States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
AG Campbell Urges Supreme Court To Block Restrictions On Mifepristone
BOSTON, Massachusetts, May 4 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release:
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AG Campbell Urges Supreme Court To Block Restrictions On Mifepristone
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BOSTON -Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today co-led a coalition of 22 states and the District of Columbia in urging the U.S. Supreme Court to stay a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit that would restrict access to mifepristone, a safe and effective abortion medication.
The Fifth Circuit ruling would reinstate a medically unnecessary in-person dispensing
... Show Full Article
BOSTON, Massachusetts, May 4 -- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued the following news release:
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AG Campbell Urges Supreme Court To Block Restrictions On Mifepristone
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BOSTON -Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell today co-led a coalition of 22 states and the District of Columbia in urging the U.S. Supreme Court to stay a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit that would restrict access to mifepristone, a safe and effective abortion medication.
The Fifth Circuit ruling would reinstate a medically unnecessary in-person dispensingrequirement for mifepristone, which can be safely provided through telehealth. In an amicus brief filed with the Supreme Court, AG Campbell and the coalition argue that the Fifth Circuit's ruling is not supported by science, would create regulatory and administrative chaos nationwide, and would interfere with states' ability to protect access to reproductive health care within their borders. They are calling on the Court to stay the lower court's order and prevent these restrictions from taking effect.
"The Fifth Circuit's ruling undermines access to essential health care and ignores decades of science proving that mifepristone is both safe and effective,"said AG Campbell. "Personal medical decisions should be left to patients and doctors without political interference. In Massachusetts, abortion care remains both legal and protected, and I will continue using every tool available to ensure that residents can access the care they need."
Mifepristone, when used in combination with misoprostol, is the standard medication used to terminate a pregnancy through 10 weeks. Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved mifepristone in 2000, an estimated 7.5 million people in the United States have used the medication safely. Medication abortion now accounts for 63 percent of all abortions in the formal U.S. health care system, with approximately one in four abortions provided via telehealth. Studies have consistently found mifepristone to be safe and effective.
In 2023, after extensive review, the FDA eliminated the in-person dispensing requirement for mifepristone as medically unnecessary. That decision followed years of evidence, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, showing that mifepristone could be safely provided without requiring patients to appear in person. The FDA's action allowed providers to offer mifepristone through telehealth and enabled patients to obtain the medication through certified mail-order pharmacies and other approved channels, expanding access for patients who face significant barriers to in-person care.
AG Campbell and the coalition argue that reinstating the in-person dispensing requirement would curtail telehealth access to mifepristone, forcing patients to rely on more difficult alternatives or travel for in-person care. Telehealth has become an increasingly important way for patients to access abortion care, with the share of abortions provided through telemedicine growing from five percent in 2022 to 27 percent in 2025.
The attorneys general also argue that the ruling would disrupt care in states like Massachusetts, where abortion remains legal and protected. Since the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, clinics in states that protect abortion access have faced increased demand from both in-state and out-of-state patients. By forcing more patients to seek in-person care, the Fifth Circuit's ruling would place new strain on clinics and health care systems that are already stretched.
AG Campbell and the coalition assert that the Fifth Circuit's ruling undermines states' sovereign authority to protect and expand access to reproductive health care. In the wake of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision, which eliminated the federal constitutional right to abortion and returned regulation of abortion to the states, many states took swift executive and legislative action to safeguard reproductive rights and expand access to medication abortion. The attorneys general argue that courts cannot leverage medically unnecessary federal drug regulations to override those state policy choices or impose unnecessary barriers to care in states where abortion is legal.
This action is AG Campbell's latest effort to expand and protect access to essential reproductive healthcare. In March 2026, AG Campbell led a coalition of 22 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief challenging the Trump Administration's 2017 and 2018 regulations undermining the Affordable Care Act's guarantee of no-cost contraception coverage by employer health care plans. In December 2025, AG Campbell sent a letter to congressional leadership urging them to reject unlawful restrictions on reproductive healthcare. In June 2025, AG Campbell filed a citizen petition with the FDA, urging them to eliminate unnecessary restrictions on mifepristone. AG Campbell has released updated "Know Your Rights" guidance about abortion care, the Shield Law, and contraception.
Joining AG Campbell in filing today's brief, which she co-led with the attorneys general of California, New York, and Washington, are the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, as well as the Governor of Pennsylvania.
* Office of the Attorney General
The Attorney General is the chief lawyer and law enforcement officer of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
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Original text here: https://www.mass.gov/news/ag-campbell-urges-supreme-court-to-block-restrictions-on-mifepristone
AG Brown files brief urging Supreme Court to stay restrictions on Mifepristone
OLYMPIA, Washington, May 4 -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release:
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AG Brown files brief urging Supreme Court to stay restrictions on Mifepristone
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Attorney General Nick Brown today joined a coalition of 22 states and the District of Columbia in urging the U.S. Supreme Court to stay a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit that would restrict access to mifepristone, a safe and effective abortion medication. This morning, the Supreme Court temporarily stayed the Fifth Circuit ruling, restoring access to mifepristone.
The Fifth
... Show Full Article
OLYMPIA, Washington, May 4 -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release:
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AG Brown files brief urging Supreme Court to stay restrictions on Mifepristone
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Attorney General Nick Brown today joined a coalition of 22 states and the District of Columbia in urging the U.S. Supreme Court to stay a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit that would restrict access to mifepristone, a safe and effective abortion medication. This morning, the Supreme Court temporarily stayed the Fifth Circuit ruling, restoring access to mifepristone.
The FifthCircuit ruling would reinstate a medically unnecessary in-person dispensing requirement for mifepristone, which can be safely provided through telehealth. In the amicus brief filed with the Supreme Court, AG Brown and the coalition argued that the Fifth Circuit's ruling is not supported by law or science, would create regulatory and administrative chaos nationwide, and would interfere with states' ability to protect access to reproductive health care within their borders, particularly in rural and medically-underserved areas. They called on the court to stay the lower court's order and prevent these restrictions from taking effect.
"This ridiculous ruling cuts against science and further erodes reproductive rights nationwide, threatening access to medication abortion in states like Washington that still protect abortion rights. Decades of research has proven that mifepristone is exceptionally safe and effective. The arguments against medication abortions are as unserious as they are insidious in stripping women of necessary health care services. Washingtonians will be harmed by this ruling, but it does not change Washington's robust protections for reproductive rights, nor does it dim our resolve to fight for their preservation."
Mifepristone, when used in combination with misoprostol, is the standard medication used to terminate a pregnancy through 10 weeks. Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved mifepristone in 2000, an estimated 7.5 million people in the United States have used the medication safely. Medication abortion now accounts for 63 percent of all abortions in the formal U.S. health care system, with approximately one in four abortions provided via telehealth. Studies have consistently found mifepristone to be safe and effective.
In 2023, after extensive review, the FDA eliminated the in-person dispensing requirement for mifepristone as medically unnecessary. That decision followed years of evidence, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, showing that mifepristone could be safely provided without requiring patients to appear in person. The FDA's action allowed providers to offer mifepristone through telehealth and enabled patients to obtain the medication through certified mail-order pharmacies and other approved channels, expanding access for patients who face significant barriers to in-person care.
Brown and the coalition argue that reinstating the in-person dispensing requirement would curtail telehealth access to mifepristone, forcing patients to rely on more difficult alternatives or travel for in-person care. Telehealth has become an increasingly important way for patients in Washington to access abortion care, with the share of abortions provided through telemedicine growing from five percent in 2022 to 27 percent in 2025.
The attorneys general also argue that the ruling would disrupt care in states like Washington, where abortion remains legal and protected. Since the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, clinics in states that protect abortion access have faced increased demand from both in-state and out-of-state patients. By forcing more patients to seek in-person care, the Fifth Circuit's ruling would place new strain on clinics and health care systems that are already stretched.
Brown and the coalition assert that the Fifth Circuit's ruling undermines states' sovereign authority to protect and expand access to reproductive health care. In the wake of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision, which eliminated the federal constitutional right to abortion and returned regulation of abortion to the states, many states took swift executive and legislative action to safeguard reproductive rights and expand access to medication abortion. The attorneys general argue that courts cannot leverage medically unnecessary federal drug regulations to override those state policy choices or impose unnecessary barriers to care in states where abortion is legal.
AG Brown led today's brief with the attorneys general of New York, California, and Massachusetts. It was also joined by the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, as well as the Governor of Pennsylvania.
Read the brief.
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Washington's Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state's largest law firm, the Attorney General's Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington's 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.
Media Contact:
Email: press@atg.wa.gov
Phone: (360) 753-2727
General contacts: Click here
Media Resource Guide & Attorney General's Office FAQ
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Original text here: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-brown-files-brief-urging-supreme-court-stay-restrictions-mifepristone
AG Rayfield Calls on 5th Circuit to Immediately Stay Ruling that Blocks Access to Mifepristone
SALEM, Oregon, May 4 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release:
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AG Rayfield Calls on 5th Circuit to Immediately Stay Ruling that Blocks Access to Mifepristone
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"Today's ruling by the Fifth Circuit, which temporarily halts providers' ability to prescribe mifepristone through telemedicine and send those pills by mail, is deeply troubling.
"Mifepristone is a safe, FDA-approved drug, and has been used by millions of people across our country for decades. We will use every tool available to defend Oregonians' access to mifepristone and other essential healthcare.
... Show Full Article
SALEM, Oregon, May 4 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release:
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AG Rayfield Calls on 5th Circuit to Immediately Stay Ruling that Blocks Access to Mifepristone
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"Today's ruling by the Fifth Circuit, which temporarily halts providers' ability to prescribe mifepristone through telemedicine and send those pills by mail, is deeply troubling.
"Mifepristone is a safe, FDA-approved drug, and has been used by millions of people across our country for decades. We will use every tool available to defend Oregonians' access to mifepristone and other essential healthcare.We call on the Fifth Circuit or Supreme Court to immediately stay today's ruling."
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Original text here: https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-calls-for-stay-on-ruling-restricting-mifepristone-by-mail/
AG Nessel Urges Pistons Fans to be Vigilant Against Online Ticket Scams
LANSING, Michigan, May 4 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release:
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AG Nessel Urges Pistons Fans to be Vigilant Against Online Ticket Scams
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LANSING - As the Detroit Pistons prepare for the second round of the playoffs, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing her Online Ticket Purchasing consumer alert. The Attorney General encourages Pistons fans to remain vigilant when looking for tickets on the internet and to be mindful of scammers who seek to profit from fans.
"After a thrilling first round, Pistons fans shouldn't let their excitement
... Show Full Article
LANSING, Michigan, May 4 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release:
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AG Nessel Urges Pistons Fans to be Vigilant Against Online Ticket Scams
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LANSING - As the Detroit Pistons prepare for the second round of the playoffs, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing her Online Ticket Purchasing consumer alert. The Attorney General encourages Pistons fans to remain vigilant when looking for tickets on the internet and to be mindful of scammers who seek to profit from fans.
"After a thrilling first round, Pistons fans shouldn't let their excitementbe exploited by bad actors," said Attorney General Nessel. "Do your research before purchasing and use reputable websites to ensure your tickets are legitimate."
Bad actors have several ways to scam ticket-buyers and ticket-sellers out of their money. Two of those ways involve payment or money app scams and fake check scams.
Payment app scams involve peer-to-peer (P2P) money apps like Apple Pay, Cash App, Circle Pay, Facebook Payments, Google Pay, PayPal, Square Cash, PopMoney, Zelle, and Venmo. P2P payment services are apps that require both parties to have an active user account and each account must be tied to a bank or credit card account. Once created, the pay app allows users to send money to other users by searching for their phone number, email address, or username. The money is instantly transferred electronically, and the transactions are usually free.
P2P scams can take many forms and require an extra degree of caution to be given to any transaction with someone you do not know. Be aware of the following scams when using a pay app:
* Scammers impersonating your bank may call to alert you about "suspicious activity" on your account and direct you to send money to yourself or "the bank's address" to reverse a transaction or to verify the account is not frozen. Your bank will never tell you to send money to anyone, not even yourself.
* Fraudsters claim to represent a fraud department or merchant and ask you to confirm information such as your bank account username and password, credit card or debit card data, or Social Security numbers. Do not share this information -scammers want to create a P2P account with your information, steal your identity, and gain access to your accounts.
* Fraudsters send spoofed emails warning that an account is about to be suspended and that the account holder must enter their password on a spoofed webpage. Generally, payment app vendors will never ask you to enter your password unless you are on the login page.
If you try to sell legitimate tickets online, scammers may use the fake check scam to steal your money. A potential buyer makes an offer and sends a check -perhaps even a cashier's check -for considerably more than the cost of the tickets and pretends it's an error. They ask the seller to deposit the check and refund them the difference. But the check is a counterfeit, and the seller is scammed out of their money plus any other funds from the fake check, as well as bank fees. Banks do not assume those losses.
The Attorney General has some tips to protect yourself when buying tickets online.
* Know your vendor \- Make sure you are buying from a reputable website, especially before providing any personal financial information. Anyone can set up a "spoof" website with a web address that is similar to the legitimate ticket seller's address. Aside from potential licensing and trademark violations, "spoof" websites may offer consumers overpriced or counterfeit tickets and expose the consumer to identity theft.
* Do your research \- If you are unfamiliar with a particular ticket vendor, research the ticket seller on the Better Business Bureau's national website. You can also call the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Team at 877-765-8388 and ask if complaints have been filed regarding that seller. However, remember that the absence of filed complaints does not guarantee a seller's legitimacy; it simply means that the Department has not received any complaints concerning the vendor.
* Use credit \- If you purchase tickets online, especially via an online auction site, it is recommended that you complete your transaction using a credit card. Purchasing tickets with a credit card often provides you with protections that you would not otherwise have if you purchased the tickets using cash, check, or apps like Venmo and Cash App. Added protections with credit include the ability to dispute a charge if an event is canceled, or if you receive counterfeit tickets that a venue refuses to honor. Try to choose sellers with long histories of satisfied customers, and make sure the online bid amount is listed in American dollars.
* Shop securely \- If a website begins with "https," the "s" indicates that the website is "secure." Typically, the "s" will not appear in the web address until you access the order page of the site where you are asked to enter your personal information. Another indicator of a secure website is a graphic of a closed lock located at the bottom of your screen. Secure websites take precautions to ensure that others cannot see and copy the personal information you provide.
If you have a complaint regarding tickets you purchased online, you can contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Team at:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
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Original text here: https://www.michigan.gov/ag/news/press-releases/2026/05/04/ag-nessel-urges-pistons-fans-to-be-vigilant-against-online-ticket-scams
Secreta Naig Highlights Legislative Wins for Iowa Agriculture, Clean Water
DES MOINES, Iowa, May 3 -- The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship issued the following news:
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Secreta Naig Highlights Legislative Wins for Iowa Agriculture, Clean Water
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Following the conclusion of the 2026 legislative session, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today thanked Gov. Reynolds, Leader Klimesh, Speaker Grassley and members of the Iowa Legislature for delivering meaningful results for Iowans:
"The 2026 legislative session delivered meaningful results for Iowa agriculture and for our entire state. I thank Gov. Reynolds, Leader Klimesh, Speaker Grassley
... Show Full Article
DES MOINES, Iowa, May 3 -- The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship issued the following news:
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Secreta Naig Highlights Legislative Wins for Iowa Agriculture, Clean Water
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Following the conclusion of the 2026 legislative session, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today thanked Gov. Reynolds, Leader Klimesh, Speaker Grassley and members of the Iowa Legislature for delivering meaningful results for Iowans:
"The 2026 legislative session delivered meaningful results for Iowa agriculture and for our entire state. I thank Gov. Reynolds, Leader Klimesh, Speaker Grassleyand the Legislature for their leadership, hard work, and continued support of our ag and rural communities. This session was highlighted by a historic investment in clean water, along with passage of the Iowa Farm Act, strong support for Choose Iowa, impactful property tax reform, a responsible state budget, and important investments in animal health. A strong agriculture is essential to a strong Iowa, and together, these legislative wins will keep Iowa a great place to live, work and raise a family."
Secretary Naig on the Farm to Faucet Clean Water Iowa Plan:
"Our comprehensive water quality package modernizes how Iowa invests in clean water-from the field to the faucet. This forward-looking approach realigns existing resources without raising taxes and focuses investments where they deliver the greatest impact. By pairing together conservation practices on the land, infrastructure improvements in our communities, and enhanced monitoring to track progress, this kind of collaboration is exactly what it takes to achieve meaningful, lasting water quality improvements."
* The package unlocks $138 million in funding and drives an estimated $319 million in water quality investments over the next 12 years.
* These resources will support critical water quality infrastructure, expand financial assistance to help small and mid-size communities upgrade water treatment systems, and fund both urban and rural conservation projects.
* It also includes a $25 million grant to Central Iowa Water Works to expand infrastructure and double nitrate removal capacity within the next three years.
Secretary Naig on Passage of First-Ever Comprehensive Iowa Farm Act:
"I am grateful for the Legislature's work to pass the first-ever comprehensive Iowa Farm Act, which delivers more economic opportunities for our farmers and our ag community, reduces unnecessary regulatory burdens, and strengthens the long-term viability of our rural communities. This bi-partisan legislation positions Iowa agriculture for continued growth and success while helping ensure farmers have the certainty and tools they need to plan for the future."
Secretary Naig on Momentum Behind Choose Iowa:
"The Legislature continues to show strong support for the Choose Iowa program. Newly approved funding will bring more fresh, healthy foods that are grown and raised by Choose Iowa members into school meals. This investment supports Choose Iowa members' access to new markets and helps consumers identify and purchase Iowa grown, made, and raised food, beverages and ag products."
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Original text here: https://iowaagriculture.gov/news/secreta-naig-highlights-legislative-wins-iowa-agriculture-clean-water
W.Va. Secretary of State Kris Warner Reports That 4,858 In-person Voters Cast Ballots on the First Day of Early Voting
CHARLESTON, West Virginia, May 2 -- West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner issued the following news on May 1, 2026:
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WV Secretary of State Kris Warner reports that 4,858 in-person voters cast ballots on the first day of early voting.
Early voting in-person for West Virginia's Primary Election kicked off on Wednesday, April 29th.
According to WV Secretary of State Kris Warner, all 55 counties have at least one early voting polling location. Most polling locations are in the county courthouse. A list of early voting polling locations throughout the state can be found HERE.
Warner
... Show Full Article
CHARLESTON, West Virginia, May 2 -- West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner issued the following news on May 1, 2026:
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WV Secretary of State Kris Warner reports that 4,858 in-person voters cast ballots on the first day of early voting.
Early voting in-person for West Virginia's Primary Election kicked off on Wednesday, April 29th.
According to WV Secretary of State Kris Warner, all 55 counties have at least one early voting polling location. Most polling locations are in the county courthouse. A list of early voting polling locations throughout the state can be found HERE.
Warnersaid that there are 2,717 state, county, and municipal candidates participating in West Virginia's May 12th Primary Election. He said that is the highest number of candidates in any election in recent memory due to more municipalities holding their elections in conjunction with state elections. By 2032, all of the state's 230 municipalities are required to host their elections during the state election.
Warner said that county clerks are reporting that 4,858 voters statewide cast a ballot in-person on the first day of early voting.
In addition, there have been 1,812 absentee ballots returned to the state's county clerks as of Thursday morning, April 30th.
"In all, as of the morning of April 30th, we've had a total of 6,670 voters already participate in our Primary Election," said Secretary Warner.
Early voting in-person takes place every day through Saturday, May 9th, excluding Sundays.
Secretary Warner wants to remind voters that they can look up their sample ballot before they go to vote. Sample ballots for all 1,684 precincts can be found online at GoVoteWV.com. Printed sample ballots are also available at the office of the county clerk.
Beginning with this election, voters will be required to show a photo ID in order to vote. There are some exceptions to that requirement. Learn more about West Virginia's photo identification law online at GoVoteWV.com.
Warner said that several counties are still recruiting poll workers for election day. Poll workers must be registered voters. They are paid for their service and paid for attending a training class. Citizens should contact their county clerk immediately if they have an interest in being a poll worker on May 12th.
Warner said that his next report on early voting turnout will be his "First Week Report" for votes cast April 29th through and including May 5th. That report will include a breakdown by county and by political party.
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Original text here: https://sos.wv.gov/article/wv-secretary-state-kris-warner-reports-4858-person-voters-cast-ballots-first-day-early
Pa. Labor Dept.: Shapiro Administration Spotlights Health Care Apprenticeships at UPMC, Highlights 2026-27 Budget Investments to Strengthen Pennsylvania's Workforce
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 2 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry issued the following news on May 1, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Spotlights Health Care Apprenticeships at UPMC, Highlights 2026-27 Budget Investments to Strengthen Pennsylvania's Workforce
Visit during National Apprenticeship Week highlights how apprenticeships and early career exposure are helping build the next generation of health care workers, as Governor Shapiro's proposed 2026-27 budget builds on three years of progress strengthening Pennsylvania's workforce pipeline.
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PITTSBURGH, PA - Pennsylvania
... Show Full Article
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 2 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry issued the following news on May 1, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Spotlights Health Care Apprenticeships at UPMC, Highlights 2026-27 Budget Investments to Strengthen Pennsylvania's Workforce
Visit during National Apprenticeship Week highlights how apprenticeships and early career exposure are helping build the next generation of health care workers, as Governor Shapiro's proposed 2026-27 budget builds on three years of progress strengthening Pennsylvania's workforce pipeline.
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PITTSBURGH, PA - PennsylvaniaDepartment of Labor & Industry (L&I) Secretary Nancy A. Walker today visited the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) during National Apprenticeship Week to highlight how registered apprenticeships are helping build Pennsylvania's health care workforce and giving students a firsthand look at pathways into in-demand careers.
During the visit, Secretary Walker observed UPMC's surgical technology training environment, participated in a roundtable discussion with apprentices and students focused on apprenticeship and youth pathways into health care careers, and toured the health system's under-construction Kamin Tower at UPMC Presbyterian.
In 2025, the Shapiro Administration awarded $400,000 to UPMC, through Partner4Work, as part of the Supporting Pennsylvania's Healthcare Sector through Registered Apprenticeships and Pre-Apprenticeships initiative.
As of April 2026, that investment has helped support four new registered apprenticeship programs in surgical technology, pharmacy technician, diagnostic imaging specialty, and registered nurse residency, with nine apprentices supported to date.
"Registered apprenticeship works because it connects training directly to the workplace and creates a real path into good careers," said Secretary Walker. "At UPMC, apprentices are gaining specialized skills in real health care settings, and students are seeing firsthand that there are multiple ways to enter this field. That matters for workers, it matters for employers, and it matters for Pennsylvania families who are counting on a strong health care workforce."
"During National Apprenticeship Week, UPMC is highlighting how clear, intentional pathways into healthcare strengthen our nursing, surgical technologist and imaging technologist workforce. Apprenticeships connect education, hands-on experience, and mentorship--helping us develop skilled talent early and build a sustainable workforce for the future," said Maribeth McLaughlin, Vice President, Patient Care Services and Chief Nurse Executive, UPMC.
One of the programs highlighted during the visit was UPMC's Surgical Technology apprenticeship, which combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training to prepare apprentices to assist surgical teams, maintain sterile technique, anticipate operating room needs, and support patient care during procedures. Upon completion, apprentices are eligible to sit for their certification exam and earn an associate degree of applied science in surgical technology.
The visit also underscored the connection between apprenticeship and early career exposure for students. By bringing apprentices and students into the same conversation, the event highlighted how access to real training environments can help young people better understand the credentials, experience, and support needed to pursue health care careers.
Building on three years of progress, Governor Josh Shapiro's proposed 2026-27 budget continues the Administration's focus on workforce development and creating more pathways into in-demand careers. Since taking office, the Commonwealth has increased funding for apprenticeship programs and career and technical education by nearly 50 percent, from $118 million to $183 million, and registered 249 new pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs.
The 2026-27 budget plan looks to build on three years of historic progress by proposing to:
* Invest an additional $18 million in CTE and apprenticeship programs;
* Double Schools-to-Work funding to $7 million;
* Increase Industry Partnership grants by $3.5 million to $6.3 million; and
* Increase state funding for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation by $1 million.
Together, these investments would help connect more Pennsylvanians to training, expand access to good jobs, and strengthen workforce pipelines in sectors like health care.
For more information on the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, please visit the website (https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dli).
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dli/newsroom/shapiro-administration-spotlights-health-care-apprenticeships-at
N.J. A.G. Davenport: Purdue/Sackler $7.4 Billion Opioid Settlement Goes Into Effect
TRENTON, New Jersey, May 2 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on May 1, 2026:
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Purdue/Sackler $7.4 Billion Opioid Settlement Goes into Effect
New Jersey to Receive Over $125 Million
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Attorney General Jennifer Davenport today announced that a $7.4 billion settlement reached with Purdue Pharma and its owners, the Sackler family, has become legally effective, capping nearly a decade of work by attorneys general from across the country in pursuing investigations and litigation over Purdue's and the Sacklers' role in fueling the opioid crisis.
... Show Full Article
TRENTON, New Jersey, May 2 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on May 1, 2026:
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Purdue/Sackler $7.4 Billion Opioid Settlement Goes into Effect
New Jersey to Receive Over $125 Million
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Attorney General Jennifer Davenport today announced that a $7.4 billion settlement reached with Purdue Pharma and its owners, the Sackler family, has become legally effective, capping nearly a decade of work by attorneys general from across the country in pursuing investigations and litigation over Purdue's and the Sacklers' role in fueling the opioid crisis.The attorneys general launched a multistate investigation of Purdue in 2016, and New Jersey sued Purdue in 2017 and sued eight Sackler family members in 2019.
After Purdue filed for bankruptcy in September 2019 in light of massive litigation against it, the attorneys general have taken a lead role in the bankruptcy proceedings, including negotiating a new settlement that obtained more money from the Sacklers after the Supreme Court in June 2024 invalidated provisions in a prior settlement. The settlement provides funds to communities across the country, as well as individual victims and other groups who filed claims in the bankruptcy proceedings.
"Purdue and the Sackler family hyper-charged America's opioid epidemic through their recklessness and greed," said Attorney General Davenport. "Money cannot erase the pain for the people who have lost loved ones to this crisis, but those responsible are being held accountable for their actions. These settlement funds must be used for education, prevention, and recovery to continue the progress made in avoiding and treating opioid addiction."
Fifty-five attorneys general representing all eligible U.S. states and territories previously signed onto the settlement. It resolves litigation against Purdue and the Sacklers for producing and aggressively marketing opioids in the United States, fueling the largest drug crisis in the country's history.
The settlement permanently bars the Sacklers from selling opioids in the U.S. and delivers funds for addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery to communities across the country over the next 15 years. New Jersey is expected to receive $125.4 million from the settlement.
Most settlement funds will be distributed in the first three years. The Sacklers are paying more than $1.5 billion today, followed by approximately an additional $500 million in May 2027, $500 million in May 2028, and $400 million in May 2029. Additionally, Purdue is paying approximately $900 million today.
With this settlement, New Jersey has now secured more than $1.3 billion in opioid settlement funds.
The settlement also means that Purdue's manufacturing operations will transfer effective today to Knoa Pharma LLC, which will be overseen by a board of directors who had no connection to Purdue. The settlement prevents Knoa from marketing opioids and provides for an independent monitor to ensure it provides these medicines in the safest possible manner that limits the risk of diversion.
The settlement also provides Purdue and the Sacklers will make public more than 30 million documents related to their opioid business.
Assistant Attorney General Lara Fogel and Deputy Attorneys General Brian DeVito and Jesse Sierant of the Division of Law's Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group handled the Purdue and Sackler matters on behalf of the State.
Attorney General Davenport is joined in reaching the settlement by Attorneys General of Alabama, Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
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Original text here: https://www.njoag.gov/purdue-sackler-7-4-billion-opioid-settlement-goes-into-effect/
LCRA Awards $25,000 Grant to Central Texas Veterans Memorial
AUSTIN, Texas, May 2 -- The Lower Colorado River Authority issued the following news release on May 1, 2026:
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LCRA awards $25,000 grant to Central Texas Veterans Memorial
New pavilion will provide shelter to visitors meeting to honor veterans
Key Takeaways
* LCRA awards a $25,000 Community Grant to help add a pavilion to the Central Texans Veterans Memorial in Brownwood.
* The pavilion will provide visitors with much-needed shade and relief from the Texas sun.
* The grant is one of 41 being awarded through LCRA's Community Grants program through June. LCRA will accept applications in
... Show Full Article
AUSTIN, Texas, May 2 -- The Lower Colorado River Authority issued the following news release on May 1, 2026:
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LCRA awards $25,000 grant to Central Texas Veterans Memorial
New pavilion will provide shelter to visitors meeting to honor veterans
Key Takeaways
* LCRA awards a $25,000 Community Grant to help add a pavilion to the Central Texans Veterans Memorial in Brownwood.
* The pavilion will provide visitors with much-needed shade and relief from the Texas sun.
* The grant is one of 41 being awarded through LCRA's Community Grants program through June. LCRA will accept applications inJuly for the next round of grants.
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BROWNWOOD, Texas - The Central Texas Veterans Memorial soon will construct a steel and metal pavilion to provide a shaded space for visitors to use as they honor our country's veterans, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The LCRA Community Grant, along with $175,000 in matching funds from the organization, will create a permanent, weather-protected space for community events, commemorations and educational activities as visitors gather to pay tribute to veterans and participate in memorial programs throughout the year.
"Support for a permanent cover at the Central Texas Veterans Memorial ceremonial courtyard enables our mission of preserving history, honoring heroic sacrifice, fostering community pride and spirit, recognizing the important contributions of all veterans and ensuring their legacies are remembered," said Dennis Rumfield, vice president of the Central Texas Veterans Memorial.
The addition represents an important investment in the long-term preservation and accessibility of the memorial.
"The pavilion will provide shade and protection for the courtyard and its monuments from the elements, including heat and rain, ensuring the memorial can continue to host ceremonies and commemorative events throughout the year," Rumfield said. "It will also help safeguard visitors who come to the memorial as a place of refuge and healing, while creating a welcoming space for future generations to gather in remembrance."
This is one of 41 grants awarded recently through LCRA Community Grants. These grants are awarded twice a year as part of LCRA's effort to give back to communities in its wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas.
Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in July. More information is available at www.lcra.org/grants.
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About LCRA
The Lower Colorado River Authority serves communities across Texas by managing the lower Colorado River, generating and transmitting wholesale electric power, providing clean water supplies, operating telecommunications infrastructure, and owning parks for outdoor recreation. LCRA delivers power, water and infrastructure that support the region's growth and quality of life. LCRA and its employees are committed to fulfilling our mission to enhance the quality of life of the Texans we serve through water stewardship, energy and community service. Created by the Texas Legislature in 1934, LCRA receives no state appropriations.
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Original text here: https://www.lcra.org/news/news-releases/lcra-awards-25000-grant-to-central-texas-veterans-memorial/
Ariz. State Rep. Teresa Martinez: Arizona Should Lead on Reliable Geothermal Energy
PHOENIX, Arizona, May 2 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on May 1, 2026:
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Rep. Teresa Martinez: Arizona Should Lead on Reliable Geothermal Energy
HCR 2057 backs streamlined permitting and development of a homegrown power source for Arizona's future
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Arizona House Rural Economic Development Committee Chairman Teresa Martinez today celebrated the Legislature's final approval of House Concurrent Resolution 2057, which expresses support for geothermal energy development in Arizona. The resolution passed both chambers with unanimous support and has been transmitted
... Show Full Article
PHOENIX, Arizona, May 2 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on May 1, 2026:
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Rep. Teresa Martinez: Arizona Should Lead on Reliable Geothermal Energy
HCR 2057 backs streamlined permitting and development of a homegrown power source for Arizona's future
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Arizona House Rural Economic Development Committee Chairman Teresa Martinez today celebrated the Legislature's final approval of House Concurrent Resolution 2057, which expresses support for geothermal energy development in Arizona. The resolution passed both chambers with unanimous support and has been transmittedto the Secretary of State.
HCR 2057 recognizes geothermal energy as a reliable, around-the-clock power source that could help strengthen Arizona's electric grid, support economic development, and meet the state's growing energy demands. The resolution encourages state agencies to work toward clearer rules, better coordination, and more efficient permitting so Arizona is prepared to develop its geothermal potential.
"This is simple: Arizona needs more power, and geothermal is one resource we should be taking seriously," said Representative Martinez. "It is reliable, it is here, and new technology is making it more realistic to develop."
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Arizona may have up to 10 gigawatts of renewable geothermal energy potential. Representative Martinez said HCR 2057 is an important step toward turning that potential into real projects.
"This resolution does not build a power plant tomorrow," Representative Martinez continued. "What it does is tell state agencies to get serious, work together, and make sure Arizona is ready for geothermal projects when they come."
The U.S. Department of Energy describes geothermal electricity as baseload power with a high-capacity factor, meaning it can provide steady electricity regardless of weather or time of day. The Department has also found that technology improvements could significantly expand geothermal electricity generation in the United States, including the potential for geothermal to provide a much larger share of the nation's electricity by 2050.
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Teresa Martinez is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 16, which includes portions of Pinal and Pima Counties. She also serves as Chairman of the House Rural Economic Development Committee. Follow her on X at @TMartinez4AZ.
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Original text here: https://www.azleg.gov/press/house/57LEG/2R/2600501MARTINEZHCR2057.pdf
Ariz. State Rep. David Livingston Honored by Israeli Consulate for Strengthening U.S.-Israel Partnership
PHOENIX, Arizona, May 2 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on May 1, 2026:
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Rep. David Livingston Honored by Israeli Consulate for Strengthening U.S.-Israel Partnership
State Representative David Livingston, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, was honored Thursday evening by the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles for his work strengthening the U.S.-Israel partnership.
Representative Livingston received an award recognizing his contributions to the Israel-U.S. relationship over the past year. The presentation took place during a celebration
... Show Full Article
PHOENIX, Arizona, May 2 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on May 1, 2026:
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Rep. David Livingston Honored by Israeli Consulate for Strengthening U.S.-Israel Partnership
State Representative David Livingston, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, was honored Thursday evening by the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles for his work strengthening the U.S.-Israel partnership.
Representative Livingston received an award recognizing his contributions to the Israel-U.S. relationship over the past year. The presentation took place during a celebrationof Israel's 78th Independence Day before more than 1,000 guests.
Consul General Israel Bachar and consulate officials recognized Representative Livingston's leadership on legislation affirming Israel's sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, noting that his work has drawn national attention and influenced similar proposals in other states.
"Israel is one of America's closest allies, and that alliance deserves clear and consistent support," Representative Livingston said. "I'm honored by this recognition, but the credit belongs to everyone who has stood firm with Israel and the truth about its history. Arizona took a strong position, and I'm proud to have helped lead that effort."
"As lawmakers, we have a duty to stand with our allies and speak plainly about the facts," Representative Livingston added. "I will continue to support Israel and advance policies that strengthen the U.S.-Israel partnership."
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David Livingston is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 28 in Peoria. He also serves as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Follow him on X at @Livingston4AZ.
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Original text here: https://www.azleg.gov/press/house/57LEG/2R/260501LIVINGSTONISRAELAWARD.pdf
