States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Selected by the Colorado Wildlife Council as the 2026 Conservationist of the Year
DENVER, Colorado, June 6 -- The Colorado Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Wildlife issued the following news release:
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Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation selected by the Colorado Wildlife Council as the 2026 Conservationist of the Year
The Colorado Wildlife Council (CWC) is thrilled to announce that the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Conservationist of the Year Award.
This award recognizes organizations that have made significant, measurable contributions to environmental conservation in our state. Since 1987, RMEF has
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DENVER, Colorado, June 6 -- The Colorado Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Wildlife issued the following news release:
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Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation selected by the Colorado Wildlife Council as the 2026 Conservationist of the Year
The Colorado Wildlife Council (CWC) is thrilled to announce that the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Conservationist of the Year Award.
This award recognizes organizations that have made significant, measurable contributions to environmental conservation in our state. Since 1987, RMEF hasserved as a cornerstone of Colorado conservation. For nearly four decades, they have worked to protect, restore, and enhance the lands that make Colorado a premier destination for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
"The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation's impact on Colorado is not measured in intentions or ambitions--it is measured in acres protected, corridors secured, and a community deeply connected to Colorado's wildlife heritage," said their nominator, Luke Weidel. "Their collaborative spirit, bridging the gap between federal agencies, state managers, private landowners, and local volunteers, has set a gold standard for what collaborative conservation can achieve."
Remarkable, measurable results define RMEF's impact. Across 922 projects valued at over $213 million, they have conserved or enhanced more than 514,000 acres of critical habitat, an area larger than Rocky Mountain National Park, and opened or improved public access to over 120,000 acres. By leveraging cutting-edge research, such as GPS migration mapping and virtual fencing technology, RMEF ensures the long-term resilience of Colorado's wildlife herds. Furthermore, their 30 active local chapters provide the grassroots energy needed to tackle essential, boots-on-the-ground work, such as hazardous fence removal and habitat stewardship.
The CWC was created and developed by a coalition of hunters, anglers, and conservationists working together with livestock and agricultural organizations. The Council retains an advertising agency responsible for planning and executing the media strategy on which Council members give input.
The CPW director appoints council members and holds final approval authority for campaign plans. The program is funded by a $1.50 education surcharge on each hunting and fishing license sold. The Council is made up of 9 members representing various interests throughout Colorado.
The CWC is honored to recognize the RMEF for its nearly 40 years of dedication to our state. Their work ensures that the world's largest elk population and the landscapes they inhabit remain vibrant for all Coloradans to enjoy for generations to come.
Please join us in celebrating the RMEF for this well-deserved recognition.
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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/06052026/rocky-mountain-elk-foundation-selected-colorado-wildlife-council-2026-conservationist
New York State Commissioner Congratulates Students Participating at the 2026 New York State Envirothon
ALBANY, New York, June 6 -- The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets issued the following news:
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New York State Commissioner Congratulates Students Participating at the 2026 New York State Envirothon
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today congratulated the nearly 200 students that participated in the 2026 New York State Envirothon. Students from across the state traveled to SUNY Cortland on May 27-28 to participate in the two-day, hands-on environmental competition focused on topic areas such as: soils, forestry, wildlife, aquatics, and an emerging
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ALBANY, New York, June 6 -- The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets issued the following news:
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New York State Commissioner Congratulates Students Participating at the 2026 New York State Envirothon
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today congratulated the nearly 200 students that participated in the 2026 New York State Envirothon. Students from across the state traveled to SUNY Cortland on May 27-28 to participate in the two-day, hands-on environmental competition focused on topic areas such as: soils, forestry, wildlife, aquatics, and an emergingenvironmental issue: Non-Point Source Pollution Mitigation: It Begins at Home.
Commissioner Ball said, "The annual Envirothon competition series is a critical part of environmental and agricultural education in our state and across the world, and it is inspiring to see so many young people preparing to advocate for our environment and natural resources in the years to come. This competition provides a unique opportunity for our students to put their education to the test through hands-on experiments and helps shine the spotlight on the critical importance of preserving our natural resources. I congratulate our New York teams and our winners and wish them the best of luck moving forward."
The team from The Mount Academy in Ulster County was named New York State Champion at the long-standing hands-on environmental competition, which challenges students on their knowledge of natural resource science, public speaking, and civic engagement. Red Creek Central School from Wayne County took second place and Chautauqua Lake Central School in Chautauqua County took third place.
The winning team from The Mount Academy will travel to the International NCF-Envirothon to represent New York State this summer at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi. Each member of the team received a scholarship, and the team will compete against other top teams from the United States, China, Singapore, and Canada.
The NCF-Envirothon competition is a series of field station tests in the areas of soils/land use, aquatic ecology, forestry, wildlife, and an emerging environmental issue. Throughout the week-long competition, students demonstrate their knowledge in these areas through written tests and interactive stations. The teams also prepared oral presentations on this year's current issue, "Non-Point Source Pollution Mitigation: It Begins at Home."
In the New York State Envirothon, 38 teams from across New York State competed in environmental science and natural resource management written and oral tests during the two-day competition. The teams, made up of five students from grades 9 through 12, qualified at the regional or local level to receive invitations to the state competition.
Conservation District Employees' Association President Jessica Armstrong said, "The 2026 NYS Envirothon event was an incredible success, and it was truly a privilege to serve as a final oral presentation judge. The NYS Envirothon Committee did a marvelous job organizing and delivering this year's event. Their dedication and hard work created an exceptional experience for all participants, volunteers, and supporters.
Witnessing the dedication, hard work, and depth of knowledge demonstrated by these students was both inspiring and impressive. The passion and effort these students bring to the competition highlight not only their commitment to environmental stewardship, but also the bright future ahead for the next generation of leaders."
The 2026 New York State Envirothon was made possible through the contributions of several sponsors and partnering agencies, including the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and its Division of Land and Water Resources. Many federal and state environmental agencies, County Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and higher education institutions provided expertise and helped to organize the event.
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About the New York State Envirothon
The New York State Envirothon is coordinated by the New York State Envirothon Committee consisting of members of the New York State Conservation District Employees Association, New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, and volunteers. The program services hundreds of high school students throughout New York State and the five city boroughs. Winning teams from regional and county Envirothon competitions advance to the state level and then to the International NCF-Envirothon, earning awards and scholarships at each level. The program is funded from contributions and grants from individuals, businesses, and organizations. Contributions are tax deductible through the New York State Environmental Education Foundation, and a portion of all contributions go towards the program. Additional information about the program and sponsorship opportunities can be found at www.nysenvirothon.net.
Sponsors of the 2026 New York State Envirothon include:
* General Motors
* Kate's Real Food
* Chobani
* Aqua Valley Spring Water
* The New York Chip Company
* Cornell University CALS - Department of Food Science
* Roc-Star Ice Cream
* Brothers All Natural
* NYS Conservation District Employees' Association, Inc.
* NYS Agriculture and Markets - Soil and Water Conservation Committee
* USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
* Soil and Water Conservation Society - Empire Chapter
* Scott Fickbohm
* Cabot Cheese
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Original text here: https://agriculture.ny.gov/news/new-york-state-commissioner-congratulates-students-participating-2026-new-york-state
N.J. Environmental Protection Dept.: Sherrill Administration Releases List of More Than $90 Million in Open Space Acquisition and Park Development Projects
TRENTON, New Jersey, June 6 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release:
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SHERRILL ADMINISTRATION RELEASES LIST OF MORE THAN $90 MILLION IN OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION AND PARK DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Department of Environmental Protection Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced the Garden State Preservation Trust's approval of Green Acres funding awards totaling $90.6 million for local government and nonprofit projects to acquire open space, develop and improve parks, and enhance recreation and conservation resources in communities across
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TRENTON, New Jersey, June 6 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release:
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SHERRILL ADMINISTRATION RELEASES LIST OF MORE THAN $90 MILLION IN OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION AND PARK DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Department of Environmental Protection Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced the Garden State Preservation Trust's approval of Green Acres funding awards totaling $90.6 million for local government and nonprofit projects to acquire open space, develop and improve parks, and enhance recreation and conservation resources in communities acrossthe state.
Each year, DEP's Green Acres Program recommends to the Garden State Preservation Trust (GSPT) a list of projects to receive grant and loan funding. On May 28, the GSPT approved the funding list, which has been forwarded to the Legislature for development of an appropriations bill.
The list includes projects in every county, including acquisition of a parcel to create an urban pocket park in Hackensack and creation of a new trailhead park in Metuchen. The full list of projects approved for funding is at nj.gov/dep/greenacres.
"New Jersey's Green Acres Program is a national leader in open space preservation and has a long history of establishing and improving parks for the public's enjoyment," said Acting Commissioner Potosnak. "These green spaces beautify communities, connect neighbors, promote active lifestyles, and boost economic activity. They also improve air and water quality and enhance natural ecosystems. Together with our public and private partners, we are pleased to advance these exciting projects for the benefit of communities across the state."
Funding Recommendations by the Numbers
In total, 102 projects were recommended and approved for funding this year, broken down as follows:
* $23.2 million for 28 local (municipal and county) land acquisition projects
* $51.5 million for 53 local developments of parks and recreational facilities
* $800,000 for four local stewardship projects
* $9.6 million for eight nonprofit land acquisition projects
* $5.2 million for eight nonprofit recreational development projects
* $300,000 for one nonprofit stewardship project.
Park Development Projects
Local and nonprofit park development projects include:
* Addition of a new access point and footpath connection, playground and spray park, riverfront overlooks and pavilion, and the relocation of a baseball field at Riverside County Park South in Lyndhurst Township and North Arlington Borough, Bergen County.
* Creation of the Boonton Reservoir Trail in Morris County that will loop the expansive reservoir and provide first-time scenic public access.
* Construction of a completely inclusive playground at the Ewing Senior & Community Center in Mercer County.
* Creation of a new Metuchen Trailhead Park to increase access to the existing Middlesex Greenway in Metuchen, Middlesex County.
* Improvements to Lena Skelly Park in Pennsauken, Camden County, including a new inclusive playground, improved basketball and volleyball courts, and picnic amenities.
Open Space Acquisitions
Projects to help local governments and nonprofits acquire property as open space and recreational resources include:
* Hackensack in Bergen County seeks acquisition of a 0.2-acre property at 155 Main Street, that will be transformed into a pocket park.
* The nonprofit Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum will acquire a parcel in Montgomery, Somerset County, to preserve a historic resource and open space in the Sourland Mountain Region.
* Riverside Township in Burlington County proposes preserving a 4.2-acre property at the intersection of Whittaker and Fairview streets for passive recreation, such as walking and birdwatching, and for environmental education programming at the property.
Stewardship Projects
Stewardship projects that go beyond routine maintenance to enhance and protect parkland and natural areas include:
* Somers Point in Atlantic County will improve the DeFeo Lane Trail by creating a nature trail and viewing platforms overlooking Patcong Creek.
* Friends of Passaic County Parks will restore the Highlands Farm property at 335 Union Avenue, in Bloomingdale, Passaic County, by installing a pollinator garden and a new trail, and removing invasive species.
Green Acres Overview
Since its creation in 1961, Green Acres has supported public and private partners to protect over 725,000 acres of open space and provide hundreds of outdoor recreational facilities in communities throughout the state. The total acreage of protected open space, parkland, and farmland across New Jersey exceeds 1.6 million acres.
Green Acres funding comes from the Corporate Business Tax, loan and interest repayments, interest earnings, and previously approved projects that did not come to fruition. The new Green Acres Funding Dashboard was created to improve transparency while providing information about Green Acres funding allocations and availability across its three programs.
To learn more about the Green Acres Program, visit dep.nj.gov/greenacres.
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Original text here: https://dep.nj.gov/newsrel/26_0029/
N.C. State Treasurer: State Health Plan Approves Strategic Plan and Medicare Advantage Benefits
RALEIGH, North Carolina, June 6 -- The North Carolina State Treasurer issued the following news release:
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State Health Plan Approves Strategic Plan and Medicare Advantage Benefits
The State Health Plan (Plan) Board of Trustees approved its 2026-2032 Strategic Plan today, advancing initiatives designed to improve member health outcomes while strengthening the Plan's long-term financial sustainability. The unanimous approval establishes a roadmap focused on three priorities: protecting affordable premiums and stable benefits, helping members achieve better health and ensuring members have
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RALEIGH, North Carolina, June 6 -- The North Carolina State Treasurer issued the following news release:
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State Health Plan Approves Strategic Plan and Medicare Advantage Benefits
The State Health Plan (Plan) Board of Trustees approved its 2026-2032 Strategic Plan today, advancing initiatives designed to improve member health outcomes while strengthening the Plan's long-term financial sustainability. The unanimous approval establishes a roadmap focused on three priorities: protecting affordable premiums and stable benefits, helping members achieve better health and ensuring members haveaccess to care.
In addition, the Board approved the 2027 Medicare Advantage Benefits for the Plan. The changes for the Humana Medicare Advantage plans, which currently serve nearly 177,000 Medicare retirees, are projected to save the Plan approximately $31.5 million while continuing to provide comprehensive coverage options for retirees.
Together, the actions support the Plan's ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes, preserve affordability for members and taxpayers and address long-term financial challenges facing the affordability of health care.
The Plan has already implemented multiple initiatives aimed at keeping members more healthy.
One program is preparing to move to the next phase. Lantern, a surgery and specialty care navigation program that connects members with high-quality providers and offers eligible procedures at no cost, is making meaningful impact with members. As Lantern and the Plan now look to Phase II, there will be increased efforts and availability in general surgery, gynecology, gastroenterology and ear, nose and throat no cost options.
Since launching late last year, more than 1,000 Plan members have received a zero-dollar procedure through Lantern, generating approximately $12 million in savings for the Plan while improving access to high-quality care. The network of participating North Carolina providers has grown from 60 providers in November 2025 to 194 providers in May 2026.
The Board also received an update on the Eat Well Pilot Program, which launched June 1. The initiative is currently limited to 1,000 eligible members if they have a diagnosis of at least one cardiometabolic condition -- Type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, or chronic kidney disease -- and a household income at or below $50,000. Eat Well will provide a $80 monthly grocery benefit to purchase nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables and beans. The 12-month pilot run through Reinvestment Partners reflects the Plan's commitment to preventive care and addressing chronic disease through innovative population health programs.
"Food is medicine," Treasurer Brad Briner said. " The people who teach our kids and keep our state running deserve access to interventions that work -- and that's exactly what this partnership provides. The Eat Well program can improve health outcomes and potentially reduce the need for more costly medical interventions in the future."
"When people are asked what their biggest barrier to eating fruits and vegetables is, the answer is cost. This partnership removes that barrier for state employees managing serious chronic conditions -- and the research shows that when you do that, their health improves," Reinvestment Partners CEO Peter Skillern said.
The Board also reviewed proposed benefit changes for 2027 for active and Non-Medicare members which include the multi-tier network structure that the Board approved in March. The final vote on those proposed changes will take place at the July 10 meeting, which will include several major votes including 2027 premium rates. In addition, that meeting will announce the 2028 third-party administrator and pharmacy benefit manager.
Treasurer speaks at the SHP June 2026 Meeting on Preferred Provider Strategy (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uJBLZmSwYw).
State Health Plan Board of Trustees meeting materials are available at www.shpnc.gov.
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The State Health Plan, a division of the Department of State Treasurer, provides health care coverage to more than 750,000 teachers, state employees, retirees, current and former lawmakers, state university and community college personnel, and their dependents.
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Original text here: https://www.nctreasurer.gov/news/press-releases/2026/06/05/state-health-plan-approves-strategic-plan-and-medicare-advantage-benefits
Miss. Agriculture & Commerce Dept.: Genuine MS Membership Grows Through First South Farm Credit Partnership
JACKSON, Mississippi, June 6 -- The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce issued the following news release:
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Genuine MS(R) Membership Grows through First South Farm Credit Partnership
The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) announces that new Genuine MS(R) memberships increased by nearly a quarter this spring - adding 44 new memberships - thanks to a successful partnership with First South Farm Credit.
First South Farm Credit, a financial cooperative dedicated to supporting agriculture and rural communities, covered the cost of a one-year membership
... Show Full Article
JACKSON, Mississippi, June 6 -- The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce issued the following news release:
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Genuine MS(R) Membership Grows through First South Farm Credit Partnership
The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) announces that new Genuine MS(R) memberships increased by nearly a quarter this spring - adding 44 new memberships - thanks to a successful partnership with First South Farm Credit.
First South Farm Credit, a financial cooperative dedicated to supporting agriculture and rural communities, covered the cost of a one-year membershipfor individuals and businesses that joined the Genuine MS(R) program, helping more Mississippi producers, artisans and entrepreneurs promote their businesses.
"Because of First South Farm Credit's investment, these Mississippi farms, small businesses and operations were able to take an important step in branding, marketing and expanding the reach of their products across our great state," said Andy Gipson, Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce. "We are grateful to First South Farm Credit for investing in Mississippi farmers and businesses by creating new opportunities for growth through our state branding program."
Through the partnership, new members who enrolled in the Genuine MS(R) program by April 30, 2026, had their first year of membership paid for by First South Farm Credit. The initiative was designed to remove financial barriers and encourage more Mississippi-based businesses to participate in the statewide branding and marketing program.
Genuine MS(R) is a state branding program administered by the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce that promotes products grown, raised, crafted and made in Mississippi. Members benefit from statewide marketing efforts, promotional opportunities and the ability to use the Genuine MS(R) logo to showcase their products.
"We are excited about Genuine MS(R)'s growth and being able to help Mississippi farmers grow their businesses, reach more customers and build thriving farming operations in this state," said John Sport, Vice President of First South Farm Credit. "Supporting Genuine MS(R) aligns perfectly with our mission to help Mississippi farmers, and covering first-year membership costs was one way we could invest in their success."
Lane Milton, Director of the Genuine MS(R) Program says the partnership has done far more than cover first-year membership dues.
"It has opened doors for new businesses to gain visibility, connect with consumers and become part of a statewide network dedicated to promoting products that are genuinely Mississippi," said Milton. "This partnership with First South Farm Credit also helps expand access to the Genuine MS(R) program and strengthens our mission to support Mississippi businesses. Partnerships like this are instrumental in helping programs such as Genuine MS(R) continue to grow and serve businesses across the state."
As part of the partnership, Genuine MS(R) expanded its social media reach by spotlighting new members through various social media posts. During the first-quarter promotion, those efforts generated more than 120,000 social media views.
"Thanks to First South Farm Credit and its generous partnership, we have been able to grow Mississippi's agriculture and small-business community together," continued Milton. "It reflects a shared mission between Genuine MS(R) and First South Farm Credit: to invest in the people, products and industries that keep Mississippi agriculture strong."
Farmers, producers and businesses interested in becoming Genuine MS(R) members may apply for membership. Membership availability is subject to program guidelines and approval. For more information or to apply, visit https://genuinems.com/.
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Original text here: https://agnet.mdac.ms.gov/agManage/uploads/3392.pdf
DEC Announces $525,000 in Funding for the Genesee River Watershed Coalition of Conservation Districts
ALBANY, New York, June 6 -- The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued the following news release:
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DEC Announces $525,000 in Funding for the Genesee River Watershed Coalition of Conservation Districts
Funding Will Support Improved Water Quality and Ecosystem Resilience in the Lake Ontario Basin's Genesee River Watershed
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New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in partnership with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the 10 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) in the Genesee River watershed, announced $525,000
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ALBANY, New York, June 6 -- The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued the following news release:
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DEC Announces $525,000 in Funding for the Genesee River Watershed Coalition of Conservation Districts
Funding Will Support Improved Water Quality and Ecosystem Resilience in the Lake Ontario Basin's Genesee River Watershed
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New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in partnership with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the 10 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) in the Genesee River watershed, announced $525,000for the Genesee River Watershed Coalition of the Conservation Districts (GRWCCD). This funding will accelerate watershed protection and restoration measures to improve water quality and support healthy, resilient ecosystems. Supporting SWCD programs aligns with recommendations and priorities in the Great Lakes Action Agenda, Lake Ontario Lakewide Area Management Plan, and other initiatives.
Great Lakes Program Director Shannon Dougherty said, "Strategic watershed-based partnerships like the Genesee River Watershed Coalition of the Conservation Districts are essential to protecting Great Lakes water quality and maintaining healthy, resilient working lands. Thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul's advocacy for the record high Environmental Protection Fund, this capacity funding will support the Coalition's efforts to work across county boundaries to build lasting partnerships and advance impactful on-the-ground projects to improve the long-term health of the Genesee River watershed and all who rely on it."
This key investment will support the GRWCCD to build professional capacity, leverage federal resources, and accelerate agricultural and resiliency-related projects to implement State plans to improve water quality in the Genesee River watershed, such as the Genesee River Nine Key Element Watershed Plan for Phosphorus and Sediment. The Genesee River is a federal priority for phosphorus reduction under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI).
Stretching from Pennsylvania to Lake Ontario, the 2,500-square-mile Genesee River watershed is an important economic and environmental corridor. It's 158-mile path, key tributaries (Oatka, Black, Wiscoy, and Canaseraga creeks), as well as significant ponded waters including Silver Lake, Mt. Morris Reservoir, and the four westernmost Finger Lakes (Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye) provide public drinking water, recreation opportunities, and support local agricultural and tourism economies.
New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee Executive Director Bethany Bzduch said, "The Genesee River Watershed Coalition works to address conservation challenges across the entire watershed. Building and supporting staff capacity within the coalition is key to advancing projects that will protect the Genesee River watershed and the long-term sustainability of our natural resources and our agricultural industry. The Department of Agriculture and Markets and the NYS Soil and Water Conservation Committee, alongside our partners at DEC and the Soil and Water Conservation Districts, are committed to ensuring critical resources, such as this funding, are directed to supporting staff capacity as well as strategic sediment reduction and water quality improvement projects."
Monroe County Soil and Water Conservation District Executive Director Kelly Emerick said, "In 2015, the 10 SWCDs that encompass the Genesee River Watershed established the Coalition for the purpose of unifying their efforts to improve regional coordination of activities and enhance implementation. This funding provided by DEC will allow the GRWCCD to enhance efforts in reducing water quality pollutants entering the Genesee River and enhancing resiliency."
To learn more about Watershed Coalitions in New York State, please visit: Watershed Management - NYSDEC (https://dec.ny.gov/nature/waterbodies/watersheds/management#:~:text=Jersey%2C%20New%20York-,Watershed%20Coalitions,-Watershed%20Coalitions%20are).
This funding is provided through New York State's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), a critical resource for environmental programs such as environmental justice, land acquisition, farmland protection, invasive species prevention and eradication, recreation access and water quality improvement projects. Governor Hochul's FY27 Budget reaffirms New York's commitment to environmental leadership by appropriating $425 million to the EPF, using $25 million from the Sustainable Future Program to provide a record $450 million for important environmental programs.
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Original text here: https://dec.ny.gov/news/press-releases/2026/6/dec-announces-525000-in-funding-for-the-genesee-river-watershed-coalition-of-conservation-districts
Arizona Enacts New Law Cracking Down on Nicotine Products Targeting Kids
PHOENIX, Arizona, June 6 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release:
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Arizona Enacts New Law Cracking Down on Nicotine Products Targeting Kids
Rep. Jeff Weninger's HB 4001 strengthens enforcement, restricts youth-focused marketing, and establishes new safeguards for alternative nicotine products
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House Bill 4001, sponsored by State Representative Jeff Weninger, has been signed into law, creating new protections against underage nicotine sales and stronger accountability for manufacturers and distributors.
The new law establishes statewide standards for alternative
... Show Full Article
PHOENIX, Arizona, June 6 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release:
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Arizona Enacts New Law Cracking Down on Nicotine Products Targeting Kids
Rep. Jeff Weninger's HB 4001 strengthens enforcement, restricts youth-focused marketing, and establishes new safeguards for alternative nicotine products
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House Bill 4001, sponsored by State Representative Jeff Weninger, has been signed into law, creating new protections against underage nicotine sales and stronger accountability for manufacturers and distributors.
The new law establishes statewide standards for alternativenicotine products, including licensing requirements for manufacturers and distributors, expanded enforcement authority for the Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, and stricter standards for alternative nicotine products sold in Arizona.
HB 4001 prohibits the marketing or sale of alternative nicotine products in packaging designed to appeal to minors, including products that resemble toys, food, electronics, or other youth-oriented items. The law strengthens age-verification requirements and increases penalties for businesses and individuals who sell nicotine products to underage persons.
Manufacturers and distributors must be licensed, maintain records, and comply with product standards and regulatory requirements. The law authorizes inspections, audits, investigations, and enforcement actions to ensure compliance.
The law requires alternative nicotine products sold in Arizona to meet manufacturing standards and imposes penalties for unlicensed manufacturing, distribution, or sales activity. It also strengthens oversight of the supply chain by requiring manufacturers and distributors to be licensed and accountable under state law.
"Nicotine companies should not be designing products that look like toys or marketing them in ways that appeal to high school students," Representative Weninger said. "This law makes one thing clear: if you manufacture, distribute, or sell these products in Arizona, you are responsible for following the rules."
"No parent wants to see nicotine products ending up in the hands of high school kids because someone decided checking an ID was optional," Weninger added. "HB 4001 increases penalties for illegal sales, gives regulators stronger enforcement tools, and protects businesses that follow the rules. If you are selling nicotine products to minors, Arizona is no longer going to look the other way."
HB 4001 also authorizes educational efforts to discourage underage nicotine use and allows contaminated alternative nicotine products to be removed from the marketplace.
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Jeff Weninger is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 13 in Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes, and is Chairman of the House Commerce Committee. Follow him on X at @JeffWeninger.
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Original text here: https://www.azleg.gov/press/house/57LEG/2R/260605WENINGERHB4001SIGNED.pdf
