States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
AG Nessel Secures Agreement with Wedding Caterer Regarding Alleged Unlawful Business Practices, Refund Impacted Customers
LANSING, Michigan, April 6 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release:
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AG Nessel Secures Agreement with Wedding Caterer Regarding Alleged Unlawful Business Practices, Refund Impacted Customers
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LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has secured an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance (AVC) with Alicia Thompson, owner and operator of Late to the Lake, LLC, a Michigan-based catering business (PDF), resolving allegations that the company engaged in deceptive and unlawful business practices in violation of the Michigan Consumer Protection Act (MCPA).
... Show Full Article
LANSING, Michigan, April 6 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release:
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AG Nessel Secures Agreement with Wedding Caterer Regarding Alleged Unlawful Business Practices, Refund Impacted Customers
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LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has secured an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance (AVC) with Alicia Thompson, owner and operator of Late to the Lake, LLC, a Michigan-based catering business (PDF), resolving allegations that the company engaged in deceptive and unlawful business practices in violation of the Michigan Consumer Protection Act (MCPA).Under the agreement, Thompson is prohibited from engaging in catering services in the State of Michigan for 5 years. To the extent they qualify under the terms of the agreement, Thompson must also refund all impacted consumers who submitted a complaint with the Department of Attorney General by May 1. Refunds must be issued by July 1.
The Department of Attorney General has received more than 40 consumer complaints concerning Late to the Lake. The complaints alleged a concerning pattern of the caterer's last-minute cancellations of wedding services, followed by the company's failure to issue refunds to affected consumers.
In one instance, a Michigan consumer reported paying more than $6,000 for wedding catering services that were ultimately canceled without a refund. Another customer detailed being pressured to pay in full under the guise of sale pricing, only to have Late to the Lake cancel on the day of the rehearsal dinner. Some complaints alleged they were later charged more than the agreed-upon amount or discovered new charges on their accounts after services were canceled. When catering services were provided, a consumer reported serious deficiencies in service quality, unauthorized fees, and incomplete food delivery.
"A wedding is one of the most meaningful days of a person's life, and couples should be able to trust that their chosen vendor will deliver what they promised or at the very least refund them when something goes wrong," said Attorney General Nessel. "I am proud of my Consumer Protection Team for holding this caterer accountable and encourage those who believe they were impacted by Late to the Lake to file a complaint with my office by May 1 to ensure they receive a refund."
Michigan consumers who suspect they are owed a refund by Thompson are encouraged to contact the Department of Attorney General. To be considered for a refund, customers must file a complaint by May 1. Impacted consumers can contact the Consumer Protection Team at:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
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Original text here: https://www.michigan.gov/ag/news/press-releases/2026/04/06/ag-nessel-secures-agreement-with-wedding-caterer
AG Campbell Announces Draft Regulations For Assisted Living Residences
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 6 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release:
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AG Campbell Announces Draft Regulations For Assisted Living Residences
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Boston -Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today released draft regulations for Assisted Living Residences (ALRs) to protect residents from unfair and deceptive acts and practices, including misrepresentation of available services, improper fees, and unlawful evictions. The draft regulations, the first of their kind under the state's consumer protection law, were developed by the
... Show Full Article
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 6 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release:
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AG Campbell Announces Draft Regulations For Assisted Living Residences
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Boston -Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today released draft regulations for Assisted Living Residences (ALRs) to protect residents from unfair and deceptive acts and practices, including misrepresentation of available services, improper fees, and unlawful evictions. The draft regulations, the first of their kind under the state's consumer protection law, were developed by theAttorney General's Office, and are informed by community concerns, including those voiced by community partners, elder law attorneys, and members of the Attorney General's Elder Justice Council.
The draft regulations will now enter a public comment period. After taking the public's feedback in account, the AGO anticipates releasing final regulations over the summer. Members of the public can provide comments to AGOregs@mass.gov, or by mail to One Ashburton Place, 20th Floor, Policy and Government Affairs Division, Boston, MA 02108, until 5:00pm on May 1, 2026. The AGO will also host a hybrid public hearing on the draft regulations on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 1:00 pm in the Conference Room located on the 2nd Floor of One Hundred Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02108 and virtually using this link.
"When our elders move into assisted living residences, they and their loved ones deserve safe accommodations and clear information about the costs they will pay and services offered," said AG Campbell. "These regulations will strengthen accountability to ensure that these facilities are fulfilling their commitments and help ensure older adults live with dignity and respect. I look forward to collaborating with community partners as we work to finalize and implement them."
Assisted living residences serve older adults who can live independently in a home-like setting, but may need assistance with daily activities such as housekeeping, bathing, or medication assistance. According to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) more than 17,000 people currently live in the over 270 certified ALRs in Massachusetts.
In 2024, the AGO launched a public process to gather input on challenges facing assisted living residents. That feedback, as well as concerns reported to the AGO through consumer complaints, directly informed the development of the proposed regulations announced today. They focus on key areas of consumer protection, including financial protections and billing transparency, protection against misrepresentation of services, contractual and eviction protections, and complaint and reporting mechanisms.
Among other rules, the draft regulations state that:
* ALRs should have straightforward service agreements that clearly disclose the cost of services provided in the residence, as well as guidelines for when those costs may increase.
* Residents should have transparent information about what may happen if they cannot afford to remain in the ALR, or if they require advanced care that the ALR cannot provide.
* ALRs should provide clear information about the availability of nursing care at the residence.
* Residents in ALRs have the same rights as other tenants, including protections related to fees, eviction, and other tenancy matters.
Chapter 93A, the 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.
These new consumer protection regulations complement the recent proposed amendments to regulations pertaining to Assisted Living Residences by the Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE).
The promulgation of these regulations is led by Assistant Attorney General Andrew Musgrave, Director Mary Freeley and Deputy Director Valerie Frias of the AGO's Elder Justice Unit with assistance from Assistant Attorney General Thomas Furlong. AG Campbell created the Elder Justice Unit in August 2023 to protect and promote the safety and well-being of older adults through enforcement actions, legislative advocacy, and community engagement and education.
* 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-announces-draft-regulations-for-assisted-living-residences
Attorney General Brenna Bird Celebrates Win for Iowa Parents after Court Decisions
DES MOINES, Iowa, April 6 -- Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Brenna Bird Celebrates Win for Iowa Parents after Court Decisions
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DES MOINES-Attorney General Brenna Bird celebrated two landmark rulings by the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals today, which vacated the preliminary injunction entered against Senate File 496. The court's decisions reinstate Iowa's ability to enforce the law, marking a significant victory for parental rights and local control in education.
The 2023 law prohibits sexually explicit books and materials in school
... Show Full Article
DES MOINES, Iowa, April 6 -- Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Brenna Bird Celebrates Win for Iowa Parents after Court Decisions
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DES MOINES-Attorney General Brenna Bird celebrated two landmark rulings by the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals today, which vacated the preliminary injunction entered against Senate File 496. The court's decisions reinstate Iowa's ability to enforce the law, marking a significant victory for parental rights and local control in education.
The 2023 law prohibits sexually explicit books and materials in schoollibraries. It also requires schools to prioritize age-appropriate instruction and prohibits instruction relating to gender identity or sexual orientation in kindergarten through 6th grade. Finally, the law ensures that parents are informed and involved in significant decisions regarding their child's wellbeing at school.
The law has been blocked since March of 2025 due to litigation.
"This is a huge win for Iowa parents," said Attorney General Bird. "Parents should always know that school is a safe place for their children to learn, not be concerned they are being indoctrinated with inappropriate sexual materials and philosophies. I am grateful that our law protecting children was upheld today."
Read the full decisions here and here.
For More Information:
Jen Green
jen.green@ag.iowa.gov
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Original text here: https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/newsroom/attorney-general-brenna-bird-celebrates-win-for-iowa-parents-after-court-decisions/
Attorney General Bonta Opposes Sable's Request for Special Permit to Waive Federal Safety Regulation
SACRAMENTO, California, April 6 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Bonta Opposes Sable's Request for Special Permit to Waive Federal Safety Regulation
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OAKLAND -California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a comment letter opposing the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)'s consideration of Sable Offshore Corp. (Sable)'s request for a special permit to waive a safety regulation and transport oil through Lines CA-324 and CA-325 in Santa Barbara and Kern counties. PHSMA illegally purports to assert
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, April 6 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Bonta Opposes Sable's Request for Special Permit to Waive Federal Safety Regulation
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OAKLAND -California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a comment letter opposing the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)'s consideration of Sable Offshore Corp. (Sable)'s request for a special permit to waive a safety regulation and transport oil through Lines CA-324 and CA-325 in Santa Barbara and Kern counties. PHSMA illegally purports to assertexclusive federal jurisdiction over the onshore Lines CA-324 and CA-325 by reclassifying them as "interstate," and issued Sable an emergency permit waiving compliance with its own safety regulation requiring evaluation and remediation of pipeline corrosion. That emergency permit recently expired and is being challenged in ongoing litigation by the California Department of Justice, as is PHMSA's reclassification of the pipelines as interstate. In the comment letter, Attorney General Bonta argues that PHMSA is without jurisdiction to issue any special permit because the pipelines are intrastate, and therefore subject to state regulation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) rather than PHMSA.
"Let's be clear: we do not have a 'National Energy Emergency.' President Trump is simply prioritizing the fossil fuel industry, ensuring that they can continue to line their own pockets by illegally restarting oil transportation through California's pipelines at the expense of our public health and environment," said Attorney General Bonta. "We are making it crystal clear once again that these pipelines fall under California's jurisdiction, and the federal government cannot illegally help Sable evade state regulation and federal safety requirements by granting this permit."
On December 17, 2025, PHMSA illegally reclassified Lines CA-324 and CA-325 that run from Santa Barbara County to Kern County as "interstate." The reclassification purports to shift regulatory oversight of the pipelines from the OSFM to PHMSA. Before December 17, 2025, PHMSA had classified these onshore pipelines as intrastate pipelines subject to state safety regulation and oversight. On December 22, 2025, PHMSA approved Sable's plan to restart oil production based on President Trump's bogus "National Energy Emergency" Executive Order that Attorney General Bonta challenged. Just last month, the Attorney General challenged DOE Secretary Chris Wright's "Pipeline Capacity Prioritization and Allocation Order" (order) and is seeking to halt its use as the basis for Sable's unlawful restart of the pipelines. The order, improperly issued under the Defense Production Act (DPA), unlawfully purports to supersede state law, state court orders, and a federal court-approved Consent Decree to allow Sable to restart oil transport through the pipelines.
The onshore pipelines had been shut down for a decade since the 2015 Refugio Beach oil spill, when a corroded segment of one pipeline ruptured and released more than 120,000 gallons of crude oil near Santa Barbara, at least 21,000 gallons of which entered the Pacific Ocean. The oil spill caused serious harm to public health and safety including releasing hazardous oil and fumes that sickened communities, contaminated coastal waters, harmed hundreds of marine mammals and seabirds, and shut down beaches and fisheries for months -damaging local economies. It resulted in a Consent Decree -to which PHMSA is a party -that expressly acknowledges and approves the State Fire Marshal's role in reviewing and approving any planned restart of the onshore pipelines. PHMSA has significantly departed from this agreement, which was approved by a federal court, and the way in which PHMSA historically viewed the pipelines.
In the comment letter, the Attorney General asserts that:
* PHMSA has no authority to unilaterally modify or disregard the consent decree and cannot unilaterally assert regulatory jurisdiction over the pipelines.
* PHMSA has failed to justify the need for an emergency permit and lacks robust environmental analysis, including National Environmental Protection Act analysis.
* The DPA order does not impact this proceeding because PHMSA has no authority to grant Sable a special permit and the DPA Order itself is unlawful.
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Original text here: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-opposes-sable%E2%80%99s-request-special-permit-waive-federal
Armstrong opens application period for Governor's Band/Orchestra and Choral programs
BISMARCK, North Dakota, April 6 -- Gov. Kelly Armstrong, R-North Dakota, issued the following news:
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Armstrong opens application period for Governor's Band/Orchestra and Choral programs
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BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. Kelly Armstrong today announced the opening of the application period for school, community and church bands, orchestras and choirs across North Dakota to apply to serve as the Governor's Official State Band/Orchestra Program and Choral Program for the 2026-2027 school year.
The Governor and First Lady will select the two groups from the applications received based on musical talent,
... Show Full Article
BISMARCK, North Dakota, April 6 -- Gov. Kelly Armstrong, R-North Dakota, issued the following news:
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Armstrong opens application period for Governor's Band/Orchestra and Choral programs
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BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. Kelly Armstrong today announced the opening of the application period for school, community and church bands, orchestras and choirs across North Dakota to apply to serve as the Governor's Official State Band/Orchestra Program and Choral Program for the 2026-2027 school year.
The Governor and First Lady will select the two groups from the applications received based on musical talent,achievement and community involvement. The governor may invite the groups to perform at official state functions held throughout the 2026-2027 school year, including the State of the State Address in January 2027 at the Capitol in Bismarck.
Interested groups should submit an application with a musical recording to the Governor's Office by 5 p.m. Monday, May 4. The Governor's Band/Orchestra Program and Governor's Choral Program will be announced in May. Please complete the application and provide materials at https://www.governor.nd.gov/governors-chorus-and-bandorchestra-program-application.
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Original text here: https://www.governor.nd.gov/news/armstrong-opens-application-period-governors-bandorchestra-and-choral-programs
AG Rayfield Asks Court to Schedule Hearing to Hold Portland Scrapyard Owner in Contempt for Repeated Environmental Violations
SALEM, Oregon, April 6 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release:
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AG Rayfield Asks Court to Schedule Hearing to Hold Portland Scrapyard Owner in Contempt for Repeated Environmental Violations
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Attorney General Dan Rayfield today announced that the Oregon Department of Justice has filed a motion asking a Multnomah County Circuit Court judge to schedule a contempt hearing for Moyata "Mo" Anotta, President of NW Metals Inc. in Portland, on behalf of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The motion alleges Anotta violated a 2021 permanent court
... Show Full Article
SALEM, Oregon, April 6 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release:
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AG Rayfield Asks Court to Schedule Hearing to Hold Portland Scrapyard Owner in Contempt for Repeated Environmental Violations
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Attorney General Dan Rayfield today announced that the Oregon Department of Justice has filed a motion asking a Multnomah County Circuit Court judge to schedule a contempt hearing for Moyata "Mo" Anotta, President of NW Metals Inc. in Portland, on behalf of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The motion alleges Anotta violated a 2021 permanent courtinjunction requiring the company to comply with Oregon environmental law.
"Mr. Anotta has already watched a fire at one of his scrapyards send toxic smoke over a residential neighborhood and force more than 145 of his neighbors from their homes," said Attorney General Rayfield. "A court ordered him to follow the law and he didn't. The people living near his operation deserve clean air, clean water, and a neighbor who follows the rules -and we are going to use every tool available to make sure that happens."
"Businesses that repeatedly violate our environmental safety and air quality standards put Oregon communities at risk, and when a court orders compliance, that order must be taken seriously," Governor Tina Kotek said. "The history of violations tied to NW Metals -including the 2018 fire that forced families from their homes -is exactly why accountability matters. I applaud Attorney General Rayfield's work to enforce the law and protect the health and safety of the people living near any site operated by this disreputable owner."
In 2021, the State of Oregon and NW Metals Inc. entered into a stipulated permanent injunction requiring the company to comply with Oregon's air quality, solid waste and water quality laws -and prohibiting it from operating a metal shredder without a valid air permit from the DEQ.
The injunction followed years of enforcement actions against NW Metals, including a DEQ civil penalty and order following a 2018 five-alarm fire at the company's former Cully neighborhood scrapyard that sent toxic smoke billowing over a residential area and forced the evacuation of more than 145 nearby residents.
Despite that court order, ODOJ alleges that Anotta has continued to operate in violation of the injunction. The state alleges NW Metals has operated without required air quality, solid waste, and stormwater permits at its current location on N Commercial Avenue in Portland, where it has operated since 2024. The state also alleges that NW Metals illegally disposed of solid waste at its former location on N Columbia Boulevard in Portland without a solid waste permit.
Specifically, the state alleges that NW Metals has:
* Operated a metal shredder without a valid DEQ air permit
* Operated an unpermitted waste disposal site
* Stored waste tires, inoperable vehicles and vehicle parts, and other solid waste materials at a location not permitted to receive solid waste
* Unlawfully discharged stormwater from its operations to Portland's stormwater system without a required stormwater permit
On Nov. 4, 2025, DEQ issued a $357,461 civil penalty and order to comply > to NW Metals for these alleged violations. NW Metals has requested a contested case hearing regarding that order.
Monday's filing asked the court to schedule a contempt hearing at a later date - which has been set for April 29, 2026. If the court finds him in contempt, the state may seek monetary penalties, attorney fees, and court-ordered supervision of the facility.
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Original text here: https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-asks-court-to-act-on-portland-scrapyards-repeated-violations/
AG Rayfield Announces Medicaid Fraud Charges and Convictions in Three Separate Multnomah County Cases
SALEM, Oregon, April 6 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release:
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AG Rayfield Announces Medicaid Fraud Charges and Convictions in Three Separate Multnomah County Cases
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Attorney General Dan Rayfield today announced charges against a Portland area behavioral health provider and his business for allegedly stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Oregon's Medicaid program. The Oregon Department of Justice's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) also secured convictions in two additional Multnomah County cases involving Medicaid fraud.
"Medicaid exists
... Show Full Article
SALEM, Oregon, April 6 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release:
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AG Rayfield Announces Medicaid Fraud Charges and Convictions in Three Separate Multnomah County Cases
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Attorney General Dan Rayfield today announced charges against a Portland area behavioral health provider and his business for allegedly stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Oregon's Medicaid program. The Oregon Department of Justice's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) also secured convictions in two additional Multnomah County cases involving Medicaid fraud.
"Medicaid existsto make sure people can get the help they need - for their health, their housing, their children's mental wellbeing," said Attorney General Rayfield. "These cases show what's at stake when people in positions of trust choose to exploit that system for personal gain. We will continue to hold accountable anyone who steals from Oregon's most vulnerable residents."
Roberto Felipe Munoz / Munoz Counseling LLC - Charged
Munoz, who owns, manages and serves as registered agent for Munoz Counseling LLC, faces eighteen felony counts including Making a False Claim for Health Care Payment, Aggravated Theft, and Aggravated Identity Theft.
MFCU prosecutors allege that between March and August 15, 2025, Munoz and Munoz Counseling submitted fraudulent claims to CareOregon to collect payments they were not entitled to. CareOregon is a partner of Health Share of Oregon, one of sixteen Coordinated Care Organizations that contracts with the Oregon Health Authority to provide care to Medicaid recipients. CareOregon referred this matter to the MFCU for investigation and cooperated fully.
NOTE: These criminal charges are merely allegations of criminal conduct and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Attorney General Rayfield announced two additional recent convictions, one against a counselor who betrayed the trust of vulnerable children and their families, and another who treated Medicaid funds meant to keep people housed and healthy as her own personal piggy bank.
Zoe Thiele-Seidenberg - Convicted
Thiele-Seidenberg was employed as a licensed children's mental health provider at Catholic Community Services (CCS). CCS serves youth ages 5-17, offering crisis stabilization, crisis and transition services, and community-based intensive treatment. CCS discovered fraud after conducting an internal audit and referred this matter to the MFCU. On February 24, 2026, Thiele-Seidenberg pleaded guilty in Multnomah County Circuit Court to two felony counts of Making False Claims for Health Care Payment. She was sentenced to five days in jail, 36 months of supervised probation, 80 hours of community service, restitution, and surrendered her therapy license.
Haley Sanchez - Convicted
Sanchez, a former CareOregon employee, handled requests for the Health Related Services Fund (HRSF) -funds that pay for items that are traditionally uncovered by standard Medicaid, such as housing support, home safety modifications, etc. Between December 2022 and December 2023, Sanchez used her access to improperly fund gift cards for herself, family members, and a partner.
CareOregon referred this matter to the MFCU for investigation after uncovering the fraud. On February 25, 2026, Sanchez pled guilty and was sentenced to two felony counts: Theft in the First Degree and Making a False Claim for Health Care Payment. Sanchez's sentence included 10 days of jail, 100 hours of community service and 36 months of supervised probation.
ABOUT THE MFCU
The MFCU is responsible for investigating and prosecuting billing fraud committed by Medicaid providers and abuse/neglect committed by health care providers in connection with the provision of health care services. In the last 10 years, the MFCU has obtained over 200 criminal convictions, over 80 civil settlement agreements, and recovered over $85 million.
The MFCU receives 75% of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $6,539,396 for October 2025 through September 2026. The remaining 25%, totaling $1,634,848, is funded by the State of Oregon.
REPORT FRAUD, ABUSE & NEGLECT
* For Medicaid provider fraud, email Fraud.Referral@doj.state.or.us
* For Abuse or Neglect, call the Oregon abuse reporting hotline: 1-855-503-SAFE (7233)
* If you think someone is in danger of being hurt, call 911.
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Original text here: https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-announces-medicaid-fraud-charges-and-convictions-in-three-separate-multnomah-county-cases/
R.I. Gov. McKee Calls for Passage of $10M Budget Proposal to Support Hospitals Facing a Rise in Uninsured Patients
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, April 4 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor McKee Calls for Passage of $10M Budget Proposal to Support Hospitals Facing a Rise in Uninsured Patients
Cost of uncompensated care expected to escalate with Trump Administration's changes to Medicaid and Affordable Care Act affecting health coverage costs
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At an event at Hasbro Children's Hospital, Governor Dan McKee was joined by representatives of local hospitals and the Hospital Association of Rhode Island to highlight his $10 million FY 27 budget
... Show Full Article
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, April 4 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor McKee Calls for Passage of $10M Budget Proposal to Support Hospitals Facing a Rise in Uninsured Patients
Cost of uncompensated care expected to escalate with Trump Administration's changes to Medicaid and Affordable Care Act affecting health coverage costs
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At an event at Hasbro Children's Hospital, Governor Dan McKee was joined by representatives of local hospitals and the Hospital Association of Rhode Island to highlight his $10 million FY 27 budgetproposal to support uncompensated hospital care.
Changes by the Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act have negatively impacted both access to and the affordability of health coverage. As a consequence, the number of insured Rhode Islanders is expected to decrease, while the number of uninsured Rhode Islanders seeking care in emergency rooms is expected to increase. The $10 million in Governor McKee's proposal is designed to help support hospitals as they navigate a surge of uninsured patients, whom, by law, hospitals must treat.
"At a time when access to affordable health coverage is under attack, we must support our hospitals, which are often the first line of defense," said Governor McKee. "My $10 million budget proposal will make a difference to operations at Brown University Health, Care New England, South County Health, Landmark Medical, Westerly Hospital, and CharterCare Health Partners, so that they can continue to provide essential health care to anyone who walks through their doors."
Hospital Association of Rhode Island President Michael Sroczynski said, "When coverage disappears, medical needs do not. People delay care, conditions worsen, and patients ultimately arrive at hospitals with more complex and resource-intensive needs. That's why Governor McKee's proposed $10 million investment to help offset uncompensated care is so important -- it recognizes that when coverage gaps grow, hospitals remain the safety net. We thank the Governor for recognizing the pressures hospitals, healthcare workers, and patients are facing."
"We anticipate uncompensated care will rise in the coming years due to the impacts of HR-1, which, between federal changes to Medicaid and HealthSource RI, may leave thousands of Rhode Islanders without health insurance coverage," said Executive Office of Health and Human Services Secretary Richard Charest. "When coverage gaps like this happen, people still need care, and hospitals often become a landing spot for these patients. Governor McKee's proposed $10 million investment will make a meaningful difference by helping hospitals stabilize essential services, by protecting access, and by continuing to invest in the staff and capacity that patients depend on."
At the event, Brown University Health President and CEO John Fernandez and RI Hospital Trauma Surgeon Dr. Stephanie Lueckel discussed the value of this $10 million investment.
"Patients who walk through our doors get the health care they need, regardless of their insurance coverage, and that often means providing care at a financial loss to our hospitals," said Brown University Health President and CEO John Fernandez. "The Governor's Uncompensated Care Protection Act is a necessary first step in helping hospitals across the state address this unsustainable situation. Ensuring this support is critical not only for hospital sustainability, but for maintaining high-quality, timely patient care for the communities we serve."
The hospital funding is one of several steps the McKee Administration is taking to provide additional support to hospitals, primary care providers, and other health care organizations. The Governor's recommended FY27 budget includes funding to assist lower-income Rhode Islanders in accessing health coverage through HealthSource RI, to support Medicaid as the state takes over additional operations previously managed by the federal government, and to ensure access to affordable women's reproductive health care.
These latest actions follow the Governor's earlier package of health care supports, which included requiring commercial health insurers to increase funding for primary care reimbursements, regulating a 20% reduction in prior authorization requirements, providing $6.7 million in grants to recruit and retain primary care providers, and expanding the primary care student loan forgiveness program.
Most recently, the Governor and his administration worked with the Attorney General's Office and the General Assembly to finalize the sale of Fatima and Roger Williams Hospitals, ensuring continuity of their critical services for the Rhode Island community. The Governor also worked directly with the union and hospital leadership to resolve the Butler Hospital strike last year.
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Original text here: https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-mckee-calls-passage-10m-budget-proposal-support-hospitals-facing-rise
N.J. A.G. Davenport Co-Leads Amicus Brief Against Trump Administration's Targeting of Law Firms
TRENTON, New Jersey, April 4 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Attorney General Davenport Co-Leads Amicus Brief Against Trump Administration's Targeting of Law Firms
Multistate Coalition Asks Court of Appeals to Defend Rule of Law
View Amicus Brief (https://www.njoag.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026-0403_As-Filed-Multistate-Brief-Law-Firm-EO-Appeals.pdf)
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Attorney General Jennifer Davenport co-led a coalition of 21 attorneys general in an amicus brief filed today in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals supporting four
... Show Full Article
TRENTON, New Jersey, April 4 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Attorney General Davenport Co-Leads Amicus Brief Against Trump Administration's Targeting of Law Firms
Multistate Coalition Asks Court of Appeals to Defend Rule of Law
View Amicus Brief (https://www.njoag.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026-0403_As-Filed-Multistate-Brief-Law-Firm-EO-Appeals.pdf)
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Attorney General Jennifer Davenport co-led a coalition of 21 attorneys general in an amicus brief filed today in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals supporting fourlaw firms that were targeted by President Trump in a series of unprecedented, unconstitutional executive orders in 2025.
The law firms -- Jenner & Block LLP, Perkins Coie LLP, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale LLP, and Susman Godfrey LLP -- are challenging these unconstitutional executive orders, which imposed severe sanctions on the firms in direct retaliation for their work on causes disfavored by the Trump Administration.
"It is darkly ironic, frankly, that during America's 250th anniversary, President Trump is continuing his crusade to rip apart the very foundations of the rule of law embedded in the Constitution," said Attorney General Davenport. "The legal profession depends on attorneys being able to represent clients independent of political pressure. If this isn't true, and law firms can't practice without fear of being punished by the President, what remains of the rule of law? We must fight back."
In March and April 2025, President Trump issued executive orders retaliating against law firms whose advocacy, clients, and personnel he dislikes, for purely political reasons. These orders required federal officials to suspend any active security clearances held by individuals at the law firms, to refuse to engage with or hire employees of these firms, and to deny the law firms' personnel entry to federal buildings. The orders also directed federal contractors to disclose any business they do with the law firms so that agencies can terminate any contract with the firms.
Four different district judges have recognized that these executive orders are unconstitutional in several respects, including because they are retaliatory and viewpoint discriminatory in violation of the First Amendment. In particular, the orders seek to punish the law firms for purportedly supporting the President's political opponents, for defending the integrity of the 2020 election, for their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and for their expression of other disfavored viewpoints.
As the amici states write, the willingness of lawyers to represent such causes without fear of reprisal is vital for the rule of law, our system of justice, and our democracy. The executive orders threaten this foundational principle, and the Court of Appeals must affirm the district court orders, the brief states.
If the orders are allowed to stand, states and their residents will suffer harm by making it more difficult for many potential clients--especially those who currently rely on pro bono representation--to obtain legal services and vindicate their rights in court. The brief notes several instances where this is already happening.
The amicus brief argues that the administration's unconstitutional actions are a gross abuse of authority and that they threaten the rule of law. A fair and functioning judicial system depends on lawyers being willing to work on controversial cases or represent unpopular clients without fearing retribution by the federal government.
The coalition was led by Attorney General Davenport, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, and Washington Attorney General Nick Brown. Joining them are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.
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Original text here: https://www.njoag.gov/attorney-general-davenport-co-leads-amicus-brief-against-trump-administrations-targeting-of-law-firms/
N.H. Gov. Ayotte Joins Groundbreaking Celebration for New Housing in Raymond
CONCORD, New Hampshire, April 4 -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor Ayotte Joins Groundbreaking Celebration for New Housing in Raymond
Governor Kelly Ayotte today joined local leaders, developers, and community partners for the groundbreaking of Woodside Village, a new 60-unit apartment development that will expand housing opportunities in Raymond and support continued growth across the region.
Over the past year, Governor Ayotte signed the most ambitious set of housing reforms in state history to increase housing supply,
... Show Full Article
CONCORD, New Hampshire, April 4 -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor Ayotte Joins Groundbreaking Celebration for New Housing in Raymond
Governor Kelly Ayotte today joined local leaders, developers, and community partners for the groundbreaking of Woodside Village, a new 60-unit apartment development that will expand housing opportunities in Raymond and support continued growth across the region.
Over the past year, Governor Ayotte signed the most ambitious set of housing reforms in state history to increase housing supply,speed up construction, and reduce barriers to development.
These efforts included:
* Cutting outdated regulations
* Streamlining the State permitting process to ensure state government does not unnecessarily delay construction
* Expanding opportunities for accessory dwelling units
* Enabling the conversion of underutilized commercial properties into housing
* Directing state agencies to review land owned by the State that is no longer needed and determine whether it can be responsibly used for housing
Data recently released (https://www.nheconomy.com/news-press/new-hampshire-housing-production-reaches-20-year-h) by the Department of Business and Economic Affairs showed housing construction reached its highest level in 20 years.
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Original text here: https://www.governor.nh.gov/news/governor-ayotte-joins-groundbreaking-celebration-new-housing-raymond
Mo. Department of Natural Resources Awards $2.4 Million to Fisk
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 4 -- The Missouri Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Department of Natural Resources awards $2.4 million to Fisk
City will make drinking water system improvements
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The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $2.4 million in financial assistance to the city of Fisk for upgrades to the city's drinking water distribution, storage and supply systems. The city expects the project to be completed by Spring 2026.
The project includes replacement of all 175 of the city's meters and equipping them
... Show Full Article
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 4 -- The Missouri Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Department of Natural Resources awards $2.4 million to Fisk
City will make drinking water system improvements
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The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $2.4 million in financial assistance to the city of Fisk for upgrades to the city's drinking water distribution, storage and supply systems. The city expects the project to be completed by Spring 2026.
The project includes replacement of all 175 of the city's meters and equipping themwith a cellular automatic meter read system, upgrades to existing treatment facilities and replacing the two existing wells with two new shallow sand wells. With these improvements, the city will be able to offer its citizens safe drinking water for years to come with a modern and well-functioning treatment system.
Project funding consists of a $1.8 million grant and a $603,000 loan, both from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. The department estimates its funding will save the city's ratepayers more than $1.8 million in principal and approximately $225,000 in interest over the loan's 20-year term.
"Financial assistance packages like this really help our communities provide safe drinking water to Missourians," said Kurt Schaefer, director of the Department of Natural Resources.
The department's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund finances improvements to water treatment plants, distribution systems and water storage and supply facilities. The fund also finances system interconnection and consolidation projects. Communities that borrow from the fund benefit from the below-market interest rate and from assistance a project manager provides throughout the project.
The department is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for qualified communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
For more information on wastewater and drinking water funding opportunities, visit dnr.mo.gov/water/what-were-doing/state-revolving-fund-srf.
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Original text here: https://dnr.mo.gov/communications/news/department-natural-resources-awards-24-million-fisk
Md. A.G. Brown Supports Law Firms Targeted for Retribution by Trump Administration
BALTIMORE, Maryland, April 4 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Supports Law Firms Targeted for Retribution by Trump Administration
Coalition Files Brief Backing Challenge of Unconstitutional Executive Orders that Undermine the Rule of Law
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Attorney General Anthony G. Brown joined a coalition of 20 attorneys general today in filing an amicus brief supporting law firms challenging unconstitutional executive orders that imposed severe sanctions on the firms in retaliation for doing work disfavored by
... Show Full Article
BALTIMORE, Maryland, April 4 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Supports Law Firms Targeted for Retribution by Trump Administration
Coalition Files Brief Backing Challenge of Unconstitutional Executive Orders that Undermine the Rule of Law
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Attorney General Anthony G. Brown joined a coalition of 20 attorneys general today in filing an amicus brief supporting law firms challenging unconstitutional executive orders that imposed severe sanctions on the firms in retaliation for doing work disfavored bythe Trump administration.
"No administration should be able to punish lawyers for representing clients or taking positions it finds inconvenient," said Attorney General Brown. "When the government silences legal advocates, it silences the people who depend on them, and that is a threat that we have a duty to oppose."
In March and April of 2025, President Donald Trump issued executive orders retaliating against law firms whose advocacy, clients, and personnel he dislikes. These orders required federal officials to suspend any active security clearances held by individuals at the law firms, to refuse to engage with or hire employees of these firms, and to deny the law firms' personnel entry to federal buildings. The orders also directed federal contractors to disclose any business they do with the law firms so that agencies can terminate any contract with the firms.
Each of the targeted law firms that challenged the executive orders was successful, and now the administration has appealed those decisions. The coalition filed a brief in support of the law firms in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.
Attorney General Brown and the coalition argue that the administration's unconstitutional actions are a gross abuse of authority, threaten the rule of law, and violate the First Amendment. They note that a fair and functioning judicial system depends on lawyers being willing to work on controversial cases or represent unpopular clients without fearing retribution by the government. The attorneys general further argue that the orders will harm the residents of their states by making it more difficult for many potential clients - especially those who currently rely on pro bono representation - to obtain legal services and vindicate their rights in court.
Joining Attorney General Brown in filing the brief are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.
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Original text here: https://oag.maryland.gov/News/pages/Attorney-General-Brown-Supports-Law-Firms-Targeted-for-Retribution-by-Trump-Administration--.aspx
Maine Secretary of State Decision in Challenge to David Corbett Nomination Petitions for York County Sheriff
AUGUSTA, Maine, April 4 -- The Maine Secretary of State issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Maine Secretary of State Decision in Challenge to David Corbett nomination petitions for York County Sheriff
Secretary of State Shenna Bellows issued a decision regarding challenges brought by two Maine voters to the nomination petitions filed by David Corbett as a candidate for the Republican Party nomination for York County Sheriff.
The Secretary of State's Office received two challenges to the nomination of Corbett, each filed on March 23, 2026, pursuant to 21-A M.R.S.A., section
... Show Full Article
AUGUSTA, Maine, April 4 -- The Maine Secretary of State issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Maine Secretary of State Decision in Challenge to David Corbett nomination petitions for York County Sheriff
Secretary of State Shenna Bellows issued a decision regarding challenges brought by two Maine voters to the nomination petitions filed by David Corbett as a candidate for the Republican Party nomination for York County Sheriff.
The Secretary of State's Office received two challenges to the nomination of Corbett, each filed on March 23, 2026, pursuant to 21-A M.R.S.A., section354. Written challenges from Brian Pellerin and Heidi Sampson, each alleging that Mr. Corbett has no recorded history of holding a supervisory position as required by Maine statute 30-A M.R.S. Sec.371-B (3)(E).
A consolidated hearing was held at 9:30 a.m. on March 27 in Augusta with Director of Elections Heidi Peckham serving as the Presiding Officer at the Hearing and Assistant Attorney General Jon Bolton assisting as legal counsel. The hearing was live-streamed to the Department's YouTube page and is still available to view online.
The Secretary, upon review of the proceedings and evidence, determined that Mr. Corbett met the requirements under 30-A M.R.S. Sec.371-B (4) which reads: "Any person who served as a full-time law enforcement officer employed by a municipal police department or a state agency, including the University of Maine System, on or before July 1, 1990 or is serving in the office of sheriff on June 26, 2021 or served prior to that date is deemed to meet the minimum qualifications of subsection 3." The Pellerin and Sampson challenges were therefore denied.
"Based on the proceedings and the evidence before me, I agree with the conclusion and recommendation submitted by the hearings officer that Mr. Corbett met the requirements of the law that allows citizens who served in law enforcement prior to 1990 to run for sheriff even without holding a position of supervisory authority."
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Original text here: https://www.maine.gov/sos/news/maine-secretary-state-decision-challenge-david-corbett-nomination-petitions-york-county
Ariz. A.G. Mayes and Secretary of State Fontes Sue Trump Administration Over Unlawful Executive Order Attempting to Exert Federal Control Over Elections
PHOENIX, Arizona, April 4 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Attorney General Mayes and Secretary of State Fontes Sue Trump Administration over Unlawful Executive Order Attempting to Exert Federal Control over Elections
Arizona today joined a coalition of 23 other states suing President Trump in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, challenging his unlawful Executive Order that attempts to interfere with states' constitutional authority to administer elections by restricting voter eligibility and mail voting to
... Show Full Article
PHOENIX, Arizona, April 4 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Attorney General Mayes and Secretary of State Fontes Sue Trump Administration over Unlawful Executive Order Attempting to Exert Federal Control over Elections
Arizona today joined a coalition of 23 other states suing President Trump in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, challenging his unlawful Executive Order that attempts to interfere with states' constitutional authority to administer elections by restricting voter eligibility and mail voting tolists of voters pre-authorized by the federal government.
"Millions of Independents, Republicans, and Democrats across Arizona have voted by mail for decades," said Attorney General Mayes. "In fact, over 80% of Arizona voters cast their ballots this way election after election. Military families vote by mail. Rural Arizonans vote by mail. Tribal members vote by mail. Donald Trump's executive order targets all of these voters. But the Constitution is absolutely clear: states run their elections. Not the President. And Arizona will not allow the federal government to seize control of our elections."
"The greatest threat to the safety and security of our elections is Donald Trump continuing to lie about them," Secretary of State Adrian Fontes stated. "Arizona's elections are run by Arizonans-our neighbors, our friends, and our family. This latest attack on vote-by-mail and voter privacy, is a direct attack not just on our voters but on our election administrators who work day-in and day-out to keep democracy running. For decades, Arizona's mail-in voting system has operated as the gold standard, serving the vast majority of voters each election season. It is critical that we reject the notion that access and security are mutually exclusive when it comes to running strong elections."
On March 31, President Trump signed an Executive Order attempting to establish a national list of eligible voters and directing the U.S. Postal Service, an independent federal agency, to transmit mail ballots only to those on the list. In the Order, the President threatens states and elections officials with criminal prosecution and the loss of federal funding if they do not comply with his demands. The attorneys general argue that the Order would require states to act contrary to their own voter roll procedures, vote-by-mail systems, and voter registration laws.
State and federal law entitle all eligible voters to cast ballots and have their votes counted in state and federal elections. The states filing this lawsuit permit registered voters to cast their ballots by mail if they meet their state's requirements for doing so. Voters of all parties, in all states, and of every demographic utilize mail-in voting - including the President himself.
In their lawsuit, the coalition explains that the U.S. Constitution gives states the primary authority to administer elections. In contrast, the Constitution does not allow the President to unilaterally impose changes to federal election procedures, particularly without an act of Congress permitting him to do so.
Moreover, the administration of elections is highly complex and requires substantial planning and preparation. The attorneys general argue that the President's Executive Order would require states to upend their existing election administration procedures for upcoming elections and conduct statewide voter education at a dangerously quick pace - potentially within weeks of primary elections and mere months before the beginning of mail voting for the 2026 general election. The coalition argues that such drastic and rapid changes will undoubtedly create confusion, chaos, and distrust in state election systems, all while threatening to disenfranchise eligible voters.
No excuse vote-by-mail was passed in Arizona in 1991, created by a Republican legislature and signed into law by a Republican governor. Arizona then doubled down on our innovative expansion of early voting options in 2007, ensuring that all eligible voters had the ability to automatically and permanently receive their ballot by mail.
The attorneys general allege that the President's Executive Order violates the separation of powers and unlawfully interferes with states' mail voting programs. The coalition asks the court to prevent the federal government from implementing or enforcing the Executive Order.
Joining Attorney General Mayes in filing this lawsuit, which was led by Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, and Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, are the attorneys general of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin, and the Governor of Pennsylvania.
A copy of the complaint is available below.
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Attachments
1. 2026.04.03 - Cal (https://www.azag.gov/sites/default/files/2026-04/1.%202026.04.03%20-%20California%20v%20Trump%20-%20Complaint.pdf)
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Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-and-secretary-state-fontes-sue-trump-administration-over
