States, Cities and Counties
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R.I. Gov. McKee Submits Budget Amendment for Federal Award to Transform Rural Health Care in Rhode Island
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, April 4 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on April 2, 2026:
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Governor McKee Submits Budget Amendment for Federal Award to Transform Rural Health Care in Rhode Island
Governor Dan McKee today announced he has submitted a budget amendment reflecting anticipated spending for State Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027 under Rhode Island's $156 million Year 1 award from the Rural Health Transformation Program, following recent final approval from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This marks a major step forward in modernizing
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PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, April 4 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on April 2, 2026:
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Governor McKee Submits Budget Amendment for Federal Award to Transform Rural Health Care in Rhode Island
Governor Dan McKee today announced he has submitted a budget amendment reflecting anticipated spending for State Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027 under Rhode Island's $156 million Year 1 award from the Rural Health Transformation Program, following recent final approval from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This marks a major step forward in modernizingcare and expanding access to lower-cost care across the state's 18 rural communities.
"Rhode Islanders deserve affordable, high-quality care, and that's what we're delivering through this transformative investment," said Governor Dan McKee. "My Administration is focused on building a healthier state where families, businesses and all Rhode Islanders can all thrive, and this federal award is a testament to our state's commitment to achieving that goal."
In Year 1 of this 5-year program, the McKee Administration secured funding for thirteen initiatives [zk8ngbyab.cc.rs6.net], including:
Supporting Hospitals and Primary Care in Value-Based Payment Transition - $32.2 million
Supports rural-serving providers, including primary care practices, hospitals, and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), in transitioning to value-based payment models by providing financial incentives and technical assistance to strengthen care coordination, quality reporting, and population health management, while also exploring opportunities to advance alternative payment models in behavioral health and other health sectors.
Rural Workforce Program - $28.0 million
Invests in primary care providers, behavioral health clinicians, hospital staff, and FQHC workforce through recruitment, training, and retention strategies to expand access and address workforce shortages.
Rural Health Information Technology Modernization Program - $16.7 million
Supports hospitals, FQHCs, primary care practices, and behavioral health providers in adopting interoperable health IT systems to improve data sharing, care coordination, and performance under value-based care models.
Rural Hospital-at-Home Program - $16.2 million
Enables hospitals and affiliated provider networks to deliver inpatient-level care in patients' homes for clinically appropriate patients, expanding capacity and partnering with primary care providers to safely reduce avoidable inpatient utilization.
Expanding Behavioral Health Services Availability in Rural Regions - $10.2 million
Expands capacity for behavioral health providers, community mental health centers, and integrated primary care settings (including FQHCs) to deliver outpatient mental health and substance use services and better integrate care.
The budget amendment also includes a series of necessary policy changes to maintain the state's full Rural Health Transformation Program grant award and position Rhode Island to access additional funding. These measures include empowering pharmacists and dental hygienists to practice at the top of their license, enhancing Rhode Island's ability to join and implement interstate licensure compacts for physicians, physician assistant and nurses, requiring nutrition-focused continuing medical education for physicians, and rolling back Certificate of Need requirements. Collectively, these initiatives expand access to lower-cost care options and strengthen the healthcare workforce.
"For Rhode Islanders in rural communities, access to timely, high-quality care should never depend on where they live. This federal investment, secured by Governor McKee, will provide hospitals and healthcare providers with additional resources to strengthen care delivery and help residents access the care they need--in their communities, in their homes, or wherever that may be," said Mike Sroczynski, President, Hospital Association of Rhode Island. "By expanding preventive and behavioral health services, investing in our healthcare workforce, and building a more integrated support system, these funds will support both those who deliver care and those who rely on it every day. The Hospital Association of Rhode Island commends the state's work in securing this important grant award."
"This award is an incredible achievement and reflects the thoughtful proposal that Governor McKee and the state HHS agencies submitted," said Elena Nicolella, the president and CEO of the Rhode Island Health Center Association. "We appreciate the strong focus on community-based primary care, and we look forward to supporting the implementation of the program."
"This award affirms Rhode Island's commitment to building a more integrated, sustainable, and patient-centered health system. Care Transformative Collaborative of Rhode Island (CTC-RI) is honored to serve in a pivotal implementation role and grateful for the state's confidence in our ability to lead and coordinate complex, multistakeholder transformation efforts. We view this as more than a grant, but as an opportunity to strengthen the foundation of care delivery in rural communities and build durable capabilities that will benefit Rhode Islanders for years to come," said John Minichello, Executive Director of the Care Transformation Collaborative of Rhode Island (CTC RI), a nonprofit focused on improving primary care and driving value based, team based health care across the state.
"We are pleased to begin implementing our rural health transformation project now that we have final CMS approval of Rhode Island's budget and operational plan," said Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) Secretary Richard Charest. "We look forward to engaging with our rural health communities on next steps as we expand access, support our local healthcare workforce, and build innovative models of care."
"Block Island faces unique challenges in delivering healthcare due to our geographic isolation. Through the partnership with Governor McKee's administration and EOHHS under the Rural Health Transformation Program, we can strengthen local services and expand innovative care models, ensuring residents have access to coordinated, high-quality care close to home," said NettieRose Cooley, CEO of Block Island Health Center.
"The Rural Health Transformation Program provides a meaningful opportunity to enhance health services for our Tribal members in partnership with the state. By working collaboratively with Governor McKee's administration and EOHHS, we will expand access to care, strengthen our healthcare workforce, and deliver innovative, culturally responsive services that reflect the unique needs and values of our Tribal community," said Autumn Leaf Spears, Director of the Narragansett Indian Tribe Department of Health & Human Services.
"The League of Cities and Towns is proud to support the Rural Health Transformation Program by helping integrate health and wellness initiatives into Community Learning Centers across rural towns. Partnering with the Governor's administration and EOHHS, these centers will support the overall health of Rhode Islanders in rural areas," said Randy Rossi, Executive Director of Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns.
This project is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $156,169,931.19 in Budget Period 1 with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
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Original text here: https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-mckee-submits-budget-amendment-federal-award-transform-rural-health-care
Pa. Gov. Shapiro Takes Legal Action to Protect Pennsylvanians' Right to Vote After President Trump's Unconstitutional Executive Order
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, April 4 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor Shapiro Takes Legal Action to Protect Pennsylvanians' Right to Vote after President Trump's Unconstitutional Executive Order
On Tuesday, President Trump signed Executive Order 14399 in an unlawful attempt to interfere in states' elections and restrict states' rights to run elections, as guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution.
As the Trump Administration continues to ignore Constitutionally protected freedoms, Governor Shapiro will continue to stand up for
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, April 4 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor Shapiro Takes Legal Action to Protect Pennsylvanians' Right to Vote after President Trump's Unconstitutional Executive Order
On Tuesday, President Trump signed Executive Order 14399 in an unlawful attempt to interfere in states' elections and restrict states' rights to run elections, as guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution.
As the Trump Administration continues to ignore Constitutionally protected freedoms, Governor Shapiro will continue to stand up forPennsylvanians' right to vote and protect the Commonwealth's free, fair, safe, and secure elections.
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Today, Governor Josh Shapiro filed a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump's signing of Executive Order 14399, an unconstitutional attack on states' rights and the right to vote for all Pennsylvanians.
The lawsuit, led by California, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Washington, and joined by Governor Shapiro and 17 other states, challenges the Trump Administration's unlawful attempt to usurp states' powers to administer elections. Executive Order 14399 seeks to establish a list of eligible voters through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and limit how elections may be conducted by using the United States Post Service (USPS) to illegally and significantly restrict mail-in voting.
"The U.S. Constitution makes clear that elections are to be run by the states, and here in Pennsylvania, we believe that the administration of elections should be nonpartisan," said Governor Shapiro. "The good people of Pennsylvania will vote -- whether in person or by mail -- their votes will be counted, and the will of the people will be respected. Pennsylvanians choose their representatives, not Donald Trump."
Pennsylvania's Elections are Safe, Secure, Free, and Fair
Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has promoted the security of the Commonwealth's elections through initiatives like the Administration's Ready to Vote Toolkit and taken action to defend every Pennsylvanian's right to vote.
* In January 2023, Governor Shapiro appointed Al Schmidt, a Republican, to serve as Secretary of the Commonwealth and oversee Pennsylvania's elections, promoting the bipartisan administration of elections.
* In July 2025, Secretary Schmidt announced the Department of State (DOS) had redesigned provisional ballot envelopes for the 2025 general election, leading to an 11.3 percent decrease in the number of ballot rejections due to envelope errors compared to the 2024 cycle.
* In November 2023, Secretary Schmidt announced the DOS had redesigned mail ballot materials for the 2024 election to reduce voter confusion and assist county election workers with efficiently processing mail-in ballots, leading to a 57 percent decrease in rejected ballots in the 2024 general election compared to the primary election.
* In September 2023, the Governor implemented automatic voter registration (AVR) for eligible Commonwealth residents obtaining driver licenses and ID cards at Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) driver and photo license centers. By taking this step, Pennsylvania joined more than 20 states to promote election security, save taxpayer dollars, and streamline the voter registration process.
As Attorney General, Governor Shapiro went to court 43 times to protect Pennsylvanians' votes following the 2020 election, and won every case against President Trump and his enablers when they tried to overturn the will of the people and undermine the integrity of Pennsylvania's elections in 2020.
Despite the Trump Administration's attempt to strip states' powers to administer elections and disenfranchise Pennsylvanians, Governor Shapiro will continue to stand up against the overreach of the federal government and protect the right to vote in Pennsylvania.
This lawsuit is led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, and Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, and joined by the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawai'i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/governor-shapiro-takes-legal-action-to-protect-pennsylvanians--r
Pa. Education Dept.: Shapiro Administration Awards More Than $11 Million in Keystone Grants to 27 Public Libraries to Improve Library Facilities
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, April 4 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Education issued the following news on April 3, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Awards More Than $11 Million in Keystone Grants to 27 Public Libraries to Improve Library Facilities
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL) today awarded more than $11 million to 27 libraries in 15 counties to improve public library facilities. Supporting public libraries is part of the Shapiro Administration's work to invest in Pennsylvania communities and create opportunities across the Commonwealth.
"Public
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, April 4 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Education issued the following news on April 3, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Awards More Than $11 Million in Keystone Grants to 27 Public Libraries to Improve Library Facilities
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL) today awarded more than $11 million to 27 libraries in 15 counties to improve public library facilities. Supporting public libraries is part of the Shapiro Administration's work to invest in Pennsylvania communities and create opportunities across the Commonwealth.
"Public"Public libraries are a staple in communities throughout the Commonwealth, helping residents access critical services, resources, and programming, from educational materials to internet and more," said Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe. "The Commonwealth understands the important role libraries of all sizes play in their communities, and this funding will help Pennsylvania's libraries build, repair, and improve their facilities and operations to better serve visitors and patrons."
Keystone grants prioritize public library facility projects that address accessibility, energy efficiency, non-routine maintenance of essential systems, improving or restoring interior public spaces, and constructing new libraries or building additions. Since 2023, the Shapiro Administration has provided $23.5 million in Keystone grant funding for 76 library projects in counties across the Commonwealth.
Library projects receiving Keystone Grants for Public Library Facilities funding include:
Adams County:
* Adams County Library System: Gettysburg Library, $750,000 to design and develop a purpose-built library facility on a new site.
Allegheny County:
* Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh: Squirrel Hill Branch, $400,000 to replace roof and HVAC.
* CC Mellor Memorial Library, $750,000 to restore roof and renovate interior space.
* Mt. Lebanon Public Library, $747,390 to renovate upper level with accessible restrooms and spaces, improve lighting, flooring, entrances, and HVAC.
* Penn Hills Library, $750,000 to renovate entrance area, upgrade HVAC and lighting, and add solar panels.
* Sewickley Public Library, $750,000 to redesign and renovate first floor spaces.
Bucks County:
* Bucks County Free Library: Perkasie Branch, $63,952 to replace HVAC system.
* Township Library of Lower Southampton, $89,500 to expand and update the children's area and create a dedicated teen space.
Butler County:
* Butler Area Public Library, $95,131 to update HVAC system, create public meeting space, and make accessibility renovations.
* Zelienople Area Public Library, $515,000 to construct a building addition.
Cambria County:
* Cambria County Library, $748,771.50 to upgrade elevator and renovate space to create a learning lab and community room.
Carbon County:
* Palmerton Area Library, $303,050 to repair water damage and restore 100-year old building.
Centre County:
* Centre County Library: Centre Hall Area Branch, $750,000 to build an addition doubling the library footprint, adding an accessible restroom, and making additional upgrades to library infrastructure and systems.
Clearfield County:
* DuBois Public Library, $43,332 to replace upper-level windows and renovate main entry with new windows and accessible doors.
Delaware County:
* Marple Public Library, $750,000 to renovate circulation area for improved service and accessibility, renovate entrance and replace failing accessible doors, and ceiling replacement to include upgraded lighting.
* Ridley Park Public Library, $30,000 to address water intrusion issues through installation of a sump pump and additional drainage improvements.
* Sharon Hill Public Library, $750,000 to construct an accessible and modern library to replace the existing facility.
Lackawanna County:
* Valley Community Library, $197,500 to replace HVAC system.
Montgomery County:
* Abington Township Public Library, $749,750 to plan and design a library facility that is sustainable, accessible, efficient and tailored to the needs of the community.
* Indian Valley Public Library, $290,000 to replace HVAC system.
* Jenkintown Library (Abington Library Society), $81,900 to develop a master plan addressing accessibility, safety, energy efficiency, maintenance, renovation, and potential expansion.
* Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library, $750,000 for structural, mechanical, and accessibility upgrades, including restrooms and entry, and HVAC system replacement.
Somerset County:
* Mary S. Biesecker Public Library, $10,757 to replace storm windows and restore original windows, preserve wood facia, and replace ADA ramp.
Westmoreland County:
* Greensburg Hempfield Area Library, $750,000 to replace windows, elevator, HVAC pump, and exterior railing, as well as make repairs to roof, masonry, and water damaged areas.
* Mount Pleasant Library, $131,120 to replace roof, convert restroom for accessibility, and upgrade lighting and flooring. and restore public spaces to include accessible, energy efficient, and mechanical upgrades.
Wyoming County:
* Tunkhannock Library, $49,281 to replace roof.
York County:
* Kaltreider-Benfer Library, $99,782 to replace roof and HVAC system.
"The Office of Commonwealth Libraries is pleased to share the awards for this round's Keystone grant process," said Susan Banks, Deputy Secretary and State Librarian. "We understand and appreciate that every public library in the Commonwealth is challenged with finding the resources to repair, maintain or construct facilities to serve their communities. We are proud to be able to meet those challenges through this program and better serve every Pennsylvanian through their community library."
The Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund was established by the General Assembly in 1993. The Department of Education, through the Office of Commonwealth Libraries, Bureau of Library Development, administers the public library portion of this program which is funded from a portion of the state's realty transfer tax.
On top of Keystone grants, in the 2025-26 budget the Shapiro Administration delivered a 7 percent increase in state funding support to libraries across the Commonwealth - including a $5 million increase for public libraries and a $433,000 increase for library services for the visually impaired - also known as the Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/education/newsroom/shapiro-administration-awards-more-than-11-million-in-keystone-grants-to-27-public-libraries-to-improve-library-facilities
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
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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
House Advances Maine State Rep. Farrin Legislation to Reduce Mortgage Costs for Maine Homebuyers
AUGUSTA, Maine, April 4 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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House advances Farrin legislation to reduce mortgage costs for Maine homebuyers
Yesterday, the Maine House of Representatives voted to advance legislation sponsored by Rep. Wayne Farrin, D-Jefferson, that would help more Mainers afford to buy homes by reducing mortgage costs.
As amended, LD 2077 would direct the Maine State Housing Authority to provide grants of up to $15,000 to eligible homebuyers to help them lower their mortgage rate. In practical terms, lowering the interest rate
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AUGUSTA, Maine, April 4 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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House advances Farrin legislation to reduce mortgage costs for Maine homebuyers
Yesterday, the Maine House of Representatives voted to advance legislation sponsored by Rep. Wayne Farrin, D-Jefferson, that would help more Mainers afford to buy homes by reducing mortgage costs.
As amended, LD 2077 would direct the Maine State Housing Authority to provide grants of up to $15,000 to eligible homebuyers to help them lower their mortgage rate. In practical terms, lowering the interest ratefrom 6% to 5% on a $300,000 mortgage would save a family nearly $200 a month - which amounts to almost $70,000 over the life of a 30-year loan.
"Too many hardworking Maine families are being priced out of homeownership, including right here in Lincoln County," said Farrin, a licensed real estate agent. "MaineHousing is projected to help finance more than 1,300 mortgages this year, each of which would qualify for this grant. That's more than 1,300 families or individuals who could get help buying their first home. This bill is about keeping Maine affordable for the people who live and work here."
Housing affordability remains a significant challenge across the state. In 15 of Maine's 16 counties, the median sale price for a single-family home exceeds what the median household income can reasonably support. Statewide, less than 22% of homes in Maine are affordable for middle income households. In Lincoln County, the numbers are even more stark: 74% of households are unable to afford the median-priced home.
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate in the coming days.
Farrin is serving his first term in the Maine House and represents Jefferson, Alna, Whitefield and Wiscasset. He serves as a member of the State and Local Government Committee and the Marine Resources Committee.
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Original text here: https://www.maine.gov/housedems/news/house-advances-farrin-legislation-reduce-mortgage-costs-maine-homebuyers
Gov. Polis and Colorado Parks and Wildlife Announce First Investments From SB24-230 for Wildlife and Land Protection Funds
DENVER, Colorado, April 4 -- The Colorado Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Wildlife issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor Polis and Colorado Parks and Wildlife announce first investments from SB24-230 for Wildlife and Land Protection Funds
Today, Governor Polis and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced the first round of wildlife and habitat projects funded through Senate Bill 24-230, which created new production fees on oil and gas development to mitigate the adverse impacts of oil and gas operations on wildlife and habitats.
CPW's initial
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DENVER, Colorado, April 4 -- The Colorado Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Wildlife issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor Polis and Colorado Parks and Wildlife announce first investments from SB24-230 for Wildlife and Land Protection Funds
Today, Governor Polis and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced the first round of wildlife and habitat projects funded through Senate Bill 24-230, which created new production fees on oil and gas development to mitigate the adverse impacts of oil and gas operations on wildlife and habitats.
CPW's initialallocation of SB24-230 revenue will fund seven wildlife and habitat initiatives designed to address the impacts of habitat fragmentation, climate change and ecosystem degradation.
"Colorado is known for our iconic outdoor spaces, recreation, and wildlife viewing. Greenhouse gas emissions have a direct impact on our environment and all who call Colorado home. By investing in protecting habitats for Colorado's wildlife, we are decreasing our carbon footprint, protecting native species, and keeping Colorado beautiful for generations to come," said Governor Polis.
"SB24-230 provides an important new tool to invest directly in the health of Colorado's wildlife and habitat," said CPW Director Laura Clellan. "These initial projects demonstrate how funding generated from oil and gas operations can help restore habitat, improve ecosystem resilience and support wildlife across the state."
Senate Bill 24-230 established two fees on oil and gas production in Colorado. One fee is administered by the Clean Transit Enterprise, and the other by Colorado Parks and Wildlife to support wildlife and land remediation.
The legislation recognizes that oil and gas development is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions and habitat degradation, and it directs new investments toward mitigating those impacts and strengthening wildlife and ecosystem resilience.
Under the law, the CPW Director is authorized to set production fees within statutory ranges based on quarterly oil and gas spot prices published by the Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission.
The initial CPW production fee was established in October 2025 and generated $5,477,765 in revenue from oil and gas production between July 1 and Sept. 30, 2025.
To put the new revenue to work immediately in order to mitigate the impacts of oil and gas operations, CPW's Executive Management Team identified seven projects and programs for early investment during fiscal year 2026.
The first round of funding will support:
* Barr Lake State Park Habitat Enhancements ($1,500,000)
* Beaver Restoration Program Implementation - Initial Phase ($1,174,111)
* Operating Increase for Park Pollinator Gardens ($300,000)
* Operating Increase for Wildlife Movement Coordination ($100,000)
* Wildlife TRACKER Hosting and Maintenance ($125,000)
* Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse Translocation ($85,000)
* Budget Increase for Water Acquisitions ($600,000)
Together, these projects provide remediation services, including habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, species conservation and strategic land and water protection efforts across Colorado.
CPW will continue to work closely with industry partners, conservation organizations and local communities to ensure that funds generated through SB24-230 are invested in projects that deliver measurable remediation services that mitigate the impacts of oil and gas operations.
"As Coloradans, we all value the outdoors and the wildlife that makes our state so special. When responsible oil and natural gas production can help support these kinds of projects, protecting the wildlife and habitat we all care about, that's a huge win for all of Colorado," said Dan Haley, Executive Director, Coloradans for Responsible Energy Development.
"The science is clear that climate change is negatively impacting Colorado's wildlife and the ecosystems on which they rely," said Tarn Udall, senior attorney at Western Resource Advocates. "That's why the state created the oil and gas production fee in 2024, requiring the industry to partially cover the cost of its emissions and impacts through habitat protection and restoration. It's rewarding to see Colorado Parks and Wildlife put the first tranche of those dollars to good use, and the agency is just getting started."
Additional projects funded through the program will be evaluated and announced as future revenue is collected.
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Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is an enterprise agency, relying primarily on license sales, state parks fees and registration fees to support its operations, including: 43 state parks and more than 350 wildlife areas covering approximately 900,000 acres, management of fishing and hunting, wildlife watching, camping, motorized and non-motorized trails, boating and outdoor education. CPW's work contributes approximately $6 billion in total economic impact annually throughout Colorado.
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Original text here: https://cpw.state.co.us/news/04032026/governor-polis-and-colorado-parks-and-wildlife-announce-first-investments-sb24-230
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces Clemency Actions
SACRAMENTO, California, April 4 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces clemency actions
Today, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that he has granted 5 pardons and 3 commutations. These grantees were recommended for clemency by elected officials, correctional staff, including a former prison warden, medical professionals, teachers, and community and faith leaders.
Clemency recognizes and incentivizes rehabilitation and accountability after conviction. Motivating good behavior is an essential part of any successful
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, April 4 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces clemency actions
Today, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that he has granted 5 pardons and 3 commutations. These grantees were recommended for clemency by elected officials, correctional staff, including a former prison warden, medical professionals, teachers, and community and faith leaders.
Clemency recognizes and incentivizes rehabilitation and accountability after conviction. Motivating good behavior is an essential part of any successfuljustice system. The Governor weighs numerous factors in clemency cases, including an applicant's self-development since the offense, if the grant is consistent with public safety, and the impact of a grant on the community, including crime victims and survivors.
Pardons
A pardon acknowledges the grantee's rehabilitation after a conviction, and their successful reintegration into the community. A pardon may remove counterproductive barriers to employment and public service and restore civic rights and responsibilities.
Commutations
A commutation recognizes an incarcerated person's exceptional post-conviction rehabilitation. Commutations modify sentences to make the grantee eligible to go before the Board of Parole Hearings at an earlier date. At that hearing, parole commissioners consider numerous factors, including input from crime victims and survivors and district attorneys, to determine whether the person can safely be released into the community on parole. The Board's expertise has resulted in a very low recidivism rate for people released following a parole hearing.
Resources for victims, survivors, and witnesses
The Governor's Office encourages victims, survivors, and witnesses to register with CDCR's Office of Victims and Survivors Rights and Services to receive information about an incarcerated person's status. For general information about victim services, to learn about victim-offender dialogues, or to register or update a registration confidentially, please click here (https://mclist.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=afffa58af0d1d42fee9a20e55&id=ad67fbe867&e=1d2c1e0056) or call 1-877-256-6877 (toll free).
While in office, Governor Newsom has granted a total of 276 pardons, 169 commutations, and 43 reprieves.
More information on the clemency process is available here (http://www.gov.ca.gov/clemency/).
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/04/03/governor-newsom-announces-clemency-actions/
