provided Governing with a summary of the exotic animal laws in all 50 states after this week's events in Ohio.
October 20, 2011
Study: Neighborhood Income Level Could Determine Health Risks
A new study finds low-income women are less likely to be extremely obese and have diabetes if they move to a more affluent area.
October 20, 2011
Ind. Senator Wants State To Adopt Online Sales Tax
An Indiana lawmaker wants to adopt an online sales tax, but congressional action may first be necessary.
October 20, 2011
Utah Parks Agency Warns Of Closures If More Funding Cut
The Utah state parks agency is warning parks may close if planned budget cuts are enacted.
October 20, 2011
HELP Committee Resumes NCLB Mark-Up, Sets Hearing For Nov. 8
The Senate HELP Committee has resumed its mark-up of a bill that would reauthorize the No Child Left Behind act.
October 19, 2011
CMS: New Rules Could Save Millions For Hospitals
New rules for hospitals and other healthcare providers could save more than $1 billion annually.
October 19, 2011
S.C. Law Voter ID Law Having Greater Effect On Minorities
A South Carolina law requiring photo ID to vote is disproportionately affecting minority voters, an AP analysis finds.
October 19, 2011
No Pay Raise Again For Okla. Legislators
Oklahoma lawmakers will not receive a raise for the 13th consecutive year, a legislative board has ruled.
October 19, 2011
Editorial Round-Up: CLASS Act Suspension
Newspapers nationwide responded to the Obama administration's decision to suspend the implementation of a long-term care insurance program.
October 19, 2011
Could Shifts In Education Policy Address Both Achievement Gaps?
A panel of education experts debated whether a focus on achievement gaps for disadvantaged students has turned attention away from others and explored how changes in policy could address both concerns.
October 19, 2011
Romney Concedes His Healthcare Plan Didn't Reduce Costs As Expected
Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney conceded during Tuesday's GOP presidential debate that his healthcare plan for the state had failed to lower costs.
October 18, 2011
State Attorneys General Endorse Cordray As CFPB Director
A group of 37 state and territorial attorneys general sent a letter to U.S. Senate leaders endorsing former Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray as the director of the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau.
October 18, 2011
N.H. Editorial Says Romney Should Boycott Nevada Caucus
The New Hampshire Union Leader is putting the pressure on GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney to boycott the Nevada caucuses on Jan. 14.
October 18, 2011
Study: Unemployment Insurance Reform Could Spur Job Growth
A burdensome unemployment insurance system may be hindering job growth, according to a new study by the Tax Foundation.
October 18, 2011
Minn. Senate GOP Lukewarm Toward NFL Stadium Discussions
Minnesota Republicans have been lukewarm toward Gov. Mark Dayton's efforts to start a discussion about the approval of a new stadium for the state's NFL franchise.
October 18, 2011
Va. Official Proposes Cap For Banking Of Unused Time Off
Virginia officials are considering a cap for the amount of paid time off that state employees can roll over from one year to the next.
October 17, 2011
Excessive Drinking Costs Governments Tens Of Billions
Federal, state and local governments shouldered about $94.2 billion in 2006 alone, a new study shows.
October 17, 2011
Web Supplanting Traditional Local News Sources Among Younger Adults
Younger Americans largely use the Internet to find out information about their
October 17, 2011
Panel Finds Public Disconnect Regarding U.S. Fiscal Policy
Economic experts pointed to a disconnect between the public's understanding of the nation's financial predicament and steps that must be taken to ensure its stability.
October 14, 2011
State Revenues Coming In Slower Than Expected
State revenues for the first quarter of the new fiscal year are coming in below initial projections.
October 14, 2011
Poll: Americans Tie Financial Fortunes To Federal Government
An Allstate/National Journal poll reveals American believe their financial fortune is tied to the federal government's fiscal well-being, but most doubt elected officials will be able to reach an agreement about how to resolve the long-term federal budget deficit.
October 14, 2011
NYC Only City Feeling Fiscal Strain Over Occupy Wall Street Protests
For now, New York City is the only municipality to incur significant costs related to the Occupy Wall Street protest and its offshoots.
October 13, 2011
National Health Service Corps Hits All-Time High In 2011
The number of National Health Service Corps clinicians has nearly tripled in the last three years.
October 13, 2011
S.D. Could Consider Drug Tests For Unemployment Benefits
A South Dakota lawmaker may propose requiring people who receive unemployment benefits to take a drug test.
October 13, 2011
N.C. Gov. Suspends Parts Of Unemployment Reform Law
N.C. Gov. Bev Perdue has suspended some provisions of new legislation that would reform the state's unemployment system.
October 13, 2011
Ill. Legislators Take Aim At Pension Loopholes
Illinois lawmakers are pushing for reforms that would prevent union leaders from taking advantage of loopholes in the state's pension policy.
October 13, 2011
Saving Homeowners and Stabilizing Communities
A Boston-based community development group is helping foreclosed homeowners keep their homes and stabilizing neighborhoods hit hard by the recession.
October 12, 2011
NCLB Reauthorization Would Eliminate Adequate Yearly Progress System
A U.S. Senator has proposed a bill that would reauthorize No Child Left Behind and eliminate the Adequate Yearly Progress system.
October 12, 2011
Polls: Cain, Romney Separate From Field In Iowa
Herman Cain and Mitt Romney have taken the lead into two recent polls of potential Iowa Republican caucus voters.
October 12, 2011
Some Concerned About Cost Of Recall Of Wis. Govenor
Concerns have been raised about the potential cost of a recall of Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker if a petition to do so is successful.
October 12, 2011
Major Reforms For LAUSD After Ed. Dept. Civil Rights Investigation
The U.S. Education Department and Los Angeles Unified School District announced a new plan for improving education for English language learners and African-American students.
October 12, 2011
Mich. Education Board Divided Over Charter School Expansion
The Michigan State Board of Education proved unable to reach a consensus on recommendations to give to the state legislature about new legislation that will lift the cap on the number of charter schools.
October 11, 2011
Report: Wireless Could Reduce Energy Use, Save Billions
Expanded use of wireless technologies could reduce energy use and save billions of dollars, according to a new BSR report.
October 11, 2011
Fla. Capitol Police Prepare For Concealed Weapons In Statehouse
A new Florida law allows citizens to bring a licensed concealed weapon into the state capitol.
October 11, 2011
Obama Fast Tracks Infrastructure Projects Through Review Process
The Obama administration has selected 14 infrastructure projects to be fast-tracked through the permit and review process.
October 10, 2011
How Much Should School Superintendents Be Paid?
High-profile stories, such as the departure of Philadelphia's superintendent in August, have led to questions about what constitutes fair compensation for school administrators.
October 10, 2011
Calif. Bans All Minors From State's Tanning Beds
California has extended its ban on tanning beds to all minors under the age of 18.
October 7, 2011
Justice Dept. Takes Ala. Immigration Law To Appeals Court
The U.S. Justice Department has asked a federal appeals court to block Alabama's new immigration policy.
October 7, 2011
BREAKING: Iowa GOP Will Vote To Move Primary To Jan. 3
Iowa has moved its presidential primary to Jan. 3, according to the Des Moines Register.
October 6, 2011
Obama OK's Millionaire Surtax For Jobs Plan, Pushes Congress To Act
President Obama restated his case for the American Jobs Act during a press conference on Thursday.
October 6, 2011
USDOT Will Fund Improvements To Rail Line Between Detroit And Chicago
The U.S. Department of Transportation invested about $200 million in improvements to a rail corridor between Detroit and Chicago.
October 6, 2011
Alabama Educators Encourage Immigrants to Send Their Kids to School
Alabama schools are reaching out to Hispanic families worried about the legal implications of a new rule requiring birth certificates for new student enrollment.
October 5, 2011
Ala. School Officials Reach Out To Hispanic Families Regarding Immigration Law
The Alabama Department Education is working to remind Hispanic parents that a new immigration law will not prevent undocumented students from receiving an education.
October 5, 2011
Pa. Lawmaker Pushes For Tougher Immigration Enforcement
New Pennsylvania legislation would increase penalties for employers that knowingly hire undocumented workers.
October 4, 2011
CMS Introduces New Rules To Improve Service And Fight Fraud
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid have introduced new regulations to improve service and prevent fraud.
October 4, 2011
States Enlist Employers To Pay Back Federal Loans
States are charging employers higher taxes to pay back federal loans for unemployment benefits.
October 4, 2011
New Initiative Will Fix Structurally Deficient Bridges In Okla.
Oklahoma has developed a plan to fix more than 700 structurally deficient bridges in the state.
October 4, 2011
What Could Extended School Schedules Do For Students?
Houston Independent School District is one example of districts forging ahead with extending the day and year.
October 3, 2011
Gallup: Americans More Confident In State And Local Governments
A recent Gallup poll showed Americans have more confidence in their state and local governments than their federal representatives.
October 3, 2011
S.C. Will Move Primary Election Ahead Of Florida
South Carolina has announced its plan to move its presidential primary to January in response to Florida's decision to break with tradition and set its own nominating contest for Jan. 31.
October 3, 2011
GOP Presidential Candidates Flock To Nevada
Republican presidential candidates are taking the campaign trail to Nevada, one of the earliest primary election states.
October 3, 2011
Last Trial Related To Blagojevich Investigation Underway
The last trial related to the FBI's investigation of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich began on Tuesday. William Cellini, a major player in the state's political scene, faces charges of extortion while seeking campaign funds for the former governor.
October 3, 2011
Investigation: Perry Subsidized Risky Lending By Mortgage Companies
An AP investigation reveals a program initiated by Texas Gov. Rick Perry subsidized two mortgages that then participated in risky lending in the state and eventually contributed to the housing market's crash.
September 30, 2011
Fla. Defies Party And Tradition, Sets Primary For Jan. 31
Florida has defied Republican party rules and traditions, setting its presidential primary date for Jan. 31, 2012.
September 30, 2011
Duncan Announces Plan To Improve Teacher Preparation
The U.S. Education Department has announced a series of reforms to improve teacher preparation programs nationwide.
September 30, 2011
Ed. Dept. Distributes Grants For Special Education Training
The U.S. Department of Education handed out almost 50 grants, totaling $11.5 million, to special education programs nationwide.
September 29, 2011
Health Care Law Coming Before The Supreme Court
It is becoming more likely the U.S. Supreme Court will rule on the Affordable Care Act's constitutionality before the 2012 presidential election.
September 29, 2011
State And Local Officials Lobby Congress To Construct Online Sales Tax
State and local governments are pushing Congress to take action on a national system for taxing online sales.
September 29, 2011
Fla. Announcement Could Shake Up GOP Primary Dates
Early presidential primary states are considering their options after Florida officials suggested their state would hold its nominating contest at the end of January.
September 29, 2011
States Eye Alcohol Taxes And Regulations For New Revenue
State and local governments are turning to alcohol taxes and regulations as a source of new revenue.
September 29, 2011
Ohio EPA Will Leave National Group, State Director Says
Ohio EPA Will Leave National Group, State Director Says
September 29, 2011
Lowered Taxes Could Put Alaska's Credit Rating At Risk
A legislative agency has concluded a reduced oil tax could put Alaska's credit rating at risk.
September 29, 2011
Teachers At Minority-Heavy Schools Paid Less, Survey Finds
Teachers serving schools with larger minority populations are being paid less than their peers, data collected by the U.S. Department of Education reveals.
September 28, 2011
Exec. Director Advocates For Future Of Head Start
Recent movement toward widespread spending cuts has Yasmina Vinci, executive director of the non-profit National Head Start Association, concerned for the program's future.
September 27, 2011
R.I. OK's In-State Tuition For Illegal Immigrants
Rhode Island's higher education approved a new policy that allows undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition at the state's universities and colleges.
September 26, 2011
CT Legislature Uses Social Media Testimony in Irene Hearing
Connecticut Senate President Donald Williams says he was "very pleased" with citizens' responses to Twitter and Facebook pages set up to collect feedback on Tropical Storm Irene response.
September 26, 2011
Wash. Loan Program Fails To Attract Interest
A loan program aimed at jumpstarting Washington manufacturing companies has been deemed a failure by the state legislature.
September 26, 2011
N.J. Senate Preps Sports Gambling Bill
If voters approve a Nov. 8 ballot question to legalize sports gambling, legislators will have a bill ready to pass, putting measures in place if federal bans on such gambling are overturned.
September 23, 2011
Positive Response To Obama's NCLB Waiver Plan
President Obama outlined his criteria for states hoping to apply for waivers from some of No Child Left Behind's tougher provisions. Education advocates had mostly positive responses.
September 23, 2011
DOT Pumps $2 Million Into N.J. Roads To Speed Repair
The DOT will aid New Jersey's repair of its roads and bridges following Hurricane Irene with $2 million in emergency funds.
September 22, 2011
A Profile Of 10 States With The Highest Unemployment Rates
The Huffington Post documented the plight of the 10 states with the highest employment rates.
September 22, 2011
Fixing NCLB: One Superintendent's Take
Utah State Superintendent of Public Instruction Larry Shumway spoke with Governing about his frustrations with the No Child Left Behind and reactions to some proposed solutions.
September 22, 2011
HUD Grants Fund Housing Projects For Those With HIV/AIDS
Seven HUD grants will help cities and states provide housing for families and individuals suffering from HIV/AIDS.
September 22, 2011
Super Committee Stalemate Would Leave Medicaid Untouched
The automatic cuts under Obama's deficit reduction plan do not include Medicaid, a potential win for states.
September 22, 2011
Reforms Keep Wash. Workers Comp. Contributions Low
Reforms allowed Washington to keep its rate increase for worker compensation contributions at a five-year low.
September 21, 2011
How To Create 'Good Jobs'
MIT professor Paul Osterman spoke with Governing about his ideas for state and local governments that want to create "good jobs" in their area.
September 21, 2011
New Legislation Would End Florida's Drug Testing Policy
A Florida lawmaker has introduced a bill that would end the state's policy of drug testing recipients of temporary government assistance.
September 20, 2011
N.C. School District Wins Broad Prize for Closing Achievement Gaps
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District received the 2011 Broad Prize in Urban Education for its efforts in closing the achievement gap between ethnic and income groups.
September 20, 2011
U.S. Chamber Of Commerce Takes NLRB To Court
The U.S Chamber of Commerce is disputing the National Labor Relations Board's mandate that employers post information about employees' right to unionize.
September 20, 2011
Some Good, Some Bad For States In Obama's Deficit Plan
President Obama's deficit reduction plan represented a "mixed bag" for state legislatures, according to a NCSL official.
September 20, 2011
Tempered Expectations For Legalized Gambling
Massachusetts is adjusting its expectations as the state legislature considers legalizing gambling and approving construction of casinos.
September 20, 2011
N.J. Environmental Waivers Stopped In Senate
The New Jersey Senate's Environment and Energy Committee has rejected a proposed waiver rule that would allow businesses, towns and residents to bypass state environmental regulations.
September 19, 2011
Big Oil Rig Coming To The Cuban Coast
A major oil rig will be drilling between the Florida Keys and Cuba by mid-December.
September 19, 2011
Minnesota Rail Line Lauded As Example In Infrastructure Investment
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood visited Minnesota to reiterate the need for investment in infrastructure projects like the Central Corridor Light Rail line.
September 19, 2011
N.J. Lawmakers Search For Common Ground In Job Creation
New Jersey lawmakers are taking up a renewed effort to spur job growth in the struggling state.
September 19, 2011
N.M. Lawmakers Debate Driver's Licenses for Illegal Immigrants
New Mexico's Democratic legislators and Republican governor are no closer to an agreement regarding the state's policy that allows undocumented residents to obtain a driver's license.
September 19, 2011
Millions in Health Care Exchange Funding At Stake
Health reform advocates are worried New York will lose out on federal funding if the state legislature does not act.
September 19, 2011
Connecticut General Assembly Uses Social Media for Public Comment
Connecticut's General Assembly is asking its constituents to testify at an upcoming public hearing via Facebook and Twitter.
September 15, 2011
Should Cities Mandate Sick Leave?
Seattle is the third U.S. city to require private employers to offer paid sick leave. Is this a good idea?