What happened on Wednesday, 15 January 2025
Flagler County, Florida
The Board of County Commissioners carried a series of unanimous routine items at its Jan. 13 meeting, including proclamations recognizing awareness months, several appointments, and budget/impact fee amendments. This roundup lists each formal action and key details.
City of Parkland, Broward County, Florida
The City of Parkland Commission on Wednesday approved on first reading Ordinance 20204-014, establishing a new Village in the Park zoning district and accompanying design guidelines for redevelopment of the former Heron Bay golf course site.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
Emily Bordeaux joined the Youth Commission as program coordinator; staff outlined a community needs assessment with Trendline, a universal financial-assistance application and updates on Winter Wishes fundraising and camp scholarship policy changes.
2025 Legislature Arizona, Arizona
The Arizona Legislature’s ad hoc committee on election integrity and Florida‑style voting systems on Thursday examined a proposal to adopt four core elements of Florida’s approach to elections — an early voter ID number, an earlier cutoff for late‑returned mail ballots, routine address verification each cycle, and a ban on foreign funding of election operations — and heard county recorders warn the changes will require funding, IT upgrades and tailored rules for rural counties.
Rules & Procedure Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
The committee voted to sponsor a draft House Rule (HR001) that would require recorded votes via an electronic 'push-button' system for most motions once House Bill 158 is enacted and an operational system is installed; members aired security, attendance, and practical concerns during extended debate.
Human Services, Youth, & Early Learning, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Parents for Parents (P4P) coordinators told the committee that the P4P peer‑mentor and dependency‑101 model improves engagement and reunification, citing a 2020 quasi‑experimental evaluation and a cost‑benefit analysis; the governor’s budget includes an increase to expand statewide coverage.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
Sam Sivers introduced a concept to consolidate youth, senior and veteran services under a single human services director; commissioners and trustees asked questions about timing, scope and governance and next steps include outreach to the Council on Aging.
City of Parkland, Broward County, Florida
At a January 15 workshop the commission discussed appointments to planning and zoning, parks and recreation and the community advisory board; commissioners prioritized continuity on planning and zoning while also adding several new nominees. Final votes will be taken at a later meeting.
Flagler County, Florida
Multiple residents raised alarms during public comment about proposed annexation around John Anderson Highway and the Veranda project, urging the county to protect unincorporated residents from involuntary annexation and to insist developers address infrastructure, water and emergency-service impacts.
Rules & Procedure Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
Committee approved a new House Rule 11-8 that allows the House, by majority vote, to request the Legislative Service Office produce a non-official version of a bill with all adopted amendments incorporated to aid member and public understanding.
Human Services, Youth, & Early Learning, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The Mockingbird Society described the Hub‑Home (Mockingbird Family) model, youth priorities including financial literacy, peer supports, housing for transition‑age youth and changes to extended foster care payments and eligibility.
City of Parkland, Broward County, Florida
The City of Parkland commission on Wednesday directed staff to study installing a water main to serve roughly 118 lots in the ranches after contractors gave preliminary cost estimates of about $9 million to $12 million.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
Commissioners discussed the 21 Highland future-use process, the prospect of reconstituting a cemetery commission, a CPC request for historically accurate work on the town water tower and a FY2026 budget request of $4,250 to restore program capacity.
Rules & Procedure Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
The Wyoming House Rules & Procedure Committee voted to sponsor a rules-cleanup amendment that would repeal three time-limited House rules enacted for the 67th Legislature.
Flagler County, Florida
Flagler County commissioners approved a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) grant agreement for Flagler Executive Airport and directed staff to adopt a required airport overlay ordinance by March to meet grant conditions.
Human Services, Youth, & Early Learning, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The Washington Association for Children and Families and member agencies told the committee that rising liability and health‑insurance costs, low reimbursement rates and shrinking insurer participation threaten the stability of child‑placing agencies and foster‑care providers.
Sunnyvale, Dallas County, Texas
At its Jan. 15 meeting the Sunnyvale Planning and Zoning Commission approved the consent agenda by unanimous vote and then voted to adjourn after no public comments were received.
Flagler County, Florida
Flagler County commissioners on Jan. 13 upheld a hearing officer's recommended order finding a dog met the statutory dangerous-dog definition after two unprovoked attacks on small dogs and one attack on a person. The decision imposes containment, registration and muzzling requirements.
Human Services, Youth, & Early Learning, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Julie Watts of the Department of Children, Youth and Families told the Human Services, Youth & Early Learning committee that the department prioritizes prevention (universal, targeted and tertiary), described home visiting and family services, and presented data on referrals, screening and foster-care entries.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
Commissioners supported an oral-history and photo-scanning initiative proposed by Kelly O’Brien of the Building Department, recommending a 10-to-30-minute interview format, both audio and video options, and local archiving; staff will pursue outreach through the senior center and existing town channels.
Consumer Protection & Business, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House Bill 1081 would give owners of solicited real estate a right to an appraisal (buyer pays), notice of that right, and a limited period to cancel the contract; the bill would make violations enforceable under the Consumer Protection Act.
Sunnyvale, Dallas County, Texas
At its Jan. 15 meeting the Sunnyvale Capital Improvement Advisory Committee voted to recommend town council adopt higher residential and commercial roadway impact-fee collection rates and an updated thoroughfare plan that adds several collectors and intersection projects to the 10-year CIP.
Revenue Committee, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
The Revenue Committee voted to send Senate File 67, a long-term homeowner property tax exemption revision, to the floor after debate about a repealer, fiscal impact estimates and eligibility rules; the measure passed committee 3–2.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The commission voted to approve a historic-house sign for the G.W. Lewis House at 2 Bridge Street with the date “circa 1850.” Production of a previously approved Caleb Williams sign is under way. Commissioners deferred a decision about the C.B. Wilson property at 24 East Main Street pending further research and owner contact.
Flagler County, Florida
The Flagler County Commission denied an appeal of a Planning & Development Board decision that allowed an overflow valet parking lot for Bronx House Pizza at 93–95 Sanchez Ave., finding the board's record provided competent substantial evidence and due process.
Stafford, Fort Bend County, Texas
The council approved two replats (Bates Lane and Fountain Gate Drive), a Stafford Center committee consent item, and several consent agenda items and minutes. These routine land‑use and consent votes passed without extended debate and were recorded on the council docket.
Town of Needham, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Needham Commission on Disabilities approved up to $500 to support an April 3 community disability film/senior event, discussed an autism-welcoming training at Valente Farms set for late February, and heard an update on accessible seating plans at Memorial Park.
Consumer Protection & Business, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House Bill 1103 would broaden Washington’s telephone and commercial electronic messaging laws to cover businesses and prohibit sending texts to numbers on the federal Do Not Call Registry; witnesses urged carveouts for established business relationships and alignment with federal law.
Stafford, Fort Bend County, Texas
Councilmembers debated whether the Parks Committee should continue to operate under a 1997 resolution that gives council authority over the committee chair and attendance rules. No ordinance or resolution change was approved; council asked the city attorney to prepare language if the council later desires to remove or amend the resolution
Revenue Committee, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
The Revenue Committee of the 68th Legislature met in Cheyenne to consider amendments to Senate File 67, a revenue-committee-sponsored bill that would change the long-term homeowner property tax exemption by reducing the required occupancy from eight months to six and removing the bill's sunset provision.
Stafford, Fort Bend County, Texas
Stafford councilmembers and police described ongoing outreach to people living outdoors and discussed local resources and limits, emphasizing that no new enforcement policy or shelter was approved at the Jan. 15 meeting.
Consumer Protection & Business, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The Consumer Protection & Business Committee opened a public hearing Wednesday on House Bill 1080, which would require hotels and short‑term rental operators to include all mandatory fees in advertised or displayed rates and show government taxes and fees before a guest finalizes a reservation.
Town of Needham, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Town ADA liaison Tatiana Swanson said the handicap parking fine was increased to $200 at an October 2023 special town meeting. Town and police staff reported ticket machines have been updated but officers’ hand-written ticket books still list the prior amount until new books arrive.
House Bill 147, intended to bar state entities from practices labeled "institutional discrimination" and to prohibit instruction that promotes those practices, passed the House Education Committee 9-0 on Jan. 15, 2025 after sponsors and the committee adopted amendments designed to preserve classroom discussion and correct a drafting typo.
Hendry, School Districts, Florida
The board approved routine consent items, a submission to FRS to reclassify senior management pending state approval, policy updates and personnel recommendations; one board member recused from the FRS item for a familial conflict and one board member abstained from a personnel vote citing a family relationship.
Town of Needham, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Needham Commission on Disabilities voted to send a drafted letter to a set of downtown businesses about accessible entrances after reviewing an audit and adjusting the target list. Commissioners approved the action by roll call.
Stafford, Fort Bend County, Texas
The council approved a $40,000 consulting agreement with Venue Solutions Group LLC to prepare a request for proposals and support the city’s procurement for a Stafford Center management company; staff and committee will work with the consultant on scope and a special meeting or committee review may be scheduled to finalize the RFP terms
The House Education Committee voted 9-0 on Jan. 15, 2025, to advance House Bill 17, which raises the maximum career and technical education equipment and supplies grant from $50,000 to $75,000 per year and shortens the eligibility look-back period to help districts, especially smaller ones, purchase costly equipment.
Innovation, Community & Economic Development, & Veterans, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House Bill 1102 would expand and reprioritize funding for county veteran service officers (VSOs), require WDVA outreach to recently discharged veterans and mandate biennial reporting on veteran services; department and veteran groups testified in favor.
Hendry, School Districts, Florida
Staff presented state-released graduation rates showing improvement at LaBelle and Clouston high schools and a large increase at the Digital Academy of Florida; the Digital Academy’s lower rate reduced the district’s reported overall rate to 80.6 percent, officials said.
Innovation, Community & Economic Development, & Veterans, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House Bill 1073 would authorize a state-administered retention program to set reenlistment bonuses and require a triannual report on retention needs; presenters told the committee the program would target skill shortages not covered by federal bonuses.
Stafford, Fort Bend County, Texas
The Stafford City Council approved a one‑time transfer from fund balance to begin replacing the city’s permitting software, citing a backlog of about 280 unaccepted records and staff turnover that have slowed permitting, inspections and plan review.
Senate File 16 was advanced by the committee to require notification to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes for industrial‑siting projects in Fremont County and adjacent counties; proponents said the measure formalizes an existing practice without granting party status or impact assistance eligibility.
Town of Needham, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Maureen Callahan, executive director of the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress and a Needham resident, told the commission its January meeting that Needham has too few accessible housing units and long waiting lists for those that exist.
Hendry, School Districts, Florida
The board voted to move senior-level administrators from the FRS senior-management class to the regular FRS class and to reallocate the employer retirement contribution into salary increases via an administrative salary matrix; the change is subject to approval by the Florida Retirement System and would take effect July 1.
Stafford, Fort Bend County, Texas
Councilman Herrera urged the Stafford City Council to explore special‑purpose districts as a way to raise new revenue without increasing residents’ property tax burdens, and the council voted to direct the city attorney to obtain cost estimates and a feasibility report.
Innovation, Community & Economic Development, & Veterans, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
State and local officials outlined the danger posed by unreinforced masonry buildings (URMs), described an inventory and user portal under development, and urged a tax-incentive study and funding to help owners retrofit or remove unsafe buildings.
Local Government, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
State health officials told the Local Government Committee that Washington has roughly one million on-site sewage systems, that rule revisions adopted in January 2024 include a phased-in property-transfer inspection, and that county programs lack data and funding to inspect and maintain all systems.
Local Government, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The Department of Commerce told the Local Government Committee that periodic review and appeals-based enforcement under the Growth Management Act can leave jurisdictions out of compliance for years and cut off state funding; Futurewise urged clarifying legislation to prevent older, repealed rules from being shielded from new requirements.
The Wyoming Senate Minerals Committee voted to pass Senate File 15, a bill that would allow the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission to permit produced‑water reservoirs beyond a lease unit or a communitized area.
Local Government, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Capital Projects Advisory Review Board representatives told the Legislature's Local Government Committee that changes to House Bill 1621's self-performance thresholds and bidder-responsibility language are needed to reduce confusion and limit how much public entities can self-perform without bidding.
Guymon, Texas County, Oklahoma
The council voted to accept Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group’s denial of a resident’s tort claim related to flooding at 207 NE 22nd, while staff agreed to order a survey of the alley and examine drainage issues cited by the homeowner.
Sedona, Yavapai County, Arizona
Sedona City Council received an update on the wastewater reclamation plant facility plan that says the plant's process and hydraulics can handle projected build‑out flows but that rising PFAS concentrations and regulatory uncertainty could require large capital investments.
Guymon, Texas County, Oklahoma
At its regular meeting the Guymon City Council approved multiple routine and major items including end-of-year budget amendments, rezoning and retirement-plan ordinances, utility contracts, and construction contracts and change orders. The council also awarded several service contracts and appointments.
Hendry, School Districts, Florida
Architects and district staff presented site plans and design details for the new LaBelle High School, describing a 220,000+ square-foot campus for about 1,499 students, expanded commons and athletics facilities, accessibility features for special education and a target finish for the Class of 2027.
Corporations, Elections & Political Subdivisions Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
House Bill 157, requiring documentary proof of United States citizenship at voter registration (a specified list of documents), passed the Corporations Committee on a unanimous recorded vote and will move to the full House.
Rockwall County, Texas
At a meeting of the Rockwall County Consortium, residents and county and regional officials discussed mounting traffic pressures in Rockwall County, the contested future of the outer loop and delays to several major road projects caused largely by utility relocations and rising construction costs.
Flagler County, Florida
Council members and industry representatives said labor shortages, rising labor costs and lack of affordable housing for staff are squeezing local tourism businesses and reducing available skilled staff, a recurring theme in member comments during the Jan. 15 meeting.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
An application to enclose three balconies above garages at 1 Ed Wood Street was continued to Feb. 11, 2025 after the applicant did not appear; the board voted to extend the hearing date.
Legislative, Kansas
After Governor Laura Kelly concluded the State of the State address, the House majority leader moved to adjourn until Jan. 16. The motion passed by voice vote.
Corporations, Elections & Political Subdivisions Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
The Corporations, Elections & Political Subdivisions Committee voted to advance House Bill 156, which would require documentary proof that registrants have been bona fide Wyoming residents for at least 30 days and grant rulemaking authority to the Secretary of State to define acceptable proof.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The ZBA reapproved a two-story single-family house at 166 Bassil Street under the same design previously granted before the approval expired; DPW requested standard utility and as-built submissions.
Flagler County, Florida
Flagler County tourism staff presented Arrivalist‑sourced visitor data showing an average overnight stay of 2.9 nights and top origin markets, described marketing campaigns and ad placements, and reported the county is seeking $3 million in state funding (with a $10.3 million local match) for a proposed Eco Discovery Center.
The Senate Education Committee on Jan. 15 voted 4–1 to advance Senate File 14, which would create a statewide Wyoming Imagination Library program to send a free book each month to registered children from birth through age 5 and provide a 50% state match to local partners for book and mailing costs.
Appropriations - Human Resources Division, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Department of Environmental Quality Director Dave Blott briefed senators on the agency’s seven divisions, permitting workload for large projects, PFAS testing, radon outreach, and ongoing legal actions involving federal rules and EPA decisions.
Legislative, Kansas
Governor Laura Kelly proposed creating an Office of Natural Resources and adding $30 million to state water funding, saying parts of western Kansas could run out of groundwater in 25 years and outlining a goal to stabilize supplies for two generations.
Flagler County, Florida
Nancy Crouch, chair of the Flagler County Cultural Council (FC3), told the Tourist Development Council the council was designated the county’s local arts agency, plans a $100,000 annual Palm Coast cultural arts grant program administration, awarded scholarships to local seniors and will expand the county’s public‑art turtle trail.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The board approved a third-story addition to a two-family home at 122–124 Hamden Circle after the applicant agreed to remove a garage, add paver parking, and enclose the under-deck area as a workshop; neighbors objected citing FAR and scale concerns.
The Senate Education Committee on Jan. 15 approved Senate File 13, a set of cleanup changes to Wyoming’s early-reading assessment and intervention statute that clarifies which screening instruments districts may use and narrows some reporting requirements.
Flagler County, Florida
Flagler County coastal engineering administrator Ansley Renke told the Tourist Development Council on Jan. 15 that the Army Corps dredge in Reach 1 placed about 1.7 million cubic yards of sand and that Reach 2 permitting is expected by Jan. 31 ahead of a potential $35 million construction phase.
Appropriations - Human Resources Division, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Department of Environmental Quality officials told the Senate Human Resources Appropriations Committee that Governor Armstrong’s executive recommendation largely matches the agency’s requests and includes one‑time funding for a new state chemistry laboratory, PFAS testing capacity and a Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Fund database.
Legislative, Kansas
Governor Laura Kelly called on the Legislature to expand Medicaid, saying not expanding has cost Kansas taxpayers tens of millions annually and left billions in federal funds unclaimed.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The ZBA approved a second-story addition and a small rear storage shed at 87 Dorchester Street; the board noted the project improved a previously dilapidated property and recorded no opposing letters.
Flagler County, Florida
Flagler County tax collector Shelley Edmonson told the Tourist Development Council that FY24 collections stayed on historic trends, enforcement actions are active against noncompliant short‑term rental accounts, and the county is using third‑party tools and an anonymous online reporting button to find and pursue unpaid accounts.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
At the Jan. 15 Revere Pocket Advisory Committee meeting members were briefed that the PBD fund holds $58,965.56 and the EV account held $12,452.80 at the end of December; the committee discussed a Roca crew contract to assist maintenance starting April 1 and tabled a request for six Shirley Ave planters pending business‑association sponsorship.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Philip Baker’s application to convert 115 Newbury Ave into a two-family dwelling was withdrawn after board members said the proposed building was too large for the lot and out of character with the neighborhood.
Judiciary Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
House Bill 49 would have updated treatment court statutes, allowed treatment court teams to operate diversion pilots for people with mental illness and replaced the phrase “substance abuse” with “substance use disorder” throughout multiple statutes. The committee voted 4-5 against recommending the bill.
Legislative, Kansas
Governor Laura Kelly told lawmakers she will again fully fund public schools, cited a $75 million special education investment, and proposed free school lunches for more than 35,000 students as part of measures to support children and rural communities.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
The Revere City Pocket Advisory Committee approved a $3,000 allocation from the PBD fund on Jan. 15 to pay for two wooden carved signs for Costa Park; staff will obtain quotes and complete the requisition process.
Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County, Florida
At a Jan. 15 special magistrate hearing, the court ordered Julie Swanson to trim bamboo hedges at 701 Texas Court by Feb. 15, 2025, and assessed a $100-per-day fine for noncompliance. Swanson testified she felt targeted and pointed to allegedly similar, uncited properties nearby.
Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County, Florida
At a Jan. 15 special magistrate hearing, the City of Fort Pierce ordered property repairs, set compliance deadlines with daily fines for noncompliance, and granted several lien reductions, including two reductions to administrative costs for a North 20th Street property.
Judiciary Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
The House Judiciary Committee voted 4-5 to reject House Bill 48, which would have given the Department of Family Services broader authority to share confidential client information with other agencies and providers under a rulemaking process for referrals, provision of services and research.
Health and Government Operations Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
The Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board told the Health and Government Operations Committee it has six drugs in active cost reviews, has published proposed rules on upper payment limits and expects parts of the review process to yield results this year, though no upper payment limits have been set.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The board continued a hearing on a proposed third-floor addition at 170 Rota Street after members said the left-side elevation and an existing chimney need design work; next hearing set for Feb. 11, 2025.
Legislative, Kansas
Governor Laura Kelly urged lawmakers to consolidate early childhood services into a single Office of Early Childhood, saying four agencies now manage overlapping programs and that the change has bipartisan support and passed the Kansas House last session.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
At its Jan. 15 meeting the Revere City Pocket Advisory Committee discussed a pilot to give drivers a 15‑minute courtesy window via sensors on meters but voted to table the item until the next meeting (expected April 16) so staff can return with cost and revenue-impact information.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Quincy Zoning Board of Appeals approved a reduced rear addition and other changes at 130 Willow Street, with required parking, pavers, and remediation of exposed concrete; neighbors and city staff had raised floodplain and impervious-surface concerns.
Dallas, Dallas County, Texas
The Dallas Ad Hoc Committee on Legislative Affairs on Jan. 15 voted to move several agenda items between pursue, support and monitor categories, remove ranked-choice voting from the city's state legislative program, and ask for legal clarity on card rooms and gambling.
Health and Government Operations Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Health Services Cost Review Commission officials told the House Health and Government Operations Committee that House Bill 54 would remove the sunset on the HSCRC’s user‑fee funding mechanism (capped at 0.1% of prior year hospital revenue) to preserve staffing, contracts and analytics tied to Maryland’s Total Cost of Care and AHEAD models.
Freestone County, Texas
The court was told a public-benefit letter and an agency administrator are still pending for a consolidated dispatch application; commissioners said the state changed licensing rules and that the county needs an appointed agency chief and public-benefit documentation before a license can be issued.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
During its Jan. 14 meeting the Commission on Disabilities approved the Dec. 10, 2024 meeting minutes and later voted to adjourn; both motions were moved and seconded on the record.
Labor & Workplace Standards, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
HB 1128 would establish a Washington State Child Care Workforce Standards Board to set statewide compensation and working‑condition standards for child care workers; supporters argued the board could raise wages, reduce turnover, and coordinate small employers and workers; business groups and NFIB opposed, citing fiscal and regulatory concerns.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Quincy City Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a one-day liquor permit for the South Shore Children's Chorus fundraiser and granted two business licenses: a common victualler permit for a new cafeteria and a motor vehicle garage license tied to a change of ownership.
Health and Government Operations Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Witnesses told the House Health and Government Operations Committee that House Bill 170 would extend the sunset on a hospital-assessment-funded maternal and child health program from Dec. 31, 2025, to Dec. 31, 2027, allowing the Department of Health to spend a remaining fund balance and continue Medicaid- and public-health-led services.
Freestone County, Texas
Amanda Benner asked the commissioners to grant access to property she said is landlocked; commissioners discussed the statutory process and advised her to pursue evidence of an easement or file suit in district court rather than expecting the court to grant immediate access.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Members discussed S.3012 — legislation signed by Gov. Healey to curb prescription costs — noting copay caps for chronic-condition medications, new oversight and PBM licensing requirements, and remaining gaps affecting devices and other measures advocates sought.
Senate File 52, the Department of Insurance's periodic "cleanup" bill, was advanced unanimously by the Senate Corporations Committee; the measure reorganizes a statutory definition, drops a requirement for a hard paper certificate of authority, requires up-to-date insurer contact information, and makes other administrative updates.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
At the Jan. 14 meeting the board agreed to schedule a public hearing on Feb. 11 to consider the town clerk’s request to opt out of mailed‑ballot early voting for the upcoming local election. The manager and clerk said the opt‑out would affect only local elections and not state or federal contests; the board noted staffing and cost considerations.
Labor & Workplace Standards, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
HB 1173 would require that skilled journeypersons at petroleum refineries and petrochemical manufacturing facilities be paid at least the prevailing wage in the applicable occupation and area rather than a 75th‑percentile OEWS figure.
Freestone County, Texas
The court debated creating uniform guidelines for administrative or paid time off for county employees (suggested 24 hours) to equalize benefits across elected offices; commissioners asked staff to review usage reports before deciding.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Commission members reported that MEMA no longer funds on-site emergency-preparedness trainings previously provided through a grant, and discussed sidewalk accessibility, adaptive bikeshare docking challenges, and RightHear audio wayfinding technology.
Labor & Workplace Standards, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The committee considered HB 1184, which would let certain employees of small employers and qualifying nonprofits be exempt from state overtime rules if they meet duties tests and are paid at least 1.5 times the state minimum wage.
At its first 2025 meeting the Senate Corporations Committee unanimously advanced Senate File 50, a bill to add a group capital calculation and a liquidity stress test to state oversight of insurance holding companies while imposing new confidentiality limits on how results may be shared.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Board accepted two charitable donations — $6,525 to the Fire Department and $7,000 to the Police Department from the Frank R. and Elizabeth Simone Foundation — and accepted LaRusso Materials Corporation’s annual tonnage royalty payment to the town; the board directed thank‑you letters be sent.
Freestone County, Texas
A county IT official recommended prohibiting third-party webmail (Gmail, Hotmail, etc.) on county-owned devices and centralizing email on county addresses to reduce malware risk; commissioners asked staff to consult department heads and return with a proposed policy.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Commission members reviewed a draft letter intended for Representative Turco asking for help with an issue on the boulevard; members discussed adding open-ended language inviting feedback and noted the state Department of Conservation and Recreation holds authority over the boulevard.
Labor & Workplace Standards, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
HB 1141 would allow Public Employment Relations Commission processes for collective bargaining at cannabis producers/processors. Supporters said it corrects an inequity for farm workers in the cannabis supply chain; growers and industry trade groups warned of market impacts and urged secret‑ballot elections rather than card checks.
After extensive testimony from state agencies, landowners and industry groups, the House Minerals Committee voted to table House Bill 89, which would have required on‑site disposal of decommissioned wind turbine blades and towers or specified exceptions including coal mine disposal and recycling.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Norwood Concert Committee described the four‑week winter concert series (Jan. 26–Feb. 16) dedicated to the late Barbara Quinter and asked to reserve Dempsey Bandstand and Town Common for the 2025 summer Wednesday and Sunday series; the Board of Selectmen approved the Town Common and bandstand use with standard setup/breakdown times.
Freestone County, Texas
After extended discussion about public access and staff safety, a commissioner proposed that tax office staff escort members of the public to nonpublic restrooms when necessary; the court directed staff to try the escort approach and return if problems arise.
The committee received an annual report and unanimously passed House Bill 14, which updates the priority list for the Municipal Cease and Transfer program; Department of Environmental Quality staff said about $23.5 million remains available for listed projects.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
After a public hearing and staff presentation, the Board of Selectmen voted 5–0 to raise water and sewer rates 5% effective March 1, 2025 and to review the enterprise fund and rates again in July. The board discussed three options and the financial rationale, including efforts to build enterprise retained earnings and reduce unaccounted water.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Commission members reviewed a drafted music-therapy program that would include three hybrid workshops, funding support from the Commission on Disabilities, and coordination with the city recreation center; staff will meet with the recreation senior director to finalize scheduling and funding.
Labor & Workplace Standards, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
HB 1162 would require health care settings to investigate every workplace‑violence incident, report findings quarterly (or twice yearly for critical access hospitals), and update prevention plans annually. Nurses’ groups and hospitals largely agreed on the need; hospitals asked for clarifications about de‑identification and phased implementation.
Freestone County, Texas
Freestone County commissioners amended a road-use agreement to add roughly 22,100 feet of road and approved a set of payment items after brief discussion and unanimous voice votes.
Labor & Workplace Standards, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House lawmakers on the Labor & Workplace Standards Committee opened a hearing on House Bill 1155, a measure led by Committee Chair Rep. Liz Berry that would make most noncompetition agreements unenforceable in Washington regardless of when they were signed.
The House Minerals Committee unanimously approved House Bill 47 to allow an expedited business-filing option for a fee up to $5,000 and added an amendment authorizing one full‑time equivalent position funded at $93,000 for fiscal 2026 to help the Secretary of State handle the extra workload.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Board of Selectmen on Jan. 14 tabled action on a Local Initiative Program application for an affordable‑housing project at 923–929 Washington Street after a lengthy presentation and public comment about the building’s size, traffic and stormwater.
Stoughton Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
Superintendent Raeta presented two calendar format options that share a Sept. 3 start date; she recommended students and staff return Monday Jan. 5 rather than Friday Jan. 2 due to attendance and operational concerns, and the committee agreed to solicit parent and student feedback on formats.
Civil Rights & Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Representative Daria Farvar told the committee the bill responds to long-standing problems in Washington’s competency-evaluation and restoration system tied to the Trueblood litigation and rising statewide referral volumes.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
A quick summary of formal motions and votes taken by the Lakeville Conservation Commission on Jan. 14, including continuances for several pending permits, issuance of an order for 24 Bedford Street, and closing the Route 18/79 hearing subject to agency approvals.
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Miami‑Dade Aviation Department reported increased operational conveyances and ongoing modernization work at Miami International Airport, citing investments, completed restroom renovations and a plan to replace loading bridges and roofs.
Stoughton Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
The committee voted 5–0 to rename the student activities account to reflect current programming after Destination Imagination activity was discontinued and students expressed interest in robotics.
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Miami‑Dade County airport committee approved short emergency extensions to two janitorial contracts to maintain service at Miami International Airport through Feb. 28 while permanent procurement is finalized.
Civil Rights & Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House Bill 1014 would update Washington’s child support economic table, raise the self-support reserve and add limited temporary abatement for parents in court-ordered behavioral health treatment; the bill reflects work-group consensus after public meetings and drew questions about indexing and education-expense definitions.
Judiciary Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
ACLU policy counsel Jay Stanley told the Maryland House Judiciary Committee that while drones can aid some emergencies, rapid regulatory and technological change threatens to widen airborne surveillance unless states adopt usage limits, retention rules and public oversight.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
At 9 Cross Street the commission said the owner must record a deed restriction limiting additional fill; commissioners halted further work and asked that the proposed deed restriction be reviewed by town counsel before it is finalized. The matter was continued to Jan. 28.
Stoughton Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
The committee voted to allow Congregation Pearl to use the high school auditorium over Easter weekend; the group estimated 500 attendees, will not charge admission and must pay custodial fees and follow food/drink rules.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
Sampling at 160 Bedford Street found arsenic in on‑site soils; the owner contracted disposal out of state and removal was scheduled for Jan. 16. The commission continued the item while enforcement, additional testing and a stormwater peer review proceed.
Stoughton Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
Miss Miller presented a rewritten program of studies that adds career pathways, newcomer ESL courses and STEM electives and recommends a competency determination based on course completion rather than an MCAS passing requirement.
Civil Rights & Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
A hearing on House Bill 1144 covered testimony from the Administrative Office of the Courts, Skagit County judges and county leaders seeking to make a temporary, county-funded judicial position permanent to address caseload pressures and changing courtroom demands.
Judiciary Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Police officials told the Maryland House Judiciary Committee that a Montgomery County drone program has flown nearly 2,000 missions since November 2023, can reach many 911 scenes in about a minute and is governed by public reporting, limits on surveillance and video-retention rules; expansion depends on county leaders and FAA rules.
South Padre , Cameron County, Texas
The South Padre Island Parks & Recreation Committee appointed officers for 2025 and reviewed projects including a public parks survey, park maintenance updates, Butterfly Park wind fencing and plantings, directional signage with TxDOT, community garden plots and upcoming events.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
The commission continued an RDA for 51 Shore Avenue to the Jan. 28 meeting after finding required erosion and dewatering controls were not fully shown on the plan; commissioners asked the applicant to add a tanker/dewatering plan, siltation barriers and agent notification, and to appear in person at the next meeting.
Stoughton Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
At the Jan. 14 meeting, Superintendent Doctor Raeta told the Stoughton School Committee the district has been monitoring a cybersecurity incident involving PowerSchool and that the company’s inconsistent early notifications complicated the district’s response.
Indianapolis City, Marion County, Indiana
The Office of Public Health and Safety board on Jan. 15 approved the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s request to proceed with a financing package to acquire pursuit-rated cruiser vehicles for model year 2025.
Ways and Means Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Agency officials told the House Ways and Means Committee that offshore operators offering casino-style games and sports wagering to Maryland residents continue to evade state enforcement; the agency has issued 11 cease-and-desist letters, received six responses and none have agreed to block access.
Committee on Judiciary, Standing, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
The Kansas House Committee on Judiciary heard an overview of the Kansas Open Meetings Act and Kansas Open Records Act, discussed protection of draft bill work product, and reviewed rules on serial communications and committee logistics.
Ways and Means Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency told the House Ways and Means Committee that fiscal 2024 produced more than $2.7 billion in sales and nearly $700 million in profit, and outlined upcoming procurement actions, veteran-focused instant-ticket machines, and responsible-gaming efforts.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
Lakeville Conservation Commission voted Jan. 14 to close the hearing on proposed Route 18/79 sidewalk and drainage work and to issue an order of conditions, conditioned on receipt of Army Corps and Taunton Conservation Commission approvals and MassDOT comments.
Stoughton Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
Superintendent Dr. Raeta told the school committee that sheltering in town may increase homeless-student enrollments and transportation obligations under McKinney-Vento, creating recurring costs the district’s grant awards do not cover.
Ways and Means Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Abid (A. Calshrestha), newly appointed executive director of the Maryland Innovation Initiative, described plans to expand MII’s commercialization assistance to 20 public institutions in the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metro area through a Baltimore Innovation Initiative RFA and technical support starting in mid-2025.
Fall River City, Bristol County, Massachusetts
Committee members agreed the Durfee Block renovation could help revitalize Purchase Street; members suggested funding the incremental cost of historically accurate windows rather than full quoted amount.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
The Lakeville Conservation Commission issued an order of conditions (SE 192891) for 24 Bedford Street with a requirement that disturbed areas be seeded with a native hydroseed mix; commissioners voted to sign the order at the Jan. 14 meeting.
Agriculture and Natural Resources, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Several members of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee used the Jan. 15 work session to announce bills they plan to carry this session, including proposals on wolf status, hunting‑and‑fishing license modernization, stumpage reporting and a prescribed‑burn pilot.
Harrisonburg (Independent City), Virginia
Amy Snyder, deputy city manager for the City of Harrisonburg, told the Harrisonburg Development and Housing Authority on Jan. 15 that the city has a $130,000 Community Connectors grant to develop a small‑area plan, historical research, facilitated dialogue and a community‑led demonstration project aimed at reconnecting the Northeast neighborhood with downtown.
Ways and Means Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
At the Jan. 15 Ways and Means briefing, TEDCO representatives described the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund’s clinical advances, claimed economic returns on state investments and a 2023 Manufacturing Assistance initiative to help stem-cell companies scale in Maryland.
Fall River City, Bristol County, Massachusetts
The committee signaled support for preserving the Night Owl diner but urged deed restrictions to keep it at its current location and recommended applicants demonstrate more operational progress or outside financing before a large award.
Ways and Means Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
TEDCO CEO Troy L. Stovall briefed the Ways and Means Committee on Jan. 15, outlining TEDCO’s 2024 activity, economic-impact estimates and new program investments including the Equitec Growth Fund, EcoTech Growth Fund, maker-space grants, Cyber Maryland and a concept-capital pilot for Prince George’s County.
Agriculture and Natural Resources, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Christine Reeves, chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, opened the committee’s Jan. 15 work session by setting ground rules for conduct and procedure and describing the panel’s policy priorities for the 2025 session.
Sullivan County, School Districts, Tennessee
By unanimous roll call, Sullivan County voted to adopt a resolution opposing a proposed state education savings-account (ESA) voucher program and objecting to linking that proposal to hurricane relief or immigration measures, citing concerns about accountability, funding impacts on public schools and services for students with disabilities.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
The Lakeville Conservation Commission continued an after‑the‑fact Notice of Intent for shoreline work at 3 Mona Street (SE 192933) to Feb. 11 after hearing engineer testimony about the existing concrete seawall and pier, Natural Heritage comments, and questions about compensatory flood storage and Chapter 91 licensing.
Fall River City, Bristol County, Massachusetts
Two mixed historic‑and‑housing projects on Pleasant Street drew support for their potential downtown impact, but members repeatedly asked applicants to supply proof of outside funding and to accept historic‑commission design review and other conditions before awards.
Industry and Business, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The committee reconsidered Senate Bill 2130 and voted to add an emergency clause to the bill that modifies procurement prequalification and contracting authority for the Office of the Adjutant General; the amended bill received a do‑pass recommendation.
Fall River City, Bristol County, Massachusetts
Committee members said applicants should supply bank commitment letters or other evidence of outside funding before grant awards; members also argued for deed restrictions to ensure projects funded with CPC money remain in the city.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
Trustees and library staff told the board that recurring high water charges — including a cited bill of about $1,900 — have driven operating costs up and that a town well/irrigation project funded with ARPA will determine whether the library needs contingency funds in FY26.
2025 Legislature CT, Connecticut
A joint legislative committee approved a school building project priority list during a brief meeting, advancing eight school building grant applications and sending the list on for further action.
Fall River City, Bristol County, Massachusetts
Committee staff presented a fiscal overview showing roughly $1.2 million for committee awards this year after bond and reserve set‑asides; members were reminded to include deed‑restriction filing fees and to budget conservatively.
Industry and Business, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The committee passed Senate Bill 2046 as amended to add surviving spouses to a one‑time $250 premium credit for veteran‑ or Guard‑owned businesses and to authorize Workforce Safety and Insurance to issue appealable decisions electronically when the agency's IT upgrades allow it.
Committee on Judiciary, Standing, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
At a Committee on Judiciary session, an unidentified presenter described plans to expand e-filing for self-represented litigants, increase help centers and navigator programs, and pilot family-support "cards" to aid families in child-welfare cases, and asked for funding and interbranch collaboration.
League City, Galveston County, Texas
CVB staff briefed the board on a planned website relaunch, marketing for a city-managed ballpark and a March tournament that could bring large crowds; announced an artist-in-residence at Gerardi House with a Feb. 14 application deadline and a short-term rental compliance program covering 47 properties.
Industry and Business, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Senate Industry and Business Committee members voted unanimously to recommend a do‑not‑pass on Senate Bill 2094, which would have removed the post‑1995 retirement presumption and allowed injured workers to continue wage‑loss benefits after they become eligible for Social Security retirement benefits.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
At its Jan. 13 meeting the Lakeville Library Board approved the FY26 budget package for submission, with the director asked to add a note about unusually high water bills and possible need for contingency funding tied to the town’s well/irrigation project.
Ways and Means, Standing, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
Legislative Research Department and Revisor's Office staff introduced themselves and described which agency budgets they will staff for the Senate Ways and Means Committee; staff said they are available to answer questions and route inquiries during the session.
SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
In a brief pro forma session with three members present, the clerk read Senate Bill 319 (the fiscal 2026 budget) and a set of bond initiatives, including an Arbutus Marketplace proposal. The items were placed on committee referral and the Senate adjourned until Jan. 16 at 10 a.m.
League City, Galveston County, Texas
At its first meeting of 2025, the League City Convention & Visitors Bureau board elected Amber Murphy as chair and Zondra Jones as vice chair. The board also reviewed its ordinance, hot-tax funding rules and the board’s role in administering grant awards.
Ways and Means, Standing, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
Legislative Research staff told the Senate Ways and Means Committee that a Legislative Budget Committee position — which removes enhancements and supplementals from agency requests — will be the baseline for deliberations; the House will act first on the budget and the bill will likely reach the Senate in mid-February.
Appropriations - Government Operations Division, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Senate Appropriations Committee, Government Operations Division, heard the North Dakota Department of Commerce present its 2025–27 base budget (about $87 million) and a suite of requests aimed at workforce programs, tourism and destination development, housing, value‑added agriculture and uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) infrastructure.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
San Antonio��City Council�committee members heard presentations on six community-initiated requests ranging from a proposed ban on tobacco and vape retail near schools to a mailbox-theft prevention effort, then voted to refer each item to the committee with subject-matter jurisdiction.
Town of Lakeville, Plymouth County, Massachusetts
At the Jan. 13 Lakeville Library Board of Trustees meeting, trustees pressed town facilities staff for clearer costs and timelines for a roof replacement planned for FY26, a heating-system project shown for FY27, and exploratory work on rooftop solar and other long‑term building needs.
Housing, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
A Senate Housing Committee work session drew developers, nonprofit builders and architects who described a multi-year development timeline, rising construction and insurance costs, financing constraints and policy fixes they say would expand supply and lower per-unit costs.
Housing, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Lawmakers heard a staff briefing and public testimony on Senate Bill 5129, a multi-point update to Washington's common-interest community law that would adjust meeting rules, resale-certificate provisions, reserve-fund investment limits and exemptions for very small communities.
Budget and Taxation Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
A bill would create a task force to study revisions to the state education funding formula to address the timing mismatch that leaves jurisdictions with rapid student growth, such as Frederick County, forward-funding unrecognized new students and local budgets.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
At a Jan. 15 Governance Committee meeting, San Antonio council members voted to refer five council consideration requests — on vape-shop buffers near schools, a large-area rezoning, permitting reforms, a celebratory-gunfire public-information campaign and cluster-mailbox theft countermeasures — to the committees that will further study them.
Appropriations - Government Operations Division, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Senate Appropriations Committee, Government Operations Division members gave a due‑pass recommendation to Senate Concurrent Resolution 4,001 after a public hearing and staff briefing.
Austin, Travis County, Texas
Mayor Kirk Watson and city public safety and transportation officials announced temporary sidewalk expansions, rubber curbs and fencing on Sixth Street, plus a trial schedule of vehicle access on weekend days, intended to reduce injuries, improve pedestrian safety and encourage year-round downtown activity.
Budget and Taxation Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Supporters urged the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee to approve making a $14 million annual contribution to the Access to Counsel and Evictions program permanent, citing an evaluation that found the program saves the state roughly $4 for every $1 spent and prevented thousands of evictions.
Town of Millis, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Board members reported several proposed housing projects that could add rental and ownership units and discussed a settlement tied to 114 Union Street that may fund PFAS work if the developer secures required permits.
Appropriations - Human Resources Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Thomason told the committee the executive recommendation contains targeted provider rate increases, a proposal to create a host‑home service in the developmental disabilities waiver and continued work on a children’s cross‑disability waiver.
Dallas, Dallas County, Texas
At the Jan. 15 meeting the Dallas City Council approved minutes of its Dec. 4, 2024 meeting and confirmed several individual appointments to boards and commissions by voice vote; the meeting record shows "ayes have it" and did not supply a roll-call tally in the transcript.
Committee on Veterans and Military, Standing, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
Major General Michael Bernardi updated lawmakers on deployments, training, construction projects, recruitment and family-support efforts, citing more than 7,000 personnel, federal partnerships and ongoing bids for new aircraft and facilities.
Budget and Taxation Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Senate bill 91 would let early-stage companies transfer unused net operating losses and R&D tax credits to buyers for cash, with a proposed minimum price of 80¢ on the dollar, a cap and recapture rules to keep companies in-state, supporters said.
Town of Millis, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Planning Board continued the Skippy's on the River special permit hearing to Feb. 4 and rescheduled a Dover Road large-scale solar hearing to March 4, warning the solar applicant that March may be the final continuation.
Early Learning & K-12 Education, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Senate Bill 5189 would define competency‑based education (CBE) in statute, direct OSPI and the State Board of Education to develop competencies and a CBE high‑school transcript format, and authorize OSPI rules to recognize full‑time enrollment funding for CBE programs; proponents and opponents debated equity, standards and parental engagement.
Budget and Taxation Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Department of Assessments and Taxation told the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee that oblique aerial imagery — angled images taken from airplanes — could help identify unassessed property and buildings and broaden the tax base, with the department estimating substantial potential additional assessable value and county revenue.
Appropriations - Human Resources Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
State auditors found repeated problems with timely face‑to‑face child welfare visits; HHS told appropriators timeliness has improved in fiscal 2024 though compliance remains a federal performance issue.
Dallas, Dallas County, Texas
Kyle Ogden, president and CEO of the Thanksgiving Foundation, presented a design and fundraising request to the Dallas City Council on Jan. 15 for an expanded Thanksgiving District around Thanksgiving Square in downtown Dallas.
Dallas, Dallas County, Texas
City planning and development officials told the Dallas City Council on Jan. 15 that a departmental merger and targeted process changes have cut permit issuance times, closed a backlog of stale applications and prepared the city for a larger code reform effort tied to Forward Dallas.
Town of Millis, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Town of Millis Planning Board discussed forming a five-member zoning bylaw review committee to recommend sweeping cleanup and targeted changes — including accessory dwelling units, FEMA updates, signage and temporary-structure rules — for possible spring town-meeting articles.
Budget and Taxation Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
The Senate Budget and Taxation Committee quickly endorsed a bill to add the state comptroller to the Maryland Small Business Retirement Savings Board; witnesses including the board chair and program executive endorsed the change and the committee approved the measure by voice vote.
Dallas, Dallas County, Texas
City planning staff briefed the Dallas City Council on Jan. 15 on how Texas Senate Bill 929 changes municipal procedures for "legal nonconforming" land uses and the draft amendments staff will bring to the Dallas Development Code.
Appropriations - Human Resources Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Jessica Thomason outlined childcare cost trends, affordability targets, pilot projects for nontraditional hours, and the role of childcare in workforce participation and appropriations planning.
Early Learning & K-12 Education, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Senate Bill 5193 would require districts with online programs to permit students enrolled in those programs to take statewide assessments remotely, and would direct OSPI to update assessment administration and security rules; supporters cited equity and family‑burden reductions.
Early Learning & K-12 Education, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Senate Bill 5004 would clarify that school emergency response systems may include panic/alert buttons, live audio/video feeds, remote door control and interconnection with law‑enforcement alert systems; supporters said the technology can speed first‑responder response and help in medical emergencies.
Town of Millis, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Town of Millis Planning Board voted Jan. 14 to add $1,500 to its FY26 budget for a zoning map update and approved hiring GCG to perform the update.
Budget and Taxation Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
A bill before the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee would allow counties to raise their top piggyback local income tax rate from 2.3% to 2.7% for incomes above $250,000, giving jurisdictions an additional tool beyond property tax to fund school construction and transportation.
Quincy City, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The Quincy Zoning Board of Appeals approved four applications with conditions, accepted a withdrawal, and continued two hearings. Neighbors raised concerns about added impervious area, flood risk and building scale during the public hearings.
Early Learning & K-12 Education, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Senate Bill 5003 would create a competitive grant, administered by OSPI, to fund physical security projects at public K–12 facilities; presenters discussed eligible projects, caps, ESD coordination and an available fiscal estimate for OSPI implementation.
Appropriations - Human Resources Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Jessica Thomason, executive director of the Human Services Division at HHS, briefed the appropriations committee on the division’s scope, its housing-and-services continuum framework, and efforts to simplify access to services for North Dakotans.
Daytona Beach City, Volusia County, Florida
At a Jan. 15 Daytona Beach Nuisance Abatement Board hearing, owner Raymond Sayeed disputed portions of the city's compliance report for Jay Food Store (600 N. Ridgewood Ave.), while the city introduced police-call logs showing hundreds of calls and limited reporting by store security.
Town of Hubbardston, Worcester County, Massachusetts
At its Jan. 14 meeting the Town of Hubbardston Board of Health reviewed several failed and passing Title 5 (septic) and well-water tests, agreed to sign pending permits conditioned on final water results, granted an extension for corrective actions at a townhome development and voted to join the regional public-health network for $600.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Commissioners heard complaints from residents about parking‑lot noise and asked Oceanside Events Center to work with Revere PD and submit a security/egress plan to the licensing staff; no sanctions were imposed at the meeting.
Budget and Taxation Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
The state’s school‑construction adviser told the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee that Maryland’s public school buildings are aging and that current capital funding levels will not cover high‑priority projects in fiscal 2026.
Early Learning & K-12 Education, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Sponsors and educators told the Early Learning & K–12 Education Committee Senate Bill 5210 would make the existing 9th grade success pilot a statutory, appropriations‑subject grant program administered by OSPI, prioritizing schools with low 9th‑grade on‑track scores and below‑average graduation rates.
Town of Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Charlton Select Board approved a bundle of routine administrative items Jan. 14, including personnel appointments, two utility joint-pole installations, designation of special counsel, and contracts for department chiefs.
Appropriations - Education and Environment Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The Appropriations - Education and Environment Division opened a hearing on House Bill 1020 with testimony from Department of Water Resources Director Reese Hawes and senior staff about the agency’s budget request, project priorities and staffing needs.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
At a continuation hearing into alleged violations at BK’s Bar & Grill, counsel told the Revere Licensing Commission that probate and ownership paperwork are progressing and asked whether the commission would consider bifurcating manager approval from other estate matters; the commission requested a completed application so it can act.
Daytona Beach City, Volusia County, Florida
The Chamber of Commerce reported on advocacy work against moratoriums, a readers-to-leaders literacy program with local school partners, upcoming legislative trips to Tallahassee and an annual meeting Feb. 6 at the News-Journal Center.
Town of Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Select Board set a special town meeting date of Feb. 18, 2025, after a certified citizen petition seeking to change the town clerk position from elected to appointed met the signature requirement under state law and local bylaw provisions.
Town of Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts
After a lengthy public hearing, the Charlton Select Board declared two dogs — Lily and Bear — a nuisance and ordered steps including a fence or electric containment, charged collars, and temporary leashing or tethering until containment is installed; the board asked animal control to verify compliance within about 30 days.
Human Services, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Incoming DSHS Secretary Cheryl Strange told the Senate Human Services Committee the agency will prioritize preserving core safety-net benefits, continuing technology modernization to improve access, and expanding community capacity for people with developmental disabilities.
Revere City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
The Revere Licensing Commission approved a one‑day mobile food vendor permit for Revere Beach Winter Wonderland and several restaurant licensing actions, including a manager change, an amended entertainment license and three alcohol licenses; one transfer was approved contingent on LLC paperwork.
Daytona Beach City, Volusia County, Florida
Volusia County Economic Development told the advisory board that the countywide Volusia Innovation Challenge is accepting entries Jan. 6–31 and will hold finalist pitches at the Ocean Center on March 27, with in-kind prizes including a year in the county incubator.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Trustees approved the consent agenda by voice vote, agreed to form an ad hoc bylaw-review committee, will reconvene the finance subcommittee to review a draft budget, and were told the architects will include hazardous-materials assessment in a building study expected to start in February.
Human Services, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Senate Bill 5052 would clarify when law enforcement may question juvenile victims or witnesses without a youth-access-to-counsel consultation, while preventing statements obtained in that fashion from being used in the state's case-in-chief against the youth.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
House Concurrent Resolution 3002, a proposed referral to let voters decide on sports betting, received opposition from universities and religious organizations and was given a do-not-pass recommendation by the committee, 13-1.
Daytona Beach City, Volusia County, Florida
City staff and economic-development presenters described a phased sports-complex plan intended to drive tourism and weekday community use, and discussed housing and permit trends tied to recent aerospace and manufacturing job announcements.
Town of Braintree , Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Board confirmed member McCamey as clerk, authorized the director to sign recorded decisions, approved minutes, and continued multiple agenda items (including 193 Rear Grove Street and 81,040 Arnold Street minor modification) without testimony to Feb. 11.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Trustees heard that the library is offering sensory-friendly art classes, movies and computer classes tailored to neurodiverse adult learners, and that storytimes will continue through spring due to demand.
Human Services, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Senate Bill 5079 would let the Department of Social and Health Services waive collection of unintentional overpayments for aged, blind, and disabled cash assistance and for certain Medicaid long-term services and DD waiver programs beginning July 1, 2025; sponsors said recovery costs exceed amounts reclaimed.
Town of Braintree , Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Hawthorne Preserve LLC presented a site plan for 51 age‑restricted townhomes on two parcels (7 Hawthorne Road & 338 Elm Street). The board heard extensive public comment on traffic, drainage, tree removal and open space and continued the hearing for peer review and department comments.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Trustees heard about an inventory and testing effort for high-end audio production gear and plans to form a trained audio-video maker group whose members may borrow equipment after training.
Human Services, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Senate Bill 5214 would create a mobile market category and authorize the Department of Health to allow nonprofit mobile markets to accept WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits, with an effective date of May 1, 2025, subject to USDA funding and any required waivers.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
House Bill 1185, which proposed broad exemptions to open records law for employee performance and discipline records and a longer closed period for investigatory records, was rejected by the House Judiciary Committee in an 8-6 vote after members called the proposal overly broad.
Daytona Beach City, Volusia County, Florida
Local attorneys updated the City of Daytona Beach Economic Development Advisory Board on five brownfield sites, outlining remediation steps, state incentives and near-term redevelopment plans including a mixed-use project due to start construction in Q1 2025.
Town of Braintree , Norfolk County, Massachusetts
The board approved a major modification to grading permit 07-12 to allow an in‑ground pool and retaining wall at 156 Hayward Street, subject to structural-engineer stamped drawings, drainage monitoring, certification of no increase in peak runoff and restrictions on pool water discharge.
Town of Norwood, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Library staff reported a website redesign, a new community-resources menu, seed-library content, upgraded public computers and server, new accessibility software, and broader museum-pass access for Minuteman Library Network patrons.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House Judiciary Committee on the motion of Representative Twite amended House Bill 1061 on a 13-1 roll call to remove a provision that would have required victims or witnesses to request notice of certain Department of Corrections actions, then voted 13-1 to give the bill a "do pass as amended" recommendation to the full House.
2025 Legislature CT, Connecticut
House Chair Rep. Maria Horn opened the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee for the 2025 session, introduced leadership and staff, and held the meeting open for attendance; no policy votes occurred.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
Speakers at a House of Representatives meeting discussed a measure identified as House bill 22, described in the transcript with a mix of English and Ukrainian-language text. The provided excerpt does not include a formal motion, vote, or specific policy details.
Miami-Dade County, Florida
A Miami Beach resident urged the Miami-Dade County Port and Resiliency Committee to expand mangrove buffers on the Venetian Islands and voiced support for Resolution 3C; commissioners agreed to advance several agenda items and approved the meeting agenda by acclamation.
Cleveland Heights, Cuyahoga County, Ohio
At a Jan. 15 council committee meeting, members voted to go into executive session to consider the appointment of a public official to the Planning Commission after a staff reading of the commission's powers and duties.
Town of Braintree , Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Planning staff presented proposed increases for commercial development and use special permits and recommended new fees for minor modifications and as‑built approvals; board asked for additional review and agreed to discuss the schedule and related rules at its February meeting.
Cleveland Heights, Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Council interviewed Rodney Hairston on Jan. 15 about his municipal finance experience, internal controls, audits and staffing needs; no public confirmation vote was taken after the panel voted to enter executive session to consider the appointment.
Industry, Business and Labor, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The Industry, Business and Labor Committee discussed whether to broaden permissible uses for proceeds from the State Fire Marshal’s cigarette‑testing fee and questioned whether the statutory $250 per brand fee should instead be adjusted downward.
Town of Danvers, Essex County, Massachusetts
The board voted Jan. 14 to commission a third‑party peer review limited to two Danvers intersections after town counsel concluded a 1972 restrictive covenant likely expired; the applicant agreed to pay if the scope is kept small. The matter was continued to Jan. 28.
Business, Financial Services, Gaming & Trade, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The Department of Commerce briefed the committee on a wide portfolio including housing production and preservation, clean‑energy funding and strategy, broadband grants and digital equity, community capital projects, and programs addressing homelessness and community safety.
Southbridge Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
The Southbridge School Committee acknowledged resignations from John Shaw and Cathy LaPriore, formed an operating‑protocols ad hoc subcommittee, scheduled a joint Feb. 3 meeting with the town council to appoint replacements and approved minutes from Dec. 10 by a 4‑yeas, 1‑abstention vote.
Business, Financial Services, Gaming & Trade, Senate, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The Department of Financial Institutions briefed the Senate Businesses, Financial Services and Trade Committee on agency priorities including cybersecurity, supervision of third‑party service providers, enforcement activity, and planned legislation on virtual‑currency kiosks and a technical fix to Washington Saves administration.
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Miami‑Dade County’s newly created Appropriations Committee approved an at‑risk consulting engagement to hunt for department efficiencies and revenue opportunities, deferred action on a retroactive convenience‑fee increase by a longtime payment processor, and cleared several spending and contract items including fleet purchases, homeless trust allocations and community redevelopment agency contracts.
Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Senate Bill 251, requested by the Maryland State Ethics Commission, would allow mandatory ethics training to be delivered online or live and replace "salaried employment" with "compensated employment" on financial disclosure forms; the committee held a hearing Jan. 15, 2025, but took no vote.
Industry, Business and Labor, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House Industry, Business and Labor Committee heard testimony on House Bill 1149, a technical update to North Dakota’s Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act that would add dormancy rules and liquidation requirements for virtual currency and streamline claim handling for clear matches.
Committee on Appropriations, Standing, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
The Kansas House Committee on Appropriations heard an overview of an expedited budget process and was asked to use House Bill 2007 as the starting point for deliberations; staff requested agencies submit fiscal 2026 proposals showing a 7.5% reduction in state general fund resources, with stated exclusions.
Southbridge Public Schools, School Boards, Massachusetts
A Southbridge parent testified that a change in out‑of‑district transportation staff led to missed services, increased injury and a required four‑point restraint; she asked the committee for specialized training for van staff, greater authority for the school of attendance in out‑of‑district placements and parental veto power.
Industry, Business and Labor, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House Industry, Business and Labor Committee heard testimony Thursday on House Bill 1060, a proposal to add Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation correctional officers to North Dakota’s presumption of compensability for lung or respiratory disease, hypertension, heart disease and exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
On Jan. 15, 2025, the Education, Energy and the Environment and Elections Committee voted to give Senate Bill 109 a favorable report, directing county boards of education to submit an annual certification of compliance with state public ethics laws to the Maryland State Ethics Commission.
House of Representatives, Legislative , Hawaii
The Hawaii State House of Representatives on opening day adopted resolutions electing its temporary chair, speaker, officers and committee memberships. Lawmakers raised procedural objections about proportional committee representation and the vice speaker serving as a voting member of a standing committee, but the package carried on voice votes.
Shelby County, School Districts, Tennessee
Superintendent Fagan read her written rebuttal to a December termination resolution and board members debated a substitute retention resolution; the committee received the response but did not vote.
Boston City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Boston officials presented a plan to appropriate $110 million to a Housing Accelerator Fund that would supplement private financing, prioritize one replacement building at Bunker Hill public housing and seed a MassHousing-linked program for stalled rental projects plus a homeownership pilot.
Agriculture and Natural Resources, Standing, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee members met for an organizational session in which senators introduced themselves, committee staff identified roles, the chair outlined committee rules, and two bills were introduced without objection.
Appropriations - Education and Environment Division, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Valley City State University President Alan Laffey summarized campus growth, teacher‑education impact and capital priorities. VCSU asked the committee for a $25.395 million general‑fund request (with a local match) for McFarland Hall deferred maintenance and supported system salary and inflation adjustments.
Boston City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Committee received an overview of a small‑unit memorandum of agreement for about 44 employees in the Mayor's Office of Housing; the administration asked for a $421,318 supplemental appropriation for FY25 to fund 2% raises plus flat amounts and other contract changes.
Finance Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Senator Mary Washington and NAMI Maryland urged the Finance Committee to modernize statutory language by replacing the term "mental hygiene" with "mental health." Advocates said the older phrase evokes stigma; the transcript notes nine code instances and a fiscal-note estimate related to regulatory updates.
Appropriations - Education and Environment Division, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
State Forester Tom Claeys briefed the committee on Forest Service responsibilities, wildfire assistance, Towner State Nursery operations and the discovery of emerald ash borer in North Dakota; he requested one‑time mitigation funding and two conservation‑nursery positions to sustain tree production and community assistance.
Senate, Legislative , Hawaii
Senators elected Ronald D. Cocchi president and Michelle N. Kidani vice president on the opening day of the 33rd Hawaii State Legislature. The chamber approved procedural housekeeping, introduced bills 1–419 for first reading and heard opening remarks that highlighted housing, insurance, education, local agriculture and energy reliability.
Senate, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
The Senate read four bills and a concurrent resolution, referred the resolution to the Committee on Assessment and Taxation, withdrew the appointment of Christopher Kennedy and referred it to the Committee on Natural Resources and Agriculture, then approved adjournment until 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025.
Appropriations - Education and Environment Division, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
NDSU President David Cook described a multi‑year restructuring and growth plan called New Horizons, reviewing recent cuts, fundraising success for an engineering complex and requests for targeted biennial investments in student success, precision agriculture/engineering, and health sciences.
Finance Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
HSCRC Executive Director John Kromm told the Senate Finance Committee that repealing the sunset on the hospital user-fee assessment is necessary to prevent an operating shortfall and support expanded policy and analytic work under Maryland’s AHEAD model.
Boston City, Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Boston — The Boston City Council Committee on Ways and Means heard on Jan. 13 that the city is seeking roughly $6.6 million in supplemental FY25 funding to cover the fiscal impact of a new collective bargaining agreement between Transdev and the school bus drivers' union.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
At the Jan. 15 session in Annapolis, the House of Delegates had clerks read introductions for House Bills 348–352 and House Bond Initiative No. 3, committee chairs announced briefings (including a Judiciary briefing on law-enforcement use of drones), and the majority leader moved to adjourn until Jan. 16 at 10 a.m.
Committee on Social Services Budget, Standing, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
Janet Stanek, KDHE secretary, and deputies Ashley Goss and Christine Osterland briefed the Committee on Social Services Budget on KDHE organization, public‑health programs, the lab relocation and generator delay, a Wyandotte County TB response, KanCare 3.0 implementation, and recent federal grants including a $17 million maternal and infant health award.
Appropriations - Education and Environment Division, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Chancellor Mark Hagerott and NDUS finance leaders briefed the Appropriations - Education and Environment Division on system priorities including a needs-based budget request, a multi-million-dollar challenge grant, an ERP replacement need and proposed increases for financial aid, inflation and workforce programs.
Finance Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
John Kromm (HSCRC) and Laura Goodman (MDH) asked the Finance Committee to extend the maternal and child health improvement fund’s sunset to Dec. 31, 2027, to sustain Medicaid and public-health programs shown to improve maternal and infant outcomes.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
Recreation Director Travis Farley requested regrading a program supervisor from Grade 1 to Grade 2 and updating Schedule C seasonal pay rates to remain competitive; board asked Recreation Commission to vote first and agreed to consider changes at its February meeting.
Committee on Social Services Budget, Standing, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
Megan Leopold, staff with the Kansas Legislative Research Department, presented the Bethel Joint Committee on Home and Community Based Services interim recommendations, including a proposed GME program, CHIP eligibility adjustments, and funding for local resource guides and SUD grants.
Finance Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Senator Brian Simoner told the Senate Finance Committee that Senate Bill 157 would create a Department of Disabilities grant program to support service animals, modeled on a Veterans Affairs program. Sponsor said the bill contains no mandated funding, anticipates modest operating costs and allows private donations.
Education, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Rep. Jonah Wheeler proposed a legislative study commission (HB184) to investigate changing school start times; parents, students, coaches and the School Boards Association told the committee later start times have health, academic and safety benefits but raised implementation questions such as busing and afterschool activities.
Committee on Social Services Budget, Standing, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
The Special Committee on Sedation Dentistry recommended higher reimbursement for partial procedures, raising facility fee G0330 to Medicare levels, producing a complete provider/anesthesiologist list, consumer education and incentives to recruit dentists to address a shortage of sedation dentistry for children and people with IDD.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Town of Southborough Personnel Board voted unanimously Jan. 14 to support presenting proposed amendments to the town’s Salary Administrative Plan at Town Meeting, including inserting the SAP into Town Code Chapter 31 and adding an Assistant Town Clerk job description that would include authority to administer oaths.
Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District, School Boards, Massachusetts
District staff presented a near‑complete Innovation Pathway application for a health care and social assistance career pathway, targeting fall enrollment if the state approves. The district seeks industry and higher‑education memoranda of agreement and anticipates a modest initial cohort with growth in year two.
Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
On Jan. 15 the North Dakota Senate adopted amendments and passed a slate of bills affecting child support, premises identification for livestock, licensing fees, dementia care services, short‑haul driver rules, and more; the physician assistant licensure compact failed by recorded vote.
Education, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Rep. Jess Edwards presented HB116, seeking to require public academies to submit the same financial reports as school districts. Auburn and Pinkerton witnesses disagreed on format and scope; Auburn officials and school board representatives urged clearer taxpayer reporting.
Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District, School Boards, Massachusetts
Officials and attorneys for the Hampden‑Wilbraham Regional School District are refining a single‑option draft of a proposed regional agreement amendment after DESE returned feedback asking for clarifications on student assignment, emergency reassignments and debt/lease provisions.
Finance Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Michael W. Burns, director of the Maryland Uninsured Employers Fund, told the Senate Finance Committee on Jan. 15 that the fund is facing a near-term financing shortfall and recommended lawmakers temporarily raise the assessment that helps finance the agency.
Committee on Social Services Budget, Standing, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Kansas
Dayton Lamonian, senior fiscal analyst with the Kansas Legislative Research Department, told the Committee on Social Services Budget that the Special Committee on Targeted Case Management recommended a set of steps after CMS raised conflict-of-interest concerns about targeted case management providers who also supply waiver services.
Education, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Rep. Joe Alexander presented legislation enabling school districts to put a question before voters to move from an elected to an appointed school treasurer; supporters said the change would allow districts to ensure finance expertise for treasury duties.
Marin County, California
Commissioners elected Milton Moulton Peters as president of the Marin County Housing Authority Board of Commissioners and Eric Lukin as vice president during the Jan. 14 meeting; the slate was approved by voice vote.
Marin County, California
The authority received HUD notice to ratify a $446,814 Family Self-Sufficiency grant for 2025; in 2024 MHA had 137 FSS participants and distributed $508,416 to 17 graduates, with several participants moving toward homeownership.
Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
After floor debate about supervision capacity, victim protections and financial burdens on people under supervision, the North Dakota Senate voted 7–40 to reject Senate Bill 2111, which would have removed the option for judges to assign supervised probation for class B misdemeanors.
Education, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Diana Fenton of the New Hampshire Department of Education briefed the House Education Policy and Administration Committee on major education statutes, rulemaking authority, special education provisions and background-check differences between district employment and state licensure.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Legislative, Texas
During opening-day proceedings the Texas House approved Senate Concurrent Resolution 7 allowing adjournment of more than three days between Jan. 15 and Jan. 22, 2025, authorized two notification committees and scheduled a housekeeping resolution for later consideration.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Committee members pressed DJS leaders on staff safety and facility operations, raising reports from frontline employees about assaults and disturbances in some residential centers.
Marin County, California
Auditors issued an unmodified opinion on Marin Housing Authority’s FY2023 financial statements but a qualified opinion on federal awards with findings on eligibility, waiting lists and inspections; auditors also reported roughly 11 months of operating reserves.
Commerce and Consumer Affairs, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Representative Patusick introduced House Bill 359, which would bar denial of banking and insurance services based on factors that are not quantitative, impartial and risk‑based. Banking and insurance trade groups, the attorney general’s office and state regulators urged the committee to reject or amend the proposal, citing conflicts with federal
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, EDUCATION & ARTS, Executive Departments, Organizations, Executive, Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency and partner organizations promoted FAFSA Completion Week (Jan. 13–17) and announced additional in-person and virtual FAFSA workshops statewide, while advising students and contributors to create studentaid.gov IDs early to avoid delays.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Lawmakers and auditors focused on limitations in DJS’s data systems and on measuring whether community-based services reduce reoffending. OPEGA said the existing data could not support a strong published finding about outcomes and urged improved metrics and a modern case-management platform.
House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House approved a concurrent resolution congratulating NDSU, passed bills on mediation, background checks, and autopsy-report access, withdrew two bills, and re-referred several others during the session.
Marin County, California
The authority amended its exclusive negotiating rights agreement with Burbank Housing to add funds for resident outreach and communications ahead of Golden Gate Village redevelopment; residents urged delaying consultant contracts until a newly reconstituted resident council can review materials.
Commerce and Consumer Affairs, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Following an actuarial review, the New Hampshire Insurance Department recommended rules to set a cost‑based fee schedule for out‑of‑network ground ambulance reimbursement, prohibit balance billing of patients and form a commission to explore an all‑payer waiver. The proposal divides providers and payers and drew extensive public testimony.
House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
House Bill 1101, which would have added kratom to North Dakota's Schedule I, failed on a final vote 15-77 after the Judiciary Committee recommended 'do not pass.' Lawmakers cited insufficient scientific evidence and competing testimony.
2025 Legislature DE Collection, Delaware
At its Jan. 30 meeting the Legislative Council approved several procedural and programmatic items by roll call or unanimous consent, including minutes approval, facility and key‑card policy updates, Legislative Hall participation in '2 Lights for Tomorrow' and release of the second‑leg draft of House Bill 430.
Commerce and Consumer Affairs, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Representative Keith Ammon asked the committee to authorize the state treasurer to invest limited amounts of state reserves in precious metals and large‑cap digital assets, saying small allocations can hedge inflation.
Marin County, California
The Marin County Housing Authority approved a five-year managed IT services contract with ConsultAd, Inc. not to exceed $1,400,000 and launched an enterprise security risk assessment after a cyber incident prompted a CalSIC-led forensic review and recommendations.
2025 Legislature DE Collection, Delaware
The committee presented plans for a three‑level, 345‑space parking garage and a Legislative Hall addition that would expand public, operational and office space; the project budget is currently estimated at roughly $122 million with the garage bid expected in Q1 2025 and construction impacts beginning mid‑2025.
House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
House Bill 1065 passed 90-3 to change the distribution of a biennial $115 million allocation so townships receive prairie dog funds proportionate to miles of township roads rather than an equal per-township split.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Department of Juvenile Services Secretary Vinny Schiraldi told the Judicial Proceedings Committee he has launched programs to target gun violence, girls' services and workforce pathways, secured federal and state funds, and is pursuing both short-term fixes and a longer-term replacement for the department's case-management system.
2025 Legislature DE Collection, Delaware
Council supported releasing the second leg of House Bill 430, which applies gender‑silent drafting and technical corrections to the Delaware Constitution; drafters said changes clean up pronoun usage and other editorial inconsistencies dating back decades.
Commerce and Consumer Affairs, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Representative Keith Ammon asked lawmakers to create a study commission to recommend a New Hampshire legal framework for stable tokens and tokenized real‑world assets.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Board of Health accepted its Nov. 12, 2024 meeting minutes, set a tentative next meeting for Feb. 11, and adjourned.
House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The North Dakota House approved House Bill 1053 to retain a 7,700-mile cap on the state highway system while removing a percentage-based calculation that conflicted with other reporting methods; the measure passed 93-0.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
OPEGA presented its evaluation of the Department of Juvenile Services to the Judicial Proceedings Committee on Jan. 15, 2025, reporting that DJS lacks consistent oversight of community-based providers and that its case management systems limit the agency’s ability to measure outcomes.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
Board received staff introductions and updates on the Greater Burrows Partnership for Health grant, hiring plans for a full-time public health nurse and social worker, planned maternal-child programming, community clinics, internships and monitoring of respiratory illnesses and avian flu.
2025 Legislature DE Collection, Delaware
The Council voted unanimously to approve hanging two lanterns at Legislative Hall overnight April 19–20 as part of the national '2 Lights for Tomorrow' commemoration and to coordinate educational and service activities tied to Delaware 250.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Board of Health granted local Title 5 upgrade approvals and municipal variances for a replacement septic system at 6 Hillside Road, allowing reduced setbacks because of a small lot and site constraints; the approval includes a deed restriction limiting the house to two bedrooms.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Sponsors proposed HR 6, a resolution criticizing disparate‑impact analysis in law and policy. Witnesses objected, noting the doctrine has Supreme Court recognition and historical use to address seemingly neutral rules that produce unequal effects.
Human Services, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House Human Services Committee heard House Bill 1154, which would extend North Dakota's moratorium on basic care and nursing facility bed capacity for four years to control overcapacity, stabilize finances and focus on community-based services.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Financial Planning Committee reviewed plans to borrow roughly $35 million for a new fire station, discussed ARPA and free cash uses, and considered larger capital projects including a possible $45 million town office concept and school facility needs. Members also raised concerns about tax impacts and scheduling department presentations.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Senate Bill 107 would create a narrow civil exception to Maryland’s two‑party consent rule to allow qualified fair‑housing testing organizations to record in‑person and telephonic tests; proponents said recordings are essential evidence, while opponents warned about privacy, oversight, and slippery-slope risks.
2025 Legislature DE Collection, Delaware
At the Legislative Council meeting on Jan. 30, Controller General Ruth Ann Millman summarized the governor's $6.5 billion recommended budget and schedule for Joint Finance Committee hearings; Division of Legislative Services (DLS) reported its new name and ongoing work including committee reviews and a new facilities coordinator.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
At its meeting the Traffic Safety Committee elected William Pierce chair, Brian Cole vice chair and Rachel Armstrong clerk, approved the Dec. 10, 2024 minutes and voted to adjourn; roll-call votes were recorded for each motion.
Human Services, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House Human Services Committee held a hearing on House Bill 1108, which would authorize interstate contracts to clarify financial responsibility and increase access when people on commitment, probation or parole cross state lines for mental health or substance use treatment.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
The committee heard from Right‑to‑Know Ombudsman Thomas Kerr, who reported 277 inquiries and 77 filed matters since the office began staffing in Jan. 2023. Supporters urged reauthorization and additional resources and a user guide; the judicial branch reported fewer superior‑court 91‑A filings since the ombudsman began.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Senate Bill 120 would add a measurable definition of "reasonable" for homeowner associations reviewing solar collector system applications, including thresholds for cost and efficiency impacts, proponents said.
2025 Legislature DE Collection, Delaware
Senator Brian Townsend presented Senate Bill 11 to the Delaware Senate Executive Committee as the second leg of a constitutional amendment to change pretrial release and detention from a cash-bail model to a risk-based system with heightened procedural protections.
2025 Legislature DE Collection, Delaware
Senate Bill 42, presented to the Delaware Senate Executive Committee as a technical cleanup to earlier pension language, would restore prior contribution rates and resolve potential IRS tax issues; committee heard brief testimony and public support and agreed to circulate the bill for further consideration.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Town of Northborough has obligated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for sidewalk projects on Allen, Monroe and Maple streets, and for crosswalk equipment; town staff said construction likely in late spring or summer and that a separate MassDOT request for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) on Route 20 is under review.
Judiciary, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Judiciary subcommittee on Senate Bill 2029 met to discuss a proposal to centralize guardianship and conservatorship programs under a single administrative office, with supporters and stakeholders urging clarity on funding, definitions and legal protections.
Education, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Representative Levi Jonas and school finance leaders proposed House Bill 1163 to create a Legacy Fund loan stream intended to lower borrowing costs for school construction. Supporters said the mechanism could reduce property-tax costs for voters; state investment officials and the treasurer outlined fiscal trade-offs.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Senate Bill 150 updates real-property statutes to reflect electronic recordation and remove obsolete references to paper books, microfilm and other outdated technologies; clerks and industry groups supported the technical update while raising drafting questions about margin requirements and recording refusals.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Rep. Eric Turr and a physician’s spouse told the committee HB 98 would allow a non‑licensed assistant manager to step in for a solo professional limited liability company (PLLC) for up to a year to preserve operations and enable orderly sale, winding up or recruitment of a licensed replacement.
Education, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Representative Levi Jonas presented House Bill 1160, a proposal to prohibit student cellular-telephone use during instructional time, telling the House Education Committee the intent is to improve academic engagement and student behavior by removing phones during class.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The town submitted a heavy commercial vehicle exclusion request for Summer Street to MassDOT on Dec. 16; the DPW noted caveats about the Route 20/Route 135 intersection and said a district-level recommendation is under review in Boston.
Education, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House Education Committee voted to give House Bill 1133 a due pass after the Department of Public Instruction asked the panel to replace inconsistent language that calls records “property.” The bill updates Century Code language about preservation of county superintendent records.
Human Services, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
A roundup of bills considered Oct. 8, including roll-call tallies and brief notes on discussion and amendments.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Sponsor Sen. Shelly Hettleman and civil-rights advocates urged the committee to update Maryland's anti-SLAPP law to shift burdens, add fee-shifting, and speed rulings; opponents and some committee members pushed for targeted clarifications about exceptions and legal standards.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Traffic Safety Committee reported roughly 600–650 responses to a townwide survey on a proposed 25 mph default speed limit; results will be tabulated after the survey closes and the committee noted complementary mitigation requests such as speed bumps.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Sponsor Rep. Dan McGuire said House Bill 88 would let New Hampshire couples create optional community‑property trusts to secure a federal step‑up in basis for inherited property; bankers supported an amendment protecting creditors’ liens.
Human Services, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Senate Human Services Committee approved an amendment to a cross‑disability/bed‑management bill that adds a two‑year sunset and allows gero‑psychiatric facilities to report openings weekly or within 48 hours rather than daily, then passed the bill as amended and re‑referred it to Appropriations with a $300,000 fiscal note.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Town of Northborough Traffic Safety Committee discussed a resident request to bar heavy commercial vehicles from Allen Street between Hudson Street and East Main Street, reviewing prior Rice Avenue exclusions, pedestrian concerns and potential roadway mitigations including sidewalk work funded through ARPA.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Senate Bill 108 would require governing bodies of common ownership communities to adopt a smoking policy at least as stringent as state and local law, proponents said, while opponents warned the measure could create retroactive burdens for long-term owners and ambiguous enforcement obligations.
Human Services, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
An attorney for the Department of Health and Human Services told the committee the bill would not, by itself, violate probation; the committee voted to give the bill a do-pass recommendation.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Chair Representative Bob Lynn opened the first committee meeting, outlined member introductions, contact-sheet circulation, quorum rules for hearings vs. executive sessions, start-time preferences and his plan to be absent Feb. 5–24.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Northborough Zoning Board of Appeals continued consideration of a petition from ZHS Trust seeking a special permit for an adult day-care at 3943 King Street and modification of site-plan approvals for senior living at 39 and 43 King Street, citing concerns about waiving Executive Office of Elder Affairs licensing and the project's density.
Human Services, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Senate Human Services Committee heard testimony on Senate Bill 2160, which would require the North Dakota PERS health plan to adopt ACA large‑employer mandated benefits by giving up grandfathered status.
Judicial Proceedings Committee, SENATE, SENATE, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Sen. Paul Quarterman and witnesses told the Judicial Proceedings Committee that Senate Bill 92 would allow people to seek peace orders when neighbors conduct unwanted visual surveillance and would give judges explicit authority to require removal or repositioning of devices used in that surveillance.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Chief Justice Gordon McDonald and Judicial Branch staff told the House Judiciary Committee the courts face growing workloads from youth-development cases, rising security threats, indigent defense shortfalls and new magistrate duties, while the branch advances digital evidence and text-notification pilots.
Executive Departments and Administration, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
NHRS staff briefed EDNA on pension funding, investments and a planned property purchase. NHRS reported $12.3B in assets (June 30, 2024), a $5.6B unfunded liability, continuation of a 6.75% assumed return and a board‑approved $5 million property purchase to replace leased space.
Human Services, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
An assistant attorney general proposed an amendment clarifying which officials may lawfully possess forensic images of decedents; the committee set the bill aside pending a further amendment.
Collier County, Florida
The board approved purchase of a 10‑acre property owned by nonprofit Cypress Cove Land Keepers Inc. in the center of the Gore Preserve; staff said the site is the last undeveloped parcel surrounded by Conservation Collier lands and will preserve existing educational uses.
Human Services, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Advocates told the Senate Human Services Committee that Protection and Advocacy needs explicit access to financial records to investigate suspected exploitation of people with disabilities. Banking industry witnesses urged retaining existing confidentiality limits and existing procedures set in 2019.
Human Services, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Lawmakers voted to strip a new subpoena provision from House Bill 1049 after committee members raised concerns about expanding board authority; the bill passed as amended on a recorded roll call.
Collier County, Florida
The board awarded a contract to Don Wood Inc. for a permanent fuel tank installation and authorized a five‑year, sole‑source purchase of Keaton aerators and related materials, with commissioners asking departments to avoid long sole‑source commitments where possible.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
Chair John Kostnick opened the Minnesota House Transportation Work Group on Jan. 15, 2025, saying the panel expects to pass a transportation bill this year and will prioritize efficient use of transportation revenues and safety across roads and transit systems.
Collier County, Florida
The board instructed staff to stop granting administrative parking reductions (APRs) and to study existing developments and nighttime use patterns before considering changes to multifamily parking standards; the direction is temporary and tied to statewide limits on code changes.
Education, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Representative Eric Murphy told the House Education Committee HB 1179 would give 12‑month faculty 24 days of annual paid leave and create accrual/carryover rules; the North Dakota University System opposed the measure and questioned statutory authority and fiscal assumptions.
Judiciary, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation told the Senate Judiciary Committee it seeks statutory authority to allow infants to reside with incarcerated mothers at Heart River Correctional Center, citing research that prison nursery programs reduce recidivism and support child‑development.
Executive Departments and Administration, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Office of Legislative Services staff gave EDNA members a one-hour orientation on administrative rulemaking, explaining rule definitions, limits on delegated authority, the JELCAR review role and practical steps committees and agencies should take during drafting and notice.
Collier County, Florida
The board authorized a $5,000 contribution toward a RAISE grant application and pledged up to $899,000 toward a local match should the Trust for Public Land secure federal funds to acquire the Seminole Gulf rail corridor for trail use; the county manager will work with Bonita Springs and Estero on a memorandum of agreement.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
On Jan. 14, 2025, the Minnesota House of Representatives elected Patrick Duffy Murphy as chief clerk and Lori (Lori) Hodap as chief sergeant at arms, approved a slate of other officers, and adopted resolutions to notify the senate and governor that the House is organized.
Judiciary, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Senate Judiciary Committee heard multiple bills on public safety, records access, and legal procedure. Members recommended a do-not-pass on a bill to excuse law enforcement from criminal-jury duty and issued due-pass or do-pass-as-amended recommendations on several other measures after debate and amendments.
Education, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Representative Eric Murphy told the House Education Committee HB 1161 would create an OMB-held pool for salary and benefit funding for vacant positions at public institutions; the North Dakota University System opposed the bill, saying it would infringe on the State Board of Higher Education's constitutional authority.
Industry and Business, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Senate Bill 2135 would raise the state's one‑time death benefit for firefighters killed in the line of duty from $10,000 to $25,000 and increase the reserve cap the insurance commissioner may access to pay claims; proponents said the change updates a benefit that has not kept pace with costs and may be a lifeline for survivors.
Resources, Recreation and Development, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
HB 203 would require people in canoes, kayaks and rowing shells to wear U.S. Coast Guard‑approved personal flotation devices between Nov. 15 and May 15 to reduce cold‑water immersion and hypothermia deaths.
Collier County, Florida
The board approved a small‑scale comp‑plan amendment and rezone to allow an 11,000‑sq‑ft commercial subdistrict with up to 5,000 sq ft for a car wash adjacent to a planned Home Depot; staff and Planning Commission recommended approval, opponents urged denial citing market saturation.
Industry and Business, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Senate Bill 2136 was given a unanimous do‑pass recommendation after testimony that it would protect wholesalers' independence from manufacturer pressure over e‑commerce platforms, shield confidential financial details from suppliers, and clarify successor‑brewer rules to cover purchasers that are not traditional brewers.
Resources, Recreation and Development, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
HB 174 would change the statutory dry weight definition for off‑highway vehicles to accommodate heavier modern UTVs and electric models. Supporters, including NOVA and manufacturers, said the change reflects vehicle evolution; opponents — timberland owners, Fish and Game and local landowners — raised enforcement, trail damage and bridge‑safety
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
House staff told the committee the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board became the Office of Emergency Medical Services on Jan. 1, 2025, outlined EMS responsibilities and noted the office’s general-fund base and that the Rare Disease Advisory Council receives approximately $652,000 in general-fund spending.
Appropriations - Government Operations Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Lieutenant Colonel Shawn Johnson, director of operations for the North Dakota Wing, Civil Air Patrol, requested one‑time CEF funds to buy interoperable radios to equip aircraft and response vehicles.
Collier County, Florida
The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a comprehensive-plan amendment, a PUD rezoning and a drainage-easement vacation to allow a U‑Haul “mobility center” with up to 200,000 square feet of indoor self-storage and 3,000 square feet of retail at 5396 Myrtle Lane after lengthy staff presentation and public comment.
Appropriations - Government Operations Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The Department of Emergency Services Homeland Security Division requested general funds to assume NDresponse website costs, authority for revolving mitigation loans tied to a federal award, additional Watch Center staff and capital asset authority to spend federal funds; committee members pressed for historical carryover and grant outlooks.
Houston, Harris County, Texas
Super Neighborhood Alliance members raised persistent complaints about solid waste collection backlogs and illegal dumping, asked the city to revisit the threshold for activating warming centers after recent deaths, and supported a state bill to allow constables to help enforce municipal ordinances.
Industry and Business, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Senate Committee on Industry and Business heard testimony on Senate Bill 2144 on technical cleanup changes proposed by the Office of the Secretary of State.
Resources, Recreation and Development, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
The committee considered HB 127, which would extend through Columbus Day two short trail segments — about 10.5 miles in total — on the Connecticut River Headwaters so OHRVs can link Pittsburg and neighboring towns to the broader regional trail network.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
Nonpartisan staff told the committee there are 16 health-related licensing boards funded primarily from the state government special revenue fund; boards can assess licensure fees but access to the revenue requires appropriation and Minnesota participates in some interstate licensure compacts.
Appropriations - Government Operations Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
State Radio requested three budget initiatives in House Bill 1016: $525,000 for a redundant message‑switching system, $495,000 one‑time for logger/tower upgrades tied to the statewide radio transition, and $509,000 for NDIT operation and maintenance costs; committee members pressed on alternative funding sources and county impacts.
Houston, Harris County, Texas
The Kinder Institute sought wider participation in a housing‑quality survey; Alliance members posted a QR code and noted a small incentive for participants to improve sample representation.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
House Bill 1185 would amend public‑records law to exempt certain personnel performance and discipline records (unless part of an internal investigation) and to extend the temporary exemption for internal investigative records from 75 to 180 days.
Appropriations - Government Operations Division, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Lawmakers heard the Adjutant General and staff review House Bill 1016, outlining requests including $6 million for facility maintenance state match, $790,000 to raise insurance coverage, federal authority requests for Camp Grafton construction, and several staffing and design requests; no vote was taken.
Houston, Harris County, Texas
The Alliance approved corrected December minutes by voice/show of hands despite a point of order; the nominating committee presented a slate for chair and vice chair but members voted to hold a formal election at the February meeting to satisfy a 30‑day notice bylaw requirement.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
House Research and House Fiscal staff summarized MDH’s size, funding mix, core program areas (public health, environmental health, infectious disease, labs), staffing and specific programs such as WIC, newborn screening and SHIP.
Resources, Recreation and Development, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
The House Resources, Recreation and Development Committee opened a hearing on HB 113, a bill that would add a short stretch of state road in the town of Windsor to the list of highways on which off‑highway recreational vehicles may travel.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
Summary of formal votes and motions taken by the San Antonio Historic Preservation Commission at its Jan. 15 meeting, including officer elections and approvals for multiple certificates of appropriateness.
Houston, Harris County, Texas
At the Super Neighborhood Alliance's January meeting, Council Members Twyla Carter and Sally Alcorn highlighted domestic violence awareness, resiliency hubs, pension funding improvements, a multimillion‑dollar water infrastructure legislative ask and opioid settlement spending.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
House Research and House Fiscal staff told the committee that Medical Assistance enrolls about 1 million Minnesotans each month and MinnesotaCare about 100,000; staff summarized eligibility, delivery models, covered services and financing rules affecting federal matching and premiums.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The committee heard House Bill 1034, which would create a court process to allow parents whose parental rights were terminated to petition for reinstatement if narrow statutory criteria are met.
Criminal Justice and Public Safety, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence briefed the committee on statewide crisis centers, emergency shelters, the SANE nurse program, and the state human trafficking collaborative; coalition staff urged heavy vetting of bills for implementation effects and offered to serve as a resource.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
After an extended debate about visibility from elevated viewpoints, the San Antonio Historic Preservation Commission approved an application to place rooftop mechanical equipment on a downtown building with staff stipulations to reduce public visibility.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
Nonpartisan staff told the House Health Finance and Policy Work Group that the Health Care Access Fund — largely financed by a provider tax — helps pay for portions of Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare and that revenue is projected to rise modestly over the next biennium.
Houston, Harris County, Texas
Super Neighborhood Alliance members raised repeated concerns about low‑income housing tax‑credit deals and public facility corporation approvals, saying communities often learn of projects only after permits are issued and urging stronger city and state notification and review rules.
Judiciary, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House Judiciary Committee opened a hearing on a proposed constitutional amendment, House Concurrent Resolution 3002, that would authorize sports betting on professional and collegiate athletics and dedicate revenue to K–12 education if voters approve it on the November 2026 ballot.
Criminal Justice and Public Safety, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Representatives of county attorneys, the New Hampshire Sheriffs Association and the Association of Chiefs of Police briefed the committee on prosecution responsibilities, interagency coordination and barriers for smaller departments to adopt body‑worn cameras.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
A small internally illuminated monument sign for 237 West Travis was approved with a staff‑requested stipulation that a solid back panel be installed to conceal frame and conduit from the public right of way; staff had recommended simplifying materials and limiting external illumination.
Town of Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Select Board approved routine minutes and personnel appointments, appointed poll workers, accepted a council on aging resignation, approved pole‑location requests from National Grid/Verizon, and designated outside counsel as a special municipal employee.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
The commission granted conceptual approval for a 330 sq ft addition at 319 Steeran but did not recommend the proposed shade carport and asked for a gate and fenestration details compatible with the King William historic character.
Finance and Taxation, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
The House Finance and Taxation Committee in Bismarck heard testimony on House Bill 1211, a proposal to remove a 2007 in‑service restriction so hydroelectric generation from Missouri River dams can generate tradable renewable energy credits.
Town of Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts
Rob Barton was sworn in as fire chief and the Select Board approved his contract by unanimous vote; the board also approved the police chief’s contract during the meeting.
Finance and Taxation, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
House Finance and Taxation members on the floor in Bismarck opened a hearing on House Bill 1168, a proposal from Rep. Scott Lausser to shift the state’s 60‑mill K‑12 levy off residential property and fold that funding into the state per‑pupil formula.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
Nonpartisan staff briefed new and returning members on election-related budget items, federal HAVA match questions, the voter account, and the committee's traditional government-operations jurisdiction including administrative rulemaking, local government structure, and open meetings law.
Criminal Justice and Public Safety, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
The Department of Corrections presented data on the incarcerated population, treatment and reentry initiatives (including a CMS 1115 reentry waiver), staffing challenges, health‑care costs and plans for a replacement prison project funded in tranches.
Criminal Justice and Public Safety, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Judicial leaders and the New Hampshire Public Defenders described severe staffing and caseload pressures in indigent defense, gaps at arraignment, and mitigation steps including pro bono recruitment, clinical student clinics and proposed rule changes.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
The commission approved porch alterations at 301 Bridal but added a stipulation that handrails be included at the Bridal Street steps in a style complementary to existing wrought iron on the house; the owner need not reuse the existing rails.
Town of Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts
A citizen petition met signature requirements to call a special town meeting; the Select Board set the meeting for Feb. 18, 2025, to consider changing the town clerk from elected to appointed.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
Commission gave conceptual approval for the Broadway master plan with staff stipulations but pressed developers to provide an overlay showing where the two‑story historic house would be relocated and requested a Design Review Committee meeting to evaluate options for retaining the house on or adjacent to the block.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
The Historic Design Review Commission voted Jan. 15 to accept the Monarch Hotel's proposed rooftop mechanical treatment after the applicant presented studies showing limited visibility from pedestrian viewpoints.
Education, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Senate Education Committee gave a due-pass recommendation to SB 2043, which would allow the Education Standards and Practices Board to deny or immediately revoke teaching licenses for equivalent federal offenses and avoid gaps when cases move between state and federal jurisdictions. The committee passed the motion by voice roll call;
Town of Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts
After a lengthy public hearing, the Charlton Select Board deemed two pit‑mix dogs, Lily and Bear, a nuisance and ordered the owners to keep them fenced or leashed and to install childproof door measures; the animal control officer will verify compliance.
Criminal Justice and Public Safety, House of Representatives, Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
State judicial leaders briefed the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee on court structure, case volumes, the new magistrate program, courthouse safety work using ARPA funds and recent gains in appellate productivity.
Warren City, Macomb County, Michigan
After closed‑session discussions, the council approved a proposed settlement in James Rush v. City of Warren, a settlement in Deborah Hutchison v. Warren Senior Housing Commission, and a pre‑litigation settlement in the Wenzel matter; council also approved routine licenses and appointments listed below.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
The House Rules and Legislative Administration Committee voted to adopt Resolution 2025 R11, authorizing the retention of outside counsel and inserting the names Nicholas Nelson, Samuel Diehl and Ryan Wilson; Majority Leader Niska said he will not participate because the attorneys are colleagues from his law practice.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
City staff presented recommended changes to procurement delegations and thresholds intended to speed up routine purchases and contractual work; councilmembers expressed support but asked for metrics and clearer reporting on projects and impacts.
Education, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Senate Education Committee members on Thursday heard testimony on Senate Bill 2099, which would add a section to chapter 15.1 of the North Dakota Century Code requiring cardiac arrest prevention education for student athletes, their parents and coaches and requiring coaches to complete cardiac arrest training and hold informational meetings before each athletic season.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
City staff and conservation partners updated the City Council on the Edwards Aquifer protection program, describing acquisition strategies, monitoring practices and funding sources; councilmembers pressed staff on development restrictions, monitoring and program targets.
Health and Human Services, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Senate Bill 17, which would require insurers to count third‑party copay assistance toward deductibles and out‑of‑pocket maximums, drew extensive testimony from patient advocates, insurers, PBMs and hospitals. The committee did not take executive session on the bill and deferred further action.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
City procurement staff returned to council with revised recommendations to adjust which contracts go to council and which may be delegated to the city manager, while keeping the $1 million high‑profile threshold.
Warren City, Macomb County, Michigan
An appeal of an administrative ruling denying renewal of a marijuana business license for Sozo Health, Inc. was tabled after councilmember Jonathan Lafferty reported a three‑hour fact‑finding meeting between city attorneys, department staff and Sozo representatives; attorneys are negotiating a resolution and council will receive Lafferty’s notes.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
During the Jan. 15 hearing lawmakers raised concerns about multi‑year delays in 245D licensing, recent nursing‑home closures in rural districts and how program integrity responsibilities will shift after DCYF/DCT splits.
Appropriations, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
Governor Armstrong presented an executive budget recommendation to the Joint Appropriations Committees that proposes a $6.6 billion general fund and $19.8 billion total budget for the 2025–27 biennium, including a $483.4 million property tax relief package, $464 million in bonding for construction, and new prison bed staffing funding.
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
City staff briefed council on the Edwards Aquifer Protection Program’s 25th year, reporting roughly 187,000 acres protected, a 10‑year $100 million funding plan through the San Antonio Municipal Facilities Corporation and continued use of conservation easements and partnerships to protect recharge and contributing zones.
Health and Human Services, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Senate Bill 37, a DHHS‑requested bill to mandate quality assurance committees and require public posting of investigation and life‑safety inspection results at certain residential care and health facilities, moved out of committee with a committee amendment.
2025 Legislature MN, Minnesota
Department of Human Services staff told the Minnesota Senate Human Services Committee on Jan. 15 that Medical Assistance and waiver programs drive most of DHS spending, and senators pressed for comparative data and further detail on rising disability‑waiver costs and workforce pressures.
Warren City, Macomb County, Michigan
Council approved a quitclaim of two city‑titled parcels to the Warren Tax Increment Finance Authority to consolidate sites for a proposed Ascension My Health urgent care project and to meet MEDC grant requirements; the resolution was amended to require a $5,000 payment to the city general fund.
Health and Human Services, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
The Senate Health and Human Services Committee voted by consent to advance Senate Bill 18, which would allow the Department of Health and Human Services commissioner to evaluate and request additional pediatric intermediate care beds at Cedar Crest without lifting the long‑term care bed moratorium.
Aging (Special), Special, Select and Other Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
Witnesses told the Senate Aging Committee that income insecurity, rising housing and health costs, and insufficient funding for Older Americans Act programs and Medicaid home‑and‑community‑based services threaten seniors' ability to age with dignity; witnesses urged increased funding and stronger outreach to caregivers.
Warren City, Macomb County, Michigan
Facing an imminent cold snap and gaps in zoning for emergency shelters, the City of Warren council approved a motion asking the mayor to declare a local state of emergency to allow temporary shelters and streamline approvals until the next council meeting.
Austin, Travis County, Texas
Mayor Kerr Watson, Police Chief Davis and city transportation staff outlined measures to widen sidewalks, install barriers and adjust traffic on Sixth Street in downtown Austin, saying the changes will be monitored and adjusted as needed.
Warren City, Macomb County, Michigan
Auditors from Plant Moran delivered an unmodified opinion on the City of Warren’s fiscal 2024 financial statements, reported a single finding related to fixed-asset and grant-revenue adjustments, and the council voted to receive and file the audit.
Aging (Special), Special, Select and Other Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
The Charlotte County Sheriff and nonprofit advocates told the Senate Aging Committee about local programs to protect seniors, including outreach phone checks, GPS tracking bracelets for those prone to wandering, DNA scent kits, medication disposal, volunteer programs and partnerships to address scams.
Austin, Travis County, Texas
Waterloo Greenway Conservancy told the Downtown Commission that community engagement for Palm Park reached about 2,000 people, the design has advanced to schematic stages and the Confluence creek-and-trail construction is over halfway finished with extensive planting and multiple new bridges coming online.
Martin, School Districts, Florida
Trustees reviewed retiree health policy options including reducing the district subsidy for under‑65 retirees, limiting future enrollments, and setting date‑certain sunsets; staff will consolidate board direction and return a draft policy for review.
Executive Departments and Administration, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Senate Bill 29 would implement recommendations from the Healthcare Workplace Safety Commission by adding Hampstead Hospital to the commission, requiring New Hampshire Hospital and Hampstead to report incidents like other hospitals, and moving to monthly reporting to the Department of Labor while keeping aggregated reports public.
Aging (Special), Special, Select and Other Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
Researchers and gerontology experts told the Senate Aging Committee that expanding and better funding evidence‑based health promotion programs, strengthening distribution channels and incentivizing Medicare Advantage to cover wellness supports could improve health outcomes and reduce downstream costs.
PONCA CITY, School Districts, Oklahoma
The board approved its consent agenda and several routine action items, including contracts under $10,000 and school emergency-response plans.
Executive Departments and Administration, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Senate Bill 28 would change how the date of injury is determined for first responders diagnosed with acute stress disorder or PTSD, dating the injury to the last injurious exposure or the date the employee first knew of the condition; the committee heard support from firefighters and legal experts.
Austin, Travis County, Texas
At its Jan. 15 meeting, the Downtown Commission heard Austin Police Department (APD) officials describe immediate and near-term steps to reduce vehicle threats and improve safety on East Sixth Street, including deployment of Meridian vehicle barriers and an operational change that will limit traffic to westbound flow on weekend nights.
Martin, School Districts, Florida
Trustees debated policy language to preserve employee preference, create an intermediate bucket for specialty pathways, and retain seats outside fully open controlled enrollment.
Aging (Special), Special, Select and Other Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
Chairman Rick Scott and Ranking Member Kirsten Gillibrand opened the Senate Special Committee on Aging’s first hearing of the 119th Congress, setting a bipartisan agenda focused on seniors’ physical health, financial security, public safety and community supports.
Austin, Travis County, Texas
Commissioners heard a Joint Sustainability Committee briefing on Portland’s low-carbon concrete program and an Austin Urban Forest overview, including canopy targets, tree counts and funding sources.
Executive Departments and Administration, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Senate Bill 21 would offer up to $10,000 a year in student‑loan assistance to qualifying State Police recruits to attract and retain troopers amid staffing shortfalls; the committee heard support from the troopers’ association and the State Police and opposition from a private citizen.
PONCA CITY, School Districts, Oklahoma
Superintendent described a district initiative in which principals attended data-review presentations across sites, identified needs around instructional rigor, and planned follow-up. The district also noted use of the Marzano evaluation model, PowerSchool registration timing changes, and statewide MTSS training and compliance requirements.
Industry, Business and Labor, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
New Commerce Commissioner Chris Shilkin and division directors presented results and program requests covering tourism marketing, destination development grants, workforce attraction, legal immigration assistance, and energy/value-added industry recruitment.
Austin, Travis County, Texas
The Austin Water and Wastewater Commission approved three construction and consultant contracts totaling up to $61.3 million and passed five consent items unanimously; two commissioners recused from specific votes.
Executive Departments and Administration, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Senators approved Senate Bill 30 to designate the Virginia opossum as the state marsupial and adopted an amendment declaring possums found within state borders 'New Hampshire opossums.' A fifth-grade class from Chesterfield testified in support of the proposal.
PONCA CITY, School Districts, Oklahoma
Superintendent reported a small midyear allocation increase and described a year-over-year state revenue decline tied to October 1 enrollment. The board discussed state revenue trends and potential implications for local school funding.
Martin, School Districts, Florida
Project manager reported two contractors submitted site visits and two will submit proposals by Jan. 24; board asked for public posting of the updated timeline and noted the district page will include the update.
Carlsbad, San Diego County, California
The Carlsbad Planning Commission on Jan. 15 heard a detailed staff presentation about the California Environmental Quality Act, and discussed proposed amendments to Carlsbad Municipal Code Title 19 that would shift responsibility for deciding whether projects qualify for CEQA exemptions from the city planner to decision-making bodies such as the planning commission or city council.
Industry, Business and Labor, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
Representative Matt Heilman asked lawmakers to restore parts of the state’s pre-2019 Sunday closing laws, saying a shared day of rest protects workers, families and religious observance.
Executive Departments and Administration, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
Senators approved a change to create a one-time apprentice guide license allowing a prospective New Hampshire hunting or fishing guide to accompany a licensed guide, with a committee amendment requiring the apprentice also hold the appropriate activity license.
PONCA CITY, School Districts, Oklahoma
The board approved language revisions to the district’s gifted-education plan and discussed program budget and site allocations. The meeting record includes stated budget ranges and site-allocation formulas; the board asked for a student count and total cost report.
Martin, School Districts, Florida
After hearing a stewardship report on the district's 2023–24 health plan, board members directed staff to issue an RFP for medical coverage and to seek flexibility on timeline so carriers can include later claims data.
Huber Heights, Montgomery County, Ohio
The City of Huber Heights City Council held an executive session on Jan. 15 to discuss personal matters and planning commission interview appointments; the council returned and reported no specific decisions were made.
Industry, Business and Labor, House of Representatives, Legislative, North Dakota
A bill introduced by Rep. Eric Murphy would require ticket vendors and venues to provide printed tickets on request and allow a modest USPS-based mailing fee; committee members and business groups questioned statutory limits and implementation details during a hearing.
Transportation, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The Hoh Tribe requested funding for a safety and access project on U.S. Highway 101 serving the Hoh reservation, describing repeated crash risk, limited emergency response times and prior partial funding of $600,000.
PONCA CITY, School Districts, Oklahoma
The Ponca City Board of Education voted to renew the superintendent’s contract following an executive session. The motion passed on a roll-call vote; the contract term and the motion wording were stated during the meeting and are included as recorded in the transcript.
Executive Departments and Administration, Senate , Committees , Legislative, New Hampshire
The Senate Executive Departments and Administration Committee advanced Senate Bill 32, a housekeeping measure requested by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department that would allow required public hearing notices to be published on newspaper websites and make technical changes to waterfowl and fisheries law.
Finance and Taxation, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The Finance and Taxation Committee heard technical testimony on Senate Bill 2039, which would change the tax treatment of agricultural storage and possibly allow new construction to qualify for agricultural property exemptions, and delayed action while the sponsor prepares an amendment.
Transportation, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Transit association, climate groups and local advocates asked lawmakers to preserve Climate Commitment Act spending for transit, scale the zero‑emission medium‑ and heavy‑duty vehicle voucher program and keep funding for clean school buses and bus facilities.
Pittsburg, Crawford County, Kansas
A Pittsburg State University student urged the commission to replace the city’s breed‑specific pitbull ban with a behavior‑based violent dog ordinance, saying the ban strains shelter resources and can be enforced inconsistently through citizen reports.
House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
On Jan. 15, 2025, the House of Representatives opened its second day of the 68th Legislature, read 13 bills for first reading and referred them to committees, received committee "do pass" reports on House Bill 14 and House Bill 82, and adjourned until Jan. 16.
Transportation, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
City and regional officials, firefighters and chambers asked the committee to preserve previously committed funding and WSDOT's construction timeline for Highway 18 safety and mobility improvements, citing rising fatalities and heavy freight use.
Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Special, Select and Other Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
Panel testimony said PRC actors harvest fundamental research, exploit university partnerships and use academic engagement to acquire technology; witnesses recommended stronger screening, funding and federal‑university collaboration to protect sensitive research.
Pittsburg, Crawford County, Kansas
The Pittsburg City Commission approved several routine items on Jan. 14, 2025: a conditional use permit for a church at 1613 North Walnut, award of bids for the Washington School preschool project, and two Neighborhood Advisory Council appointments.
Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Special, Select and Other Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
Witnesses described an increase in transnational repression—harassment, threats and covert surveillance—directed at Chinese‑American dissidents, journalists and candidates; former FBI officials said China‑related counterintelligence investigations now make up roughly half of the bureau’s caseload.
Finance and Taxation, Senate, Legislative, North Dakota
The committee debated whether dissolved school districts should be allowed to transfer unobligated cash balances to other political subdivisions. An amendment to limit transfers to $50,000 and require the money be spent on the donated building failed; the committee ultimately recommended 'do not pass' on Senate Bill 2158.
Pittsburg, Crawford County, Kansas
After more than an hour of public comment both for and against, the City of Pittsburg Commission voted to approve a conditional use permit allowing Sheena Cosman to operate an in‑home daycare at 1609 Woodland Terrace. The Planning & Zoning Board had recommended approval 4–2; the applicant holds a state childcare license on a temporary extension.
Transportation, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Multiple witnesses urged the committee to prioritize capital investments in Amtrak Cascades infrastructure, create a dedicated rail office in WSDOT, and use Climate Commitment Act funds to improve trip times and on‑time reliability.
Senate, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
Senate File 16, amended in committee, was reported "do pass" by the Committee of the Whole. The bill adds tribal governments (Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho) to the notification list for industrial siting within adjacent counties; a committee amendment clarifies an effective-date phrase.
Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Special, Select and Other Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
Experts told the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence that Beijing uses state media, paid content placements, covert social media campaigns and diaspora platforms such as WeChat to reach U.S. audiences; senators and witnesses discussed TikTok’s reach and the risks posed by data and recommender algorithms.
Transportation, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
City and regional officials testified that the SR 167 master plan needs an immediate $2.5 million implementation planning allocation and that four I‑405/SR 167 projects under construction face a combined $94 million funding gap caused by rising costs.
Lynnwood, Snohomish County, Washington
Lynnwood City Council held a work‑session training on Jan. 15, 2025, led by parliamentary trainer Anne McFarland of Jurassic Parliament that reviewed Robert’s Rules of Order and local meeting procedures for council members and staff.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Southborough Board of Health approved revised minutes for Dec. 10, 2024, inserting a clarification that Board member Dan Malinowski opposed pulling opioid settlement funds without a multi-town plan and preferred pursuing a regional school program with Northborough.
Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Special, Select and Other Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
Witnesses told the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence that the Chinese Communist Party has shifted emphasis to influence U.S. state and local officials through investment, sister‑city ties, sponsored trips and covert data collection, and urged better federal support and transparency for subnational decision‑makers.
Senate, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
Senate File 15, which would allow oil and gas operators to manage produced water in common facilities instead of requiring on-lease pits for each unit, was reported "do pass" by the Committee of the Whole. Sponsors said the change encourages reuse and more thoughtful water management.
Transportation, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Megan Cotton, the governor's senior policy adviser for transportation, and Eric Hansen, senior budget adviser for transportation, briefed the House Transportation Committee on Jan. 15 on Governor Jay Inslee's proposed transportation budgets and the fiscal constraints they faced.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
At its Jan. 14 meeting the Southborough Board of Health introduced new joint health agent Chris Craig and discussed the regional PHE grant, staffing needs, a proposed contract for hoarding cases, service-tracking software, AEDs and community health outreach including Dry January, vaccine availability, Narcan and CPR trainings.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
The Redevelopment Agency continued a proposed CVIP agreement for Abel Baker Brewing Company at 1510 S. Main St. and requested additional coordination with public works and other departments before returning on Feb. 19, 2025.
Town of Northborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
At its Jan. 15 meeting the Northborough Historic District Commission voted to deem 9 Church Street historically significant, triggering a demolition-delay period; the commission asked the property owner for written documentation of attempts to avoid demolition and left open the option to shorten the delay if no feasible alternatives exist.
Newport News (Independent City), Virginia
The Planning Commission voted 5-2 on Jan. 15 to approve special exception SE2024-006, allowing a two-story single-family dwelling on a nonconforming lot on Scufflefield Road; the case will proceed to the Board of Zoning Appeals on Feb. 18.
Senate, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
Senate File 13, described by sponsors as a cleanup of K‑3 reading assessment and intervention statutes, was reported "do pass" by the Committee of the Whole after sponsors said the bill clarifies screening instruments, individual reading-plan language and strikes a statutory student/teacher ratio that sponsors called impractical.
Town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts
The Southborough Board of Health voted Jan. 14, 2025, to adopt the town's first trash-hauler regulations following a virtual public hearing; the rules were adapted from neighboring towns and reviewed by DPW and town counsel.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
The Redevelopment Agency authorized a first amendment to a master lease to allow up to $1 million in tenant-improvement funds for a market hall at the northwest corner of D Street and Jefferson Avenue and approved reimbursement of slightly more than $200,000 for design and planning work already completed.
Economic Matters Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
A Maryland Energy Administration study presented to the Economic Matters Committee shows the state would need roughly a 75% increase in installed capacity (about 9.6 gigawatts) under an in‑state 100% clean generation scenario and points to nuclear and offshore wind as large but uncertain contributors.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
The RDA approved a $25,000 Commercial Visual Improvement Program grant to support exterior façade work and signage for the Doberman at 1025 S. First St. in the Arts District; the applicant expects a late March opening.
Senate, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
The Wyoming Senate Committee of the Whole voted to report Senate File 52 with a "do pass" recommendation. Sponsors said the bill updates insurance-code language, modernizes record-handling requirements and removes outdated wellness-disclosure statutes.
Newport News (Independent City), Virginia
The Newport News City Planning Commission on Jan. 15 voted 7-0 to recommend that City Council approve CU2024-0012, a conditional use permit for W.M. Smith Contracting to build a small contractor's office and limited storage at 12618 Warwick Boulevard; City Council will consider the permit on Feb. 11.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
Redevelopment Agency approved a $2 million electrical utility reimbursement program to help private developers underground overhead lines in redevelopment areas; the program includes tiered reimbursements and eligibility thresholds.
Appropriations, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Mary Monroe, operating budget coordinator for the House Appropriations Committee, presented a preliminary maintenance‑level outlook showing the near‑general‑fund‑outlook (NGFO) projection ending $6.7 billion negative in the 2027–29 outlook period, before any policy decisions.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
The City of Las Vegas Redevelopment Agency accepted an independent audit showing an unmodified opinion and no significant deficiencies for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.
Economic Matters Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
Delegates pressed PJM about the process that led to a PSEG‑awarded high‑voltage transmission line route through Carroll County, and PJM explained its regional transmission expansion plan and that developers—not PJM—select routes and seek CPCNs from the PSC.
City of Parkland, Broward County, Florida
At the Jan. 15 City of Parkland commission meeting members approved the first reading of the Village in the Park zoning ordinance and design guidelines, approved three advisory‑board appointment resolutions, and reappointed a police pension trustee. A separate motion to reopen application windows for advisory boards failed.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
Public works director briefed the council on the regional fuel-revenue indexing program (FRY) that funds major road, safety and transit projects and urged support for extending the program at the state level to avoid a projected $50 million annual shortfall for the city.
State Government & Tribal Relations, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The State Government & Tribal Relations Committee on Jan. 15 heard hours of testimony on House Bill 1147, a proposed substitute that would establish a legal right to civic engagement for people who are incarcerated or detained in state hospitals and other state‑operated facilities.
Legislative, Arizona
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation President Sandra Patea recounted the community's successful 1981 campaign to stop the Orme Dam project and described the tribe's role in restoring Native voting rights in Arizona after the 1948 state supreme court ruling.
Economic Matters Committee, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committees, Legislative, Maryland
PJM told the Economic Matters Committee that Maryland could face supply shortfalls unless more projects in the interconnection queue are built, citing retiring generators, rapid load growth driven by data centers and changes to capacity market rules that sharply raised prices.
Health Care & Wellness, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House Health Care Committee received a staff briefing on House Bill 1157, which would expand eligibility for certified birth and death certificates to include great-grandchildren; the prime sponsor was not present and no oral testimony was given.
Legislative, Arizona
Gila River Indian Community Governor Stephen Roe Lewis praised state‑tribal collaboration that secured funding for the I‑10 widening across tribal land and urged lawmakers to tackle transportation safety and SR‑347 improvements this session.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
The council approved the ratification of Hans Jessup as municipal court administrator after a judiciary-led internal selection process; judges cited his operations experience and court-management skills.
Rules & Procedure Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
Committee members discussed proposals to limit the number of bills a member can sponsor in a budget session (options raised included a 5-bill limit), but no rule change was adopted during the meeting.
Health Care & Wellness, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House Health Care Committee heard sponsor and business testimony on House Bill 1009, which would allow an owner/operator/officer of a pharmacy — including non-pharmacists — to fill one commission seat currently limited to pharmacists.
Legislative, Arizona
Colorado River Indian Tribes Chairwoman Amelia Flores asked state leaders to protect Prop 123 funding, ensure Indian Child Welfare Act training and expand culturally competent substance‑use treatment and early childhood programs that serve tribal families.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
The council approved an appeal overturning Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department�27s denial of a work card for a Hop Nuts Brewing applicant, imposing site-specific, non-supervisory and one-year administrative review conditions.
Rules & Procedure Committee, House of Representative, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
A proposed House Rule (HR0156) that would have prohibited audio and video recording on the floor and in committee areas when the legislature was not in session failed in committee after members questioned enforceability and public access concerns.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
The council ratified a two-year labor contract with the Las Vegas City Employees Association covering 1,265 employees, including across-the-board raises and cost-of-living adjustments totaling roughly $14.45 million over the term.
Legislative, Arizona
Sandra Patea, president of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, told lawmakers the 2021 gaming compact expanded tribal gaming but redistributed revenues unevenly, leaving some tribes with declines and urging careful review of further expansion proposals.
Health Care & Wellness, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Lawmakers and advocates urged the House Health Care Committee to close a coverage loophole and require insurers to cover up to a 12-month supply of contraceptives at once for new prescriptions, citing access barriers for students, rural residents and survivors of coercion.
Las Vegas , Clark County, Nevada
The council approved a zoning change to allow a 17-story mixed-use project in the Fremont East Entertainment District, with a condition that construction documents be submitted within one year or the approval voids.
Health Care & Wellness, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
Department of Health officials briefed the House Health Care Committee on public health priorities including respiratory surveillance, the opioid crisis and tribal data sovereignty; members pressed for follow-up on trust-building, perinatal substance-use designations and an EMS buprenorphine pilot.
Legislative, Arizona
Governor Stephen Roe Lewis asked Arizona lawmakers to back legislation modeled on Amber Alerts to improve coordination of state, federal and tribal responses to missing indigenous people, and urged bipartisan support.
Legislative, Arizona
Colorado River Indian Tribes chairwoman Amelia Flores and Gila River Indian Community Governor Stephen Roe Lewis urged state lawmakers to protect senior tribal water rights, support water settlements and pursue durable, cooperative solutions to Colorado River shortages.
State Government & Tribal Relations, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
The State Government & Tribal Relations Committee on Jan. 15 took testimony on House Bill 1055, which would create a joint legislative committee and direct JLARC, the attorney general and the Sunshine Committee to study whether Washington should establish an independent transparency ombuds office to assist public‑records requesters.
State Government & Tribal Relations, House of Representatives, Legislative Sessions, Washington
House Bill 1146 would require county auditors, jails and state hospitals to plan for voter registration and ballot access; sponsors and advocates said the bill fills gaps in access, while counties and some agencies asked for funding and changes to a civil‑enforcement provision that would impose civil penalties for intentional violations