States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Okla. A.G. Drummond Responds to Stitt's Misinformation on Tribal Hunting Rights
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, Nov. 22 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Drummond responds to Stitt's misinformation on tribal hunting rights
Attorney General Gentner Drummond today sharply disputed recent comments by Gov. Kevin Stitt suggesting that Drummond believes tribal citizens may hunt on privately owned land without permission. Drummond called the Governor's remarks "knowingly false" and said that the public deserves honesty, not more lies and fearmongering.
"Gov. Stitt has made a habit of spreading misinformation, especially
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OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, Nov. 22 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Drummond responds to Stitt's misinformation on tribal hunting rights
Attorney General Gentner Drummond today sharply disputed recent comments by Gov. Kevin Stitt suggesting that Drummond believes tribal citizens may hunt on privately owned land without permission. Drummond called the Governor's remarks "knowingly false" and said that the public deserves honesty, not more lies and fearmongering.
"Gov. Stitt has made a habit of spreading misinformation, especiallywhen it comes to the sovereignty of the tribal nations of Oklahoma," Drummond said. "He knows full well that the tribes in Oklahoma do not authorize their citizens to enter private property to hunt or fish without the landowner's consent. Their Tribal Codes prohibit it. Oklahoma law prohibits it. And I have never suggested otherwise."
Drummond reaffirmed that his office would continue to defend the law, ensuring that Native American citizens are not wrongfully prosecuted for lawful hunting on tribal land without a license. Tribal members historically have been allowed to hunt and fish within their reservations under state and federal law.
"The constant lies and corruption must stop. The law has not changed and neither has my commitment to it," Drummond stated. "Oklahomans deserve truth and integrity. Enough is enough."
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Original text here: https://oklahoma.gov/oag/news/newsroom/2025/november/drummond-responds-to-stitts-misinformation-on-tribal-hunting-rights.html
New Hampshire Insurance Department Reinforces Fraud Reporting Obligations for Health Carriers and Producers
CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 22 -- The New Hampshire Department of Insurance issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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New Hampshire Insurance Department Reinforces Fraud Reporting Obligations for Health Carriers and Producers
The New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) has released a bulletin providing carriers and ground ambulance providers with formal guidance on implementing SB 245, legislation designed to stabilize reimbursement, strengthen consumer protections, and increase network participation among ground ambulance providers across the Granite State.
The bulletin
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CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 22 -- The New Hampshire Department of Insurance issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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New Hampshire Insurance Department Reinforces Fraud Reporting Obligations for Health Carriers and Producers
The New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) has released a bulletin providing carriers and ground ambulance providers with formal guidance on implementing SB 245, legislation designed to stabilize reimbursement, strengthen consumer protections, and increase network participation among ground ambulance providers across the Granite State.
The bulletinoutlines how the temporary two-year reimbursement framework will operate beginning January 1, 2026, while the statewide cost study--required by the Legislature to establish long-term, cost-based rates--remains underway. Under the statute, ground ambulance providers may qualify for reimbursement at 3.25 times the Medicare rate if they pursue or secure participation under the Standard Ground Ambulance Provider Contract.
"The goal of this framework is to ensure that Granite Staters are protected from balance billing while giving ground ambulance providers a predictable and sustainable path into carrier networks," said Insurance Commissioner DJ Bettencourt. "By pairing consumer protections with stable reimbursement during the cost study period, the Legislature has restored market incentives that benefit patients, providers, and carriers alike."
The bulletin clarifies the conditions providers must meet to access the enhanced 3.25x Medicare reimbursement rate, including submitting the Standard Contract Application Form, actively engaging in contracting, and cooperating with the statewide cost study. It also details the circumstances under which a provider may lose eligibility, as well as the reporting obligations shared by carriers and providers to ensure accuracy and transparency.
"These updates not only enhance consumer safeguards but also ensure clarity and fairness for providers, carriers, and health plans navigating the new reimbursement system," said Deputy Insurance Commissioner Keith Nyhan. "The NHID remains committed to maintaining transparency and protecting Granite Staters throughout implementation."
To support uniform administration, the NHID will maintain a public reimbursement eligibility registry that carriers must consult when processing claims. The bulletin also reaffirms that SB 245 applies only to fully insured commercial plans regulated by the Department, though carriers may choose to extend the Standard Contract to self-funded plans.
The full bulletin, Docket #INS 25-073-AB, can be viewed at https://mm.nh.gov/files/uploads/nhid/documents/20251121-ins-25-073-ab.pdf .pdf Icon.
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The New Hampshire Insurance Department Can Help
The New Hampshire Insurance Department's mission is to promote and protect the public good by ensuring the existence of a safe and competitive insurance marketplace through the development and enforcement of the insurance laws of the State of New Hampshire. Contact us with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your insurance coverage at 800-852-3416 or 603-271-2261, or by email at consumerservices@ins.nh.gov. For more information, visit https://insurance.nh.gov/.
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Original text here: https://www.insurance.nh.gov/news-and-media/new-hampshire-insurance-department-reinforces-fraud-reporting-obligations-health-0
N.H. A.G. Formella: Michael Rock Indicted for Unemployment Fraud
CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 22 -- New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella issued the following news release:
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Michael Rock Indicted for Unemployment Fraud
Attorney General John M. Formella and Department of Employment Security Commissioner Richard J. Lavers announce that the Rockingham County Grand Jury has returned indictments against Michael Rock, age 65, in connection with alleged unemployment fraud.
The indictments charge Rock with Unemployment Compensation Fraud (Class A Felony) and Theft by Deception (Class A Felony).
According to the indictments, from April 2020 to March
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CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 22 -- New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella issued the following news release:
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Michael Rock Indicted for Unemployment Fraud
Attorney General John M. Formella and Department of Employment Security Commissioner Richard J. Lavers announce that the Rockingham County Grand Jury has returned indictments against Michael Rock, age 65, in connection with alleged unemployment fraud.
The indictments charge Rock with Unemployment Compensation Fraud (Class A Felony) and Theft by Deception (Class A Felony).
According to the indictments, from April 2020 to March2021 Rock allegedly submitted false unemployment claims to the New Hampshire Department of Employment Security. The indictments allege that he failed to disclose his full-time employment as a sales representative with Danvers-SB, Inc. dba IRA BMW of Stratham, and that as a result he allegedly received more than $37,000 in unemployment compensation, including enhanced federal COVID-19 benefits, while continuing to work.
Rock is scheduled to be arraigned on December 19, 2025, in Rockingham County Superior Court. Each Class A felony offense is punishable by up to 7 1/2 to 15 years in state prison, a fine, or both.
The investigation was conducted by the Department of Employment Security's Benefit Payment Control Unit. The Department provides unemployment benefits to eligible individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own and investigates allegations of fraud to protect New Hampshire's unemployment trust fund.
To report possible unemployment fraud, call (603) 228-4019, or email the Department of Employment Security at NHES.BPC@NHES.NH.GOV.
The New Hampshire Department of Employment Security receives program funding and grant awards from the U.S. Department of Labor.
The charges and allegations against Mr. Rock are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Original text here: https://www.doj.nh.gov/news-and-media/michael-rock-indicted-unemployment-fraud
N.C. Health Dept.: North Carolina Applies for $200 Million From Rural Health Transformation Program
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Nov. 22 -- The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services issued the following news release:
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North Carolina Applies for $200 Million from Rural Health Transformation Program
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) earlier this month submitted its Rural Health Transformation Plan to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The plan demonstrates how the state could use $200 million in federal funding annually over five years to improve health across 85 of North Carolina's 100 counties. CMS is expected to announce
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RALEIGH, North Carolina, Nov. 22 -- The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services issued the following news release:
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North Carolina Applies for $200 Million from Rural Health Transformation Program
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) earlier this month submitted its Rural Health Transformation Plan to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The plan demonstrates how the state could use $200 million in federal funding annually over five years to improve health across 85 of North Carolina's 100 counties. CMS is expected to announcefunding decisions by December 31, 2025.
North Carolina's Rural Health Transformation Program application is designed to ensure that every North Carolinian, regardless of where they live, has access to high-quality, affordable health care. NCDHHS developed the plan through extensive engagement with more than 420 stakeholders, including rural hospitals, community health centers, local health departments, Tribal communities, faith-based organizations, and residents.
"Our plan reflects North Carolina's commitment to ensuring that every North Carolinian, no matter where they live, has access to high-quality health care," said Governor Josh Stein. "North Carolina is on the cutting edge of technology and innovation, and our application for the Rural Health Transformation Program shows that we're ready to continue our leadership in rural health care. Let's keep people healthy and ensure our rural communities remain vibrant. I also want to thank the bipartisan partners who helped develop this plan and will help carry it out."
"Rural health care providers are the backbone of their communities, working tirelessly to ensure people have access to care when and where they need it," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "North Carolina is a leader in prioritizing rural health and remains committed to investing in rural health care and the rural health workforce. The North Carolina Rural Health Transformation Plan is one part of our efforts to support the more than 3 million people in North Carolina who live in a rural community."
North Carolina has the second-largest rural population in the country behind Texas and faces unique obstacles, such as workforce demands.
North Carolina's Rural Health Transformation Plan outlines six key strategies to transform rural health care systems. These include:
* Launching a locally governed "NC ROOTS" Hub to connect medical, mental health, and social supports
* Expanding prevention, chronic disease management, and nutrition programs
* Increasing access to mental health services, including substance use disorder treatment
* Investing in the rural health care workforce
* Supporting rural providers in transitioning to value-based care models
* Enhancing technology in health care
These initiatives will be implemented through a broad coalition of state agencies, community-based organizations, academic institutions, rural providers, and private-sector partners. As an example of innovation and collaboration, the application outlines creation of the Rural Health Infrastructure Fund (RHIF) that will help rural health care providers get access to technology that will support their practices.
On November 21, NCDHHS staff will brief members of North Carolina's congressional delegation, as well as members of the NC General Assembly, on the Rural Health Transformation Plan, highlighting the program's goals, the program's statewide impact, and the importance of federal partnership in addressing root causes of disease.
NCDHHS continues to work with CMS regarding the NC plan and expects a notice of approval by December 31. The program will begin in early 2026. A public notice will be issued following CMS approval, and additional details about the funding process will be shared in early 2026. The program will be guided by a statewide steering committee, including NCDHHS's Office of Rural Health and divisions of Medicaid, Public Health, and Mental Health, in collaboration with universities, community colleges, Community Health Centers, Rural Health Clinics, small rural hospitals, school-based clinics, and local partners.
The program will improve health and care delivery for nearly 3 million rural North Carolinians, support more than 400 rural health facilities, and bring an anticipated $200 million a year in federal investment to the state over five years. North Carolinians are encouraged to learn more about the Rural Health Transformation Program by visiting www.ncdhhs.gov/rhtp.
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Original text here: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2025/11/21/north-carolina-applies-200-million-rural-health-transformation-program
Minn. Secretary Simon Celebrates St. Louis County Election Workers
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 22 -- Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon issued the following news:
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Secretary Simon Celebrates St. Louis County Election Workers
Five election workers honored with Excellence in Elections Awards
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DULUTH -- On Thursday, November 20, 2025, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon awarded five election workers with the statewide Excellence in Elections Award. The award honors election workers for their outstanding service to the State of Minnesota.
Secretary Simon presented the Excellence in Elections Award to Jon Blevins, St. Louis County Information
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ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 22 -- Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon issued the following news:
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Secretary Simon Celebrates St. Louis County Election Workers
Five election workers honored with Excellence in Elections Awards
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DULUTH -- On Thursday, November 20, 2025, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon awarded five election workers with the statewide Excellence in Elections Award. The award honors election workers for their outstanding service to the State of Minnesota.
Secretary Simon presented the Excellence in Elections Award to Jon Blevins, St. Louis County InformationSpecialist III; Phil Chapman, St. Louis County Clerk of County Board/Elections Manager; Amanda Inman, Municipal Services Secretary for the City of Mountain Iron; Dawn Kehoe, Deputy Clerk/Treasurer for the City of Cook; and, Theresa Martinson, Former City Administrator for the City of Cook.
"Minnesota's elections are the product of talented, committed professionals across the state," said Minnesota Secretary of Steve Simon. "Elections truly are a team effort that require thousands of Minnesotans to rise to the occasion. I'm honored to celebrate the exceptional examples of service in St. Louis County."
"We owe such a debt of gratitude to the many election workers across our county for their tireless dedication to ensure elections run smoothly and provide results that are accurate and trustworthy," said St. Louis County Auditor/Treasurer Nancy Nilsen. "I appreciate the Secretary of State calling attention to the good work these people do."
PHOTO: See a photo from the November 20 event (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mnsecofstate/54936366731/in/album-72177720330446951).
VIDEO: See a video of the event from St. Louis County (https://fb.watch/Dv6BzATmjU/)
About the Honorees
Jon Blevins, St. Louis County Information Specialist III: Jon has worked in the St. Louis County Auditor's Office for six years and is the main election contact for day-to-day election questions. Jon is a great resource for clerks and co-workers regarding election processes and procedures. He is responsible for coordinating equipment programming and ballot creation for all jurisdictions in the county. He also assists with clerk and staff training. Even though Jon is inundated with questions during busy times, he maintains a polite and professional demeanor while providing quality customer service and timely communication.
Phil Chapman, St. Louis County Clerk of County Board/Elections Manager: Throughout his 12 years in this role, Phil consistently demonstrates his dedication to running fair and accurate elections that allow all eligible voters to be able to cast their ballot. As a part of his work, Phil is responsible for training clerks throughout the county, which spans 7,000 square miles.
Amanda Inman, Municipal Services Secretary for the City of Mountain Iron: Amanda has been in charge of elections for 10 years. Amanda is being recognized for ongoing excellence in administering elections. During her tenure, elections have been administered seamless without issues. Staff and election judges are well trained. The city embraces technology, one of the first jurisdictions to implement electronic poll books in the county.
Dawn Kehoe, Deputy Clerk/Treasurer for the City of Cook and Theresa Martinson, Former City Administrator for the City of Cook: In 2024, a flash flood devasted the City of Cook. While responding to the aftermath of the flood, which included road closures, property destruction, local disaster declarations, FEMA paperwork, and other challenges, both Theresa and Dawn administered a flawless primary and general state election.
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Original text here: https://www.sos.mn.gov/about-the-office/news-room/secretary-simon-celebrates-st-louis-county-election-workers/
Maine House Democrats: Stover Named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine
AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 22 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release:
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Stover named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine
Rep. Holly B. Stover, D-Boothbay, was named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine at the industry group's annual summit on Monday. The award recognizes Stover's work at the State House to support local hospitality businesses.
"I have spent my whole life in the Boothbay region, where hospitality is the bedrock of our local economy and character, so it's truly part of who I am," Stover said. "We have the best, most welcoming local businesses and
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AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 22 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release:
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Stover named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine
Rep. Holly B. Stover, D-Boothbay, was named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine at the industry group's annual summit on Monday. The award recognizes Stover's work at the State House to support local hospitality businesses.
"I have spent my whole life in the Boothbay region, where hospitality is the bedrock of our local economy and character, so it's truly part of who I am," Stover said. "We have the best, most welcoming local businesses andhospitality workers here in our community, and I have worked hard to ensure their voices are represented at the State House. It is truly an honor to have that work recognized by HospitalityMaine."
Stover is the inaugural recipient of the award, which was launched this year by HospitalityMaine to recognize lawmakers who demonstrate strong leadership and a deep understanding of the challenges Maine's hospitality businesses face. HospitalityMaine advocates for and supports the state's lodging, restaurant and hospitality industry.
"Rep. Stover consistently listens to the needs of Maine's hospitality community and works tirelessly to support policies that help our businesses thrive," said HospitalityMaine's Government Affairs Director Nate Cloutier. "Her commitment makes a real difference for our industry."
Stover is serving her fourth term in the Maine House and represents Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb, South Bristol, Southport and Westport Island. She is a member of the Legislature's budget-writing Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
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Original text here: https://www.maine.gov/housedems/news/stover-named-legislative-champion-hospitalitymaine
Florida Commerce Dept.: Gov. Ron DeSantis Awards $23.5 Million to Support Critical Infrastructure in Three Communities
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Nov. 22 -- Florida Department of Commerce issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $23.5 Million to Support Critical Infrastructure in Three Communities
Citrus County receives $16.4 million through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery Program and the City of Newberry and Levy County receive a total of $7.1 million through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund
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Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $23.5 million to support critical infrastructure improvements in Citrus County, Levy County and the City of Newberry.
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TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Nov. 22 -- Florida Department of Commerce issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $23.5 Million to Support Critical Infrastructure in Three Communities
Citrus County receives $16.4 million through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery Program and the City of Newberry and Levy County receive a total of $7.1 million through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund
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Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $23.5 million to support critical infrastructure improvements in Citrus County, Levy County and the City of Newberry.Citrus County has been awarded $16.4 million through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure Repair Program to improve wastewater infrastructure damaged by hurricanes in 2023 and 2024. Levy County was awarded $1.5 million through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF) to strengthen water infrastructure, which is also expected to create 120 new jobs in the area.
To support the growing A gTech industry in the state, the City of Newberry has been awarded $5.6 million through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to support roadway and water infrastructure improvements at the Newberry F-300 AgFoodTech Innovation Park. Recently, the Innovation Park announced its first tenant, Harvest Singularity, which will create 50 jobs in the hydroponics industry.
"Florida continues to invest in the infrastructure that keeps our communities strong and competitive," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "By improving wastewater capacity in Citrus County, expanding AgTech infrastructure in Newberry, and modernizing utility systems in Levy County, we are ensuring that these communities have the resources they need to attract new jobs, support business expansion and build long-term economic resilience."
"These investments are a direct reflection of Governor DeSantis' commitment to strengthening Florida 's small and rural communities through critical infrastructure improvements that fuel economic opportunity," said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly . "Reliable utilities, updated wastewater systems, and innovative AgTech hubs are essential to help ing Floridians recover from recent storms while also support ing new industries and establishing a solid economic foundation for long-range growth."
Citrus County Board of County Commissioners has been awarded through the CBDG-DR Infrastructure Repair P rogram:
* $16.4 million ($16,435,400) -- to support the replacement of a sanitary sewer system following stormwater intrusion and increased flows caused by the 2023 and 2024 storms. Upgrading these systems will expand capacity and help alleviate long-standing constraints on the county's ability to grow, supporting future business development.
The City of Newberry has been awarded through the Florida Job Growth Grand Fund:
* $5.6 million - to support roadway and water infrastructure improvements at the Newberry F-300 AgFood Tech Innovation Park, further strengthening Florida's leadership in agricultural technology, one of the state's target industries . This follows the recent announcement of Harvest Singularity's investment into the Innovation Park--planting the first of two hydroponic greenhouses next year--and will support job creation, increase economic competitiveness and advance technology innovations that optimize crop production, resource utilization and farmer-focused smart solutions in rural communities . In total, this award will create 790 new jobs in Newberry.
Levy County Board of County Commissioners has been awarded through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund:
* $1.5 million - to strengthen critical water infrastructure in Chiefland-- Chiefland and its surrounding rural communities, including Horseshoe Beach and Cedar Key areas were heavily impacted by Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton. The project , in connection with the development of a new shopping center, will bring nearly 120 jobs and more opportunities for additional business growth supported by 155 acres of enhanced retail, hotel, commercial and residential development to a community in need of economic recovery.
Since 2019, the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund has awarded 8 4 projects totaling more than $297 million and has created nearly 4 1,000 jobs while providing more than 30,000 workforce education opportunities. The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is an economic development program designed to promote public infrastructure and workforce training across the state. Proposals are reviewed by FloridaCommerce and are chosen by Governor DeSantis to meet the demands for workforce training or infrastructure needs in Florida communities.
FloridaCommerce administers many U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant programs which includes the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for Disaster Recovery and Mitigation. CDBG-DR Infrastructure Repair funding helps communities harden infrastructure and critical facilities to prevent losses from future disasters.
To learn more about the Job Growth Grant Fund, click here (https://t.e2ma.net/click/sfi9kq/ow892j4/kd3pjub).
To learn more about the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery Infrastructure Repair Program, click here (https://t.e2ma.net/click/sfi9kq/ow892j4/053pjub).
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Original text here: https://www.floridajobs.org/news-center/DEO-Press/2025/11/21/governor-ron-desantis-awards--23.5-million-to-support-critical-infrastructure-in-three-communities
