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Washington State AI Task Force releases final report
OLYMPIA, Washington, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release:
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Washington State AI Task Force releases final report
The Washington State Artificial Intelligence Task Force today released its final report, capping two years of work to study how artificial intelligence is used across the state and to recommend policies that balance innovation with protections for civil rights, consumers, and workers.
The final report is the third and last report required of the task force by the Legislature, following a preliminary report in December ... Show Full Article OLYMPIA, Washington, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release: * * * Washington State AI Task Force releases final report The Washington State Artificial Intelligence Task Force today released its final report, capping two years of work to study how artificial intelligence is used across the state and to recommend policies that balance innovation with protections for civil rights, consumers, and workers. The final report is the third and last report required of the task force by the Legislature, following a preliminary report in December2024 and an interim report in December 2025. Combined with those earlier reports, the task force has now advanced eleven policy recommendations to the Legislature and Governor.
During the 2025-2026 legislative biennium, lawmakers introduced legislation addressing eight of the recommendations and has so far enacted four in whole or in part, including measures to regulate companion AI chatbots, improve transparency in healthcare prior authorizations, require disclosure of AI use by law enforcement, and strengthen enforcement against AI-generated child sexual abuse material.
"Washington does not have to choose between embracing innovation and protecting people," Attorney General Nick Brown said. "The goal has always been to find a balance that ensures that as AI continues to evolve it does so in a way that works for everyone, not just the companies developing it."
Created by the Legislature in 2024 through SB 5838, the task force brought together 19 members representing government, the technology industry, labor, civil rights organizations, consumer advocates, and academia. The task force's eight subcommittees held more than 75 meetings, many open to the public, and circulated draft recommendations to more than 300 stakeholders for public review and comment before public votes by the full task force.
In its final public meeting on April 24, 2026, the task force voted to adopt two new recommendations: establishing a permanent advisory body on AI and emerging technology, and regulating companion AI chatbots.
Alongside the final report, the task force is releasing two companion documents: an addendum reviewing existing state and federal AI regulation, and a survey of Washington workers on AI's impact in the workplace.
The final report, along with the task force's prior reports and supporting research, is available on the Attorney General's website at www.atg.wa.gov/aitaskforce.
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Washington's Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state's largest law firm, the Attorney General's Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington's 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.
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REPORT: https://agportal-s3bucket.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Publications/WA%20AI%20Task%20Force%20Final%20Report%20July%202026.pdf?VersionId=I80a55j7U5HtbnmTfMdFk65BE7UF3B1H
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Original text here: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/washington-state-ai-task-force-releases-final-report
* * *
Washington State AI Task Force releases final report
The Washington State Artificial Intelligence Task Force today released its final report, capping two years of work to study how artificial intelligence is used across the state and to recommend policies that balance innovation with protections for civil rights, consumers, and workers.
The final report is the third and last report required of the task force by the Legislature, following a preliminary report in December ... Show Full Article OLYMPIA, Washington, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release: * * * Washington State AI Task Force releases final report The Washington State Artificial Intelligence Task Force today released its final report, capping two years of work to study how artificial intelligence is used across the state and to recommend policies that balance innovation with protections for civil rights, consumers, and workers. The final report is the third and last report required of the task force by the Legislature, following a preliminary report in December2024 and an interim report in December 2025. Combined with those earlier reports, the task force has now advanced eleven policy recommendations to the Legislature and Governor.
During the 2025-2026 legislative biennium, lawmakers introduced legislation addressing eight of the recommendations and has so far enacted four in whole or in part, including measures to regulate companion AI chatbots, improve transparency in healthcare prior authorizations, require disclosure of AI use by law enforcement, and strengthen enforcement against AI-generated child sexual abuse material.
"Washington does not have to choose between embracing innovation and protecting people," Attorney General Nick Brown said. "The goal has always been to find a balance that ensures that as AI continues to evolve it does so in a way that works for everyone, not just the companies developing it."
Created by the Legislature in 2024 through SB 5838, the task force brought together 19 members representing government, the technology industry, labor, civil rights organizations, consumer advocates, and academia. The task force's eight subcommittees held more than 75 meetings, many open to the public, and circulated draft recommendations to more than 300 stakeholders for public review and comment before public votes by the full task force.
In its final public meeting on April 24, 2026, the task force voted to adopt two new recommendations: establishing a permanent advisory body on AI and emerging technology, and regulating companion AI chatbots.
Alongside the final report, the task force is releasing two companion documents: an addendum reviewing existing state and federal AI regulation, and a survey of Washington workers on AI's impact in the workplace.
The final report, along with the task force's prior reports and supporting research, is available on the Attorney General's website at www.atg.wa.gov/aitaskforce.
* * *
Washington's Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state's largest law firm, the Attorney General's Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington's 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.
* * *
REPORT: https://agportal-s3bucket.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Publications/WA%20AI%20Task%20Force%20Final%20Report%20July%202026.pdf?VersionId=I80a55j7U5HtbnmTfMdFk65BE7UF3B1H
***
Original text here: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/washington-state-ai-task-force-releases-final-report
Governor Sherrill Signs FY 2027 Appropriations Act
TRENTON, New Jersey, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- Gov. Mikie Sherrill, D-New Jersey, posted the following news release:
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Governor Sherrill Signs FY 2027 Appropriations Act
Budget Includes Record Property Tax Relief and Education Investment, Focuses on Children's Mental Health, Increases Child Tax Credit
Appropriations Act Maintains $7.3 Billion Pension Payment, Halves the Structural Deficit, and Brings Surplus to Over $6 Billion
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Governor Mikie Sherrill today signed into law the FY 2027 Appropriations Act, delivering on the Administration's mandate to make New Jersey more affordable, protect ... Show Full Article TRENTON, New Jersey, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- Gov. Mikie Sherrill, D-New Jersey, posted the following news release: * * * Governor Sherrill Signs FY 2027 Appropriations Act Budget Includes Record Property Tax Relief and Education Investment, Focuses on Children's Mental Health, Increases Child Tax Credit Appropriations Act Maintains $7.3 Billion Pension Payment, Halves the Structural Deficit, and Brings Surplus to Over $6 Billion - Governor Mikie Sherrill today signed into law the FY 2027 Appropriations Act, delivering on the Administration's mandate to make New Jersey more affordable, protectchildren and families, and increase accountability and transparency in state government.
The $60.7 billion budget mirrors the amount of total spending proposed in the Governor's Budget Message, fulfilling the Sherrill Administration's mission to rein in spending without raising taxes on individual New Jerseyans. The budget provides record property tax relief, including a revamped Stay NJ program that supports higher benefits for middle and lower-income seniors; makes historic investments in schools; boosts the Child Tax Credit; and delivers a full pension payment, making Governor Sherrill the first governor to fully fund the pension system in the first year of an Administration in decades.
The Appropriations Act includes a surplus of $6.084 billion, as well as a structural deficit of $1.35 billion - down from the over $3 billion structural deficit projected when Governor Sherrill took office in January.
"When I took office, I promised New Jersey families that affordability would be the north star of every decision we made. With the passage of our first budget, we are delivering on that promise," said Governor Mikie Sherrill. "It is an affordability budget that takes on the rising costs of housing, health care, and property taxes while standing up to Trump's chaos and cuts. It is the most fiscally responsible budget in years. It cuts our structural deficit in half and puts us in a stronger position for the future without raising taxes on individual New Jerseyans. This budget reflects our values, protects our future, and ensures doors to opportunity remain open in New Jersey."
"This budget demonstrates a steadfast commitment to fiscal discipline, maintaining a full pension payment, responsible surplus, and support for shared priorities like property tax relief and school funding," said State Treasurer Aaron Binder. "I'd like to thank all who've been engaged in the process of crafting this budget, including legislators on both sides of the aisle for their partnership and careful consideration of our proposals; stakeholders and members of the public who shared ideas that helped shape the final budget; and staffs of the Department of the Treasury and Office of Legislative Services for their integral work behind the scenes to ready and deliver the budget for the people of New Jersey."
"I want to thank Governor Sherrill, Speaker Coughlin and my Senate colleagues for working together to produce a budget that maintains our emphasis on affordability and continues our commitment to fiscal responsibility," said Senate President Nick Scutari. "While our residents are forced to contend with cost increases due to economic policies in Washington, we made affordability our top priority by delivering record property tax relief, expanding the Child Tax Credit for working families, and strengthening support for children's mental health services. Even with difficult fiscal choices, we remained focused on preserving the investments that improve quality of life, strengthen our communities, and create greater opportunity for residents across the state. This budget reflects our commitment to responsible governing while ensuring New Jersey remains a place where families can succeed and our economy can continue to grow."
"The Fiscal Year 2027 budget delivers for New Jersey families and carries forward the progress we've made in the Legislature to make New Jersey a more affordable place to call home while being responsible stewards of the people's money. I'm especially pleased to pass a budget that includes another year of record property tax relief for New Jerseyans, including our decision to make StayNJ sustainable for retirees, so that homeowners can count on that benefit being there for them," said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. "The budget maintains a healthy surplus while cutting the structural deficit by half, and safeguards the State against an anticipated loss in federal funding, and we did this without raising taxes on New Jersey families. We're proud of the way this budget sticks up for our neighbors, our communities, and our families."
"With the challenges before us, I am proud of the work the Legislature accomplished in partnership with Governor Sherrill to deliver a budget that invests in our greatest asset -the people who strengthen our communities," said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. "After months of collaboration and public feedback, we've delivered another full pension payment, the largest property tax relief program in state history, and significantly increased the child tax credit to help working families build greater financial stability. We've also stood up for our most vulnerable residents in the face of escalating attacks from Washington by expanding the Detention Deportation Defense Initiative, directing additional funding to programs that support survivors of domestic violence and abuse, and identifying cost savings to help offset federal cuts. As we look ahead, this spending plan lays the foundation for a stronger future rooted in fiscal discipline, expanded opportunity, and the belief that every New Jerseyan can thrive."
"I'm proud that New Jersey has once again delivered a responsible budget for the hardworking families we serve, with meaningful property tax relief and the preservation of the Stay NJ program," said Majority Leader Lou Greenwald. " At a time when dangerous, shortsighted federal cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and Affordable Care Act subsidies are shifting billions of dollars in costs onto states and pulling critical support away from families, New Jersey has stepped up to protect the services our residents rely on."
"This is a budget that will move New Jersey forward in the face of difficult fiscal conditions," said Senator Paul Sarlo, Chair of the Senate Budget Committee. "Working in collaboration with Governor Sherrill, the Assembly and my colleagues in the Senate, we kept the budget at $60.7 billion, the same level as proposed by the Governor. We continued our emphasis on affordability with the largest amount of property tax relief in state history and a substantial increase in child tax credits to help working families. We are also maintaining our commitment to fiscal responsibility with another full pension payment, the continued reduction in the structural deficit and a surplus of more than $6 billion that will help contend with economic consequences of federal cutbacks. This is a fiscal plan that positions New Jersey to meet these challenges and continue to advance the quality of life for our residents."
"This budget reflects what responsible governing looks like. We reduced the structural deficit, maintained a budget of $60.7 billion, kept a surplus of more than $6 billion, fully funded our $7.3 billion pension payment, and continued our commitment to funding our schools with another record-breaking amount. We proved once again that fiscal discipline and keeping our promises to New Jersey families go hand in hand," said Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin, Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee. "This budget expands the Child Tax Credit by 25 percent, continues historic property tax relief, invests in supporting children's mental health, strengthens child advocacy centers across the state, and provides critical support to organizations and many nonprofits that people rely on every day. Behind every number is a family, a child, a senior, a veteran, a neighborhood, or an organization that someone is counting on and this budget never loses sight of that."
MAKING NEW JERSEY MORE AFFORDABLE
As part of Governor Sherrill's focus on affordability, the FY 2027 budget includes record property tax relief totaling over $4.1 billion. This includes $2.186 billion for ANCHOR, $345 million for Senior Freeze, and $756 million for Stay NJ.
Modifications to Stay NJ will ensure seniors with middle and lower household incomes receive the highest benefit through a modified tiered benefit system. Qualifying taxpayers would receive benefits totaling half their property tax bill, up to certain thresholds determined by their income. Those with an annual household income from over $150,000 to $200,000 would receive up to $4,000 on a tax year basis; those earning more than $100,000 up to $150,000 would receive up to $5,000 on a tax year basis; and those earning $100,000 or less would receive the maximum benefit of up to $6,500 on a tax year basis. The income eligibility threshold would be capped at $200,000.
New Jersey's Child Tax Credit will be increased by 25 percent, boosting this critical benefit claimed by 217,000 tax filers with children. The increase, which will be in place for three tax years (TY 2026 through TY 2028), provides a 25 percent bump for each tier of the CTC, meaning a household which previously received the highest tier of $1,000 will now receive $1,250; a household that previously received $800 will now receive $1,000; and so forth.
The FY 2027 budget also includes $7.3 billion for the State's pension system, marking the sixth consecutive full payment. This one-year contribution is already more than the total combined contributions of former Governors Whitman, DiFrancesco, McGreevey, Codey, and Corzine, and amounts to more than double the initial payment by former Governor Murphy.
To fulfill the Governor's goal of easing the financial burden for New Jersey residents purchasing their first home, this budget increases the State's Down Payment Assistance Program allocation by $5 million. It also appropriates nearly $80 million from the General Fund for housing programs to make room for more construction spending from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
This budget includes $11 million for the existing Bringing Veterans Home initiative, which has successfully adopted strategies to transition homeless veterans from temporary housing placements to stable, permanent housing solutions. Also included is $35 million for the Department of Community Affairs' Homelessness Response program, which aims to expand rapid re-housing programs for vulnerable households in imminent risk of homelessness.
Additionally, the budget restores $20 million in funding for the Summer Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) program, which provides financial support to qualifying undergraduate college students.
PROTECTING NEW JERSEY'S CHILDREN
This budget includes a record $12.4 billion for K-12 schools in FY 2027, a more than $370 million increase over last year's funding and the most in state history.
Also included is a record $1.4 billion for Preschool Education Aid.
To reinforce Governor Sherrill's commitment to youth mental health, the budget includes $125,000 for the Office of Youth Online Mental Health Safety and Awareness in the Department of Health. This newly created office will research and make recommendations to guide responsible use of social media platforms among youth. The budget also includes $500,000 for a new Social Media Research Center at one of New Jersey's higher education institutions.
An allocation of $15 million for high-impact tutoring - double the amount from FY 2026 - will help nearly 100 more districts and 13,500 more students, with the goal to address academic achievement gaps in literacy and mathematics. The budget includes initial funding for the School-based Partnerships for Access and Resilience for Kids initiative, or SPARK, which will provide critical mental health services to students with complex, high-acuity needs and maintains support for the New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services (NJ4S) while strengthening oversight measures.
Keeping children's health and wellness a top priority, the budget includes $6.9 billion in state funding for NJ FamilyCare, New Jersey's Medicaid program, which provides comprehensive health care benefits to over 1.8 million New Jerseyans, including nearly half of New Jersey's children. The budget also provides 21,000 schoolchildren with free meals through the Working-Class Families Anti-Hunger Act.
Additionally, the budget includes wide-ranging support for families and children. This includes a statewide expansion of Family Connects NJ, New Jersey's nation-leading universal nurse home visiting program; allocating $582 million for childcare assistance to ensure the full reopening of the Child Care Assistance Program application process; and maintaining or increasing support for New Jersey's Earned Income Tax Credit, and Child Tax Credit.
MAKING STATE GOVERNMENT MORE ACCOUNTABLE
Governor Sherrill is committed to making state government more accountable to the people it serves.
To that end, this budget includes an additional $13.3 million in state funding for the New Jersey Innovation Authority to support major operating initiatives like the Permitting Dashboard and the New Jersey Report Card; supports technology upgrades across state government, including $3 million for the Division of Consumer Affairs to upgrade its licensing system and complaint database; and reduces business registration fees and improves procurement assistance for minority and women-owned businesses.
The Governor already has delivered on her promise to make New Jersey more transparent with the launch of the Budget Report Card, which tracks state spending, and the Permitting Dashboard Pilot, which provides project applicants and state agencies with a shared view of project status and permitting timelines, creating greater visibility into how selected projects move through the review process. The dashboard allows businesses to track a project's permits across agencies in one place.
The budget also funds new oversight initiatives to save resources long-term - including adding additional resources to the Division of Pensions and Benefits to improve contract compliance, and additional experts at the Department of Education to enhance school district monitoring and prevent sudden financial challenges.
Governor Sherrill is committed to improving transportation across the state so that commuters spend less time on their commutes, and more time enjoying all New Jersey has to offer. The FY 2027 budget includes nearly $1.1 billion in state operating support for NJ TRANSIT, an increase of $235 million or 28 percent from the support provided in FY 2026. This includes NJ Transit's General Fund subsidy of $302.2 million and $765.6 million in dedicated revenue from the Corporate Transit Fee.
The budget also includes approximately $2.1 billion for the State Transportation Capital Program. This includes $1.3 billion for critical investments in state, local highway, and bridge projects, and another $782 million for NJ TRANSIT capital projects, which include bus, locomotive, and track acquisition and improvements.
Read the text of the FY 2027 Appropriations Act here (https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2026/A5500/5327_I1.PDF).
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REPORT: https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/2026/S2500/2027_I1.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/2026/approved/20260630d.shtml
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Governor Sherrill Signs FY 2027 Appropriations Act
Budget Includes Record Property Tax Relief and Education Investment, Focuses on Children's Mental Health, Increases Child Tax Credit
Appropriations Act Maintains $7.3 Billion Pension Payment, Halves the Structural Deficit, and Brings Surplus to Over $6 Billion
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Governor Mikie Sherrill today signed into law the FY 2027 Appropriations Act, delivering on the Administration's mandate to make New Jersey more affordable, protect ... Show Full Article TRENTON, New Jersey, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- Gov. Mikie Sherrill, D-New Jersey, posted the following news release: * * * Governor Sherrill Signs FY 2027 Appropriations Act Budget Includes Record Property Tax Relief and Education Investment, Focuses on Children's Mental Health, Increases Child Tax Credit Appropriations Act Maintains $7.3 Billion Pension Payment, Halves the Structural Deficit, and Brings Surplus to Over $6 Billion - Governor Mikie Sherrill today signed into law the FY 2027 Appropriations Act, delivering on the Administration's mandate to make New Jersey more affordable, protectchildren and families, and increase accountability and transparency in state government.
The $60.7 billion budget mirrors the amount of total spending proposed in the Governor's Budget Message, fulfilling the Sherrill Administration's mission to rein in spending without raising taxes on individual New Jerseyans. The budget provides record property tax relief, including a revamped Stay NJ program that supports higher benefits for middle and lower-income seniors; makes historic investments in schools; boosts the Child Tax Credit; and delivers a full pension payment, making Governor Sherrill the first governor to fully fund the pension system in the first year of an Administration in decades.
The Appropriations Act includes a surplus of $6.084 billion, as well as a structural deficit of $1.35 billion - down from the over $3 billion structural deficit projected when Governor Sherrill took office in January.
"When I took office, I promised New Jersey families that affordability would be the north star of every decision we made. With the passage of our first budget, we are delivering on that promise," said Governor Mikie Sherrill. "It is an affordability budget that takes on the rising costs of housing, health care, and property taxes while standing up to Trump's chaos and cuts. It is the most fiscally responsible budget in years. It cuts our structural deficit in half and puts us in a stronger position for the future without raising taxes on individual New Jerseyans. This budget reflects our values, protects our future, and ensures doors to opportunity remain open in New Jersey."
"This budget demonstrates a steadfast commitment to fiscal discipline, maintaining a full pension payment, responsible surplus, and support for shared priorities like property tax relief and school funding," said State Treasurer Aaron Binder. "I'd like to thank all who've been engaged in the process of crafting this budget, including legislators on both sides of the aisle for their partnership and careful consideration of our proposals; stakeholders and members of the public who shared ideas that helped shape the final budget; and staffs of the Department of the Treasury and Office of Legislative Services for their integral work behind the scenes to ready and deliver the budget for the people of New Jersey."
"I want to thank Governor Sherrill, Speaker Coughlin and my Senate colleagues for working together to produce a budget that maintains our emphasis on affordability and continues our commitment to fiscal responsibility," said Senate President Nick Scutari. "While our residents are forced to contend with cost increases due to economic policies in Washington, we made affordability our top priority by delivering record property tax relief, expanding the Child Tax Credit for working families, and strengthening support for children's mental health services. Even with difficult fiscal choices, we remained focused on preserving the investments that improve quality of life, strengthen our communities, and create greater opportunity for residents across the state. This budget reflects our commitment to responsible governing while ensuring New Jersey remains a place where families can succeed and our economy can continue to grow."
"The Fiscal Year 2027 budget delivers for New Jersey families and carries forward the progress we've made in the Legislature to make New Jersey a more affordable place to call home while being responsible stewards of the people's money. I'm especially pleased to pass a budget that includes another year of record property tax relief for New Jerseyans, including our decision to make StayNJ sustainable for retirees, so that homeowners can count on that benefit being there for them," said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. "The budget maintains a healthy surplus while cutting the structural deficit by half, and safeguards the State against an anticipated loss in federal funding, and we did this without raising taxes on New Jersey families. We're proud of the way this budget sticks up for our neighbors, our communities, and our families."
"With the challenges before us, I am proud of the work the Legislature accomplished in partnership with Governor Sherrill to deliver a budget that invests in our greatest asset -the people who strengthen our communities," said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. "After months of collaboration and public feedback, we've delivered another full pension payment, the largest property tax relief program in state history, and significantly increased the child tax credit to help working families build greater financial stability. We've also stood up for our most vulnerable residents in the face of escalating attacks from Washington by expanding the Detention Deportation Defense Initiative, directing additional funding to programs that support survivors of domestic violence and abuse, and identifying cost savings to help offset federal cuts. As we look ahead, this spending plan lays the foundation for a stronger future rooted in fiscal discipline, expanded opportunity, and the belief that every New Jerseyan can thrive."
"I'm proud that New Jersey has once again delivered a responsible budget for the hardworking families we serve, with meaningful property tax relief and the preservation of the Stay NJ program," said Majority Leader Lou Greenwald. " At a time when dangerous, shortsighted federal cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and Affordable Care Act subsidies are shifting billions of dollars in costs onto states and pulling critical support away from families, New Jersey has stepped up to protect the services our residents rely on."
"This is a budget that will move New Jersey forward in the face of difficult fiscal conditions," said Senator Paul Sarlo, Chair of the Senate Budget Committee. "Working in collaboration with Governor Sherrill, the Assembly and my colleagues in the Senate, we kept the budget at $60.7 billion, the same level as proposed by the Governor. We continued our emphasis on affordability with the largest amount of property tax relief in state history and a substantial increase in child tax credits to help working families. We are also maintaining our commitment to fiscal responsibility with another full pension payment, the continued reduction in the structural deficit and a surplus of more than $6 billion that will help contend with economic consequences of federal cutbacks. This is a fiscal plan that positions New Jersey to meet these challenges and continue to advance the quality of life for our residents."
"This budget reflects what responsible governing looks like. We reduced the structural deficit, maintained a budget of $60.7 billion, kept a surplus of more than $6 billion, fully funded our $7.3 billion pension payment, and continued our commitment to funding our schools with another record-breaking amount. We proved once again that fiscal discipline and keeping our promises to New Jersey families go hand in hand," said Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin, Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee. "This budget expands the Child Tax Credit by 25 percent, continues historic property tax relief, invests in supporting children's mental health, strengthens child advocacy centers across the state, and provides critical support to organizations and many nonprofits that people rely on every day. Behind every number is a family, a child, a senior, a veteran, a neighborhood, or an organization that someone is counting on and this budget never loses sight of that."
MAKING NEW JERSEY MORE AFFORDABLE
As part of Governor Sherrill's focus on affordability, the FY 2027 budget includes record property tax relief totaling over $4.1 billion. This includes $2.186 billion for ANCHOR, $345 million for Senior Freeze, and $756 million for Stay NJ.
Modifications to Stay NJ will ensure seniors with middle and lower household incomes receive the highest benefit through a modified tiered benefit system. Qualifying taxpayers would receive benefits totaling half their property tax bill, up to certain thresholds determined by their income. Those with an annual household income from over $150,000 to $200,000 would receive up to $4,000 on a tax year basis; those earning more than $100,000 up to $150,000 would receive up to $5,000 on a tax year basis; and those earning $100,000 or less would receive the maximum benefit of up to $6,500 on a tax year basis. The income eligibility threshold would be capped at $200,000.
New Jersey's Child Tax Credit will be increased by 25 percent, boosting this critical benefit claimed by 217,000 tax filers with children. The increase, which will be in place for three tax years (TY 2026 through TY 2028), provides a 25 percent bump for each tier of the CTC, meaning a household which previously received the highest tier of $1,000 will now receive $1,250; a household that previously received $800 will now receive $1,000; and so forth.
The FY 2027 budget also includes $7.3 billion for the State's pension system, marking the sixth consecutive full payment. This one-year contribution is already more than the total combined contributions of former Governors Whitman, DiFrancesco, McGreevey, Codey, and Corzine, and amounts to more than double the initial payment by former Governor Murphy.
To fulfill the Governor's goal of easing the financial burden for New Jersey residents purchasing their first home, this budget increases the State's Down Payment Assistance Program allocation by $5 million. It also appropriates nearly $80 million from the General Fund for housing programs to make room for more construction spending from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
This budget includes $11 million for the existing Bringing Veterans Home initiative, which has successfully adopted strategies to transition homeless veterans from temporary housing placements to stable, permanent housing solutions. Also included is $35 million for the Department of Community Affairs' Homelessness Response program, which aims to expand rapid re-housing programs for vulnerable households in imminent risk of homelessness.
Additionally, the budget restores $20 million in funding for the Summer Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) program, which provides financial support to qualifying undergraduate college students.
PROTECTING NEW JERSEY'S CHILDREN
This budget includes a record $12.4 billion for K-12 schools in FY 2027, a more than $370 million increase over last year's funding and the most in state history.
Also included is a record $1.4 billion for Preschool Education Aid.
To reinforce Governor Sherrill's commitment to youth mental health, the budget includes $125,000 for the Office of Youth Online Mental Health Safety and Awareness in the Department of Health. This newly created office will research and make recommendations to guide responsible use of social media platforms among youth. The budget also includes $500,000 for a new Social Media Research Center at one of New Jersey's higher education institutions.
An allocation of $15 million for high-impact tutoring - double the amount from FY 2026 - will help nearly 100 more districts and 13,500 more students, with the goal to address academic achievement gaps in literacy and mathematics. The budget includes initial funding for the School-based Partnerships for Access and Resilience for Kids initiative, or SPARK, which will provide critical mental health services to students with complex, high-acuity needs and maintains support for the New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services (NJ4S) while strengthening oversight measures.
Keeping children's health and wellness a top priority, the budget includes $6.9 billion in state funding for NJ FamilyCare, New Jersey's Medicaid program, which provides comprehensive health care benefits to over 1.8 million New Jerseyans, including nearly half of New Jersey's children. The budget also provides 21,000 schoolchildren with free meals through the Working-Class Families Anti-Hunger Act.
Additionally, the budget includes wide-ranging support for families and children. This includes a statewide expansion of Family Connects NJ, New Jersey's nation-leading universal nurse home visiting program; allocating $582 million for childcare assistance to ensure the full reopening of the Child Care Assistance Program application process; and maintaining or increasing support for New Jersey's Earned Income Tax Credit, and Child Tax Credit.
MAKING STATE GOVERNMENT MORE ACCOUNTABLE
Governor Sherrill is committed to making state government more accountable to the people it serves.
To that end, this budget includes an additional $13.3 million in state funding for the New Jersey Innovation Authority to support major operating initiatives like the Permitting Dashboard and the New Jersey Report Card; supports technology upgrades across state government, including $3 million for the Division of Consumer Affairs to upgrade its licensing system and complaint database; and reduces business registration fees and improves procurement assistance for minority and women-owned businesses.
The Governor already has delivered on her promise to make New Jersey more transparent with the launch of the Budget Report Card, which tracks state spending, and the Permitting Dashboard Pilot, which provides project applicants and state agencies with a shared view of project status and permitting timelines, creating greater visibility into how selected projects move through the review process. The dashboard allows businesses to track a project's permits across agencies in one place.
The budget also funds new oversight initiatives to save resources long-term - including adding additional resources to the Division of Pensions and Benefits to improve contract compliance, and additional experts at the Department of Education to enhance school district monitoring and prevent sudden financial challenges.
Governor Sherrill is committed to improving transportation across the state so that commuters spend less time on their commutes, and more time enjoying all New Jersey has to offer. The FY 2027 budget includes nearly $1.1 billion in state operating support for NJ TRANSIT, an increase of $235 million or 28 percent from the support provided in FY 2026. This includes NJ Transit's General Fund subsidy of $302.2 million and $765.6 million in dedicated revenue from the Corporate Transit Fee.
The budget also includes approximately $2.1 billion for the State Transportation Capital Program. This includes $1.3 billion for critical investments in state, local highway, and bridge projects, and another $782 million for NJ TRANSIT capital projects, which include bus, locomotive, and track acquisition and improvements.
Read the text of the FY 2027 Appropriations Act here (https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2026/A5500/5327_I1.PDF).
* * *
REPORT: https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/2026/S2500/2027_I1.pdf
***
Original text here: https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/2026/approved/20260630d.shtml
Governor Hochul Announces $189 Million in Food Assistance Has Already Been Delivered to Nearly 1.6 Million Children Across New York State This Summer
ALBANY, New York, July 2 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release:
* * *
Governor Hochul Announces $189 Million in Food Assistance Has Already Been Delivered to Nearly 1.6 Million Children Across New York State This Summer
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly 1.6 million low-income children have already received summer food assistance totaling $189 million as part of the 2026 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) program. The program provides $120 per child to eligible families to help pay for food during the summer, when students lose access ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, July 2 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * Governor Hochul Announces $189 Million in Food Assistance Has Already Been Delivered to Nearly 1.6 Million Children Across New York State This Summer Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly 1.6 million low-income children have already received summer food assistance totaling $189 million as part of the 2026 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) program. The program provides $120 per child to eligible families to help pay for food during the summer, when students lose accessto free school meals.
"Making sure every young person has the nourishment they need to thrive is central to my fight to invest in our children's future and make life more affordable for New Yorkers," Governor Hochul said. "At a time when vital nutrition programs like SNAP face continued attacks in Washington, Summer EBT puts money back in the pockets of New York's working families, helping them afford to buy healthy food during the summer months when schools are out of session and many children lose access to free school meals."
Summer EBT benefits began being issued in mid-June and will continue to be sent to families through the summer and to the end of the year. When completed, approximately $240 million in food assistance is expected to be issued to an estimated 2 million school-aged children.
Most eligible children receive the benefits automatically. However, some families may need to apply. New Yorkers are encouraged to learn more about eligibility and apply, if necessary, before the September 8 deadline.
While Washington Republicans have sought to weaken programs designed to help assist those in need, Governor Hochul has remained focused on fighting to make life more affordable for families in New York. Governor Hochul has been laser-focused on protecting the dollars that New Yorkers depend on and ensuring they can access resources necessary to uplift them and their families.
Governor Hochul secured $51 million for the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP), $15 million to expand HPNAP to regional food banks and pantries, and $55 million for the Nourish NY program in the FY27 State Budget. This is on top of the $65 million announced in October for emergency food assistance that will reinforce New York's network of vital food bank and pantry partners. Governor Hochul also secured $395 million to reimburse the cost of school meals served in FY 2027, a $55 million year-to-year increase that continues the implementation of the Universal Free School Meals (UFSM) program that was enacted in the FY26 Budget. In addition, with the Governor's funding commitment, New York becomes one of just a handful of states transitioning to secure chip-based EBT card technology to help protect SNAP recipients from skimming.
Administered by the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, Summer EBT is a federally funded program aimed at reducing hunger and food insecurity among children who are unable to access free and reduced-price school meals during the summertime when school is out. Eligible families with school-age children will receive a one-time payment of $120 per child as part of this summer's program.
Research has shown that providing families with summer food benefits reduces childhood hunger and promotes better nutrition. A demonstration project tested by the USDA found that Summer EBT decreased the number of kids with very low food security by one-third.
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, "Summer EBT has become an essential tool in our fight against food insecurity among New York's most vulnerable children. By providing vital nutrition support to children from lower-income families during the summer when free breakfast and lunch are not available, the program helps ensure children receive the healthy food they need to thrive during the summer and start the school year in the fall ready to learn. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for prioritizing programs that reduce hunger and food insecurity and for her unwavering support for New York's children and families."
Eligible children receive Summer EBT food benefits on an EBT card that their families can use just like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Summer EBT food benefits can be used to buy food like fruits, vegetables, meat, whole grains, and dairy at authorized retail food stores, farmers markets, and anywhere else SNAP is accepted.
All eligible households are sent a letter before they receive their benefits. Eligible households who used their Summer EBT card in 2025 will receive their benefits on the same card as last year. Children who are new to the program in 2026 or did not spend their 2025 benefit will receive a new card. For information on replacement cards, visit the Summer EBT website.
To be eligible, a child must attend a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program and meet the income requirements for free/reduced-price school meals.
Most children who are eligible - including recipients of SNAP, Public Assistance, or Medicaid -will automatically receive Summer EBT and do not need to apply.
Other eligible families may need to apply to receive benefits for their children.
The benefits are available on Summer EBT food benefits cards for 122 days after the date they were issued. All unused benefits are removed from the card after this time. Recipients should use their benefits soon after they receive them.
In addition to mailing eligibility letters to households before benefits are issued, texting reminders to use benefits after they are issued, and sending texts and emails with other important Summer EBT updates, OTDA is working with school districts, nutrition support advocates, and other community partners across the state to increase public awareness of Summer EBT. OTDA is also working with the State Office of Customer Experience and other state agencies on cross-agency outreach -including promotions on the ny.gov website and at Thruway Authority rest stops, Department of Labor career centers, and statewide Department of Motor Vehicles locations -to meet families where they are and increase public awareness of this important benefit for New York's families. A variety of outreach materials are available at: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/summer-ebt/school-provider-information/
To learn more about Summer EBT benefits and eligibility or to apply, visit ny.gov/SummerEBT. Applications for Summer 2026 benefits must be submitted by September 8, 2026.
Senator Charles Schumer said, "No child should ever go hungry, which is why I have always fought to secure federal funding for the Summer EBT program. I'm grateful that Governor Hochul has already delivered $189 million to nearly 1.6 million children across New York State this summer. With so many New Yorkers struggling to make ends meet this summer, federal funding for hungry kids is more critical than ever. And as the Republicans' draconian cuts to federal nutrition assistance take effect, it is more important than ever that we use every lever we have available to help feed children across the state."
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, "As Trump and Republicans slash the food assistance New Yorkers rely on, I'm proud to stand with Governor Hochul to keep our children fed and deliver for New York. I applaud Governor Hochul for her tremendous efforts to provide universal free school meals during the school year, and with school out for the summer, this critical Summer EBT funding will continue to provide federal food assistance to eligible students and families. I am proud to have fought to make this federal program permanent and to ensure that young New Yorkers can continue to have access to food during the summer months."
Representative Joe Morelle said, "When school is out for the summer, no child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. I'm grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to making life more affordable for New York families and ensuring children have access to the healthy meals they need to learn, grow, and thrive."
Representative Grace Meng said, "Summer EBT benefits are essential for families who depend on school meal programs to make sure their kids can eat breakfast and lunch. I commend Governor Hochul for taking action to combat hunger across the state and for helping fill the nutrition gap that occurs when school is out of session. While Republicans in Washington are throwing hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers off food assistance and cutting taxes for billionaires, Democrats won't let our children go hungry. In Congress, I am continuing my fight to bring money back to Queens and strengthen federal food assistance programs like SNAP, which are lifelines for families. Whether it's my bipartisan Hot Foods Act or Ending Stolen SNAP Benefits Act, I won't stop working until every New York household can put food on the table for every meal."
Representative George Latimer said, "In some states, children on summer break have no guarantee of eating three meals every day. However, in New York, almost 1.6 million children have already received food assistance through Governor Hochul and the state of New York this summer. I am proud to support the critical summer EBT program, and have cosponsored the Summer Meals for Kids Act, which would integrate Summer EBT with the National School Lunch Program. I'm proud of my state and believe all kids across our country should enjoy their summers without worrying where their next meal is coming from."
Representative Tim Kennedy said, "Once again New York is stepping up where Washington has failed, making sure nearly 1.6 million children don't go hungry when school is out and families aren't left to shoulder rising grocery costs on their own. While New York invests in our children's health, nutrition, and future, Republicans in Washington are defending an immoral agenda that has resulted in the largest cuts to nutritional assistance in American history, all to bankroll tax breaks for billionaires. I'm proud to support Governor Hochul's Affordability Agenda as the Empire State continues to lead by example."
State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, "The 2026 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) program administered by OTDA gives eligible families $120 per child to purchase food during the summer while schools are out of session. The money will ensure that nearly 2 million children in low-income families across New York state will not be hungry. I commend Governor Hochul for allocating $240 million so that our children can enjoy their summer without the fear of hunger. I encourage all parents to spend the money because no child should be hungry in New York."
Assemblymember Maritza Davila said, "I commend Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued commitment to ensuring no child goes hungry during the summer months through the Summer EBT program, which is already helping nearly 1.6 million children access healthy food. Right now too many families are struggling with the rising cost of everything in their lives from housing, medical care and especially food costs. This critical assistance helps parents put food on the table. As Chair of the Assembly Social Services Committee, I am proud to support the Summer EBT program."
No Kid Hungry New York Director Rachel Sabella said, "Summer EBT is one of the most effective tools we have to combat childhood hunger during the summer months, when many children lose access to the school meals they rely on. As food costs continue to rise and proposed federal cuts threaten SNAP and other nutrition programs, Summer EBT is more important than ever. In addition to helping eligible families put healthy food on the table, these benefits strengthen local economies by allowing recipients to spend them at neighborhood grocery stores, farmers markets, and other local businesses. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued leadership in ensuring New York families can access these vital benefits, helping children stay healthy, active, and ready to learn while supporting communities across the state."
United Way of New York City Chief Executive Officer Grace Bonilla said, "For many working families, summer brings higher grocery bills at a time when household budgets are already stretched thin. Summer EBT helps ease that burden by ensuring children can continue accessing healthy food when school is out. We thank Governor Hochul for investing in New York's children and families. Reducing barriers to food helps children learn, grow, and thrive-and gives parents one less impossible choice to make."
Robin Hood Chief Executive Officer Richard R. Buery, Jr., said, "For low-income families in New York, summer can mean real hardship. It's a time when school meals disappear and budgets are stretched thin. Governor Hochul's Summer EBT program is a meaningful response to that challenge, delivering real dollars to nearly two million children who need it. We applaud this commitment to New York's kids and families."
Hunger Free America Chief Executive Officer Joel Berg said, "Hungry kids are the only kids who dread, instead of relish, summer vacations off from school because the vast majority of NYS children who receive school meals over the school year don't receive government-funded food at summer meals sites when schools are closed. That's why the federally-funded Summer EBT program is so critical in closing this gap. We applaud Governor Hochul for highlighting this vital program."
Hunger Solutions New York Chief Executive Officer Andres Vives said, "Summer EBT provides vital food resources for families with eligible children during the summer months, when many kids lose access to free school meals. As grocery prices continue to rise, these added resources will make a tangible difference in families' budgets. Summer EBT helps children get the food they need to stay healthy and be ready to learn when they return to school in the fall. We commend Governor Hochul, state lawmakers, and the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance for their commitment to this critical program."
New York Health Foundation Senior Program Officer Julia McCarthy said, "Summer should be a happy time of year for children. But, it is hard to be happy when you are hungry, and recent cuts to SNAP will make this summer even harder for families. New York Health Foundation is proud that our State offers Summer EBT to help children access healthy foods and proud to have supported the development of a platform that helps families check if they may qualify for this benefit."
Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy President and Chief Executive Officer Kate Breslin said, "When the school year ends, so does access to the free school meals millions of children depend on. Summer EBT helps fill that gap -putting $120 per child into the hands of eligible families. Summer EBT is expected to reach nearly 2 million school-age children across New York. This is especially important at a moment when the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reports, 'a remarkable increase in food insecurity, particularly among households with young children.' Every child should be able to eat well, no matter the season."
***
Original text here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-189-million-food-assistance-has-already-been-delivered-nearly-16
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Governor Hochul Announces $189 Million in Food Assistance Has Already Been Delivered to Nearly 1.6 Million Children Across New York State This Summer
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly 1.6 million low-income children have already received summer food assistance totaling $189 million as part of the 2026 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) program. The program provides $120 per child to eligible families to help pay for food during the summer, when students lose access ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, July 2 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * Governor Hochul Announces $189 Million in Food Assistance Has Already Been Delivered to Nearly 1.6 Million Children Across New York State This Summer Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly 1.6 million low-income children have already received summer food assistance totaling $189 million as part of the 2026 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) program. The program provides $120 per child to eligible families to help pay for food during the summer, when students lose accessto free school meals.
"Making sure every young person has the nourishment they need to thrive is central to my fight to invest in our children's future and make life more affordable for New Yorkers," Governor Hochul said. "At a time when vital nutrition programs like SNAP face continued attacks in Washington, Summer EBT puts money back in the pockets of New York's working families, helping them afford to buy healthy food during the summer months when schools are out of session and many children lose access to free school meals."
Summer EBT benefits began being issued in mid-June and will continue to be sent to families through the summer and to the end of the year. When completed, approximately $240 million in food assistance is expected to be issued to an estimated 2 million school-aged children.
Most eligible children receive the benefits automatically. However, some families may need to apply. New Yorkers are encouraged to learn more about eligibility and apply, if necessary, before the September 8 deadline.
While Washington Republicans have sought to weaken programs designed to help assist those in need, Governor Hochul has remained focused on fighting to make life more affordable for families in New York. Governor Hochul has been laser-focused on protecting the dollars that New Yorkers depend on and ensuring they can access resources necessary to uplift them and their families.
Governor Hochul secured $51 million for the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP), $15 million to expand HPNAP to regional food banks and pantries, and $55 million for the Nourish NY program in the FY27 State Budget. This is on top of the $65 million announced in October for emergency food assistance that will reinforce New York's network of vital food bank and pantry partners. Governor Hochul also secured $395 million to reimburse the cost of school meals served in FY 2027, a $55 million year-to-year increase that continues the implementation of the Universal Free School Meals (UFSM) program that was enacted in the FY26 Budget. In addition, with the Governor's funding commitment, New York becomes one of just a handful of states transitioning to secure chip-based EBT card technology to help protect SNAP recipients from skimming.
Administered by the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, Summer EBT is a federally funded program aimed at reducing hunger and food insecurity among children who are unable to access free and reduced-price school meals during the summertime when school is out. Eligible families with school-age children will receive a one-time payment of $120 per child as part of this summer's program.
Research has shown that providing families with summer food benefits reduces childhood hunger and promotes better nutrition. A demonstration project tested by the USDA found that Summer EBT decreased the number of kids with very low food security by one-third.
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, "Summer EBT has become an essential tool in our fight against food insecurity among New York's most vulnerable children. By providing vital nutrition support to children from lower-income families during the summer when free breakfast and lunch are not available, the program helps ensure children receive the healthy food they need to thrive during the summer and start the school year in the fall ready to learn. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for prioritizing programs that reduce hunger and food insecurity and for her unwavering support for New York's children and families."
Eligible children receive Summer EBT food benefits on an EBT card that their families can use just like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Summer EBT food benefits can be used to buy food like fruits, vegetables, meat, whole grains, and dairy at authorized retail food stores, farmers markets, and anywhere else SNAP is accepted.
All eligible households are sent a letter before they receive their benefits. Eligible households who used their Summer EBT card in 2025 will receive their benefits on the same card as last year. Children who are new to the program in 2026 or did not spend their 2025 benefit will receive a new card. For information on replacement cards, visit the Summer EBT website.
To be eligible, a child must attend a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program and meet the income requirements for free/reduced-price school meals.
Most children who are eligible - including recipients of SNAP, Public Assistance, or Medicaid -will automatically receive Summer EBT and do not need to apply.
Other eligible families may need to apply to receive benefits for their children.
The benefits are available on Summer EBT food benefits cards for 122 days after the date they were issued. All unused benefits are removed from the card after this time. Recipients should use their benefits soon after they receive them.
In addition to mailing eligibility letters to households before benefits are issued, texting reminders to use benefits after they are issued, and sending texts and emails with other important Summer EBT updates, OTDA is working with school districts, nutrition support advocates, and other community partners across the state to increase public awareness of Summer EBT. OTDA is also working with the State Office of Customer Experience and other state agencies on cross-agency outreach -including promotions on the ny.gov website and at Thruway Authority rest stops, Department of Labor career centers, and statewide Department of Motor Vehicles locations -to meet families where they are and increase public awareness of this important benefit for New York's families. A variety of outreach materials are available at: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/summer-ebt/school-provider-information/
To learn more about Summer EBT benefits and eligibility or to apply, visit ny.gov/SummerEBT. Applications for Summer 2026 benefits must be submitted by September 8, 2026.
Senator Charles Schumer said, "No child should ever go hungry, which is why I have always fought to secure federal funding for the Summer EBT program. I'm grateful that Governor Hochul has already delivered $189 million to nearly 1.6 million children across New York State this summer. With so many New Yorkers struggling to make ends meet this summer, federal funding for hungry kids is more critical than ever. And as the Republicans' draconian cuts to federal nutrition assistance take effect, it is more important than ever that we use every lever we have available to help feed children across the state."
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, "As Trump and Republicans slash the food assistance New Yorkers rely on, I'm proud to stand with Governor Hochul to keep our children fed and deliver for New York. I applaud Governor Hochul for her tremendous efforts to provide universal free school meals during the school year, and with school out for the summer, this critical Summer EBT funding will continue to provide federal food assistance to eligible students and families. I am proud to have fought to make this federal program permanent and to ensure that young New Yorkers can continue to have access to food during the summer months."
Representative Joe Morelle said, "When school is out for the summer, no child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. I'm grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to making life more affordable for New York families and ensuring children have access to the healthy meals they need to learn, grow, and thrive."
Representative Grace Meng said, "Summer EBT benefits are essential for families who depend on school meal programs to make sure their kids can eat breakfast and lunch. I commend Governor Hochul for taking action to combat hunger across the state and for helping fill the nutrition gap that occurs when school is out of session. While Republicans in Washington are throwing hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers off food assistance and cutting taxes for billionaires, Democrats won't let our children go hungry. In Congress, I am continuing my fight to bring money back to Queens and strengthen federal food assistance programs like SNAP, which are lifelines for families. Whether it's my bipartisan Hot Foods Act or Ending Stolen SNAP Benefits Act, I won't stop working until every New York household can put food on the table for every meal."
Representative George Latimer said, "In some states, children on summer break have no guarantee of eating three meals every day. However, in New York, almost 1.6 million children have already received food assistance through Governor Hochul and the state of New York this summer. I am proud to support the critical summer EBT program, and have cosponsored the Summer Meals for Kids Act, which would integrate Summer EBT with the National School Lunch Program. I'm proud of my state and believe all kids across our country should enjoy their summers without worrying where their next meal is coming from."
Representative Tim Kennedy said, "Once again New York is stepping up where Washington has failed, making sure nearly 1.6 million children don't go hungry when school is out and families aren't left to shoulder rising grocery costs on their own. While New York invests in our children's health, nutrition, and future, Republicans in Washington are defending an immoral agenda that has resulted in the largest cuts to nutritional assistance in American history, all to bankroll tax breaks for billionaires. I'm proud to support Governor Hochul's Affordability Agenda as the Empire State continues to lead by example."
State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, "The 2026 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) program administered by OTDA gives eligible families $120 per child to purchase food during the summer while schools are out of session. The money will ensure that nearly 2 million children in low-income families across New York state will not be hungry. I commend Governor Hochul for allocating $240 million so that our children can enjoy their summer without the fear of hunger. I encourage all parents to spend the money because no child should be hungry in New York."
Assemblymember Maritza Davila said, "I commend Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued commitment to ensuring no child goes hungry during the summer months through the Summer EBT program, which is already helping nearly 1.6 million children access healthy food. Right now too many families are struggling with the rising cost of everything in their lives from housing, medical care and especially food costs. This critical assistance helps parents put food on the table. As Chair of the Assembly Social Services Committee, I am proud to support the Summer EBT program."
No Kid Hungry New York Director Rachel Sabella said, "Summer EBT is one of the most effective tools we have to combat childhood hunger during the summer months, when many children lose access to the school meals they rely on. As food costs continue to rise and proposed federal cuts threaten SNAP and other nutrition programs, Summer EBT is more important than ever. In addition to helping eligible families put healthy food on the table, these benefits strengthen local economies by allowing recipients to spend them at neighborhood grocery stores, farmers markets, and other local businesses. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued leadership in ensuring New York families can access these vital benefits, helping children stay healthy, active, and ready to learn while supporting communities across the state."
United Way of New York City Chief Executive Officer Grace Bonilla said, "For many working families, summer brings higher grocery bills at a time when household budgets are already stretched thin. Summer EBT helps ease that burden by ensuring children can continue accessing healthy food when school is out. We thank Governor Hochul for investing in New York's children and families. Reducing barriers to food helps children learn, grow, and thrive-and gives parents one less impossible choice to make."
Robin Hood Chief Executive Officer Richard R. Buery, Jr., said, "For low-income families in New York, summer can mean real hardship. It's a time when school meals disappear and budgets are stretched thin. Governor Hochul's Summer EBT program is a meaningful response to that challenge, delivering real dollars to nearly two million children who need it. We applaud this commitment to New York's kids and families."
Hunger Free America Chief Executive Officer Joel Berg said, "Hungry kids are the only kids who dread, instead of relish, summer vacations off from school because the vast majority of NYS children who receive school meals over the school year don't receive government-funded food at summer meals sites when schools are closed. That's why the federally-funded Summer EBT program is so critical in closing this gap. We applaud Governor Hochul for highlighting this vital program."
Hunger Solutions New York Chief Executive Officer Andres Vives said, "Summer EBT provides vital food resources for families with eligible children during the summer months, when many kids lose access to free school meals. As grocery prices continue to rise, these added resources will make a tangible difference in families' budgets. Summer EBT helps children get the food they need to stay healthy and be ready to learn when they return to school in the fall. We commend Governor Hochul, state lawmakers, and the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance for their commitment to this critical program."
New York Health Foundation Senior Program Officer Julia McCarthy said, "Summer should be a happy time of year for children. But, it is hard to be happy when you are hungry, and recent cuts to SNAP will make this summer even harder for families. New York Health Foundation is proud that our State offers Summer EBT to help children access healthy foods and proud to have supported the development of a platform that helps families check if they may qualify for this benefit."
Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy President and Chief Executive Officer Kate Breslin said, "When the school year ends, so does access to the free school meals millions of children depend on. Summer EBT helps fill that gap -putting $120 per child into the hands of eligible families. Summer EBT is expected to reach nearly 2 million school-age children across New York. This is especially important at a moment when the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reports, 'a remarkable increase in food insecurity, particularly among households with young children.' Every child should be able to eat well, no matter the season."
***
Original text here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-189-million-food-assistance-has-already-been-delivered-nearly-16
Attorney General Liz Murrill Announces Medicaid Fraud Bust, New Division, and $73 million in Ordered Restitution
BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, July 2 -- Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill issued the following news on July 1, 2026:
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BREAKING: Attorney General Liz Murrill Announces Medicaid Fraud Bust, New Division, and $73 million in Ordered Restitution
*
Today, Attorney General Liz Murrill announced the arrest of 21 individuals on charges of Medicaid fraud or cruelty to those in need of care. The operation was conducted by General Murrill's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), which she also announced has been elevated to a standalone division within the Louisiana Department of Justice. The change strengthens ... Show Full Article BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, July 2 -- Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill issued the following news on July 1, 2026: * * * BREAKING: Attorney General Liz Murrill Announces Medicaid Fraud Bust, New Division, and $73 million in Ordered Restitution * Today, Attorney General Liz Murrill announced the arrest of 21 individuals on charges of Medicaid fraud or cruelty to those in need of care. The operation was conducted by General Murrill's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), which she also announced has been elevated to a standalone division within the Louisiana Department of Justice. The change strengthensthe state's efforts to investigate, prosecute, and recover taxpayer dollars lost to fraud, waste, and abuse.
The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigates and prosecutes Medicaid provider fraud, as well as abuse and neglect involving vulnerable individuals in healthcare facilities. The Unit receives cases from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Louisiana Department of Health, and other sources.
Since taking office, General Murrill has indicted, arrested, or charged 95 individuals for programmatic offenses, including Medicaid fraud and abuse and neglect in residential facilities. She has also secured 105 convictions and over $73 million in ordered restitution. While not part of MFCU, the Attorney General has also secured the arrest of 37 recipients for fraudulently receiving Medicaid benefits. As the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation investigates Medicaid recipient fraud for the LADOJ.
"I will not stop until the people's money is returned and those who break the law face Louisiana justice. The men and women of Louisiana get up and go to work every single day to provide for their families. Their tax dollars are intended for those in need. Nothing is more offensive than those who manipulate the system for their own benefit," said Attorney General Murrill.
"The Louisiana Department of Health remains dedicated to reducing fraud, waste, and abuse. Just this year, LDH's Program Integrity Unit has reviewed over 4,200 complaints of provider and beneficiary fraud, and through its reviews identified or recovered over $9 million in overpayments and penalties. We removed over 100 providers from the Medicaid program based on wrongful conduct and referred almost 375 cases to the Attorney General's MFCU and Bureau of Investigation for full investigation and prosecution of providers and beneficiaries. We stand with the Attorney General's vigilance against wrongful actors, and LDH remains committed to stop money from going out the door, leaving more resources for those that truly need them," said Louisiana Department of Health Secretary Bruce Greenstein.
Matt Stafford, who currently leads the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, has been promoted to director of the new division, which underscores General Murrill's commitment to strengthening Louisiana's fight against Medicaid fraud and protecting taxpayers.
The arrests and the creation of the new division also reflect the growing national crackdown on Medicaid fraud by the Trump administration and Attorneys General across the country. To support these efforts, Vice President J.D. Vance and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz recently announced a "full-scale war on fraud" with the creation of the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. Louisiana remains a proud partner in these efforts and will continue aggressively pursuing those who steal taxpayer dollars and exploit programs intended to serve those most in need of assistance.
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ARREST DOCUMENTS AND INFO:
* A complete list of the Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit arrests made as part of this operation can be found here.
* A summary of all Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit cases included in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown can be found here.
* A parish-by-parish list of the suspects, including where they are from and where the crimes occurred, can be found here.
The Louisiana MFCU receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $10,000,340 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 25/26. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $3,333,443 for FY 25/26, is funded by Louisiana.
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Original text here: https://www.ag.state.la.us/Article/556
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BREAKING: Attorney General Liz Murrill Announces Medicaid Fraud Bust, New Division, and $73 million in Ordered Restitution
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Today, Attorney General Liz Murrill announced the arrest of 21 individuals on charges of Medicaid fraud or cruelty to those in need of care. The operation was conducted by General Murrill's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), which she also announced has been elevated to a standalone division within the Louisiana Department of Justice. The change strengthens ... Show Full Article BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, July 2 -- Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill issued the following news on July 1, 2026: * * * BREAKING: Attorney General Liz Murrill Announces Medicaid Fraud Bust, New Division, and $73 million in Ordered Restitution * Today, Attorney General Liz Murrill announced the arrest of 21 individuals on charges of Medicaid fraud or cruelty to those in need of care. The operation was conducted by General Murrill's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), which she also announced has been elevated to a standalone division within the Louisiana Department of Justice. The change strengthensthe state's efforts to investigate, prosecute, and recover taxpayer dollars lost to fraud, waste, and abuse.
The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigates and prosecutes Medicaid provider fraud, as well as abuse and neglect involving vulnerable individuals in healthcare facilities. The Unit receives cases from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Louisiana Department of Health, and other sources.
Since taking office, General Murrill has indicted, arrested, or charged 95 individuals for programmatic offenses, including Medicaid fraud and abuse and neglect in residential facilities. She has also secured 105 convictions and over $73 million in ordered restitution. While not part of MFCU, the Attorney General has also secured the arrest of 37 recipients for fraudulently receiving Medicaid benefits. As the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation investigates Medicaid recipient fraud for the LADOJ.
"I will not stop until the people's money is returned and those who break the law face Louisiana justice. The men and women of Louisiana get up and go to work every single day to provide for their families. Their tax dollars are intended for those in need. Nothing is more offensive than those who manipulate the system for their own benefit," said Attorney General Murrill.
"The Louisiana Department of Health remains dedicated to reducing fraud, waste, and abuse. Just this year, LDH's Program Integrity Unit has reviewed over 4,200 complaints of provider and beneficiary fraud, and through its reviews identified or recovered over $9 million in overpayments and penalties. We removed over 100 providers from the Medicaid program based on wrongful conduct and referred almost 375 cases to the Attorney General's MFCU and Bureau of Investigation for full investigation and prosecution of providers and beneficiaries. We stand with the Attorney General's vigilance against wrongful actors, and LDH remains committed to stop money from going out the door, leaving more resources for those that truly need them," said Louisiana Department of Health Secretary Bruce Greenstein.
Matt Stafford, who currently leads the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, has been promoted to director of the new division, which underscores General Murrill's commitment to strengthening Louisiana's fight against Medicaid fraud and protecting taxpayers.
The arrests and the creation of the new division also reflect the growing national crackdown on Medicaid fraud by the Trump administration and Attorneys General across the country. To support these efforts, Vice President J.D. Vance and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz recently announced a "full-scale war on fraud" with the creation of the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. Louisiana remains a proud partner in these efforts and will continue aggressively pursuing those who steal taxpayer dollars and exploit programs intended to serve those most in need of assistance.
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ARREST DOCUMENTS AND INFO:
* A complete list of the Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit arrests made as part of this operation can be found here.
* A summary of all Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit cases included in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown can be found here.
* A parish-by-parish list of the suspects, including where they are from and where the crimes occurred, can be found here.
The Louisiana MFCU receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $10,000,340 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 25/26. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $3,333,443 for FY 25/26, is funded by Louisiana.
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Original text here: https://www.ag.state.la.us/Article/556
Attorney General Bonta Releases 2025 Hate Crime Report, Calls for Renewed Commitment to Combat Hate Across California
SACRAMENTO, California, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
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Attorney General Bonta Releases 2025 Hate Crime Report, Calls for Renewed Commitment to Combat Hate Across California
OAKLAND - California Attorney General Rob Bonta today released the 2025 Hate Crime in California report and highlighted information and resources to support ongoing efforts across the state to combat hate. Reported hate crime events in California decreased by 3.4% from 2,023 in 2024 to 1,955 in 2025. However, reported hate crime events involving ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release on July 1, 2026: * * * Attorney General Bonta Releases 2025 Hate Crime Report, Calls for Renewed Commitment to Combat Hate Across California OAKLAND - California Attorney General Rob Bonta today released the 2025 Hate Crime in California report and highlighted information and resources to support ongoing efforts across the state to combat hate. Reported hate crime events in California decreased by 3.4% from 2,023 in 2024 to 1,955 in 2025. However, reported hate crime events involvingracial or ethnic bias increased by 6.2% from 1,011 in 2024 to 1,074 in 2025. In particular, anti-Hispanic or Latino bias events increased by 30.3%, anti-citizenship status bias events increased from 16 in 2024 to 40 in 2025, and reported hate crime events involving gender bias increased by 23.8%. Amidst these continued threats, Attorney General Bonta urges local partners and law enforcement to review the resources highlighted today and to recommit themselves to taking action.
"There is absolutely no place for hate in California. Transparent and accessible data is a critical part of understanding where we are and how we can end hate crimes in our communities," said Attorney General Bonta. "While the overall number of reported hate crime events decreased in 2025, the data makes clear that too many Californians continue to be targeted because of who they are, where they come from, how they worship, who they love, or how they identify. Everyone has a part to play as we continue to fight intolerance in California, and I urge leaders up and down the state to review the data and resources available and recommit to standing united against hate. The California Department of Justice remains steadfast in our commitment to continue working with law enforcement, elected leaders, and community organizations across California to keep our communities safe."
The California Department of Justice (DOJ) has collected statewide data on hate crimes since 1995. Under California law, a hate crime is a criminal act committed in whole or in part because of a victim's actual or perceived disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or association with someone with one or more of these characteristics. If you believe you or someone you know has been the victim of a hate crime, notify local law enforcement and consider taking the following steps:
* If you are in immediate danger, call 911 and, if needed, seek medical attention.
* Write down the exact words that were used and take note of any other relevant facts.
* If safe to do so, save all evidence and take photos.
* Get contact information for other victims and witnesses.
* Reach out to community organizations in your area that deal with hate crimes or incidents.
Hate incidents are actions or behaviors motivated by hate that may be protected by the First Amendment right to freedom of expression or which otherwise do not violate criminal laws. Examples of hate incidents include name-calling, insults, and distributing hate material in public places. Californians can call 211 for referral services after experiencing an act of hate.
Historically, hate crime data has generally been underreported, and DOJ recognizes that the data presented in its reports may not adequately reflect the actual number of hate crime events that have occurred in the state. Caution should be used when comparing 2025 hate crimes data to prior years, as not all agencies were able to submit a full year of data for 2025. For more information, please reference the "Understanding the Data, Characteristics and Known Limitations" section in the report.
Some of the key findings from the 2025 Hate Crime in California Report include:
* Reported hate crime events decreased 3.4% from 2,023 in 2024 to 1,955 in 2025.
* Hate crime offenses decreased 4.2% from 2,568 in 2024 to 2,461 in 2025.
* The number of victims of reported hate crimes decreased 3.6% from 2,491 in 2024 to 2,402 in 2025.
* Anti-Black or African American bias events rose from 494 in 2024 to 508 in 2025, an increase of 2.8%.
* Anti-Hispanic or Latino bias events rose from 198 in 2024 to 258 in 2025, an increase of 30.3%.
* Anti-Asian bias events fell from 119 in 2024 to 95 in 2025, a decrease of 20.2%.
* Anti-citizenship status bias events rose from 16 in 2024 to 40 in 2025.
* Anti-Jewish bias events fell from 310 in 2024 to 289 in 2025, a decrease of 6.8%.
* Anti-Islamic bias events rose from 24 in 2024 to 38 in 2025.
* Anti-Sikh bias events rose from 4 in 2024 to 9 in 2025.
* Between 2024 and 2025, hate crime events motivated by sexual orientation bias decreased by 35.2% from 455 in 2024 to 295 in 2025 and anti-transgender bias events increased by 23.3% from 73 in 2024 to 90 in 2025, accounting for the majority of the 23.8% increase of gender bias events, from 84 in 2024 to 104 in 2025.
* From 2024 to 2025, the number of hate crimes referred for prosecution increased from 818 to 870. Of the 870 hate crimes that were referred for prosecution, 595 cases were filed by district attorneys and elected city attorneys for prosecution. Of the 595 cases that were filed for prosecution, 369 were filed as hate crimes and 226 were filed as non-bias motivated crimes.
In California, it is considered a hate crime if you are targeted because of your actual or perceived nationality, including your immigration or citizenship status. The Attorney General has released guidance and resources on hate crimes for law enforcement, prosecutors, and the victims of these crimes. These resources include an updated law enforcement bulletin on laws prohibiting hate crimes, a hate crimes rapid response protocol for the deployment of DOJ resources, guidance to prosecutors to help strengthen hate crimes prosecution enforcement, and a fact sheet to help Californians understand their rights and protections under hate crime laws. These, and other resources can be found on oag.ca.gov/HATECRIMES.
Attorney General Bonta launched the Racial Justice Bureau, which, among other things, supports DOJ's broader mandate to advance the civil rights of all Californians by assisting with new and ongoing efforts to combat hate and bias. Beginning in 2021, the Attorney General began proactively engaging with local city leaders in the biggest cities in California through roundtables in San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, San Diego, Riverside, Long Beach, Santa Ana, San Jose, Stockton, Anaheim, Bakersfield, Fresno, and Irvine. Attorney General Bonta is deeply committed to responding to the needs of historically marginalized and underrepresented communities and, in July 2021, also launched the Office of Community Awareness, Response, and Engagement (CARE) to work directly with community organizations and members of the public as part of the effort to advance justice for all Californians.
CARE will host a virtual Community Briefing on Thursday, July 30 at 2:30 PM PT to share highlights and findings from the report. People interested can register here: https://events.zoomgov.com/ev/Aq2rYipa3xTPVS_-BSE2zVGUR5Ho0-icemBw869mKmTON_1HhaaP~As5h1X3ZsuNdEh14AaQ6wIUaLDwKYAeYNLnQX8arnsnrtrCiU1kKtLBOIw
This briefing will highlight the latest hate crime data trends and findings in California from 2025 as reported by local law enforcement agencies to DOJ, including the most common types of hate crimes broken down by county and protected class. The briefing will also share information and resources to support ongoing efforts across the state to combat hate. CARE Community Briefings are public virtual webinars to share information about DOJ reports, publications and resources. Please contact care@doj.ca.gov for any questions about this virtual presentation.
Members of the public can further explore the most recent hate crime data on OpenJustice.
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REPORT: https://data-openjustice.doj.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-07/Hate%20Crime%20In%20CA%202025f.pdf
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Original text here: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-releases-2025-hate-crime-report-calls-renewed-commitment
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Attorney General Bonta Releases 2025 Hate Crime Report, Calls for Renewed Commitment to Combat Hate Across California
OAKLAND - California Attorney General Rob Bonta today released the 2025 Hate Crime in California report and highlighted information and resources to support ongoing efforts across the state to combat hate. Reported hate crime events in California decreased by 3.4% from 2,023 in 2024 to 1,955 in 2025. However, reported hate crime events involving ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, July 2 (TNSrpt) -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release on July 1, 2026: * * * Attorney General Bonta Releases 2025 Hate Crime Report, Calls for Renewed Commitment to Combat Hate Across California OAKLAND - California Attorney General Rob Bonta today released the 2025 Hate Crime in California report and highlighted information and resources to support ongoing efforts across the state to combat hate. Reported hate crime events in California decreased by 3.4% from 2,023 in 2024 to 1,955 in 2025. However, reported hate crime events involvingracial or ethnic bias increased by 6.2% from 1,011 in 2024 to 1,074 in 2025. In particular, anti-Hispanic or Latino bias events increased by 30.3%, anti-citizenship status bias events increased from 16 in 2024 to 40 in 2025, and reported hate crime events involving gender bias increased by 23.8%. Amidst these continued threats, Attorney General Bonta urges local partners and law enforcement to review the resources highlighted today and to recommit themselves to taking action.
"There is absolutely no place for hate in California. Transparent and accessible data is a critical part of understanding where we are and how we can end hate crimes in our communities," said Attorney General Bonta. "While the overall number of reported hate crime events decreased in 2025, the data makes clear that too many Californians continue to be targeted because of who they are, where they come from, how they worship, who they love, or how they identify. Everyone has a part to play as we continue to fight intolerance in California, and I urge leaders up and down the state to review the data and resources available and recommit to standing united against hate. The California Department of Justice remains steadfast in our commitment to continue working with law enforcement, elected leaders, and community organizations across California to keep our communities safe."
The California Department of Justice (DOJ) has collected statewide data on hate crimes since 1995. Under California law, a hate crime is a criminal act committed in whole or in part because of a victim's actual or perceived disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or association with someone with one or more of these characteristics. If you believe you or someone you know has been the victim of a hate crime, notify local law enforcement and consider taking the following steps:
* If you are in immediate danger, call 911 and, if needed, seek medical attention.
* Write down the exact words that were used and take note of any other relevant facts.
* If safe to do so, save all evidence and take photos.
* Get contact information for other victims and witnesses.
* Reach out to community organizations in your area that deal with hate crimes or incidents.
Hate incidents are actions or behaviors motivated by hate that may be protected by the First Amendment right to freedom of expression or which otherwise do not violate criminal laws. Examples of hate incidents include name-calling, insults, and distributing hate material in public places. Californians can call 211 for referral services after experiencing an act of hate.
Historically, hate crime data has generally been underreported, and DOJ recognizes that the data presented in its reports may not adequately reflect the actual number of hate crime events that have occurred in the state. Caution should be used when comparing 2025 hate crimes data to prior years, as not all agencies were able to submit a full year of data for 2025. For more information, please reference the "Understanding the Data, Characteristics and Known Limitations" section in the report.
Some of the key findings from the 2025 Hate Crime in California Report include:
* Reported hate crime events decreased 3.4% from 2,023 in 2024 to 1,955 in 2025.
* Hate crime offenses decreased 4.2% from 2,568 in 2024 to 2,461 in 2025.
* The number of victims of reported hate crimes decreased 3.6% from 2,491 in 2024 to 2,402 in 2025.
* Anti-Black or African American bias events rose from 494 in 2024 to 508 in 2025, an increase of 2.8%.
* Anti-Hispanic or Latino bias events rose from 198 in 2024 to 258 in 2025, an increase of 30.3%.
* Anti-Asian bias events fell from 119 in 2024 to 95 in 2025, a decrease of 20.2%.
* Anti-citizenship status bias events rose from 16 in 2024 to 40 in 2025.
* Anti-Jewish bias events fell from 310 in 2024 to 289 in 2025, a decrease of 6.8%.
* Anti-Islamic bias events rose from 24 in 2024 to 38 in 2025.
* Anti-Sikh bias events rose from 4 in 2024 to 9 in 2025.
* Between 2024 and 2025, hate crime events motivated by sexual orientation bias decreased by 35.2% from 455 in 2024 to 295 in 2025 and anti-transgender bias events increased by 23.3% from 73 in 2024 to 90 in 2025, accounting for the majority of the 23.8% increase of gender bias events, from 84 in 2024 to 104 in 2025.
* From 2024 to 2025, the number of hate crimes referred for prosecution increased from 818 to 870. Of the 870 hate crimes that were referred for prosecution, 595 cases were filed by district attorneys and elected city attorneys for prosecution. Of the 595 cases that were filed for prosecution, 369 were filed as hate crimes and 226 were filed as non-bias motivated crimes.
In California, it is considered a hate crime if you are targeted because of your actual or perceived nationality, including your immigration or citizenship status. The Attorney General has released guidance and resources on hate crimes for law enforcement, prosecutors, and the victims of these crimes. These resources include an updated law enforcement bulletin on laws prohibiting hate crimes, a hate crimes rapid response protocol for the deployment of DOJ resources, guidance to prosecutors to help strengthen hate crimes prosecution enforcement, and a fact sheet to help Californians understand their rights and protections under hate crime laws. These, and other resources can be found on oag.ca.gov/HATECRIMES.
Attorney General Bonta launched the Racial Justice Bureau, which, among other things, supports DOJ's broader mandate to advance the civil rights of all Californians by assisting with new and ongoing efforts to combat hate and bias. Beginning in 2021, the Attorney General began proactively engaging with local city leaders in the biggest cities in California through roundtables in San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, San Diego, Riverside, Long Beach, Santa Ana, San Jose, Stockton, Anaheim, Bakersfield, Fresno, and Irvine. Attorney General Bonta is deeply committed to responding to the needs of historically marginalized and underrepresented communities and, in July 2021, also launched the Office of Community Awareness, Response, and Engagement (CARE) to work directly with community organizations and members of the public as part of the effort to advance justice for all Californians.
CARE will host a virtual Community Briefing on Thursday, July 30 at 2:30 PM PT to share highlights and findings from the report. People interested can register here: https://events.zoomgov.com/ev/Aq2rYipa3xTPVS_-BSE2zVGUR5Ho0-icemBw869mKmTON_1HhaaP~As5h1X3ZsuNdEh14AaQ6wIUaLDwKYAeYNLnQX8arnsnrtrCiU1kKtLBOIw
This briefing will highlight the latest hate crime data trends and findings in California from 2025 as reported by local law enforcement agencies to DOJ, including the most common types of hate crimes broken down by county and protected class. The briefing will also share information and resources to support ongoing efforts across the state to combat hate. CARE Community Briefings are public virtual webinars to share information about DOJ reports, publications and resources. Please contact care@doj.ca.gov for any questions about this virtual presentation.
Members of the public can further explore the most recent hate crime data on OpenJustice.
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REPORT: https://data-openjustice.doj.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-07/Hate%20Crime%20In%20CA%202025f.pdf
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Original text here: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-releases-2025-hate-crime-report-calls-renewed-commitment
Ariz. A.G. Mayes Praises Birthright Citizenship Ruling From Supreme Court
PHOENIX, Arizona, July 1 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following statement on June 30, 2026, on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship:
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Attorney General Mayes Praises Birthright Citizenship Ruling from Supreme Court
The 14th Amendment was written in plain language and with clear purpose. It was a guarantee that if you are born in this country, you are a citizen. Today, the Court upheld that promise - and upheld the soul of this nation.
Birthright citizenship has strengthened our communities and made this country a beacon of opportunity for generations ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, July 1 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following statement on June 30, 2026, on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship: * * * Attorney General Mayes Praises Birthright Citizenship Ruling from Supreme Court The 14th Amendment was written in plain language and with clear purpose. It was a guarantee that if you are born in this country, you are a citizen. Today, the Court upheld that promise - and upheld the soul of this nation. Birthright citizenship has strengthened our communities and made this country a beacon of opportunity for generationsof families who came here seeking a better life in a free country.
The Court made the right decision today.
I am proud to have brought this case alongside my fellow attorneys general in defense of the constitutional rights countless Americans have fought and died to protect.
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Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-praises-birthright-citizenship-ruling-supreme-court
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Attorney General Mayes Praises Birthright Citizenship Ruling from Supreme Court
The 14th Amendment was written in plain language and with clear purpose. It was a guarantee that if you are born in this country, you are a citizen. Today, the Court upheld that promise - and upheld the soul of this nation.
Birthright citizenship has strengthened our communities and made this country a beacon of opportunity for generations ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, July 1 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following statement on June 30, 2026, on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship: * * * Attorney General Mayes Praises Birthright Citizenship Ruling from Supreme Court The 14th Amendment was written in plain language and with clear purpose. It was a guarantee that if you are born in this country, you are a citizen. Today, the Court upheld that promise - and upheld the soul of this nation. Birthright citizenship has strengthened our communities and made this country a beacon of opportunity for generationsof families who came here seeking a better life in a free country.
The Court made the right decision today.
I am proud to have brought this case alongside my fellow attorneys general in defense of the constitutional rights countless Americans have fought and died to protect.
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Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-praises-birthright-citizenship-ruling-supreme-court
AG Nessel Blocks Weaponization of Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
LANSING, Michigan, July 1 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release:
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AG Nessel Blocks Weaponization of Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
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LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel released the following statement after a judge permanently blocked the Trump administration from denying loan forgiveness to teachers, nurses, and other public servants whose employers are not aligned with the administration's ideology:
"Public servants who give back to our communities deserve our support, not unlawful political retribution. I am relieved that ... Show Full Article LANSING, Michigan, July 1 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release: * * * AG Nessel Blocks Weaponization of Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program * LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel released the following statement after a judge permanently blocked the Trump administration from denying loan forgiveness to teachers, nurses, and other public servants whose employers are not aligned with the administration's ideology: "Public servants who give back to our communities deserve our support, not unlawful political retribution. I am relieved thatthe Court protected the Public Loan Forgiveness Program for our first responders, nurses, teachers, and government employees. This program keeps countless dedicated professionals in public service, supporting their communities and vital institutions, when they could otherwise pursue more lucrative opportunities in private sector employment. Their service is critical to state services, emergency response, educational opportunity, public access to healthcare, and so much more everywhere in our country. The White House was wrong to target these valuable employees and their employers over political and policy disagreements, and yet again my office has completely halted an illegal attack on Michigan from the federal administration."
In November 2025, Attorney General Nessel joined a coalition of 22 other attorneys general in challenging a new rule from the U.S. Department of Education that unlawfully restricted eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which allows government and nonprofit employees to have their federal student loans forgiven after ten years of qualifying public service. The rule, set to take effect today, would have given the administration the power to deem state governments, hospitals, schools, and nonprofit organizations ineligible for PSLF based on their support for immigrants, gender-affirming health care, or diversity programs.
Yesterday, the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted the coalition's motion for summary judgment, declaring the rule illegal and permanently blocking it from taking effect.
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View court filing here: https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/attachments/press-docs/PSLF%20Decision.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.michigan.gov/ag/news/press-releases/2026/07/01/ag-nessel-blocks-weaponization-of-public-service-loan-forgiveness-program
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AG Nessel Blocks Weaponization of Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
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LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel released the following statement after a judge permanently blocked the Trump administration from denying loan forgiveness to teachers, nurses, and other public servants whose employers are not aligned with the administration's ideology:
"Public servants who give back to our communities deserve our support, not unlawful political retribution. I am relieved that ... Show Full Article LANSING, Michigan, July 1 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release: * * * AG Nessel Blocks Weaponization of Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program * LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel released the following statement after a judge permanently blocked the Trump administration from denying loan forgiveness to teachers, nurses, and other public servants whose employers are not aligned with the administration's ideology: "Public servants who give back to our communities deserve our support, not unlawful political retribution. I am relieved thatthe Court protected the Public Loan Forgiveness Program for our first responders, nurses, teachers, and government employees. This program keeps countless dedicated professionals in public service, supporting their communities and vital institutions, when they could otherwise pursue more lucrative opportunities in private sector employment. Their service is critical to state services, emergency response, educational opportunity, public access to healthcare, and so much more everywhere in our country. The White House was wrong to target these valuable employees and their employers over political and policy disagreements, and yet again my office has completely halted an illegal attack on Michigan from the federal administration."
In November 2025, Attorney General Nessel joined a coalition of 22 other attorneys general in challenging a new rule from the U.S. Department of Education that unlawfully restricted eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which allows government and nonprofit employees to have their federal student loans forgiven after ten years of qualifying public service. The rule, set to take effect today, would have given the administration the power to deem state governments, hospitals, schools, and nonprofit organizations ineligible for PSLF based on their support for immigrants, gender-affirming health care, or diversity programs.
Yesterday, the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted the coalition's motion for summary judgment, declaring the rule illegal and permanently blocking it from taking effect.
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View court filing here: https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/attachments/press-docs/PSLF%20Decision.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.michigan.gov/ag/news/press-releases/2026/07/01/ag-nessel-blocks-weaponization-of-public-service-loan-forgiveness-program
AG Campbell Issues Updated Draft Fantasy Contest Regulations
BOSTON, Massachusetts, July 1 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release:
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AG Campbell Issues Updated Draft Fantasy Contest Regulations
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Boston -Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today announced that her office has released for comment updated Fantasy Contest Regulations to protect Massachusetts consumers from unfair and deceptive practices that may arise in connection with fantasy contests, while also safeguarding families from financial harms that can result from unaffordable losses.
"As fantasy contests and the online ... Show Full Article BOSTON, Massachusetts, July 1 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release: * * * AG Campbell Issues Updated Draft Fantasy Contest Regulations * Boston -Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today announced that her office has released for comment updated Fantasy Contest Regulations to protect Massachusetts consumers from unfair and deceptive practices that may arise in connection with fantasy contests, while also safeguarding families from financial harms that can result from unaffordable losses. "As fantasy contests and the onlinesports gaming landscape continue to evolve, our regulations must evolve with them," said AG Campbell. "These updated regulations strengthen consumer protections, promote fairness, and assure Massachusetts residents that they can participate in fantasy contests knowing that appropriate safeguards are in place."
Massachusetts's existing "Daily Fantasy Sports" regulations were first issued in 2016, prior to the legalization of online sports betting. Since that time, much has changed within the online gaming industry. These regulations will update the outdated regulations, including by:
* Increasing requirements for responsible gaming tools, messaging and advertising, and youth protection;
* Creating a clearer definition of "fantasy contests" to distinguish fantasy contests from sports wagering;
* Strengthening operator requirements for registration, operations, and reporting;
* Clarifying requirements for data privacy and security;
* Requiring additional data retention;
* And updating terminology and definitions.
A "fantasy contest" is defined in state law as a skill-based game based on professional events, including sports, where prizes are predefined and winnings are not based on the outcome of a singular player, team, or event. The new regulations clarify that in fantasy contests, winnings are only paid out to participants and never kept by the operator.
In alignment with the state's existing best practices, such as Sports Wagering requirements, the draft Fantasy Contest regulations ban players from using credit cards and crypto currency; require the implementation of player protections through self-imposed limits, cool-off periods, and an option to enroll in the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's Voluntary Self-Exclusion program; ban auto-deposits and recommended deposit amounts; strengthen responsibility over advertisements to diminish underage targeting; and require the implementation of technology that prevents minors from accessing platforms.
The draft regulations may be viewed in their entirety here.
The AGO will host a public hearing on the draft regulations on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. For questions about the regulations or to sign up to testify in person or virtually at the public hearing, please contact AGOregs@mass.gov. Please be advised any comment submitted to the AGO is a public record in its entirety.
Chapter 93A, the state consumer protection statute, authorizes the Attorney General to promulgate regulations to protect consumers. These regulations can require that facilities make certain disclosures about their contractual terms, and they also can declare certain acts and practices to be unlawful.
The promulgation of these regulations is led by Assistant Attorney General Alda Chan of the AGO's Consumer Protection Division; Assistant Attorneys General Louisa Castrucci and Joshua Edlin and Paralegal Payton Doan, all of the AGO's Civil Gaming Enforcement Division; Chief Jared Rinehimer of the AGO's Privacy and Responsible Technology Division; and Policy Coordinator Nia Johnson and Senior Policy Advisor Alexander Gray of the AGO's Policy and Government Affairs Division.
Individuals who believe they have been subject to an unfair or deceptive business practice, including by a fantasy contest operator, may file a consumer complaint or call the Attorney General's Consumer Hotline at 617-727-8400.
* Office of the Attorney General
The Attorney General is the chief lawyer and law enforcement officer of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
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Original text here: https://www.mass.gov/news/ag-campbell-issues-updated-draft-fantasy-contest-regulations
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AG Campbell Issues Updated Draft Fantasy Contest Regulations
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Boston -Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today announced that her office has released for comment updated Fantasy Contest Regulations to protect Massachusetts consumers from unfair and deceptive practices that may arise in connection with fantasy contests, while also safeguarding families from financial harms that can result from unaffordable losses.
"As fantasy contests and the online ... Show Full Article BOSTON, Massachusetts, July 1 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release: * * * AG Campbell Issues Updated Draft Fantasy Contest Regulations * Boston -Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today announced that her office has released for comment updated Fantasy Contest Regulations to protect Massachusetts consumers from unfair and deceptive practices that may arise in connection with fantasy contests, while also safeguarding families from financial harms that can result from unaffordable losses. "As fantasy contests and the onlinesports gaming landscape continue to evolve, our regulations must evolve with them," said AG Campbell. "These updated regulations strengthen consumer protections, promote fairness, and assure Massachusetts residents that they can participate in fantasy contests knowing that appropriate safeguards are in place."
Massachusetts's existing "Daily Fantasy Sports" regulations were first issued in 2016, prior to the legalization of online sports betting. Since that time, much has changed within the online gaming industry. These regulations will update the outdated regulations, including by:
* Increasing requirements for responsible gaming tools, messaging and advertising, and youth protection;
* Creating a clearer definition of "fantasy contests" to distinguish fantasy contests from sports wagering;
* Strengthening operator requirements for registration, operations, and reporting;
* Clarifying requirements for data privacy and security;
* Requiring additional data retention;
* And updating terminology and definitions.
A "fantasy contest" is defined in state law as a skill-based game based on professional events, including sports, where prizes are predefined and winnings are not based on the outcome of a singular player, team, or event. The new regulations clarify that in fantasy contests, winnings are only paid out to participants and never kept by the operator.
In alignment with the state's existing best practices, such as Sports Wagering requirements, the draft Fantasy Contest regulations ban players from using credit cards and crypto currency; require the implementation of player protections through self-imposed limits, cool-off periods, and an option to enroll in the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's Voluntary Self-Exclusion program; ban auto-deposits and recommended deposit amounts; strengthen responsibility over advertisements to diminish underage targeting; and require the implementation of technology that prevents minors from accessing platforms.
The draft regulations may be viewed in their entirety here.
The AGO will host a public hearing on the draft regulations on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. For questions about the regulations or to sign up to testify in person or virtually at the public hearing, please contact AGOregs@mass.gov. Please be advised any comment submitted to the AGO is a public record in its entirety.
Chapter 93A, the state consumer protection statute, authorizes the Attorney General to promulgate regulations to protect consumers. These regulations can require that facilities make certain disclosures about their contractual terms, and they also can declare certain acts and practices to be unlawful.
The promulgation of these regulations is led by Assistant Attorney General Alda Chan of the AGO's Consumer Protection Division; Assistant Attorneys General Louisa Castrucci and Joshua Edlin and Paralegal Payton Doan, all of the AGO's Civil Gaming Enforcement Division; Chief Jared Rinehimer of the AGO's Privacy and Responsible Technology Division; and Policy Coordinator Nia Johnson and Senior Policy Advisor Alexander Gray of the AGO's Policy and Government Affairs Division.
Individuals who believe they have been subject to an unfair or deceptive business practice, including by a fantasy contest operator, may file a consumer complaint or call the Attorney General's Consumer Hotline at 617-727-8400.
* Office of the Attorney General
The Attorney General is the chief lawyer and law enforcement officer of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
***
Original text here: https://www.mass.gov/news/ag-campbell-issues-updated-draft-fantasy-contest-regulations
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL DEFENDS VALIDITY OF FIREARM INDUSTRY RESPONSIBILITY ACT
CHICAGO, Illinois, July 1 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release:
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ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL DEFENDS VALIDITY OF FIREARM INDUSTRY RESPONSIBILITY ACT
Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed an amicus brief defending the validity of the Firearm Industry Responsibility Act (FIRA) against claims that it is preempted by a federal statute, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA).
Raoul's brief was filed in an interlocutory appeal arising out of numerous cases brought against Smith & Wesson Brand Inc. (Smith & Wesson) by victims of the fatal 2022 shooting ... Show Full Article CHICAGO, Illinois, July 1 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release: * * * ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL DEFENDS VALIDITY OF FIREARM INDUSTRY RESPONSIBILITY ACT Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed an amicus brief defending the validity of the Firearm Industry Responsibility Act (FIRA) against claims that it is preempted by a federal statute, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA). Raoul's brief was filed in an interlocutory appeal arising out of numerous cases brought against Smith & Wesson Brand Inc. (Smith & Wesson) by victims of the fatal 2022 shootingat the Highland Park, Illinois Independence Day parade. The brief explains that the Illinois General Assembly enacted FIRA to advance the state's interest of protecting public safety and asserts that its enactment was a permissible exercise of state sovereign authority.
"As Attorney General, it is my responsibility to protect Illinois residents and businesses from fraud, deception and unfair business practices. More importantly, it is my priority to protect our communities from deadly gun violence as a result of those unfair business practices," Raoul said. "I will continue to ensure that FIRA, which is an important tool in effectuating both of those interests, is preserved to deter and remediate the effects of gun violence in Illinois."
Following the Highland Park shooting that left seven people dead and dozens of others injured, many victims brought legal actions against Smith & Wesson. Smith & Wesson filed to dismiss the case for numerous reasons, including that FIRA is preempted by PLCAA.
Raoul's brief, however, explains FIRA does not run afoul of PLCAA because it was enacted to serve the narrow but important purpose of deterring firearm industry members from engaging in irresponsible and unlawful practices that actively contribute to gun violence in Illinois by holding industry members accountable when they engage in those tactics. It also imposes liability on firearms industry members only for their own unlawful conduct, not for the misuse of firearms by a third party.
Additionally, the brief states FIRA was enacted to address certain well-documented practices by firearm industry members that contribute to gun violence by promoting unlawful conduct or maintaining irresponsible business practices. For example, legislators have expressed concern about false, misleading, or predatory marketing schemes, such as firearm advertisements that target children with cartoon characters marketing a smaller version of an AR-15 firearm. FIRA also addresses firearm dealers' failure to uphold precautions that prevent firearms entering the illegal market through theft or straw purchasing that could be sold for use in criminal acts.
***
Original text here: https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/news/story/attorney-general-raoul-defends-validity-of-firearm-industry-responsibility-act
* * *
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL DEFENDS VALIDITY OF FIREARM INDUSTRY RESPONSIBILITY ACT
Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed an amicus brief defending the validity of the Firearm Industry Responsibility Act (FIRA) against claims that it is preempted by a federal statute, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA).
Raoul's brief was filed in an interlocutory appeal arising out of numerous cases brought against Smith & Wesson Brand Inc. (Smith & Wesson) by victims of the fatal 2022 shooting ... Show Full Article CHICAGO, Illinois, July 1 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release: * * * ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL DEFENDS VALIDITY OF FIREARM INDUSTRY RESPONSIBILITY ACT Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed an amicus brief defending the validity of the Firearm Industry Responsibility Act (FIRA) against claims that it is preempted by a federal statute, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA). Raoul's brief was filed in an interlocutory appeal arising out of numerous cases brought against Smith & Wesson Brand Inc. (Smith & Wesson) by victims of the fatal 2022 shootingat the Highland Park, Illinois Independence Day parade. The brief explains that the Illinois General Assembly enacted FIRA to advance the state's interest of protecting public safety and asserts that its enactment was a permissible exercise of state sovereign authority.
"As Attorney General, it is my responsibility to protect Illinois residents and businesses from fraud, deception and unfair business practices. More importantly, it is my priority to protect our communities from deadly gun violence as a result of those unfair business practices," Raoul said. "I will continue to ensure that FIRA, which is an important tool in effectuating both of those interests, is preserved to deter and remediate the effects of gun violence in Illinois."
Following the Highland Park shooting that left seven people dead and dozens of others injured, many victims brought legal actions against Smith & Wesson. Smith & Wesson filed to dismiss the case for numerous reasons, including that FIRA is preempted by PLCAA.
Raoul's brief, however, explains FIRA does not run afoul of PLCAA because it was enacted to serve the narrow but important purpose of deterring firearm industry members from engaging in irresponsible and unlawful practices that actively contribute to gun violence in Illinois by holding industry members accountable when they engage in those tactics. It also imposes liability on firearms industry members only for their own unlawful conduct, not for the misuse of firearms by a third party.
Additionally, the brief states FIRA was enacted to address certain well-documented practices by firearm industry members that contribute to gun violence by promoting unlawful conduct or maintaining irresponsible business practices. For example, legislators have expressed concern about false, misleading, or predatory marketing schemes, such as firearm advertisements that target children with cartoon characters marketing a smaller version of an AR-15 firearm. FIRA also addresses firearm dealers' failure to uphold precautions that prevent firearms entering the illegal market through theft or straw purchasing that could be sold for use in criminal acts.
***
Original text here: https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/news/story/attorney-general-raoul-defends-validity-of-firearm-industry-responsibility-act
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL BLOCKS WEAPONIZATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM
CHICAGO, Illinois, July 1 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release:
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ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL BLOCKS WEAPONIZATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM
Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of 21 other attorneys general won their case challenging a new rule from the U.S. Department of Education that unlawfully restricted eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which allows government and nonprofit employees to have their federal student loans forgiven after 10 years of qualifying public service.
The U.S. District ... Show Full Article CHICAGO, Illinois, July 1 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release: * * * ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL BLOCKS WEAPONIZATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of 21 other attorneys general won their case challenging a new rule from the U.S. Department of Education that unlawfully restricted eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which allows government and nonprofit employees to have their federal student loans forgiven after 10 years of qualifying public service. The U.S. DistrictCourt for the District of Massachusetts granted Raoul and the coalition's motion for summary judgment on Tuesday, declaring the rule illegal and permanently blocking it from taking effect.
"The president's attempt to punish states he disagrees with politically is illegal, and I am pleased with the court's decision that upholds the rule of law," Raoul said. "I will continue to stand with my fellow attorneys general to protect nurses, teachers, first responders and all Americans who choose to devote their lives to public service."
In November 2025, Attorney General Raoul and the coalition challenged a new federal rule that would have deemed certain state and local governments or nonprofit organizations ineligible employers for PSLF if the federal government determines they have engaged in "substantially illegal" actions - in practice, activities or actions that are disfavored by the administration. Raoul and the coalition argued in their lawsuit that the sweeping new rule was unlawful and targeted to punish states and organizations that the administration does not like.
The rule, set to take effect today, would have given the administration the power to deem state governments, hospitals, schools and nonprofit organizations ineligible for PSLF based on their support for immigrants, gender-affirming health care or diversity programs.
The PSLF program was established by Congress in 2007 to encourage students to dedicate their careers to the service of others. The program forgives borrowers' remaining federal student loan debt after 10 years of qualifying public service and consistent payments. Over the years, PSLF has enabled more than 1 million public servants to pursue careers that might have otherwise been out of reach. For state governments, PSLF is a critical tool to recruit and retain qualified professionals in vital fields like education, health care and law enforcement.
Joining Raoul in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin.
***
Original text here: https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/news/story/attorney-general-raoul-blocks-weaponization-of-public-service-loan-forgiveness-program
* * *
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL BLOCKS WEAPONIZATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM
Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of 21 other attorneys general won their case challenging a new rule from the U.S. Department of Education that unlawfully restricted eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which allows government and nonprofit employees to have their federal student loans forgiven after 10 years of qualifying public service.
The U.S. District ... Show Full Article CHICAGO, Illinois, July 1 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release: * * * ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL BLOCKS WEAPONIZATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of 21 other attorneys general won their case challenging a new rule from the U.S. Department of Education that unlawfully restricted eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which allows government and nonprofit employees to have their federal student loans forgiven after 10 years of qualifying public service. The U.S. DistrictCourt for the District of Massachusetts granted Raoul and the coalition's motion for summary judgment on Tuesday, declaring the rule illegal and permanently blocking it from taking effect.
"The president's attempt to punish states he disagrees with politically is illegal, and I am pleased with the court's decision that upholds the rule of law," Raoul said. "I will continue to stand with my fellow attorneys general to protect nurses, teachers, first responders and all Americans who choose to devote their lives to public service."
In November 2025, Attorney General Raoul and the coalition challenged a new federal rule that would have deemed certain state and local governments or nonprofit organizations ineligible employers for PSLF if the federal government determines they have engaged in "substantially illegal" actions - in practice, activities or actions that are disfavored by the administration. Raoul and the coalition argued in their lawsuit that the sweeping new rule was unlawful and targeted to punish states and organizations that the administration does not like.
The rule, set to take effect today, would have given the administration the power to deem state governments, hospitals, schools and nonprofit organizations ineligible for PSLF based on their support for immigrants, gender-affirming health care or diversity programs.
The PSLF program was established by Congress in 2007 to encourage students to dedicate their careers to the service of others. The program forgives borrowers' remaining federal student loan debt after 10 years of qualifying public service and consistent payments. Over the years, PSLF has enabled more than 1 million public servants to pursue careers that might have otherwise been out of reach. For state governments, PSLF is a critical tool to recruit and retain qualified professionals in vital fields like education, health care and law enforcement.
Joining Raoul in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin.
***
Original text here: https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/news/story/attorney-general-raoul-blocks-weaponization-of-public-service-loan-forgiveness-program
Attorney General James Sues Brooklyn Pet Store for Illegally Selling Hundreds of Puppies
ALBANY, New York, July 1 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release:
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Attorney General James Sues Brooklyn Pet Store for Illegally Selling Hundreds of Puppies
NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that she has sued Quality Canines Inc., a pet store in Brooklyn operating as Puppy Boutique, for illegally advertising and selling hundreds of puppies, in violation of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act. The law, which went into effect in December 2024, permanently bans the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits by New York pet stores. An investigation ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, July 1 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release: * * * Attorney General James Sues Brooklyn Pet Store for Illegally Selling Hundreds of Puppies NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that she has sued Quality Canines Inc., a pet store in Brooklyn operating as Puppy Boutique, for illegally advertising and selling hundreds of puppies, in violation of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act. The law, which went into effect in December 2024, permanently bans the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits by New York pet stores. An investigationby the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that for more than a year and a half, Puppy Boutique has continued to source and sell puppies from puppy mills, in direct violation of the law that seeks to protect consumers from unknowingly purchasing sick pets and to curb animal abuse at puppy mills. Attorney General James is seeking to immediately stop Puppy Boutique from illegally selling dogs.
"Pets are valued members of our families, and anyone who brings a new pet into their home deserves a healthy animal," said Attorney General James. "Puppy Boutique illegally sold puppies to New Yorkers, exposing them to heartbreak and exorbitant veterinary bills for animals raised in inhumane conditions. My office will continue to enforce the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act to ensure that animals across the state are protected, healthy, and free from mistreatment, and that abusive breeders are stopped."
Puppy Boutique uses social media accounts, including Instagram and TikTok, and several websites including thepuppyboutique.com, puppypetite.com, and others to advertise puppies for sale. Instagram accounts associated with Puppy Boutique posted photos of puppies and included captions providing information on the sale of the puppies and contact information for the store, in violation of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act.
In February 2024, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) sent a letter to Puppy Boutique informing them that the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act would go into effect in December 2024. After the law took effect, Puppy Boutique continued to illegally advertise and sell dogs. In January 2025, OAG sent a cease-and-desist letter to Puppy Boutique and a few months later, in June 2025, the New York Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) sent a cease-and-desist order. In response, Puppy Boutique claimed to be working with a newly formed non-profit organization to adopt dogs at its storefront. However, this non-profit organization was not registered with AGM and sourced dogs directly from breeders, including known puppy mills in violation of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act.
In March 2025, OAG conducted an undercover investigation and contacted Puppy Boutique using the phone number listed on an associated webpage advertisement. The investigator inquired about purchasing a Maltese puppy, and a representative from Puppy Boutique confirmed that puppies were available for purchase and provided pricing information. Following the phone call, the representative sent the undercover investigator a series of text messages, including several photographs of puppies available for purchase, a link to an Instagram page to view other dogs, pricing information, and store hours during which the investigator could visit the dogs for sale. The representative also told the investigator the puppy "can be taken home the same day as you come down."
The OAG would like to thank the AGM and DOHMH for their assistance in this investigation.
"From the start, Attorney General James has been a great partner in enforcing our Puppy Mill Pipeline Act," said Deputy Senate Leader Michael Gianaris. "Her actions today continue to send a strong message that this law is taken seriously and violators will be held accountable."
"As any reputable business should know, the Puppy Mill Pipeline Law, which I was proud to sponsor, has been in effect for more than a year and a half," said Assembly Member Linda Rosenthal. "The law expressly forbids the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in retail pet stores, but apparently that was not an obstacle for Puppy Boutique. Sourcing dogs from cruel puppy mills and fleecing unsuspecting consumers to the tune of thousands of dollars per animal will not be tolerated in New York state. I thank Attorney General James and her team for their work in enforcing this law and pursuing the bad actors who flout the law despite the harm it causes to humans and animals."
This matter is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Deborah Diamant of the Brooklyn Regional Office, under the supervision of Assistant Attorney General in Charge Michael Barbosa and with support from Investigator Lorenzo Hernandez. The Brooklyn Regional Office is part of the Division of Regional Affairs, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Jill Faber and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.
***
Original text here: https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2026/attorney-general-james-sues-brooklyn-pet-store-illegally-selling-hundreds
* * *
Attorney General James Sues Brooklyn Pet Store for Illegally Selling Hundreds of Puppies
NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that she has sued Quality Canines Inc., a pet store in Brooklyn operating as Puppy Boutique, for illegally advertising and selling hundreds of puppies, in violation of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act. The law, which went into effect in December 2024, permanently bans the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits by New York pet stores. An investigation ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, July 1 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release: * * * Attorney General James Sues Brooklyn Pet Store for Illegally Selling Hundreds of Puppies NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that she has sued Quality Canines Inc., a pet store in Brooklyn operating as Puppy Boutique, for illegally advertising and selling hundreds of puppies, in violation of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act. The law, which went into effect in December 2024, permanently bans the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits by New York pet stores. An investigationby the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that for more than a year and a half, Puppy Boutique has continued to source and sell puppies from puppy mills, in direct violation of the law that seeks to protect consumers from unknowingly purchasing sick pets and to curb animal abuse at puppy mills. Attorney General James is seeking to immediately stop Puppy Boutique from illegally selling dogs.
"Pets are valued members of our families, and anyone who brings a new pet into their home deserves a healthy animal," said Attorney General James. "Puppy Boutique illegally sold puppies to New Yorkers, exposing them to heartbreak and exorbitant veterinary bills for animals raised in inhumane conditions. My office will continue to enforce the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act to ensure that animals across the state are protected, healthy, and free from mistreatment, and that abusive breeders are stopped."
Puppy Boutique uses social media accounts, including Instagram and TikTok, and several websites including thepuppyboutique.com, puppypetite.com, and others to advertise puppies for sale. Instagram accounts associated with Puppy Boutique posted photos of puppies and included captions providing information on the sale of the puppies and contact information for the store, in violation of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act.
In February 2024, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) sent a letter to Puppy Boutique informing them that the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act would go into effect in December 2024. After the law took effect, Puppy Boutique continued to illegally advertise and sell dogs. In January 2025, OAG sent a cease-and-desist letter to Puppy Boutique and a few months later, in June 2025, the New York Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) sent a cease-and-desist order. In response, Puppy Boutique claimed to be working with a newly formed non-profit organization to adopt dogs at its storefront. However, this non-profit organization was not registered with AGM and sourced dogs directly from breeders, including known puppy mills in violation of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act.
In March 2025, OAG conducted an undercover investigation and contacted Puppy Boutique using the phone number listed on an associated webpage advertisement. The investigator inquired about purchasing a Maltese puppy, and a representative from Puppy Boutique confirmed that puppies were available for purchase and provided pricing information. Following the phone call, the representative sent the undercover investigator a series of text messages, including several photographs of puppies available for purchase, a link to an Instagram page to view other dogs, pricing information, and store hours during which the investigator could visit the dogs for sale. The representative also told the investigator the puppy "can be taken home the same day as you come down."
The OAG would like to thank the AGM and DOHMH for their assistance in this investigation.
"From the start, Attorney General James has been a great partner in enforcing our Puppy Mill Pipeline Act," said Deputy Senate Leader Michael Gianaris. "Her actions today continue to send a strong message that this law is taken seriously and violators will be held accountable."
"As any reputable business should know, the Puppy Mill Pipeline Law, which I was proud to sponsor, has been in effect for more than a year and a half," said Assembly Member Linda Rosenthal. "The law expressly forbids the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in retail pet stores, but apparently that was not an obstacle for Puppy Boutique. Sourcing dogs from cruel puppy mills and fleecing unsuspecting consumers to the tune of thousands of dollars per animal will not be tolerated in New York state. I thank Attorney General James and her team for their work in enforcing this law and pursuing the bad actors who flout the law despite the harm it causes to humans and animals."
This matter is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Deborah Diamant of the Brooklyn Regional Office, under the supervision of Assistant Attorney General in Charge Michael Barbosa and with support from Investigator Lorenzo Hernandez. The Brooklyn Regional Office is part of the Division of Regional Affairs, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Jill Faber and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.
***
Original text here: https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2026/attorney-general-james-sues-brooklyn-pet-store-illegally-selling-hundreds
AG Campbell Secures $2.75 Million Settlement With Nursing Home Ownership Group For Systematic Understaffing Resulting In Resident Neglect
BOSTON, Massachusetts, July 2 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
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AG Campbell Secures $2.75 Million Settlement With Nursing Home Ownership Group For Systematic Understaffing Resulting In Resident Neglect
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today announced a $2.75 million settlement with Bear Mountain Healthcare LLC ("Bear Mountain"), along with its affiliates and current and former skilled nursing facilities, resolving allegations that Bear Mountain knowingly understaffed its facilities, resulting in resident ... Show Full Article BOSTON, Massachusetts, July 2 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release on July 1, 2026: * * * AG Campbell Secures $2.75 Million Settlement With Nursing Home Ownership Group For Systematic Understaffing Resulting In Resident Neglect Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today announced a $2.75 million settlement with Bear Mountain Healthcare LLC ("Bear Mountain"), along with its affiliates and current and former skilled nursing facilities, resolving allegations that Bear Mountain knowingly understaffed its facilities, resulting in residentneglect.
Under the agreement, Bear Mountain will pay $2.75 million, including $1 million for the sole benefit of residents at its remaining facility, and will enter a three-year compliance monitoring program overseen by an independent monitor approved by the Attorney General's Office (AGO) for all facilities they currently operate and/or will operate in the future.
"Elders deserve to live with dignity and respect. To ensure nursing home residents receive adequate care, state law requires facilities to meet minimum staffing standards. When facilities fail to meet those requirements, my office will take action to hold them accountable and protect residents," said AG Campbell. "This settlement holds Bear Mountain accountable for systematic understaffing that resulted in neglect and provides meaningful relief to properly meet residents' needs moving forward."
Bear Mountain, from 2017 through the present, has owned or managed a number of skilled nursing facilities throughout Massachusetts. As of today, Bear Mountain has sold all facilities except one, Timberlyn Heights in Great Barrington. The AGO began an investigation based on referrals received from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and found widespread staffing deficiencies in violation of state regulations.
The AGO's investigation found that between April 2021 and December 2025, facilities operated by Bear Mountain systematically failed to meet minimum staffing levels required by DPH.
The AGO alleges that this chronic understaffing led to serious resident harm, including pressure ulcers, obstructive uropathy, obstructed foley catheters, renal failure, medication errors, malnutrition and dehydration, and falls resulting in broken bones. The AGO further alleged that, during the same time period the facilities were struggling to meet minimum staffing standards, Bear Mountain's owners took significant salaries and distributions from the facilities.
This case builds on AG Campbell's broader efforts to protect elders in Massachusetts, including a $4 million settlement with Next Step Healthcare in 2024 - the largest nursing home settlement in AGO history - resolving similar allegations of systemic understaffing and neglect. In June 2026, the AGO announced new consumer protection regulations for Assisted Living Residences -the first of its kind under the state's consumer protection laws -to protect residents from unfair and deceptive acts and practices, including misrepresentation of available services, improper fees, and unlawful evictions.
The Bear Mountain case was handled by Assistant Attorneys General Mary-Ellen Kennedy and Matthew Jones, Investigations Supervisor Heather Dwyer, and Nurse Investigator Barbara Edwards, all of the AGO's Medicaid Fraud Division. MassHealth, DPH, the Massachusetts Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, and the Disability Law Center provided substantial assistance with the investigation.
The AGO's Medicaid Fraud Division is a Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, annually certified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to investigate and prosecute health care providers who defraud the state's Medicaid program, MassHealth. The Medicaid Fraud Division also has jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute complaints of abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of residents in long-term care facilities and of Medicaid patients in any health care setting. Individuals may file a MassHealth fraud complaint or report cases of abuse or neglect of Medicaid patients or long-term care residents by visiting the AGO's website.
The Massachusetts Medicaid Fraud Division receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $6,458,176 for federal fiscal year 2026. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $2,152,724 for FY 2026, is funded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
***
Original text here: https://www.mass.gov/news/ag-campbell-secures-275-million-settlement-with-nursing-home-ownership-group-for-systematic-understaffing-resulting-in-resident-neglect
* * *
AG Campbell Secures $2.75 Million Settlement With Nursing Home Ownership Group For Systematic Understaffing Resulting In Resident Neglect
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today announced a $2.75 million settlement with Bear Mountain Healthcare LLC ("Bear Mountain"), along with its affiliates and current and former skilled nursing facilities, resolving allegations that Bear Mountain knowingly understaffed its facilities, resulting in resident ... Show Full Article BOSTON, Massachusetts, July 2 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release on July 1, 2026: * * * AG Campbell Secures $2.75 Million Settlement With Nursing Home Ownership Group For Systematic Understaffing Resulting In Resident Neglect Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today announced a $2.75 million settlement with Bear Mountain Healthcare LLC ("Bear Mountain"), along with its affiliates and current and former skilled nursing facilities, resolving allegations that Bear Mountain knowingly understaffed its facilities, resulting in residentneglect.
Under the agreement, Bear Mountain will pay $2.75 million, including $1 million for the sole benefit of residents at its remaining facility, and will enter a three-year compliance monitoring program overseen by an independent monitor approved by the Attorney General's Office (AGO) for all facilities they currently operate and/or will operate in the future.
"Elders deserve to live with dignity and respect. To ensure nursing home residents receive adequate care, state law requires facilities to meet minimum staffing standards. When facilities fail to meet those requirements, my office will take action to hold them accountable and protect residents," said AG Campbell. "This settlement holds Bear Mountain accountable for systematic understaffing that resulted in neglect and provides meaningful relief to properly meet residents' needs moving forward."
Bear Mountain, from 2017 through the present, has owned or managed a number of skilled nursing facilities throughout Massachusetts. As of today, Bear Mountain has sold all facilities except one, Timberlyn Heights in Great Barrington. The AGO began an investigation based on referrals received from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and found widespread staffing deficiencies in violation of state regulations.
The AGO's investigation found that between April 2021 and December 2025, facilities operated by Bear Mountain systematically failed to meet minimum staffing levels required by DPH.
The AGO alleges that this chronic understaffing led to serious resident harm, including pressure ulcers, obstructive uropathy, obstructed foley catheters, renal failure, medication errors, malnutrition and dehydration, and falls resulting in broken bones. The AGO further alleged that, during the same time period the facilities were struggling to meet minimum staffing standards, Bear Mountain's owners took significant salaries and distributions from the facilities.
This case builds on AG Campbell's broader efforts to protect elders in Massachusetts, including a $4 million settlement with Next Step Healthcare in 2024 - the largest nursing home settlement in AGO history - resolving similar allegations of systemic understaffing and neglect. In June 2026, the AGO announced new consumer protection regulations for Assisted Living Residences -the first of its kind under the state's consumer protection laws -to protect residents from unfair and deceptive acts and practices, including misrepresentation of available services, improper fees, and unlawful evictions.
The Bear Mountain case was handled by Assistant Attorneys General Mary-Ellen Kennedy and Matthew Jones, Investigations Supervisor Heather Dwyer, and Nurse Investigator Barbara Edwards, all of the AGO's Medicaid Fraud Division. MassHealth, DPH, the Massachusetts Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, and the Disability Law Center provided substantial assistance with the investigation.
The AGO's Medicaid Fraud Division is a Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, annually certified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to investigate and prosecute health care providers who defraud the state's Medicaid program, MassHealth. The Medicaid Fraud Division also has jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute complaints of abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of residents in long-term care facilities and of Medicaid patients in any health care setting. Individuals may file a MassHealth fraud complaint or report cases of abuse or neglect of Medicaid patients or long-term care residents by visiting the AGO's website.
The Massachusetts Medicaid Fraud Division receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $6,458,176 for federal fiscal year 2026. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $2,152,724 for FY 2026, is funded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
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Original text here: https://www.mass.gov/news/ag-campbell-secures-275-million-settlement-with-nursing-home-ownership-group-for-systematic-understaffing-resulting-in-resident-neglect
Arizona House Republicans Hail Supreme Court Victory for Women's Sports
PHOENIX, Arizona, July 1 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on June 30, 2026:
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Arizona House Republicans Hail Supreme Court Victory for Women's Sports
Ruling vindicates Republican lawmakers who defended Arizona's law after Attorney General Mayes refused
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Arizona House Republicans today celebrated a major victory for female athletes after the United States Supreme Court upheld the right of states to reserve girls' and women's sports for biological females.
In its decision, the Court ruled that Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause allow states to determine ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, July 1 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on June 30, 2026: * * * Arizona House Republicans Hail Supreme Court Victory for Women's Sports Ruling vindicates Republican lawmakers who defended Arizona's law after Attorney General Mayes refused - Arizona House Republicans today celebrated a major victory for female athletes after the United States Supreme Court upheld the right of states to reserve girls' and women's sports for biological females. In its decision, the Court ruled that Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause allow states to determineeligibility for female athletic teams based on biological sex. The decision rejects efforts to force states to abandon fair competition and confirms that protecting women's sports is constitutional.
"Today, fairness won and female athletes won," said House Speaker Steve Montenegro. "The Supreme Court confirmed what Arizona Republicans have said from the beginning: women's sports depend on recognizing the biological differences between men and women. No girl should lose a roster spot, medal, record, or scholarship because liberal politicians and activists refuse to acknowledge reality."
Arizona enacted the Save Women's Sports Act in 2022. When Attorney General Kris Mayes refused to defend the law, Republican leaders in the House and Senate intervened to continue the fight in court.
"Attorney General Mayes turned her back on Arizona's female athletes. We did not," Speaker Montenegro said. "House Republicans stepped in, defended the law, and stood with the girls and women who deserve fair competition. Today's ruling vindicates that fight and clears the way for states to protect women's sports."
The ruling also strengthens Arizona's case as voters prepare to consider House Concurrent Resolution 2003, the Protect Girls' Sports in Arizona Act, on the November 2026 general election ballot.
Sponsored by Representative Selina Bliss, HCR 2003 would require school athletic teams to be designated as male, female, or coeducational based on biological sex. It would also protect privacy in locker rooms, showers, and other private athletic facilities.
"The Supreme Court settled the legal question. Now Arizona voters can decide for themselves," said Representative Bliss. "Girls' sports should remain for girls. That principle is lawful, fair, and worth defending."
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Steve Montenegro is the Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives and serves Legislative District 29 in the West Valley, Goodyear, and Surprise. Follow him on X at @SteveMontenegro.
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Original text here: https://www.azleg.gov/press/house/57LEG/2R/260630MONTENEGROWOMENSSPORTS.pdf
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Arizona House Republicans Hail Supreme Court Victory for Women's Sports
Ruling vindicates Republican lawmakers who defended Arizona's law after Attorney General Mayes refused
-
Arizona House Republicans today celebrated a major victory for female athletes after the United States Supreme Court upheld the right of states to reserve girls' and women's sports for biological females.
In its decision, the Court ruled that Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause allow states to determine ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, July 1 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on June 30, 2026: * * * Arizona House Republicans Hail Supreme Court Victory for Women's Sports Ruling vindicates Republican lawmakers who defended Arizona's law after Attorney General Mayes refused - Arizona House Republicans today celebrated a major victory for female athletes after the United States Supreme Court upheld the right of states to reserve girls' and women's sports for biological females. In its decision, the Court ruled that Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause allow states to determineeligibility for female athletic teams based on biological sex. The decision rejects efforts to force states to abandon fair competition and confirms that protecting women's sports is constitutional.
"Today, fairness won and female athletes won," said House Speaker Steve Montenegro. "The Supreme Court confirmed what Arizona Republicans have said from the beginning: women's sports depend on recognizing the biological differences between men and women. No girl should lose a roster spot, medal, record, or scholarship because liberal politicians and activists refuse to acknowledge reality."
Arizona enacted the Save Women's Sports Act in 2022. When Attorney General Kris Mayes refused to defend the law, Republican leaders in the House and Senate intervened to continue the fight in court.
"Attorney General Mayes turned her back on Arizona's female athletes. We did not," Speaker Montenegro said. "House Republicans stepped in, defended the law, and stood with the girls and women who deserve fair competition. Today's ruling vindicates that fight and clears the way for states to protect women's sports."
The ruling also strengthens Arizona's case as voters prepare to consider House Concurrent Resolution 2003, the Protect Girls' Sports in Arizona Act, on the November 2026 general election ballot.
Sponsored by Representative Selina Bliss, HCR 2003 would require school athletic teams to be designated as male, female, or coeducational based on biological sex. It would also protect privacy in locker rooms, showers, and other private athletic facilities.
"The Supreme Court settled the legal question. Now Arizona voters can decide for themselves," said Representative Bliss. "Girls' sports should remain for girls. That principle is lawful, fair, and worth defending."
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Steve Montenegro is the Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives and serves Legislative District 29 in the West Valley, Goodyear, and Surprise. Follow him on X at @SteveMontenegro.
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Original text here: https://www.azleg.gov/press/house/57LEG/2R/260630MONTENEGROWOMENSSPORTS.pdf