Coronavirus Resources

Coronavirus Resources

Staff Contact

Leah Wavrunek
202-624-8433
lwavrunek@nasbo.org

NASBO is monitoring budget and fiscal implications as well as broader issues that states are addressing related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). This page includes the latest federal news, press articles highlighting state responses and other resources. NASBO staff will continue to add relevant information to this webpage and provide weekly updates in our Washington Report e-publication.

NASBO statement on Coronavirus Relief Fund Interim Report (July 29)
NASBO letter to Administration officials and Congressional leadership. (April 22)
Additional communication to support requests in March 19 letter. (March 21)
NASBO letter to Administration officials and Congressional leadership. (March 19)

Latest Federal News

Treasury Releases New FAQs for Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Today the Treasury Department published revised frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program. The FAQs address who is eligible to receive assistance, grantee documentation, a definition of income and methods of income determination, examples of “other expenses” including internet service, and reporting/recordkeeping requirements. The FAQs further address duplication of benefits, use of subawards, and examples of housing stability services. Treasury indicates the FAQs will be supplemented by additional guidance; the ERA Program page can be found here.

 

PRAC Releases Additional CRF Data

The Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) released an updated dataset of Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) spending by states, eligible local governments, Tribal governments, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Territories. The dataset now includes cumulative CRF funds spent March 1 through December 31, 2020 by 659 prime recipients.

 

Administration Expanding Testing, Sequencing Capacity

The administration announced a series of new actions to expand COVID-19 testing, improve availability of tests, and better track variants. The actions include: $650 million investment to expand testing for K-8 schools and underserved congregate settings; $815 million investment to increase domestic manufacturing of testing supplies and raw materials; and $200 million investment to increase virus genome sequencing to track emerging virus strains. These are separate funding amounts from what is included in the pending COVID-19 relief package.

 

House Democrats Send Letter Requesting Extension of Tax Filing Deadline

On Thursday, Democrats on the House Ways and Means Committee requested that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) extend the tax return filing season beyond April 15, 2021, “given the ongoing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic.” The letter notes that due to the pandemic, “many Americans continue to face the same challenges that necessitated extending the filing season last year.” The letter also highlights closed taxpayer assistance sites and the condensed filing season and impacts on taxpayers who may be unprepared for the amount due with their return; the letter does not request or recommend how long the extension should last.

 

Census Announces Delay of Redistricting Data Until September 30

On Friday the U.S. Census Bureau announced it will deliver redistricting data to all states by September 30, 2021. According to the announcement, “COVID-19-related delays and prioritizing the delivery of the apportionment results delayed the Census Bureau’s original plan to deliver the redistricting data to the states by March 31, 2021.” Different from previous censuses, the Census Bureau will deliver the data for all states at once, instead of on a flow basis. 2020 Census resources from the National Conference of State Legislatures can be found here.

All Federal Links



Press Clips - Week of May 10


Press Clips Archive


National

Nine states will end participation in unemployment assistance programs

USA Today - 5/12/2021

Biden pressured from both sides over unemployment boost

Washington Examiner - 5/12/2021

Panic Drives Gas Shortages After Colonial Pipeline Ransomware Attack

(NPR) National Public Radio - 5/12/2021

Is Congress Ready to Invest in Regional Economies?

Governing – 5/12/2021

Congress mulls $500 million in grants to help states upgrade cybersecurity

Roll Call – 5/11/2021

Report: How the American Rescue Plan will Affect State Taxes

Route Fifty – 5/11/2021

How much money is headed to your state, city from Biden's rescue plan

USA Today - 5/11/2021

As Rescue Act Aid Starts to Move, Roads, Water, Sewers May Benefit

Engineering News-Record - 5/11/2021

$350B Heads to States Cities for COVID Relief

Pew Trusts.org - 5/11/2021

Paying With Cash? Retailers Must Take Your Dollars in These States.

Pew Trusts.org - 5/11/2021

American casinos match best-ever quarter with $11.1 billion in revenue

Marketwatch - 5/11/2021

U.S. Treasury opens $350 billion in COVID aid, some states won't get full funds for a year

Reuters - 5/10/2021

Cities Say They Badly Need Critical Infrastructure Funding

Pew Trusts.org - 5/10/2021

The Cities and Counties Getting the Biggest Sums of Federal Aid

Route Fifty - 5/10/2021

Treasury readies first batch of $350B aid to states, localities

Roll Call - 5/10/2021

Treasury to Begin Distribution of $350 Billion for State, Local Governments

Route Fifty - 5/10/2021

Public pension systems dont think theyll earn as much from investments. Heres why that matters

Marketwatch - 5/10/2021

Treasury to start paying out $350B in state and local aid

Republic - 5/10/2021

Aid to State, Local Governments Is About to Flow

Wall Street Journal - 5/10/2021

Biden pushes economic aid proposals as GOP calls for paring back unemployment benefits

CNN - 5/10/2021

$350B from COVID relief legislation starts heading to states this week

USA Today - 5/10/2021

The Biden administration will begin disbursing $350 billion in state and local aid this month.

The New York Times - 5/10/2021

Treasury opens applications for $350 billion state and local aid program

The Hill - 5/10/2021

Treasury will give states a lot of power to decide how to spend $350 billion in Covid relief funds

CNBC - 5/10/2021

McConnell says infrastructure plan should cost up to $800 billion ahead of meeting with Biden

CNBC - 5/10/2021

Report: Flooding has Devastating Effects on Affordable Housing

Route Fifty – 5/10/2021

White House, state officials scramble to get docs’ help with lagging vaccination effort

Politico – 5/9/2021

Some states plan big spending with Bidens aid, others wait

Republic - 5/9/2021

State Tax Revenue Passes a Recovery Milestone

Pew Trusts.org - 5/9/2021

Americas most conservative states are embracing medical pot

Politico - 5/9/2021

States scale back vaccine orders as interest in shots wanes

Republic - 5/8/2021

Biden wants trillions for infrastructure, but a hurdle remains: Spending the cash

Yahoo! News - 5/8/2021

GOP governors slash jobless aid to try to force more Americans to return to work

Washington Post – 5/8/2021

States, Cities Begin to Order Workers Back to the Office

Route Fifty – 5/7/2021

Placing Blame: Liability Questions Loom Over Autonomous Vehicles

Government Technology – 5/7/2021

HBCUs receive windfall from American Rescue Plan

Yahoo! News - 5/7/2021

Trump signed off on last-minute Medicaid changes. Now Biden faces the legal challenges.

Yahoo! News - 5/7/2021

As COVID-19 Vaccine Demand Dips, Community Health Centers Take the Lead

Pew Trusts.org - 5/6/2021

Days Ahead Of First Federal Stimulus Payments, Local Governments Still Don’t Know How—And In Some Cases If—They’ll Spend The Money

Forbes – 5/6/2021

A $4.5B Pool of Economic Recovery Funds States, Localities Can Tap Into

Route Fifty – 5/6/2021

In one chart, how U.S. state and local revenues got thumped by the pandemic and recovered

Marketwatch - 5/5/2021


Alabama

Business leaders tell Alabama to add more electric vehicle chargers

AL.com - 5/11/2021

Alabama broadband grants game changer for families, businesses

AL.com - 5/11/2021

Whats in Alabamas medical marijuana bill?

AL.com - 5/10/2021

Alabama governor orders end to federal COVID unemployment benefits

Axios – 5/10/2021

Gambling bill stalls in Alabama House as tempers flare

Associated Press – 5/7/2021

How Bidens American Families Plan could help Alabama families and children

AL.com - 5/7/2021


Alaska

Alaska House approves state operating budget with amendment to cut funding for abortion services

Alaska Dispatch News - 5/11/2021

Alaska’s first plan to spend $1 billion in federal aid is being scrapped

Alaska Dispatch News - 5/10/2021

A state corporation is still pushing a massive gas line plan. Is it a pipe dream?

Fairbanks News-Miner - 5/10/2021


Arizona

Dreamers could get new chance at in-state tuition in Arizona

Tucson Arizona Daily Star - 5/10/2021

Wildfire prevention gets boost from behind bars with expanded program

Tucson Arizona Daily Star - 5/8/2021

New Arizona law will require convictions before assets can be seized

Tucson Arizona Daily Star - 5/6/2021

The difference between medical and recreational marijuana in Arizona

Tucson Arizona Daily Star - 5/6/2021


Arkansas

Panel to study uses for $1.57B

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette - 5/12/2021

State board notes drop in earnings

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette - 5/12/2021

Hutchinson sets out priorities for U.S. aid

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette - 5/11/2021

Sales tax receipts mixed for local governments; businesses still struggling with pandemic

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette - 5/10/2021

Session rolls out array of vote laws

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette - 5/9/2021


California

Gov. Newsom channels some Californians frustrations about freeway trash, pitches $1.5 billion cleanup

San Jose Mercury News - 5/12/2021

California nears expanding COVID-19 shot to children 12-15

San Diego Union-Tribune - 5/11/2021

California governor proposes $12B to house state's homeless

SFGate - 5/11/2021

Gov. Newsom expands drought emergency to 39 more counties

SFGate - 5/10/2021

California gets billions in federal relief money for pandemic costs

San Diego Union-Tribune - 5/10/2021

Am I eligible for the proposed $600 stimulus checks in California? What you need to know

Los Angeles Times - 5/10/2021

California, Los Angeles get billions in federal relief money for pandemic costs

Los Angeles Times - 5/10/2021

With $76B surplus, California proposes rebates for millions

SFGate - 5/10/2021

Two-thirds of Californians to recieve $600 stimulus checks under Gov. Newsoms new proposal

San Jose Mercury News - 5/10/2021

Newsom’s $100-billion budget plan

Los Angeles Times - 5/10/2021

The Gavin Newsom recall could cost $400 million. Who's paying for that?

SFGate - 5/10/2021

California reports first ever yearly population decline

SFGate - 5/7/2021


Colorado

Colorado Democrats look to ax tax breaks for wealthy and corporations

Boulder Daily Camera - 5/11/2021

Colorado transportation fees bill faces key tension between more highway lanes and addressing climate change

Denver Post - 5/11/2021

More than $2.3 billion wagered in Colorado’s first year of legalized sports betting

The Center Square – 5/10/2021

Colorado House advances Democrat-backed insurance plan

Associated Press – 5/7/2021


Connecticut

Lamont taps CT National Guard to be ready in event of nursing home strike

The Connecticut Mirror - 5/11/2021

Democratic House Speaker voices concerns over special state fund

Waterbury Republican-American - 5/11/2021

The state has now been allocated $2.8 billion in federal pandemic relief, and that money could flow into state coffers later this month.

New Haven Register - 5/11/2021

Lamont offers $280M to nursing homes, workers to avert strike

New Haven Register - 5/10/2021

Analysis: COVID-19 hit hotel industry harder in CT

The Connecticut Mirror - 5/10/2021

Chamber happenings: Truck mileage tax would have huge effect on small...

Waterbury Republican-American - 5/9/2021

Connecticut liberals want the people who got richer during COVID-19 to pay more in taxes. Gov. Ned Lamont says its the wrong time for tax increases.

Hartford Courant - 5/7/2021

The choice is between investing in the economy or spending federal aid on state and municipal budgets.

The Connecticut Mirror - 5/7/2021


Delaware

Bill calling for economic impact study of Delaware minimum wage increase stalls in House committee

WDEL – 5/12/2021

Delaware sees additional ACA sign-ups during special enrollment window

Delaware Public Media – 5/11/2021

Delaware just moved closer to requiring body cameras for all officers

Wilmington News Journal (Delaware Online) - 5/6/2021


Florida

State of emergency declared in Florida over gas

Palm Beach Post - 5/11/2021

DeSantis signs bill expanding private school voucher programs

Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel & SouthFlorida.com - 5/11/2021

State revenues continue topping forecast

Tallahassee Democrat - 5/7/2021

Florida Democrats: We, not DeSantis, provided dollars for bonuses, aid

Palm Beach Post - 5/6/2021

Florida schools react to DeSantis’ latest coronavirus orders

Tampa Bay Times - 5/6/2021


Georgia

Kemp signs $27.2 billion budget for coming year with extra money for schools, health care

Atlanta Journal-Constitution - 5/10/2021

Business groups warn about Georgia’s ‘growing labor crisis’

Atlanta Journal-Constitution - 5/10/2021

Kemp signs $27.3B state budget, will block police raises

Associated Press – 5/10/2021

Kemp signs bill giving big-money donors more impact on key races

Atlanta Journal-Constitution - 5/10/2021

Georgia ban on ‘defund the police’ efforts signed into law

Atlanta Journal-Constitution - 5/9/2021

Kemp signs special needs voucher expansion bill

Atlanta Journal-Constitution - 5/6/2021

Kemp signs bill allowing college athletes to be paid

Athens Banner-Herald - 5/6/2021


Hawaii

Bill to increase lodging tax could stifle Hawaii’s visitor industry, some say

Honolulu Star-Advertiser - 5/11/2021

Hawaii launches limited inter-island 'vaccine passport' plan

Associated Press – 5/11/2021

Governor says lawmakers had no authority to approve $2,200 bonuses for teachers

KHNL/KGMB-TV Hawaii News Now - 5/10/2021

Hawaii to convert light-duty vehicles to electric by 2035

KHNL/KGMB-TV Hawaii News Now - 5/10/2021

Teacher bonuses, classroom ACs may not be best use of federal coronavirus relief funds for Hawaii, officials say

Honolulu Star-Advertiser - 5/9/2021


Idaho

Gov. Little withdraws Idaho from federal unemployment assistance programs

Idaho Press – 5/11/2021

Idaho governor signs bill to halt Biden moves on gun laws

Associated Press – 5/11/2021

Idaho eyes sewer, water, broadband with federal rescue money

Associated Press – 5/11/2021

Gov. Little signs historic transportation funding bill

KTVB – 5/10/2021

Lawsuit challenges Idaho’s new ballot initiative process

Associated Press – 5/7/2021

Waiting game begins for potential vetoes from Idaho governor

Associated Press – 5/6/2021


Illinois

Special education, hair discrimination bills advance from Senate committee

Illinois Daily Herald - 5/12/2021

Pritzker, state officials tout health equity bill at West Suburban Medical Center

Chicago Tribune - 5/11/2021

Providers say Pritzkers budget for adults with disabilities falls short of solving long-standing problems

Chicago Tribune - 5/11/2021

7 downtown buildings to get vaccine clinics as more workers head back to offices

Chicago Sun-Times - 5/10/2021

In high tax states such as Illinois, theres plenty at stake in politically charged debate over cap on state and local tax deductions

Chicago Tribune - 5/10/2021

Tax credit for affordable rental units considered by lawmakers

Springfield State Journal-Register - 5/9/2021

State Senate passes Medicare, tax zone legislation

Illinois Daily Herald - 5/8/2021

Illinois lawmakers begin bipartisan budget talks

Springfield State Journal-Register - 5/7/2021

Pritzker now says budget can include added $350 million for schools

Illinois Daily Herald - 5/7/2021

Pritzker: Schools to get an extra $350 million ‘because our outlook has improved’

Chicago Sun-Times - 5/6/2021

Lawmakers debate future of scholarship tax credit

Springfield State Journal-Register - 5/6/2021


Indiana

State picks prison health service

Journal Gazette.net - 5/12/2021

Indiana to get more than $700 million from Opioid settlements, grants

The Center Square – 5/11/2021

Indiana legislature votes to override Gov. Holcomb’s veto to limit power of local health departments

The Center Square – 5/10/2021

Critics say Indiana COVID-19 law allows nursing home neglect

Associated Press – 5/8/2021


Iowa

Iowa to end federal pandemic unemployment benefit

Quad-City Times - 5/11/2021

Iowa mental health, local government groups voice concerns over massive tax plan

Quad-City Times - 5/10/2021

Iowa to get $1.48B in federal coronavirus assistance money

Associated Press – 5/10/2021

Iowa set to remove limits on prosecuting sexual abuse of minors

Quad-City Times - 5/7/2021

Senate GOP touts pathway to adjournment

Quad-City Times - 5/7/2021

Iowa sports betting frenzy cools in April

Quad-City Times - 5/7/2021

Democrats: Iowa House GOP tax plan more acceptable than governors. GOP at loggerheads over tax plans for Iowans

Quad-City Times - 5/6/2021

Reynolds pitches compromise to get faster tax cuts

Quad-City Times - 5/6/2021


Kansas

Kansas Legislature got more conservative ” and four other takeaways from the 2021 session

Topeka Capital-Journal - 5/11/2021

Kansas government may have to compensate businesses hurt by COVID orders

Topeka Capital-Journal - 5/10/2021

Kansas Legislature passes partial ban on vaccine passports in $28 billion budget

Wichita Eagle & Kansas.com - 5/10/2021

Plan ties Kansas schools tax to a proposed tax break for closed businesses

Lawrence Journal-World - 5/9/2021

Budget bill keeps Kansas governor involved in virus aid decisions

Lawrence Journal-World - 5/9/2021

Kansas requests less than 9% of allowed vaccine doses; lawmakers try to revive vaccine passport ban, contact tracing limits

Lawrence Journal-World - 5/9/2021

Kansas legislators pass plan that could give $500M in COVID relief to businesses

Lawrence Journal-World - 5/9/2021

Vaccine passports, other virus issues split Kansas lawmakers

Lawrence Journal-World - 5/8/2021

Gov. Laura Kelly, GOP lawmakers reach deal on doling out COVID-19 relief funds

Topeka Capital-Journal - 5/8/2021

New school funding, choice plan advances in Kansas with promise of Kellys signature

Wichita Eagle & Kansas.com - 5/8/2021

Lawmakers approve vaccine passport ban, judicial branch pay raise

Topeka Capital-Journal - 5/8/2021

Kansas Senate OKs business relief for COVID losses. But how could it affect taxes?

Wichita Eagle & Kansas.com - 5/6/2021


Kentucky

Kentucky governments to receive $3.77B from Treasury

Louisville Courier-Journal - 5/10/2021

Beshear: Kentucky is open, and our economy is beginning to roar

Louisville Courier-Journal - 5/10/2021

Heres what Kentucky would get from Bidens American Families Plan

Louisville Courier-Journal - 5/7/2021

Record revenues, better credit rating comes for Kentucky

The Center Square – 5/7/2021


Louisiana

Tax package advances another step but racial rift causes hold up on House floor

Baton Rouge Advocate - 5/12/2021

Bill would create fund to support the socioeconomic well-being of states rural population

Baton Rouge Advocate - 5/11/2021

Discrepancies plagued some of Louisiana's $262 million 'Main Street' grants; state clawing back cash

Baton Rouge Advocate - 5/10/2021

New Louisiana bill extending Medicaid after pregnancy aimed at helping moms, babies

Nola.com - 5/8/2021

Louisiana now offering utility bill assistance to renters facing COVID-19 financial hardships

Baton Rouge Advocate - 5/7/2021

Louisiana's House advances $36 billion budget with funding for teacher pay raises, TOPS

Baton Rouge Advocate - 5/6/2021


Maine

Maine governments face few obstacles to using $1.5B in stimulus money

Bangor Daily News - 5/11/2021

Maine renters facing two-month backlog in rental assistance requests

Bangor Daily News - 5/11/2021

Maine municipal officials wait to form plans as Treasury readies $350B in state and local aid

Bangor Daily News - 5/10/2021

Funding needed to improve access to health care in Maine

Bangor Daily News - 5/9/2021

Maines arts organizations havent yet seen the benefits of a federal grant program

Bangor Daily News - 5/7/2021


Maryland

Audit finds Maryland Health Benefit Exchange has continued problems in verifying some applicants Medicaid eligibility

Baltimore Sun - 5/11/2021

Maryland Gov. Hogan announces $25 million project to help children reverse effects of COVID pandemic

Baltimore Sun – 5/6/2021


Massachusetts

MGM sells Springfield property to real estate trust

The Republican - MassLive.com - 5/11/2021

Massachusetts Senate unveils $47.6B state budget proposal

Associated Press – 5/11/2021

Massachusetts Senate’s $47.6B budget boosts aid to needy families, slashes reliance on rainy day account

Boston Herald - 5/11/2021

After judge vacates CDC eviction moratorium, Massachusetts advocates push for housing equity legislation

The Republican - MassLive.com - 5/7/2021

Holdup on Massachusetts unemployment insurance relief quest appears to be federal guidance

The Republican - MassLive.com - 5/6/2021


Michigan

Michigan Senate approves billions in budget bills

Detroit Free Press - 5/11/2021

Michigan colleges can tap into millions in COVID-19 relief funds, see who gets what

Mlive.com - 5/11/2021

Detroit casinos report $109 million in April amid industry rebound

Detroit News - 5/11/2021

How much Michigan cities, counties could get in COVID-19 relief funds

Detroit Free Press - 5/10/2021

US Treasury set to release nearly $11B in relief funds to Michigan, localities

Detroit News - 5/10/2021

Michigan to end remote work after reaching 55 percent vaccination rate

The Hill – 5/10/2021


Minnesota

GOP says Walz wasting federal coronavirus aid

TwinCities.com - 5/11/2021

Minnesota to see $2.83 billion from American Rescue Act, reviving tax relief debate

TwinCities.com - 5/10/2021

Federal rescue dollars to start flowing to Minnesota this week

Minnesota Public Radio - 5/10/2021

Minnesota to get $200M more than expected in federal aid

Associated Press – 5/10/2021

Minnesota Legislature faces tough budget talks in week ahead

Associated Press – 5/9/2021

Billions in federal stimulus aid will complicate the Legislatures budget deal-making

TwinCities.com - 5/9/2021

Walz will end all COVID restrictions by July 1, or sooner if 70% get vaccinated

TwinCities.com - 5/6/2021


Mississippi

Mississippi requests $2 billion in federal COVID relief funds for state, local governments

Mississippi Today – 5/12/2021

Miss. health advocates want voters to decide on Medicaid expansion. Heres why.

Hattiesburg American - 5/11/2021

Billions in coronavirus relief funds coming. How much does Jackson get?

Jackson Clarion-Ledger - 5/10/2021

Mississippi receiving virus relief money spread over 2 years

Associated Press – 5/10/2021

PPP loan changes helping Mississippi businesses

Jackson Clarion-Ledger - 5/9/2021


Missouri

Over objections of conservatives, Missouri House approves boost in state gas tax

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/12/2021

Missouri s governor says federal unemployment programs have incentivized people to stay out of the workforce; Democrats criticize Parson directive

Missouri Net - 5/12/2021

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson announces halt to pandemic jobless benefits after June 12

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/12/2021

Judge tosses Missouri AG Eric Schmitt’s tax cut lawsuit against Biden administration

Kansas City Star – 5/11/2021

Missouri Gov. Parson says he wont spend $2.7 billion in COVID relief until next year

Kansas City Star & KansasCity.com - 5/11/2021

To help reduce a K-12 teacher shortage, Missouri to offer recruitment and retention grants

Missouri Net - 5/11/2021

Long-sought prescription drug monitoring plan headed to Missouri governors desk

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/11/2021

Parson threatens veto of police chokehold ban over unrelated subpoena issue

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/11/2021

Missouri in no rush to spend $2.7 billion of flexible pandemic aid

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/10/2021

Missouri s operating budget approved by lawmakers includes historic increase for foster children and families

Missouri Net - 5/10/2021

Final week in Missouri legislative session: Wayfair, gas tax, PDMP and Grain Belt still unresolved

Missouri Net - 5/9/2021

Missouri House Democrats appeal directly to GOP Governor on Medicaid expansion; rural Republicans say their constituents voted against it

Missouri Net - 5/8/2021

Missouri lawmakers OK $35B budget without Medicaid expansion

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/7/2021

Missouri lawmakers approve new state budget, forgo spending on Medicaid expansion

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/7/2021

Missouri Legislature passes tax credits to fund private school scholarships

Missouri Net - 5/7/2021

School choice measure wins approval in Missouri Senate, now heads to governors desk

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/6/2021

Republican lawmakers want oversight over how Missouri cities spend federal stimulus money

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - 5/6/2021

General revenue collections continued to increase in April, latest report says

Missouri Times – 5/4/2021


Montana

Gianforte signs landmark investment in broadband expansion

Missoula Missoulian - 5/11/2021

Montana Legislature made lots of late changes, without public comment

Missoula Missoulian - 5/8/2021

Gianforte signs bill securing funding for new UM forestry building

Billings Gazette - 5/7/2021

Montana governor signs bill targeting transgender athletes

Billings Gazette - 5/7/2021

Public schools emerge from Legislative session with COVID relief, tax cuts

Bozeman Daily Chronicle - 5/7/2021

Montana opts out of federal unemployment payments, creates $1,200 incentive to get a job

Billings Gazette – 5/7/2021

Parts of Gianforte's tax package become law

Missoula Missoulian - 5/6/2021


Nebraska

Nebraska Legislature advances bills phasing out Social Security taxes, cutting corporate income taxes

Omaha World-Herald - 5/11/2021

Social Security income tax repeal in Nebraska gets a guardrail

Lincoln Journal Star - 5/11/2021

Nebraska Legislature softens police reform bill to meet rural senators' concerns

Omaha World-Herald - 5/10/2021

Keno parlor protection removed from casino gambling bill

Lincoln Journal Star - 5/10/2021

Nebraska, Lincoln to receive millions in new federal COVID 'rescue' funds

Lincoln Journal Star - 5/10/2021

Nebraska lawmakers have last miles in view with marijuana, gun and tax bills to hurdle

Lincoln Journal Star - 5/9/2021

'I'm not giving up': Senator sees progress on consumption tax proposal

Lincoln Journal Star - 5/9/2021

Hearing on proposed Nebraska health standards that teach gender identity goes almost 4 hours

Lincoln Journal Star - 5/7/2021

Compromise on committee makeup allows school finance study to move forward

Lincoln Journal Star - 5/6/2021

No unity in testimony on Nebraska Legislature's resolution alleging federal overreach

Omaha World-Herald - 5/6/2021

Nebraska congressional delegation joins in attack on Biden tax hikes

Lincoln Journal Star - 5/6/2021


Nevada

Nevada gets $2.7B in COVID-19 relief funds. Now, how to spend it?

Reno Gazette-Journal - 5/11/2021

Sisolak promotes infrastructure bank, new jobs

Las Vegas Review-Journal - 5/10/2021

Nevada gets $2.7B as feds send COVID recovery checks

Las Vegas Review-Journal - 5/10/2021

Sisolak pushes expanded Nevada infrastructure bank

Las Vegas Sun - 5/10/2021

Nevada gets guidance on spending federal COVID relief funds

Las Vegas Sun - 5/10/2021

Nevadas broken unemployment system must be fixed ” now

Las Vegas Sun - 5/9/2021

Nearly half of Nevada prisoners have had dose of COVID vaccine

Las Vegas Review-Journal - 5/6/2021


New Hampshire

NH delegation announces Granite State communities to receive more than $1.4 billion in state, local relief funding from American Rescue Plan

Nashua Telegraph - 5/11/2021

Menthol ban finds fans, detractors in NH

Manchester Union Leader - 5/9/2021

Sununu warns businesses have to repay grants, feds say no

Manchester Union Leader - 5/6/2021

April revenues continue good news for state finances

Nashua Telegraph - 5/6/2021


New Jersey

Need rental relief? NJ state program, county assistance still open

North Jersey.com (Bergen County Record & Herald News) - 5/12/2021

N.J. getting $10.2B in stimulus aid. Heres how much each county (and 4 dozen towns) will get.

Jersey City Journal - 5/10/2021

NJ funds $275M for businesses, immigrants, others shut out of COVID relief

North Jersey.com (Bergen County Record & Herald News) - 5/10/2021

NJ unemployment: $300 delay should be fixed by Tuesday, state says

North Jersey.com (Bergen County Record & Herald News) - 5/10/2021

Murphy announces $40 million for undocumented immigrants, others excluded from benefits

Jersey City Journal - 5/7/2021

NJ paying $1.3M to consultant to advise on women’s prison

Associated Press – 5/7/2021


New Mexico

New Mexico lawmakers fight over spending authority escalates

Santa Fe New Mexican - 5/12/2021

Tension mounts as NM awaits federal funds Tension mounts as NM awaits federal funds

ABQJournal Online - 5/12/2021

New Mexico to receive $1.75 billion in pandemic relief

Santa Fe New Mexican - 5/11/2021

New Mexico Must Provide Internet, Devices to At-Risk Remote Learners, Court Rules

Route Fifty – 5/10/2021

New Mexico moves to toughen emissions rules

Santa Fe New Mexican - 5/7/2021


New York

Theres $24 billion in stimulus aid for NY governments. See where its headed

Rochester Democrat and Chronicle - 5/12/2021

SUNY mandatory vaccination plan won't include SUNY employees

Buffalo News - 5/11/2021

Localities eligible for at least $822.7 million in federal aid

Buffalo News - 5/10/2021

NYC landlords sue to stop extension of states COVID eviction moratorium

New York Daily News - 5/6/2021

Online database of New York incentive projects goes live

Albany Times-Union - 5/6/2021

Take the shot, get a ticket: New York baseball fans offered new perk to get vaccinated

Reuters – 5/5/2021


North Carolina

North Carolina House approves new local tax option

The Center Square – 5/11/2021

Cooper declares state of emergency amid fuel pipeline shutdown

The Center Square – 5/11/2021

NC budget dance slowed as GOP leaders differ on bottom line

Associated Press – 5/7/2021

A federal court has vacated the CDC eviction moratorium. What does that mean for NC?

Raleigh News & Observer - 5/7/2021


North Dakota

North Dakota boosts funding for addiction treatment program that ran out of money

Grand Forks Herald - 5/12/2021

Lawmakers not seeking override of North Dakota governor's partial veto on college penalties for abortion ties

Grand Forks Herald - 5/11/2021

Gov. Burgum signs remaining bills from recent session

Bismarck Tribune - 5/10/2021

Gov. Burgum announces end to federal unemployment aid

Bismarck Tribune - 5/10/2021

Officials chart merger of North Dakota Health, Human Services agencies

Bismarck Tribune - 5/10/2021

Drought shows no signs of easing up throughout Dakotas

Bismarck Tribune - 5/10/2021

North Dakota governor partly vetoes bill to restrict state college ties with abortion providers

Grand Forks Herald - 5/8/2021

North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission overspent operating budget by 1%

Bismarck Tribune - 5/6/2021


Ohio

U.S. Treasury sends $590M in COVID-19 relief to area governments

Dayton Daily News - 5/12/2021

New Ohio law provides $465M to help Ohioans pay housing, utility bills

Cleveland Plain Dealer & Cleveland.com - 5/11/2021

Here's what Ohio cities and counties will get from latest federal stimulus

Columbus Dispatch - 5/11/2021

Ohio lawmakers want to study cutting smaller health departments

Cincinnati Enquirer & Cincinnati.com - 5/10/2021

How much money will your city get from the American Rescue Plan?

Cleveland Plain Dealer & Cleveland.com - 5/10/2021

Ohios casinos, racinos post another big month, blowing away pre-pandemic records for gambling revenue

Cleveland Plain Dealer & Cleveland.com - 5/10/2021

Area libraries say public needs their services more than ever

Columbus Dispatch - 5/8/2021

Ohio is latest state to see GOP-backed voting law rewrite

Columbus Dispatch - 5/6/2021

Ohio GOP lawmakers back off ballot proposal to extend redistricting deadlines

Cleveland Plain Dealer & Cleveland.com - 5/6/2021

Ohio Senate to release details on sports betting bill

Cincinnati Enquirer & Cincinnati.com - 5/6/2021


Oklahoma

Oklahoma set to receive nearly $1.9 billion in federal relief funding

The Center Square – 5/11/2021

Oklahoma House Democrats unveil budget proposal as Republicans negotiate behind closed doors

KOCO – 5/11/2021

Oklahoma budget still needs to be passed as legislative deadline nears

KOCO – 5/10/2021

Oklahoma to recognize out-of-state occupational licenses

The Center Square – 5/6/2021


Oregon

Oregon lawmakers to boost state school fund to $9.3 billion, $300 million more than official stay-steady estimate

Oregonian – 5/12/2021

Oregon lawmakers look to tax insurance policies to fight wildfires

The Center Square – 5/11/2021

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown ties economy reopening to vaccination rates

Salem Statesman-Journal - 5/11/2021


Pennsylvania

Infection rates up among younger Pennsylvanians; new capacity rule just in time for NHL playoffs

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - 5/11/2021

Pa. to get almost $5B in school aid from federal relief bill

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - 5/11/2021

For Pittsburgh area, COVID-19 bill includes $248M for transit, $35M for airport, more aid for municipalities

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - 5/11/2021

Superintendents call on General Assembly to back Gov. Wolf's education budget proposal

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review - 5/6/2021

Pa.s roads, bridges spotlighted as Biden administration gives state a C-minus for infrastructure

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - 5/6/2021


Rhode Island

Rhode Island marks 1-millionth COVID-19 vaccine dose

Providence Journal – 5/12/2021

New state revenue estimates higher than those made last fall

Associated Press – 5/11/2021

Soaring tax revenue gives RI leaders $324 million more for state budget

WPRI – 5/10/2021

South Carolina

Adjournment clock ticks on South Carolina bills on the bubble

The Center Square – 5/11/2021

South Carolina receiving $2.5B in pandemic relief aid

Associated Press – 5/11/2021

SC lawmakers scramble to advance bills to Gov. McMaster's desk with 3 days left in session

Charleston Post & Courier - 5/10/2021

McMaster's federal jobless benefits cutoff condemned by Jesse Jackson, Upstate coalition

Charleston Post & Courier - 5/10/2021

SC getting $2.5B, plus more for counties and cities, from COVID-19 relief package

Charleston Post & Courier - 5/10/2021

SC getting $435M plus more for counties, cities from COVID relief funds

Charleston Post & Courier - 5/10/2021

Updated SC law grants in-state tuition to veterans regardless of when they served

Charleston Post & Courier - 5/8/2021

Hate crimes, police reform await SC lawmakers in last week

Associated Press – 5/8/2021

Gov. McMaster calls for SC to end all federal pandemic unemployment programs

Charleston Post & Courier - 5/6/2021

SC proviso could cut school funds based on virtual students

Greenville Online - 5/6/2021


South Dakota

State has awarded $488 million in CARES Act funds to small businesses, health care providers

Rapid City Journal - 5/11/2021

South Dakota finance bureau audits coronavirus relief applications, comes up with less than 1% of "ineligible" awards

Grand Forks Herald – 5/11/2021

Billions to spend: How South Dakota is flush with stimulus cash

Sioux Falls Argus Leader - 5/6/2021

Medicaid expansion group loses SD Supreme Court bid

Sioux Falls Argus Leader - 5/6/2021


Tennessee

Tennessee cuts off $300 federal unemployment supplement

The Hill – 5/11/2021

Tennessee's Medicaid block grant waiver challenged in court

The Center Square – 5/10/2021

Certificate-of-need reform passes Tennessee General Assembly

The Center Square – 5/7/2021


Texas

Texas colleges and universities get $2 billion in federal stimulus money

Houston Chronicle - 5/11/2021

Push to bring casinos to Texas appears headed for defeat this session despite high-profile campaign

Houston Chronicle - 5/11/2021

Republicans push tax increases despite budget surplus

The Center Square – 5/11/2021

Texas’ Larger Cities Would Face Financial Penalties for Cutting Police Budgets Under Bill Approved by House

Texas Tribune – 5/10/2021

Texas gets $15.8B bonanza in pandemic aid, far more than it lost in revenue

Dallas Morning News - 5/10/2021

Texas delegation requests close to $2 billion in funding request earmarks

Dallas Morning News - 5/7/2021

Texas lawmakers propose electricity market bailout after winter storm

Houston Chronicle - 5/7/2021

State officials earmark $10M for local vaccination efforts

Austin American-Statesman - 5/7/2021

Federal judge defends her efforts to clean up Texas’ foster care system amid complaints from providers

Dallas Morning News - 5/6/2021

Texas House advances bill that would ban homeless encampments in public

Houston Chronicle - 5/6/2021


Utah

Utah To Receive $2.5B In Pandemic Relief

Utah Public Radio – 5/11/2021

Exclusive: Utah s former budget chief gets $350K in state funds, plus teaching position at the U.

Salt Lake Tribune - 5/10/2021


Vermont

Senate approves $100 million to expand, improve broadband service

VT Digger.org - 5/11/2021

Vermont gets $12M in COVID relief for drug abuse programs

Associated Press – 5/10/2021

With earmarks reinstated, Leahy poised to deliver more federal money to Vermont

VT Digger.org - 5/9/2021

Lawmakers want to send $89 million to Vermont state colleges. Will it be enough?

VT Digger.org - 5/9/2021

A year into Covid-19, Labor Department issues stall Vermonters efforts to collect unemployment

VT Digger.org - 5/9/2021


Virginia

Gov. Northam announces over $60 million in education recovery funding

WWBT – 5/12/2021

Over $790M in rescue-plan funds heading to cities, counties and colleges in Hampton Roads

Norfolk Virginian-Pilot/HamptonRoads.com - 5/11/2021

Northam eyes June 15 for ending most COVID-19 restrictions if trends continue

The Center Square – 5/6/2021


Washington

Washington is among the best states for police officers, report finds. Heres why

Olympian - 5/11/2021

Washington State University tuition going up by 2.5% after regents approve proposal

Spokane Spokesman-Review - 5/8/2021

'A dramatic shift': Inslee signs legislation to address child care shortages into law

Spokane Spokesman-Review - 5/8/2021


West Virginia

Legislators get first look at $138 million broadband expansion initiatives

Charleston Gazette - 5/10/2021

WV to get more than $5M in settlement over marketing of opioid withdrawal drug Suboxone

Charleston Gazette - 5/10/2021

WVa governments getting nearly $1.9B in COVID federal relief

Associated Press – 5/10/2021

UMW, mine safety advocates blast lingering lack of enforceable COVID-19 prevention standard

Charleston Gazette - 5/6/2021


Wisconsin

Wisconsin Senate passes first police reform bills

WISC-TV Channel 3000.com Madison - 5/11/2021

Wisconsin receiving $700 million less than expected from federal stimulus

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - 5/11/2021

Wisconsin to receive $700 million less in federal COVID-19 stimulus funds than projected

Lacrosse Tribune - 5/11/2021

With release of federal guidance for stimulus funds, Wisconsin awaits details from governor

Lacrosse Tribune - 5/10/2021

Evers: Vaccine requirements are 'not going to happen' in Wisconsin

Lacrosse Tribune - 5/10/2021

Evers' proposal for $100 million venture capital fund gets bipartisan support

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - 5/7/2021

Budget-writing committee begins work by stripping hundreds of Evers' items out

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - 5/7/2021

Budget committee approves juvenile detention expansion at Mendota Juvenile Treatment Center

Lacrosse Tribune - 5/6/2021

Mendota facility expansion unites, Medicaid expansion divides as budget process kicks off amid immigrant rights rally

WISC-TV Channel 3000.com Madison - 5/6/2021

Republicans strike nearly 400 items from Tony Evers' budget proposal

Lacrosse Tribune - 5/6/2021


Wyoming

Wyoming lawmakers continue to mull revenue, K-12 deficit

Associated Press – 5/11/2021

Committee revives Medicaid expansion bill ahead of potential special session

Cheyenne Wyoming Tribune-Eagle - 5/11/2021

Gordon withdraws Wyoming from COVID-era unemployment programs

Cheyenne Wyoming Tribune-Eagle - 5/11/2021

State lawmakers take another look at Wyoming's "unstable" tax structure

Cheyenne Wyoming Tribune-Eagle - 5/11/2021

Federal grants add momentum to Wyo carbon capture movement

Cheyenne Wyoming Tribune-Eagle - 5/10/2021

Public will be able to remotely access all Wyoming legislative meetings during interim

Casper Star-Tribune - 5/9/2021

Governor to reopen 9 Wyoming rest stops

Cheyenne Wyoming Tribune-Eagle - 5/6/2021