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R.I. Gov. McKee Issues Statement on the Passing of Former Senator Stephen Alves
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release:
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Governor McKee Issues Statement on the Passing of Former Senator Stephen Alves
Governor Dan McKee issued the following statement on the passing of former Rhode Island Senator Stephen D. Alves:
"Senator Alves was a tireless champion for Rhode Islanders during his time in office. He was a personal friend, and my heart is heavy with this news.
"Susan and I are praying for his family, friends, and colleagues throughout Rhode Island and here at the State House."
Former Senator Alves, ... Show Full Article PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release: * * * Governor McKee Issues Statement on the Passing of Former Senator Stephen Alves Governor Dan McKee issued the following statement on the passing of former Rhode Island Senator Stephen D. Alves: "Senator Alves was a tireless champion for Rhode Islanders during his time in office. He was a personal friend, and my heart is heavy with this news. "Susan and I are praying for his family, friends, and colleagues throughout Rhode Island and here at the State House." Former Senator Alves,a Democrat from West Warwick, served as the chair of the Senate Finance Committee.
Governor McKee has directed state flags to be lowered in his honor and encourages all Rhode Islanders to do the same.
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Original text here: https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-mckee-issues-statement-passing-former-senator-stephen-alves
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Governor McKee Issues Statement on the Passing of Former Senator Stephen Alves
Governor Dan McKee issued the following statement on the passing of former Rhode Island Senator Stephen D. Alves:
"Senator Alves was a tireless champion for Rhode Islanders during his time in office. He was a personal friend, and my heart is heavy with this news.
"Susan and I are praying for his family, friends, and colleagues throughout Rhode Island and here at the State House."
Former Senator Alves, ... Show Full Article PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release: * * * Governor McKee Issues Statement on the Passing of Former Senator Stephen Alves Governor Dan McKee issued the following statement on the passing of former Rhode Island Senator Stephen D. Alves: "Senator Alves was a tireless champion for Rhode Islanders during his time in office. He was a personal friend, and my heart is heavy with this news. "Susan and I are praying for his family, friends, and colleagues throughout Rhode Island and here at the State House." Former Senator Alves,a Democrat from West Warwick, served as the chair of the Senate Finance Committee.
Governor McKee has directed state flags to be lowered in his honor and encourages all Rhode Islanders to do the same.
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Original text here: https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-mckee-issues-statement-passing-former-senator-stephen-alves
N.M. A.G. Torrez: Court Orders Meta to Pay $942 Million and Overhaul Protections for Children on Facebook and Instagram in Landmark New Mexico Ruling
SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 8 -- New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
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Court Orders Meta to Pay $942 Million and Overhaul Protections for Children on Facebook and Instagram in Landmark New Mexico Ruling
Attorney General Raul Torrez announced that the First Judicial District Court has entered a historic final judgment against Meta Platforms, Inc., one of the most significant rulings ever issued against a social media company, ordering Meta to pay $567 million to address the youth mental health crisis and imposing sweeping, court-supervised ... Show Full Article SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 8 -- New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Court Orders Meta to Pay $942 Million and Overhaul Protections for Children on Facebook and Instagram in Landmark New Mexico Ruling Attorney General Raul Torrez announced that the First Judicial District Court has entered a historic final judgment against Meta Platforms, Inc., one of the most significant rulings ever issued against a social media company, ordering Meta to pay $567 million to address the youth mental health crisis and imposing sweeping, court-supervisedreforms to Facebook and Instagram that will remain in effect for five years. Combined with the $375 million civil penalty a jury already imposed against Meta earlier this year, today's ruling brings the company's total financial exposure in New Mexico to $942 million.
The judgment follows a two-phase trial before Judge Bryan Biedscheid. In Phase 1, a jury found that Meta committed 75,000 violations of New Mexico's Unfair Practices Act and imposed the maximum civil penalty allowed under law. In Phase 2, the Court went further, ruling that Meta's platforms constitute a public nuisance in New Mexico and rejecting the company's claim that Section 230 shielded it from liability for the products it knowingly designed. It is the first time a court has held that a social media company can be sued, tried, and held financially and structurally accountable for building products that endanger children.
"Meta built products it knew would fuel addiction, deepen a youth mental health crisis, and expose children to sexual exploitation, then lied to parents and policymakers about the danger," said Attorney General Raul Torrez. "Today, it pays for that choice."
The Court's injunctive relief targets the failures exposed at trial. In addition to the financial award, the Court ordered extensive reforms that will remain in effect for five years, including:
* Implementing more rigorous age verification for New Mexico users, including additional measures to accurately identify the age of users within the limits of federal law;
* Maintaining and strengthening protections for Teen Accounts in New Mexico;
* Requiring enhanced protections against sextortion and child sexual exploitation, including stronger safeguards for minors and tougher enforcement against offending adult accounts;
* Preventing minors from sending or receiving nude images that violate Meta's policies;
* Eliminating push notifications for users under 18 during overnight hours;
* Requiring default privacy protections for minors, including hiding public "like" counts;
* Imposing mandatory time-use limits for users under 18;
* Requiring prominent disclosures about the risks associated with Meta's platforms;
* Funding a statewide education and public awareness campaign in New Mexico;
* Providing specialized training and resources for New Mexico law enforcement investigating internet crimes against children; and
* Requiring Meta to file semiannual public compliance reports with the Court documenting its progress implementing every aspect of the order.
Notably, the Court stopped short of mandating the kind of hard age-verification requirement the trial record showed was most needed. That was not an oversight. The Court exercised judicial restraint, making clear that sweeping policy choices of that kind belong to the legislative and executive branches, not the courts. Attorney General Torrez says closing that gap is now the job of the Legislature.
"For the first time, a court has ruled that a social media giant can be held liable for building products that endanger children, and has ordered the structural changes needed to fix it," said Attorney General Torrez. "New Mexico led the way in the courtroom. It is a blueprint other states, and other countries confronting this same crisis, can now follow. But a courtroom win in one state cannot be the only line of defense for children everywhere. Every legislature, and Congress, needs to finish what this Court started."
Attorney General Torrez announced he intends to close that gap through legislation, starting with a comprehensive social media safety bill in the New Mexico Legislature that would mandate age verification for platforms operating in the state, paired with a broader overhaul of New Mexico's consumer protection laws to reflect the scale and harm of the modern digital economy. He is also calling on Congress and legislatures nationwide to act. That push already carries bipartisan momentum: red states and blue states alike have enacted age verification laws, Republicans and Democrats in Congress have introduced similar federal legislation, and polling consistently shows this is something the overwhelming majority of Americans, regardless of party, support.
"A courtroom can punish what already happened. Only a law can stop it from happening again," said Attorney General Torrez. "I will bring a comprehensive social media safety bill to the New Mexico Legislature that puts age verification into law, not just into a court order, and a top-to-bottom overhaul of our consumer protection laws to match the scale of harm the digital economy causes our kids. New Mexico led the way in the courtroom. Now it's time for our Legislature to lead the way in the Capitol."
Copy of Judgement (https://nmdoj.gov/wp-content/uploads/D-101-CV-2023-02838-Meta-Judgement.pdf)
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Original text here: https://nmdoj.gov/press-release/court-orders-meta-to-pay-942-million-and-overhaul-protections-for-children-on-facebook-and-instagram-in-landmark-new-mexico-ruling/
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Court Orders Meta to Pay $942 Million and Overhaul Protections for Children on Facebook and Instagram in Landmark New Mexico Ruling
Attorney General Raul Torrez announced that the First Judicial District Court has entered a historic final judgment against Meta Platforms, Inc., one of the most significant rulings ever issued against a social media company, ordering Meta to pay $567 million to address the youth mental health crisis and imposing sweeping, court-supervised ... Show Full Article SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 8 -- New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Court Orders Meta to Pay $942 Million and Overhaul Protections for Children on Facebook and Instagram in Landmark New Mexico Ruling Attorney General Raul Torrez announced that the First Judicial District Court has entered a historic final judgment against Meta Platforms, Inc., one of the most significant rulings ever issued against a social media company, ordering Meta to pay $567 million to address the youth mental health crisis and imposing sweeping, court-supervisedreforms to Facebook and Instagram that will remain in effect for five years. Combined with the $375 million civil penalty a jury already imposed against Meta earlier this year, today's ruling brings the company's total financial exposure in New Mexico to $942 million.
The judgment follows a two-phase trial before Judge Bryan Biedscheid. In Phase 1, a jury found that Meta committed 75,000 violations of New Mexico's Unfair Practices Act and imposed the maximum civil penalty allowed under law. In Phase 2, the Court went further, ruling that Meta's platforms constitute a public nuisance in New Mexico and rejecting the company's claim that Section 230 shielded it from liability for the products it knowingly designed. It is the first time a court has held that a social media company can be sued, tried, and held financially and structurally accountable for building products that endanger children.
"Meta built products it knew would fuel addiction, deepen a youth mental health crisis, and expose children to sexual exploitation, then lied to parents and policymakers about the danger," said Attorney General Raul Torrez. "Today, it pays for that choice."
The Court's injunctive relief targets the failures exposed at trial. In addition to the financial award, the Court ordered extensive reforms that will remain in effect for five years, including:
* Implementing more rigorous age verification for New Mexico users, including additional measures to accurately identify the age of users within the limits of federal law;
* Maintaining and strengthening protections for Teen Accounts in New Mexico;
* Requiring enhanced protections against sextortion and child sexual exploitation, including stronger safeguards for minors and tougher enforcement against offending adult accounts;
* Preventing minors from sending or receiving nude images that violate Meta's policies;
* Eliminating push notifications for users under 18 during overnight hours;
* Requiring default privacy protections for minors, including hiding public "like" counts;
* Imposing mandatory time-use limits for users under 18;
* Requiring prominent disclosures about the risks associated with Meta's platforms;
* Funding a statewide education and public awareness campaign in New Mexico;
* Providing specialized training and resources for New Mexico law enforcement investigating internet crimes against children; and
* Requiring Meta to file semiannual public compliance reports with the Court documenting its progress implementing every aspect of the order.
Notably, the Court stopped short of mandating the kind of hard age-verification requirement the trial record showed was most needed. That was not an oversight. The Court exercised judicial restraint, making clear that sweeping policy choices of that kind belong to the legislative and executive branches, not the courts. Attorney General Torrez says closing that gap is now the job of the Legislature.
"For the first time, a court has ruled that a social media giant can be held liable for building products that endanger children, and has ordered the structural changes needed to fix it," said Attorney General Torrez. "New Mexico led the way in the courtroom. It is a blueprint other states, and other countries confronting this same crisis, can now follow. But a courtroom win in one state cannot be the only line of defense for children everywhere. Every legislature, and Congress, needs to finish what this Court started."
Attorney General Torrez announced he intends to close that gap through legislation, starting with a comprehensive social media safety bill in the New Mexico Legislature that would mandate age verification for platforms operating in the state, paired with a broader overhaul of New Mexico's consumer protection laws to reflect the scale and harm of the modern digital economy. He is also calling on Congress and legislatures nationwide to act. That push already carries bipartisan momentum: red states and blue states alike have enacted age verification laws, Republicans and Democrats in Congress have introduced similar federal legislation, and polling consistently shows this is something the overwhelming majority of Americans, regardless of party, support.
"A courtroom can punish what already happened. Only a law can stop it from happening again," said Attorney General Torrez. "I will bring a comprehensive social media safety bill to the New Mexico Legislature that puts age verification into law, not just into a court order, and a top-to-bottom overhaul of our consumer protection laws to match the scale of harm the digital economy causes our kids. New Mexico led the way in the courtroom. Now it's time for our Legislature to lead the way in the Capitol."
Copy of Judgement (https://nmdoj.gov/wp-content/uploads/D-101-CV-2023-02838-Meta-Judgement.pdf)
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Original text here: https://nmdoj.gov/press-release/court-orders-meta-to-pay-942-million-and-overhaul-protections-for-children-on-facebook-and-instagram-in-landmark-new-mexico-ruling/
N.J. Environmental Protection Dept.: Federal Court Approves Historic PFAS Settlements Valued At Approximately $2.5 Billion
TRENTON, New Jersey, Aug. 8 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
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FEDERAL COURT APPROVES HISTORIC PFAS SETTLEMENTS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY $2.5 BILLION
SETTLEMENT WILL CLEAN UP FOUR CONTAMINATED SITES, PROTECT NEW JERSEY'S RESIDENTS, AND RESTORE NATURAL RESOURCES
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Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced judicial approval of two groundbreaking settlements to remedy long-standing statewide contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl ... Show Full Article TRENTON, New Jersey, Aug. 8 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * FEDERAL COURT APPROVES HISTORIC PFAS SETTLEMENTS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY $2.5 BILLION SETTLEMENT WILL CLEAN UP FOUR CONTAMINATED SITES, PROTECT NEW JERSEY'S RESIDENTS, AND RESTORE NATURAL RESOURCES - Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced judicial approval of two groundbreaking settlements to remedy long-standing statewide contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylsubstances), also known as "forever chemicals," as well as PFAS and other pollutants originating from four significant industrial sites. The settlements resolve the State's claims in years-long litigation against E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Co. (now known as EIDP, Inc.) and other DuPont-related entities, and separate litigation against 3M.
The settlement with the DuPont entities, valued at over $2 billion, is on its own the largest environmental settlement ever achieved by a single state. Together, the settlements resolving the claims against the DuPont entities and 3M are valued at approximately $2.5 billion
"This is truly a historic moment for New Jersey, which has experienced disproportionate and extensive pollution impacts from decades of PFAS manufacturing and use by DuPont and 3M," Acting Commissioner Potosnak said. "But this is only the beginning of what will be a long road to restore our environment from the unfortunate legacy of these chemicals. The DEP and the Sherrill Administration are committed to engaging the public and our stakeholders to maximize the public health and environmental protection benefits of these funds to heal New Jersey."
"For years, corporate polluters have profited from 'forever chemicals' while causing untold damage to our communities--endangering the health of our kids, contaminating the water we drink, and exposing our first responders to dangerous carcinogens. Today's landmark settlement cements New Jersey's national leadership in the fight against forever chemicals and is a critical first step in undoing the damage DuPont and 3M have caused to our state," said Attorney General Davenport. "Our office will continue to hold corporations accountable whenever they harm our communities, and I am eager to see the work begin to repair the decades of damage DuPont and 3M have caused in the Garden State."
Including the settlements announced today and other settlements announced in recent years, New Jersey is slated to recover over $3 billion from lawsuits it has commenced since 2019 to compensate the State and address the damage caused by PFAS and other pollutants--confirming the State's position as a national leader in protecting the public from the harms caused by PFAS.
The Dangers of PFAS
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been manufactured in the United States since the 1940s. They are used to make a variety of household, consumer, and industrial products and are known as "forever chemicals" because they do not degrade or break down over time, continuing to accumulate in the environment and in humans.
They are classified as likely carcinogens, with studies having shown that exposure to the chemicals may cause kidney, liver, and testicular cancer, as well as autoimmune and endocrine disorders in adults. PFAS have also been linked to developmental issues affecting fetuses during pregnancy and infants who breastfeed. In addition, babies and children are believed to be more susceptible to the harmful effects of PFAS.
Background on the Litigation
Together, both settlements resolve several years-long lawsuits against the DuPont defendants and 3M, including litigation regarding four DuPont industrial sites in New Jersey (including the Chambers Works site in Salem County); statewide litigation regarding the firefighting material known as aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF); and claims for PFAS contamination statewide, including claims associated with the defendants' responsibilities under DEP's Statewide PFAS Directive. The DuPont entities include EIDP, Inc.; the Chemours Company and The Chemours Company FC, LLC, both of which DuPont spun off in 2015; DuPont Specialty Products USA, LLC; Corteva Inc.; and DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
The proposed settlements with 3M and the DuPont entities, respectively, were announced in mid-2025. Consistent with New Jersey's Spill Act, DEP published notices of both proposed settlements in the New Jersey Register and on DEP's website. After sixty days of public comment, DEP carefully considered and responded to all comments before seeking judicial approval.
The State moved for judicial approval of the settlements in late 2025. Since then, the State has resolved objections raised by eighteen counties and a coalition of publicly owned wastewater treatment plants, further solidifying broad support for the settlements.
Settlement Funds
The total settlement payments by the DuPont entities and 3M will occur annually over 25 years.
PFAS Abatement Fund. Payments to be made for PFAS abatement collectively total up to $795 million. These funds will be held in dedicated trust accounts for the abatement of PFAS statewide. The PFAS Abatement Damages proceeds will be disbursed through two primary means.
First, PFAS Abatement Damages received by the State will be deposited into a separate, non-lapsing fund to be known as the "PFAS Abatement Fund." That Fund will be allocated for use by the New Jersey Water Bank to provide loans that include no-interest, low-interest, and/or principal forgiveness. Those loans will finance water quality projects to ensure that drinking water systems and publicly-owned treatment works have a long-term, reliable funding source for the needed capital upgrades to address PFAS in our water supply. DEP will provide a minimum of $150 million from the PFAS Abatement Fund to the Water Bank to assist publicly-owned treatment works with the costs of abating PFAS.
Second, DEP will also use PFAS Abatement Damages to provide financial assistance to county, municipal, and local government units and the public, including private potable well owners, for projects to remediate and otherwise abate PFAS contamination. This will include a minimum of $90 million to a designated fund to be used by counties to investigate and remediate PFAS contamination at county-owned fire training academies and airports, both of which used aqueous film-forming foam containing PFAS.
Natural Resource Damages. Up to $365 million will compensate the State for damage to natural resources caused by releases of PFAS and other contaminants, and, consistent with the New Jersey Constitution, will be used to restore natural resources, including in the vicinity of four specific sites. Those sites are: Pompton Lakes Works, in Pompton Lakes and Wanaque, Passaic County; the Parlin site, in Sayreville, Middlesex County; the Repauno site, in Greenwich Township, Gloucester County; and Chambers Works, in Pennsville and Carneys Point Township, Salem County.
DEP will engage with the public on potential restoration projects. Municipalities and members of the public may submit potential restoration projects through DEP Office of Natural Resource Restoration's Potential Restoration Project Submission Portal found at https://dep.nj.gov/nrr/potential-restoration-project-submission-portal/
Remediation Funding. In addition, to ensure that all the cleanup work at the four industrial sites is paid for without public funds, the DuPont entities also agreed to create remediation funding sources of up to $1.2 billion and to establish an additional reserve fund of $475 million to ensure that if any one of fails to fulfill their responsibilities to the state, taxpayers won't be left to foot the bill. Under the settlement, the DuPont entities are required to fully remediate the industrial sites, regardless of ultimate cost.
Fees and costs. Finally, approximately $195 million in recovered funds will cover legal fees and costs.
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Resources
NJDEP Dupont/Chemours PFAS Settlement Website (https://dep.nj.gov/dupont/)
NJDEP 3M PFAS Settlement Website (https://dep.nj.gov/3m/)
NJDEP PFAS Website (https://dep.nj.gov/pfas/)
NJDEP PFAS Strategy (https://dep.nj.gov/pfas/strategy/)
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Original text here: https://dep.nj.gov/newsrel/26_0041/
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FEDERAL COURT APPROVES HISTORIC PFAS SETTLEMENTS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY $2.5 BILLION
SETTLEMENT WILL CLEAN UP FOUR CONTAMINATED SITES, PROTECT NEW JERSEY'S RESIDENTS, AND RESTORE NATURAL RESOURCES
-
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced judicial approval of two groundbreaking settlements to remedy long-standing statewide contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl ... Show Full Article TRENTON, New Jersey, Aug. 8 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * FEDERAL COURT APPROVES HISTORIC PFAS SETTLEMENTS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY $2.5 BILLION SETTLEMENT WILL CLEAN UP FOUR CONTAMINATED SITES, PROTECT NEW JERSEY'S RESIDENTS, AND RESTORE NATURAL RESOURCES - Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced judicial approval of two groundbreaking settlements to remedy long-standing statewide contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylsubstances), also known as "forever chemicals," as well as PFAS and other pollutants originating from four significant industrial sites. The settlements resolve the State's claims in years-long litigation against E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Co. (now known as EIDP, Inc.) and other DuPont-related entities, and separate litigation against 3M.
The settlement with the DuPont entities, valued at over $2 billion, is on its own the largest environmental settlement ever achieved by a single state. Together, the settlements resolving the claims against the DuPont entities and 3M are valued at approximately $2.5 billion
"This is truly a historic moment for New Jersey, which has experienced disproportionate and extensive pollution impacts from decades of PFAS manufacturing and use by DuPont and 3M," Acting Commissioner Potosnak said. "But this is only the beginning of what will be a long road to restore our environment from the unfortunate legacy of these chemicals. The DEP and the Sherrill Administration are committed to engaging the public and our stakeholders to maximize the public health and environmental protection benefits of these funds to heal New Jersey."
"For years, corporate polluters have profited from 'forever chemicals' while causing untold damage to our communities--endangering the health of our kids, contaminating the water we drink, and exposing our first responders to dangerous carcinogens. Today's landmark settlement cements New Jersey's national leadership in the fight against forever chemicals and is a critical first step in undoing the damage DuPont and 3M have caused to our state," said Attorney General Davenport. "Our office will continue to hold corporations accountable whenever they harm our communities, and I am eager to see the work begin to repair the decades of damage DuPont and 3M have caused in the Garden State."
Including the settlements announced today and other settlements announced in recent years, New Jersey is slated to recover over $3 billion from lawsuits it has commenced since 2019 to compensate the State and address the damage caused by PFAS and other pollutants--confirming the State's position as a national leader in protecting the public from the harms caused by PFAS.
The Dangers of PFAS
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been manufactured in the United States since the 1940s. They are used to make a variety of household, consumer, and industrial products and are known as "forever chemicals" because they do not degrade or break down over time, continuing to accumulate in the environment and in humans.
They are classified as likely carcinogens, with studies having shown that exposure to the chemicals may cause kidney, liver, and testicular cancer, as well as autoimmune and endocrine disorders in adults. PFAS have also been linked to developmental issues affecting fetuses during pregnancy and infants who breastfeed. In addition, babies and children are believed to be more susceptible to the harmful effects of PFAS.
Background on the Litigation
Together, both settlements resolve several years-long lawsuits against the DuPont defendants and 3M, including litigation regarding four DuPont industrial sites in New Jersey (including the Chambers Works site in Salem County); statewide litigation regarding the firefighting material known as aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF); and claims for PFAS contamination statewide, including claims associated with the defendants' responsibilities under DEP's Statewide PFAS Directive. The DuPont entities include EIDP, Inc.; the Chemours Company and The Chemours Company FC, LLC, both of which DuPont spun off in 2015; DuPont Specialty Products USA, LLC; Corteva Inc.; and DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
The proposed settlements with 3M and the DuPont entities, respectively, were announced in mid-2025. Consistent with New Jersey's Spill Act, DEP published notices of both proposed settlements in the New Jersey Register and on DEP's website. After sixty days of public comment, DEP carefully considered and responded to all comments before seeking judicial approval.
The State moved for judicial approval of the settlements in late 2025. Since then, the State has resolved objections raised by eighteen counties and a coalition of publicly owned wastewater treatment plants, further solidifying broad support for the settlements.
Settlement Funds
The total settlement payments by the DuPont entities and 3M will occur annually over 25 years.
PFAS Abatement Fund. Payments to be made for PFAS abatement collectively total up to $795 million. These funds will be held in dedicated trust accounts for the abatement of PFAS statewide. The PFAS Abatement Damages proceeds will be disbursed through two primary means.
First, PFAS Abatement Damages received by the State will be deposited into a separate, non-lapsing fund to be known as the "PFAS Abatement Fund." That Fund will be allocated for use by the New Jersey Water Bank to provide loans that include no-interest, low-interest, and/or principal forgiveness. Those loans will finance water quality projects to ensure that drinking water systems and publicly-owned treatment works have a long-term, reliable funding source for the needed capital upgrades to address PFAS in our water supply. DEP will provide a minimum of $150 million from the PFAS Abatement Fund to the Water Bank to assist publicly-owned treatment works with the costs of abating PFAS.
Second, DEP will also use PFAS Abatement Damages to provide financial assistance to county, municipal, and local government units and the public, including private potable well owners, for projects to remediate and otherwise abate PFAS contamination. This will include a minimum of $90 million to a designated fund to be used by counties to investigate and remediate PFAS contamination at county-owned fire training academies and airports, both of which used aqueous film-forming foam containing PFAS.
Natural Resource Damages. Up to $365 million will compensate the State for damage to natural resources caused by releases of PFAS and other contaminants, and, consistent with the New Jersey Constitution, will be used to restore natural resources, including in the vicinity of four specific sites. Those sites are: Pompton Lakes Works, in Pompton Lakes and Wanaque, Passaic County; the Parlin site, in Sayreville, Middlesex County; the Repauno site, in Greenwich Township, Gloucester County; and Chambers Works, in Pennsville and Carneys Point Township, Salem County.
DEP will engage with the public on potential restoration projects. Municipalities and members of the public may submit potential restoration projects through DEP Office of Natural Resource Restoration's Potential Restoration Project Submission Portal found at https://dep.nj.gov/nrr/potential-restoration-project-submission-portal/
Remediation Funding. In addition, to ensure that all the cleanup work at the four industrial sites is paid for without public funds, the DuPont entities also agreed to create remediation funding sources of up to $1.2 billion and to establish an additional reserve fund of $475 million to ensure that if any one of fails to fulfill their responsibilities to the state, taxpayers won't be left to foot the bill. Under the settlement, the DuPont entities are required to fully remediate the industrial sites, regardless of ultimate cost.
Fees and costs. Finally, approximately $195 million in recovered funds will cover legal fees and costs.
* * *
Resources
NJDEP Dupont/Chemours PFAS Settlement Website (https://dep.nj.gov/dupont/)
NJDEP 3M PFAS Settlement Website (https://dep.nj.gov/3m/)
NJDEP PFAS Website (https://dep.nj.gov/pfas/)
NJDEP PFAS Strategy (https://dep.nj.gov/pfas/strategy/)
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Original text here: https://dep.nj.gov/newsrel/26_0041/
Ill. Gov. Pritzker Announces Regional Site Readiness Program Grant Awards
SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Aug. 8 -- Gov. JB Pritzker, D-Illinois, issued the following news release on Aug. 6, 2026:
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Gov. Pritzker Announces Regional Site Readiness Program Grant Awards
Site Ready Illinois grants provide $35 million for 22 sites to spur infrastructure improvements, community renewal, and industrial economic development
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CHAMPAIGN - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced Regional Site Readiness Program awards totaling $35 million to support site readiness activities at 22 sites across Illinois. To date, ... Show Full Article SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Aug. 8 -- Gov. JB Pritzker, D-Illinois, issued the following news release on Aug. 6, 2026: * * * Gov. Pritzker Announces Regional Site Readiness Program Grant Awards Site Ready Illinois grants provide $35 million for 22 sites to spur infrastructure improvements, community renewal, and industrial economic development - CHAMPAIGN - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced Regional Site Readiness Program awards totaling $35 million to support site readiness activities at 22 sites across Illinois. To date,the State has awarded $115 million to support 63 projects across Illinois in their site preparedness efforts.
The Regional Site Readiness Program prepares sites to attract future industrial investment and new job opportunities across Illinois. Industrial economic development at the 22 sites will be supported by two types of competitive funding opportunities: 11 Planning grants to support due diligence activities, studies and site plans, and 11 Capital Ready grants to support capital infrastructure improvements.
"The Regional Site Readiness Program is a powerful example of Team Illinois in action: State government, local leaders, federal partners, and the private sector all coming together to build a stronger economy and create new opportunities for communities in our state," said Governor JB Pritzker. "From planning grants to complete environmental studies, engineering, and site assessments, to capital grants to build roads, extend utilities, and improve water and sewer infrastructure, we are removing the barriers that stand between empty sites and opportunity for communities across our state."
"This latest round of Site Ready Illinois funding will support industrial economic development through two funding opportunities," said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. "While industrial businesses invest in our communities, we're investing alongside them, creating jobs and ensuring they have the support to thrive."
Strategically located in the Midwest, Illinois' skilled workforce, world-class research institutions, and robust transportation and logistics infrastructure make it ideal for businesses seeking opportunity and long-lasting growth. The Regional Site Readiness Program builds upon the State's efforts to support communities and landowners in their site readiness planning, assessments, and infrastructure improvements. This includes addressing the financial barriers faced when gathering information and making infrastructure improvements. The program will increase the number of sites available with completed due diligence and utility infrastructure, which increases Illinois' speed-to-market options for industrial projects.
This investment is part of Governor Pritzker's $500 million FY2026 site readiness initiative, the most significant investment in state history to make more sites across Illinois ready for business. This includes $200 million for DCEO's Site Ready Illinois and the Regional Site Readiness Program. It also includes $300 million for the Surplus to Success program, led by Central Management Services, to prepare idle State-owned properties for private development.
"The State's investments in the Regional Site Readiness Program are preparing sites for business across all 10 of our Economic Development Regions," said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. "With double the funding available for the program, this second round of grants is supporting 30 grantees across Illinois as they ready their sites for business attraction and development."
"The Regional Site Readiness Program is helping communities compete for tomorrow's investment," said Illinois Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Christy George. "Illinois has outstanding locations for business expansion. This latest round of awards strengthens Illinois' ability to attract new jobs and business investment by improving the infrastructure and site readiness that companies look for when making location decisions."
Following historic momentum and investments in Illinois, the State is positioned to pursue and win ambitious large-scale industrial business development projects though the Site Ready Illinois initiative. The State will expand its efforts to make sites ready for business attraction and business development by funding energy infrastructure to reduce long lead times, and helping municipalities, economic development organizations, and landowners prepare sites for investment.
"Through Site Readiness Planning and Capital Ready grants, the State of Illinois is setting communities up for success as they seek major industrial business development projects," said Senator Paul Faraci (D - Champaign). "We're building upon our world-class infrastructure by supporting site readiness activities at dozens of sites throughout the state."
"The Regional Site Readiness Program grant awarded to the Urbana & Champaign Sanitary District is a great example of what can be accomplished through strong regional partnerships," said Mayor of Champaign, Deborah Frank Feinen. "This collaborative effort between the District, City of Champaign, Champaign County Economic Development Corporation, and The Atkins Group will help expand wastewater capacity serving Apollo Industrial Park, strengthening the site's readiness for future industrial development. Investments like this position our community to compete for new opportunities in manufacturing and bioprocessing, while creating the potential for high-quality jobs and long-term economic growth for Champaign and the entire region."
"Champaign County would like to express our gratitude to DECO and the Governor's Office for the nearly $4 million grant to the Urbana-Champaign Sanitary District," said Champaign County Executive, Steve Summers. "This funding will provide needed infrastructure to bring new economic development opportunities to our county,"
DCEO is investing in planning activities such as environmental due diligence, preliminary engineering costs, and regional site prioritization reports, as well as capital improvements, such as road or water infrastructure, to increase the number of sites ready for industrial development.
* * *
Capital Ready Grants Program Recipients:
Grantee ... Region ... Award ... Project Description
Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority ... North Central ... $3,000,000 ... Road construction to serve 51-acre site for industrial development at the airport
City of Belvidere ... Northern Stateline ... $5,000,000 ... Water main infrastructure to serve 180-acre industrial site
City of Danville ... East Central ... $1,371,000 ... Sewer infrastructure expansion to serve 50-acre industrial site
City of East Moline ... Northwest ... $5,000,000 ... Sewer infrastructure expansion to serve 50-acre industrial site
City of Hillsboro ... Central ... $891,742 ... Utility and roadway expansion to serve 115-acre industrial site
City of Rockford ... Northern Stateline ... $3,679,551 ... Water and sewer infrastructure to serve 316-acre industrial site
City of Vandalia ... Southeast ... $2,368,867 ... Utility and roadway extension to serve 97-acre industrial site
Galesburg Sanitary District ... West Central ... $1,915,857 ... Sewer infrastructure to serve 90-acre industrial site
Regional Economic Development Corporation ... Southern ... $2,008,800 ... Electric infrastructure improvements to serve 120-acre industrial site in Marion
Urbana Champaign Sanitary District ... East Central ... $3,821,558 ... Water and sewer infrastructure to serve 274-acre industrial site
West Pullman Development Partners, LLC ... Northeast ... $5,000,000 ... Utility infrastructure expansion and roadway improvements to serve 25-acre brownfield site in the Pullman neighborhood in Chicago
* * *
Planning Grants Program Recipients:
Grantee ... Region ... Award ... Project Description
City of Lockport ... Northeast ... $119,600 ... Infrastructure assessment and topographic surveying to serve 146-acre industrial site
City of Mattoon ... Southeast ... $150,000 ... Environmental due diligence studies to serve 235-acre site
City of Monticello ... East Central ... $119,500 ... Environmental and engineering assessment at 28-acre brownfield site
City of Pana ... Central ... $120,000 ... Site concept plan and existing conditions analysis to serve a 217-acre industrial site
City of Rock Island ... Northwest ... $120,000 ... Environmental studies and site concept plans at 53-acre industrial site
County of Peoria ... North Central ... $150,000 ... Site planning and infrastructure improvement assessment on 53-acre industrial site
Four Rivers Sanitation Authority ... Northern Stateline ... $150,000 ... Design and engineering for future sanitary sewer expansion to serve 71-acre site in Belvidere
Jerseyville Economic Development Council ... Southwest ... $150,000 ... Site planning and utility studies to serve 705-acre site
Region 1 Planning Council ... Northern Stateline ... $92,509.60 ... Regional Prioritization Report
Southern Illinois Now ... Southern ... $117,606.40 ... Regional Prioritization Report
Village of Stockton ... Northwest ... $90,784 ... Site concept plan and site assessment to serve 180-acre site
* * *
"Reliable infrastructure is the foundation of a growing community, and investments like this ensure our wastewater system is prepared to serve businesses well into the future," said Urbana & Champaign Sanitary District Executive Director, Rick Manner. "This grant allows us to make improvements that will strengthen wastewater capacity across the north side of Champaign and Urbana, including Apollo Industrial Park, for decades to come. While the construction itself will support local jobs in the near term, the lasting impact will be creating the infrastructure needed to attract private investment, support future industrial development, and create high-quality jobs throughout our region. We're grateful to the State of Illinois for investing in site readiness infrastructure, and to our local economic development partners for their collaboration and support."
"This award represents the next step in a long-term strategy to strengthen Champaign County's industrial competitiveness," stated Carly McCrory-McKay, Executive Director of the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation and Chief Partnerships Officer of the iFAB Tech Hub. "In 2025, the Champaign County EDC was awarded a DCEO planning grant to partner with the Urbana & Champaign Sanitary District, City of Champaign, and The Atkins Group to evaluate wastewater infrastructure needs at Apollo Industrial Park. That planning effort identified the improvements necessary to support future industrial growth and laid the foundation for this capital investment, transforming planning into action. We're grateful to Governor Pritzker and DCEO for recognizing the importance of site readiness and investing in infrastructure that will help our region attract investment, compete for jobs, and create opportunities for continued economic growth."
The Regional Site Readiness Program recipients were selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) that was open to local governments, economic development organizations, and private landowners. Grants ranged from just over $90,000 to $5 million. Following Governor Pritzker doubling the funding available for the Regional Site Readiness Program, the first wave of round two awards were announced in April.
Passed in 2019, Rebuild Illinois is the largest capital program in Illinois history. The $45 billion investment is supporting improvements to the state's infrastructure, creating jobs, and promoting economic growth.
"With support from the Regional Site Readiness Planning Grant Program, Peoria County will be able to complete a site planning and infrastructure improvement assessment to prepare a local site for industrial development," said Leader Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria) "The State's investments in these planning activities will spur economic development in our community."
"As Illinois doubles its Regional Site Readiness investments, the program continues to provide much-needed funding for both planning and capital infrastructure improvements," said Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) "By growing the number of sites ready for business, the State is prioritizing industrial development that will bolster local economies and create opportunities for Illinoisans."
"We are working hard to secure key supports for industry and labor here in Western Illinois," said State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). "Infrastructure investments provide more economic activity in our region, more jobs and ultimately, more money in workers' pockets. We are laying the groundwork to propel Western Illinois' economy forward, and I am proud to see State dollars going to good use."
"I'm thrilled to see the continued success of the Regional Site Readiness Program," said Representative Gregg Johnson (D-East Moline) "The state's commitment to prioritizing site preparation and planning is pivotal to expanding economic growth and opportunity across the state."
"The Regional Site Readiness Program is critical to the state's efforts to expand development," said Representative Dave Vella (D-Rockford) "This funding will not only improve infrastructure but create jobs and increase economic growth across the state."
"I'm excited about the State's Regional Site Readiness Program laying the groundwork for investment all throughout our state - particularly here on the South Side," said Representative Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago). "Funding and opportunities for economic development are pivotal to improving the lives of everyone in our community."
* * *
Original text here: https://www.illinois.gov/news/release.html?releaseid=32804
* * *
Gov. Pritzker Announces Regional Site Readiness Program Grant Awards
Site Ready Illinois grants provide $35 million for 22 sites to spur infrastructure improvements, community renewal, and industrial economic development
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CHAMPAIGN - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced Regional Site Readiness Program awards totaling $35 million to support site readiness activities at 22 sites across Illinois. To date, ... Show Full Article SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Aug. 8 -- Gov. JB Pritzker, D-Illinois, issued the following news release on Aug. 6, 2026: * * * Gov. Pritzker Announces Regional Site Readiness Program Grant Awards Site Ready Illinois grants provide $35 million for 22 sites to spur infrastructure improvements, community renewal, and industrial economic development - CHAMPAIGN - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced Regional Site Readiness Program awards totaling $35 million to support site readiness activities at 22 sites across Illinois. To date,the State has awarded $115 million to support 63 projects across Illinois in their site preparedness efforts.
The Regional Site Readiness Program prepares sites to attract future industrial investment and new job opportunities across Illinois. Industrial economic development at the 22 sites will be supported by two types of competitive funding opportunities: 11 Planning grants to support due diligence activities, studies and site plans, and 11 Capital Ready grants to support capital infrastructure improvements.
"The Regional Site Readiness Program is a powerful example of Team Illinois in action: State government, local leaders, federal partners, and the private sector all coming together to build a stronger economy and create new opportunities for communities in our state," said Governor JB Pritzker. "From planning grants to complete environmental studies, engineering, and site assessments, to capital grants to build roads, extend utilities, and improve water and sewer infrastructure, we are removing the barriers that stand between empty sites and opportunity for communities across our state."
"This latest round of Site Ready Illinois funding will support industrial economic development through two funding opportunities," said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. "While industrial businesses invest in our communities, we're investing alongside them, creating jobs and ensuring they have the support to thrive."
Strategically located in the Midwest, Illinois' skilled workforce, world-class research institutions, and robust transportation and logistics infrastructure make it ideal for businesses seeking opportunity and long-lasting growth. The Regional Site Readiness Program builds upon the State's efforts to support communities and landowners in their site readiness planning, assessments, and infrastructure improvements. This includes addressing the financial barriers faced when gathering information and making infrastructure improvements. The program will increase the number of sites available with completed due diligence and utility infrastructure, which increases Illinois' speed-to-market options for industrial projects.
This investment is part of Governor Pritzker's $500 million FY2026 site readiness initiative, the most significant investment in state history to make more sites across Illinois ready for business. This includes $200 million for DCEO's Site Ready Illinois and the Regional Site Readiness Program. It also includes $300 million for the Surplus to Success program, led by Central Management Services, to prepare idle State-owned properties for private development.
"The State's investments in the Regional Site Readiness Program are preparing sites for business across all 10 of our Economic Development Regions," said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. "With double the funding available for the program, this second round of grants is supporting 30 grantees across Illinois as they ready their sites for business attraction and development."
"The Regional Site Readiness Program is helping communities compete for tomorrow's investment," said Illinois Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Christy George. "Illinois has outstanding locations for business expansion. This latest round of awards strengthens Illinois' ability to attract new jobs and business investment by improving the infrastructure and site readiness that companies look for when making location decisions."
Following historic momentum and investments in Illinois, the State is positioned to pursue and win ambitious large-scale industrial business development projects though the Site Ready Illinois initiative. The State will expand its efforts to make sites ready for business attraction and business development by funding energy infrastructure to reduce long lead times, and helping municipalities, economic development organizations, and landowners prepare sites for investment.
"Through Site Readiness Planning and Capital Ready grants, the State of Illinois is setting communities up for success as they seek major industrial business development projects," said Senator Paul Faraci (D - Champaign). "We're building upon our world-class infrastructure by supporting site readiness activities at dozens of sites throughout the state."
"The Regional Site Readiness Program grant awarded to the Urbana & Champaign Sanitary District is a great example of what can be accomplished through strong regional partnerships," said Mayor of Champaign, Deborah Frank Feinen. "This collaborative effort between the District, City of Champaign, Champaign County Economic Development Corporation, and The Atkins Group will help expand wastewater capacity serving Apollo Industrial Park, strengthening the site's readiness for future industrial development. Investments like this position our community to compete for new opportunities in manufacturing and bioprocessing, while creating the potential for high-quality jobs and long-term economic growth for Champaign and the entire region."
"Champaign County would like to express our gratitude to DECO and the Governor's Office for the nearly $4 million grant to the Urbana-Champaign Sanitary District," said Champaign County Executive, Steve Summers. "This funding will provide needed infrastructure to bring new economic development opportunities to our county,"
DCEO is investing in planning activities such as environmental due diligence, preliminary engineering costs, and regional site prioritization reports, as well as capital improvements, such as road or water infrastructure, to increase the number of sites ready for industrial development.
* * *
Capital Ready Grants Program Recipients:
Grantee ... Region ... Award ... Project Description
Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority ... North Central ... $3,000,000 ... Road construction to serve 51-acre site for industrial development at the airport
City of Belvidere ... Northern Stateline ... $5,000,000 ... Water main infrastructure to serve 180-acre industrial site
City of Danville ... East Central ... $1,371,000 ... Sewer infrastructure expansion to serve 50-acre industrial site
City of East Moline ... Northwest ... $5,000,000 ... Sewer infrastructure expansion to serve 50-acre industrial site
City of Hillsboro ... Central ... $891,742 ... Utility and roadway expansion to serve 115-acre industrial site
City of Rockford ... Northern Stateline ... $3,679,551 ... Water and sewer infrastructure to serve 316-acre industrial site
City of Vandalia ... Southeast ... $2,368,867 ... Utility and roadway extension to serve 97-acre industrial site
Galesburg Sanitary District ... West Central ... $1,915,857 ... Sewer infrastructure to serve 90-acre industrial site
Regional Economic Development Corporation ... Southern ... $2,008,800 ... Electric infrastructure improvements to serve 120-acre industrial site in Marion
Urbana Champaign Sanitary District ... East Central ... $3,821,558 ... Water and sewer infrastructure to serve 274-acre industrial site
West Pullman Development Partners, LLC ... Northeast ... $5,000,000 ... Utility infrastructure expansion and roadway improvements to serve 25-acre brownfield site in the Pullman neighborhood in Chicago
* * *
Planning Grants Program Recipients:
Grantee ... Region ... Award ... Project Description
City of Lockport ... Northeast ... $119,600 ... Infrastructure assessment and topographic surveying to serve 146-acre industrial site
City of Mattoon ... Southeast ... $150,000 ... Environmental due diligence studies to serve 235-acre site
City of Monticello ... East Central ... $119,500 ... Environmental and engineering assessment at 28-acre brownfield site
City of Pana ... Central ... $120,000 ... Site concept plan and existing conditions analysis to serve a 217-acre industrial site
City of Rock Island ... Northwest ... $120,000 ... Environmental studies and site concept plans at 53-acre industrial site
County of Peoria ... North Central ... $150,000 ... Site planning and infrastructure improvement assessment on 53-acre industrial site
Four Rivers Sanitation Authority ... Northern Stateline ... $150,000 ... Design and engineering for future sanitary sewer expansion to serve 71-acre site in Belvidere
Jerseyville Economic Development Council ... Southwest ... $150,000 ... Site planning and utility studies to serve 705-acre site
Region 1 Planning Council ... Northern Stateline ... $92,509.60 ... Regional Prioritization Report
Southern Illinois Now ... Southern ... $117,606.40 ... Regional Prioritization Report
Village of Stockton ... Northwest ... $90,784 ... Site concept plan and site assessment to serve 180-acre site
* * *
"Reliable infrastructure is the foundation of a growing community, and investments like this ensure our wastewater system is prepared to serve businesses well into the future," said Urbana & Champaign Sanitary District Executive Director, Rick Manner. "This grant allows us to make improvements that will strengthen wastewater capacity across the north side of Champaign and Urbana, including Apollo Industrial Park, for decades to come. While the construction itself will support local jobs in the near term, the lasting impact will be creating the infrastructure needed to attract private investment, support future industrial development, and create high-quality jobs throughout our region. We're grateful to the State of Illinois for investing in site readiness infrastructure, and to our local economic development partners for their collaboration and support."
"This award represents the next step in a long-term strategy to strengthen Champaign County's industrial competitiveness," stated Carly McCrory-McKay, Executive Director of the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation and Chief Partnerships Officer of the iFAB Tech Hub. "In 2025, the Champaign County EDC was awarded a DCEO planning grant to partner with the Urbana & Champaign Sanitary District, City of Champaign, and The Atkins Group to evaluate wastewater infrastructure needs at Apollo Industrial Park. That planning effort identified the improvements necessary to support future industrial growth and laid the foundation for this capital investment, transforming planning into action. We're grateful to Governor Pritzker and DCEO for recognizing the importance of site readiness and investing in infrastructure that will help our region attract investment, compete for jobs, and create opportunities for continued economic growth."
The Regional Site Readiness Program recipients were selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) that was open to local governments, economic development organizations, and private landowners. Grants ranged from just over $90,000 to $5 million. Following Governor Pritzker doubling the funding available for the Regional Site Readiness Program, the first wave of round two awards were announced in April.
Passed in 2019, Rebuild Illinois is the largest capital program in Illinois history. The $45 billion investment is supporting improvements to the state's infrastructure, creating jobs, and promoting economic growth.
"With support from the Regional Site Readiness Planning Grant Program, Peoria County will be able to complete a site planning and infrastructure improvement assessment to prepare a local site for industrial development," said Leader Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria) "The State's investments in these planning activities will spur economic development in our community."
"As Illinois doubles its Regional Site Readiness investments, the program continues to provide much-needed funding for both planning and capital infrastructure improvements," said Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) "By growing the number of sites ready for business, the State is prioritizing industrial development that will bolster local economies and create opportunities for Illinoisans."
"We are working hard to secure key supports for industry and labor here in Western Illinois," said State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). "Infrastructure investments provide more economic activity in our region, more jobs and ultimately, more money in workers' pockets. We are laying the groundwork to propel Western Illinois' economy forward, and I am proud to see State dollars going to good use."
"I'm thrilled to see the continued success of the Regional Site Readiness Program," said Representative Gregg Johnson (D-East Moline) "The state's commitment to prioritizing site preparation and planning is pivotal to expanding economic growth and opportunity across the state."
"The Regional Site Readiness Program is critical to the state's efforts to expand development," said Representative Dave Vella (D-Rockford) "This funding will not only improve infrastructure but create jobs and increase economic growth across the state."
"I'm excited about the State's Regional Site Readiness Program laying the groundwork for investment all throughout our state - particularly here on the South Side," said Representative Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago). "Funding and opportunities for economic development are pivotal to improving the lives of everyone in our community."
* * *
Original text here: https://www.illinois.gov/news/release.html?releaseid=32804
Del. Gov. Meyer Walks on House Bill 462, Calls on General Assembly to Stop Taxing Delaware Renters at Commercial Rates
DOVER, Delaware, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
* * *
Governor Meyer Walks on House Bill 462, Calls on General Assembly to Stop Taxing Delaware Renters at Commercial Rates
Governor Meyer urges lawmakers to finish the job when they return: "A home is a home, whether you own it or rent it."
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Governor Matt Meyer announced today that House Bill 462, which permanently authorizes school districts to tax residential and non-residential property at different rates, will become law without his signature. The Governor said the bill contains ... Show Full Article DOVER, Delaware, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Meyer Walks on House Bill 462, Calls on General Assembly to Stop Taxing Delaware Renters at Commercial Rates Governor Meyer urges lawmakers to finish the job when they return: "A home is a home, whether you own it or rent it." - Governor Matt Meyer announced today that House Bill 462, which permanently authorizes school districts to tax residential and non-residential property at different rates, will become law without his signature. The Governor said the bill containstechnical provisions school districts need to set tax rates ahead of the coming school year, but that he cannot endorse legislation that continues to treat apartments and other residential rental communities as commercial property.
"Across Delaware, apartments are home to our families, friends, and neighbors," said Governor Matt Meyer. "But under this law, a building that houses teachers, nurses, seniors, first responders, and thousands of working families can be taxed at substantially higher rates than the single-family home next door - simply because those families rent instead of own. A home is a home, whether you own it or rent it. The families of Delaware deserve nothing less."
The Governor's decision allows schools and taxpayers to avoid unnecessary disruption before tax bills are issued, while making clear the underlying classification must be fixed. A veto at this stage, the Governor noted, would create uncertainty for school districts without resolving the problem.
Following New Castle County's reassessment, several school districts adopted split tax rates that grouped apartment communities with warehouses, office parks, and industrial sites. Apartment school-tax rates rose by an average of 55 percent across the county -- approaching 81 percent in the Appoquinimink School District -- while homeowner tax rates generally declined. In some districts, a 4,000-square-foot single-family home carried a lower school tax burden than a 1,500-square-foot apartment.
House Bill 462 moderates the most extreme disparities by capping apartment tax rates at 185 percent of the residential rate. But the Governor said the law writes a fundamentally flawed classification into permanent statute.
Earlier this summer, Governor Meyer urged the General Assembly to pass Senate Bill 350, which would have permanently classified multifamily housing as residential property and capped apartment school-tax rates at 120 percent of the residential rate -- delivering nearly $15 million in annual relief to apartment residents without reducing school district revenue and without affecting Kent or Sussex Counties. The General Assembly adjourned without acting on the bill.
"Those taxes do not simply disappear," Governor Meyer said. "They are reflected in higher rents, deferred maintenance, and fewer new housing opportunities for Delaware families. We cannot encourage compact, affordable housing while taxing that same housing as though it were commercial development."
Delaware recently showed the greatest improvement in housing affordability of any state in the nation, according to Realtor.com's 2026 State Report Cards. At the same time, the state faces a shortage of roughly 40,000 homes, including approximately 20,000 affordable and workforce housing units, and half of Delaware renters are already cost-burdened.
When the General Assembly returns, Governor Meyer is urging lawmakers to establish a permanent property classification system that treats residential rental housing as residential property, protects renters from disproportionate taxation, and does so without taking a single dollar from Delaware's public schools.
The Governor's full statement on House Bill 462 can be found here (https://news.delaware.gov/files/2026/08/Statement-on-HB462-8.4.26.pdf)
* * *
Original text here: https://news.delaware.gov/2026/08/07/governor-meyer-walks-on-house-bill-462-calls-on-general-assembly-to-stop-taxing-delaware-renters-at-commercial-rates/
* * *
Governor Meyer Walks on House Bill 462, Calls on General Assembly to Stop Taxing Delaware Renters at Commercial Rates
Governor Meyer urges lawmakers to finish the job when they return: "A home is a home, whether you own it or rent it."
-
Governor Matt Meyer announced today that House Bill 462, which permanently authorizes school districts to tax residential and non-residential property at different rates, will become law without his signature. The Governor said the bill contains ... Show Full Article DOVER, Delaware, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Meyer Walks on House Bill 462, Calls on General Assembly to Stop Taxing Delaware Renters at Commercial Rates Governor Meyer urges lawmakers to finish the job when they return: "A home is a home, whether you own it or rent it." - Governor Matt Meyer announced today that House Bill 462, which permanently authorizes school districts to tax residential and non-residential property at different rates, will become law without his signature. The Governor said the bill containstechnical provisions school districts need to set tax rates ahead of the coming school year, but that he cannot endorse legislation that continues to treat apartments and other residential rental communities as commercial property.
"Across Delaware, apartments are home to our families, friends, and neighbors," said Governor Matt Meyer. "But under this law, a building that houses teachers, nurses, seniors, first responders, and thousands of working families can be taxed at substantially higher rates than the single-family home next door - simply because those families rent instead of own. A home is a home, whether you own it or rent it. The families of Delaware deserve nothing less."
The Governor's decision allows schools and taxpayers to avoid unnecessary disruption before tax bills are issued, while making clear the underlying classification must be fixed. A veto at this stage, the Governor noted, would create uncertainty for school districts without resolving the problem.
Following New Castle County's reassessment, several school districts adopted split tax rates that grouped apartment communities with warehouses, office parks, and industrial sites. Apartment school-tax rates rose by an average of 55 percent across the county -- approaching 81 percent in the Appoquinimink School District -- while homeowner tax rates generally declined. In some districts, a 4,000-square-foot single-family home carried a lower school tax burden than a 1,500-square-foot apartment.
House Bill 462 moderates the most extreme disparities by capping apartment tax rates at 185 percent of the residential rate. But the Governor said the law writes a fundamentally flawed classification into permanent statute.
Earlier this summer, Governor Meyer urged the General Assembly to pass Senate Bill 350, which would have permanently classified multifamily housing as residential property and capped apartment school-tax rates at 120 percent of the residential rate -- delivering nearly $15 million in annual relief to apartment residents without reducing school district revenue and without affecting Kent or Sussex Counties. The General Assembly adjourned without acting on the bill.
"Those taxes do not simply disappear," Governor Meyer said. "They are reflected in higher rents, deferred maintenance, and fewer new housing opportunities for Delaware families. We cannot encourage compact, affordable housing while taxing that same housing as though it were commercial development."
Delaware recently showed the greatest improvement in housing affordability of any state in the nation, according to Realtor.com's 2026 State Report Cards. At the same time, the state faces a shortage of roughly 40,000 homes, including approximately 20,000 affordable and workforce housing units, and half of Delaware renters are already cost-burdened.
When the General Assembly returns, Governor Meyer is urging lawmakers to establish a permanent property classification system that treats residential rental housing as residential property, protects renters from disproportionate taxation, and does so without taking a single dollar from Delaware's public schools.
The Governor's full statement on House Bill 462 can be found here (https://news.delaware.gov/files/2026/08/Statement-on-HB462-8.4.26.pdf)
* * *
Original text here: https://news.delaware.gov/2026/08/07/governor-meyer-walks-on-house-bill-462-calls-on-general-assembly-to-stop-taxing-delaware-renters-at-commercial-rates/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces $3,500 Instant Rebates Now Available for Californians Buying Their First Zero-emission Vehicle
SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
* * *
Governor Newsom announces $3,500 instant rebates now available for Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle
Driving forward the newest chapter in California's climate leadership: the largest battery arsenal in the country, solar outpacing natural gas, and real savings for drivers going electric
What you need to know: Buying your first zero-emission vehicle in California just got a lot cheaper. Shoppers can now get $3,500 off a new zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Newsom announces $3,500 instant rebates now available for Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle Driving forward the newest chapter in California's climate leadership: the largest battery arsenal in the country, solar outpacing natural gas, and real savings for drivers going electric What you need to know: Buying your first zero-emission vehicle in California just got a lot cheaper. Shoppers can now get $3,500 off a new zero-emission vehicle (ZEV)or $1,750 off a used one, knocked off the price. It's the newest chapter in the story of California's clean energy leadership. This month, California's arsenal of battery storage systems, which soak up solar power during the day, just passed 21,000 megawatts, enough to power roughly 15.75 million California homes for about four hours after the sun goes down.
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OAKLAND - Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that automakers are now offering instant rebates of up to $3,500 to Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle (ZEV), savings that come off the price before you drive it off the lot, no applications or waiting required. The Governor also announced that California now has more battery storage hooked up to its power grid than any other state, over 21,000 megawatts worth of batteries that soak up extra solar power during the day and are available as the sun starts to set, helping to reduce the use of natural gas.
While Donald Trump is hellbent on burning more expensive fossil fuels and raising costs for Americans, California is proving there's a better way -- from new instant rebates putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of first-time electric car buyers, to an arsenal of batteries across the state that just topped 21,000 megawatts, the nation's largest, helping power the world's fourth-largest economy.
* * *
California is showing the world what real economic security looks like. It's one that can't be held hostage by foreign conflicts and Big Oil. The Golden State is leading the charge on building a reliable, affordable clean future.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
Together, the announcements tell an important story: families don't have to choose between saving money and protecting the air we breathe. Foreign conflicts keep exposing how dependence on global oil markets threatens America's economic and national security, driving up prices at the pump and at the register with every new overseas crisis. As the world's fourth-largest economy, California is determined to break that cycle.
Here's which automakers are plugged in and offering rebates
Today, Governor Newsom announced that three automakers are now offering instant rebates through California's MyFirstEV instant rebate program. As of today, Californians can walk into any Hyundai, Lucid, or Tesla dealer or sales center in the state and buy or lease their first ZEV. Additional automakers are planning to launch soon, including:
* August: Ford, Rivian, Chevrolet, Kia
* September: Toyota/Lexus, Honda, and Subaru
* November: Mitsubishi
* TBD: Nissan and Volvo are still determining launch timelines.
"MyFirstEV makes EV ownership possible for more Californians," said Yana Garcia, California's Secretary for Environmental Protection. "With this program, we continue to lead through innovative policies that clean our air, protect health and provide more affordable options for working people."
"California is once again leading with bold, decisive action and expanding access to the benefits of zero-emission vehicles with the launch of the MyFirstEV program," said California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez. "This program means more than just new technology for California families - it means cleaner air for their children, lower fuel and maintenance costs and the opportunity be part of California's clean air future."
How it works
For California families who have been waiting for the right moment to go electric, that moment is here. The MyFirstEV program will deliver $3,500 off the price of a new zero-emission vehicle right at the dealership. California's $135.5 million state investment is matched dollar-for-dollar by participating automakers, delivering a combined $271 million in total savings to California families at the point of sale.
Here's what buyers need to know:
* $3,500 off new zero-emission vehicles with an MSRP up to $50,000
* $1,750 off used zero-emission vehicles sold for up to $25,000 through manufacturers' pre-owned vehicle programs
* The rebate is open to any Californian buying their first ZEV
Interested Californians should contact participating automakers for more information. Links to manufacturer websites are available on the MyFirstEV program webpage, and information will be added as it becomes available.
Why it matters
California has made great progress in cleaning the air. Still, nearly 18 million residents live in areas with unhealthy air, and 1,500 die from air pollution every year in Southern California alone.
With transportation accounting for 60% of California's smog-forming pollution and 40% of its greenhouse gas emissions, the state must continue cutting vehicle emissions to meet national air quality standards, fulfill state goals, and fight climate change.
Cleaner vehicles will also save Californians billions of dollars in fuel, maintenance, and healthcare costs as the state continues to advance ZEV deployment.
California's grid just hit two records, reducing reliance on fossil fuels
Think of California's battery fleet as a giant rechargeable power bank for the whole state. All day, while the sun is out, solar panels generate cheap, clean electricity, sometimes more than everyone needs in that moment. Batteries store that power. Then in the evening, right as everyone gets home, turns on the lights, and the sun goes down, the power in those batteries is available for use.
That timing matters. The evening is exactly when California has historically leaned on expensive natural gas plants to keep the lights on. Every time a battery does that job instead, it means less air pollution and more cost-effective electricity on the grid.
When Governor Newsom took office in 2019, fewer than 700 MW of battery storage served the California grid. Today, that number stands at 21,112 MW, including roughly 18,000 MW of grid-scale storage that discharges directly onto the grid, plus another 3,000 MW of smaller batteries at homes, schools, farms, and businesses that help offset demand on-site. That's an increase of over 2,500% in just seven and a half years. Thanks to the Legislature's partnership and sustained state investment and policy, California is the nation's clean energy leader and a global model for the energy transition.
"California has always prioritized innovation, investing in the science and technology of the future and advancing the goalpost on what is possible," said CEC Chair David Hochschild. "We are seeing renewables and batteries perform like never before, proof that our vision of a 100% clean energy future is absolutely possible."
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has played the central role in building the nation's largest battery storage fleet by requiring utilities and other load-serving entities to procure thousands of megawatts of energy storage, helping ensure our reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean electric grid.
"California's battery storage success is the result of thoughtful planning and sustained investment," said CPUC President John Reynolds. "The CPUC has worked to ensure these resources are brought online in a way that strengthens grid reliability, supports the integration of more clean energy, and delivers long-term benefits for California customers, especially for affordability. As we continue planning for the grid of the future, battery storage will remain a critical part of keeping the lights on while advancing our clean energy goals."
Solar and batteries: a winning formula
California leads the nation in solar and battery power because of our commitment to a carbon-neutral future by 2045. It's also because solar power and batteries make economic sense. Twenty-five years ago, solar panels cost about $5 per watt. Today, that number is down to just 15 cents per watt. Lithium-ion battery prices have also dropped more than 90% over the last ten years.
* Solar takes the lead: For the first time ever, solar power has surpassed natural gas as the largest source of electricity in California during the first half of 2026. While seasonal factors play a role -- solar production is strong, and electricity use is relatively moderate in spring -- the trend highlights how the growing contribution of solar and battery storage is changing how California's grid operates. That shift means less air pollution, fewer costly natural gas plants firing up, and long-term cost savings for Californians.
* Solar growth by the numbers: Comparing January through June of 2024 to that same stretch in 2026, solar power usage grew by 22%, while natural gas usage dropped by 51%, according to a California Energy Commission (CEC) analysis of state grid data. Meanwhile, grid battery storage capacity grew by 80% over that same period, giving solar power somewhere to go even after the sun sets. California's solar energy capacity breaks new records regularly, reaching over 23,000 MW in June 2026.
* Largest energy storage capacity: California's battery storage system has the most capacity of any system in the nation. California's fleet is dominated by 4-hour-duration systems interconnected to the bulk electric grid, allowing it to deliver stored power for roughly twice as long as systems like in Texas. California isn't stopping there: the state is procuring and building even longer-duration storage, and recently celebrated its first 8-hour battery project, the Tumbleweed Energy Storage facility in Kern County.
This shift reflects years of Newsom administration and legislative investments and a whole-of-government approach to building an economy that creates good-paying jobs, lowers costs for families, and positions California to win the global clean energy economy.
California's clean energy leadership
Since Governor Newsom took office in 2019, California has added more than 37,000 megawatts of utility-scale clean and renewable energy to serve the California grid. That's helped make the grid more reliable and pushed the state further along its path in the clean energy transition.
Batteries play a key role in California's goal of getting all of its electricity from clean sources by 2045. The most recent numbers, from the end of 2024, show real progress: 67% of retail electricity sales in the state already come from clean energy. Last year, clean energy met 100% of the state's electricity needs for at least part of the day on 279 separate days. So far in 2026, that's happened on more than nine out of 10 days during the first half of the year.
California is building this fleet safely. In 2024, Governor Newsom launched a State Battery Storage Safety Collaborative that has already delivered updated fire codes, new state oversight of battery facilities, and stronger safety standards statewide. The CPUC helps maintain electric grid reliability for the public by ensuring power plants and energy storage systems comply with CPUC standards for operations and maintenance.
Clean energy is also good for the economy. California leads the nation in total clean energy jobs, with 552,300 workers employed across clean energy technologies, nearly twice as many as the second-ranked state, Texas, according to a 2025 report from E2. California's clean energy workforce grew by nearly 7,300 workers in 2024, outpacing job growth in the rest of the state's economy by more than three times.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/07/governor-newsom-announces-3500-instant-rebates-now-available-for-californians-buying-their-first-zero-emission-vehicle/
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Governor Newsom announces $3,500 instant rebates now available for Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle
Driving forward the newest chapter in California's climate leadership: the largest battery arsenal in the country, solar outpacing natural gas, and real savings for drivers going electric
What you need to know: Buying your first zero-emission vehicle in California just got a lot cheaper. Shoppers can now get $3,500 off a new zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Newsom announces $3,500 instant rebates now available for Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle Driving forward the newest chapter in California's climate leadership: the largest battery arsenal in the country, solar outpacing natural gas, and real savings for drivers going electric What you need to know: Buying your first zero-emission vehicle in California just got a lot cheaper. Shoppers can now get $3,500 off a new zero-emission vehicle (ZEV)or $1,750 off a used one, knocked off the price. It's the newest chapter in the story of California's clean energy leadership. This month, California's arsenal of battery storage systems, which soak up solar power during the day, just passed 21,000 megawatts, enough to power roughly 15.75 million California homes for about four hours after the sun goes down.
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OAKLAND - Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that automakers are now offering instant rebates of up to $3,500 to Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle (ZEV), savings that come off the price before you drive it off the lot, no applications or waiting required. The Governor also announced that California now has more battery storage hooked up to its power grid than any other state, over 21,000 megawatts worth of batteries that soak up extra solar power during the day and are available as the sun starts to set, helping to reduce the use of natural gas.
While Donald Trump is hellbent on burning more expensive fossil fuels and raising costs for Americans, California is proving there's a better way -- from new instant rebates putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of first-time electric car buyers, to an arsenal of batteries across the state that just topped 21,000 megawatts, the nation's largest, helping power the world's fourth-largest economy.
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California is showing the world what real economic security looks like. It's one that can't be held hostage by foreign conflicts and Big Oil. The Golden State is leading the charge on building a reliable, affordable clean future.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
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Together, the announcements tell an important story: families don't have to choose between saving money and protecting the air we breathe. Foreign conflicts keep exposing how dependence on global oil markets threatens America's economic and national security, driving up prices at the pump and at the register with every new overseas crisis. As the world's fourth-largest economy, California is determined to break that cycle.
Here's which automakers are plugged in and offering rebates
Today, Governor Newsom announced that three automakers are now offering instant rebates through California's MyFirstEV instant rebate program. As of today, Californians can walk into any Hyundai, Lucid, or Tesla dealer or sales center in the state and buy or lease their first ZEV. Additional automakers are planning to launch soon, including:
* August: Ford, Rivian, Chevrolet, Kia
* September: Toyota/Lexus, Honda, and Subaru
* November: Mitsubishi
* TBD: Nissan and Volvo are still determining launch timelines.
"MyFirstEV makes EV ownership possible for more Californians," said Yana Garcia, California's Secretary for Environmental Protection. "With this program, we continue to lead through innovative policies that clean our air, protect health and provide more affordable options for working people."
"California is once again leading with bold, decisive action and expanding access to the benefits of zero-emission vehicles with the launch of the MyFirstEV program," said California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez. "This program means more than just new technology for California families - it means cleaner air for their children, lower fuel and maintenance costs and the opportunity be part of California's clean air future."
How it works
For California families who have been waiting for the right moment to go electric, that moment is here. The MyFirstEV program will deliver $3,500 off the price of a new zero-emission vehicle right at the dealership. California's $135.5 million state investment is matched dollar-for-dollar by participating automakers, delivering a combined $271 million in total savings to California families at the point of sale.
Here's what buyers need to know:
* $3,500 off new zero-emission vehicles with an MSRP up to $50,000
* $1,750 off used zero-emission vehicles sold for up to $25,000 through manufacturers' pre-owned vehicle programs
* The rebate is open to any Californian buying their first ZEV
Interested Californians should contact participating automakers for more information. Links to manufacturer websites are available on the MyFirstEV program webpage, and information will be added as it becomes available.
Why it matters
California has made great progress in cleaning the air. Still, nearly 18 million residents live in areas with unhealthy air, and 1,500 die from air pollution every year in Southern California alone.
With transportation accounting for 60% of California's smog-forming pollution and 40% of its greenhouse gas emissions, the state must continue cutting vehicle emissions to meet national air quality standards, fulfill state goals, and fight climate change.
Cleaner vehicles will also save Californians billions of dollars in fuel, maintenance, and healthcare costs as the state continues to advance ZEV deployment.
California's grid just hit two records, reducing reliance on fossil fuels
Think of California's battery fleet as a giant rechargeable power bank for the whole state. All day, while the sun is out, solar panels generate cheap, clean electricity, sometimes more than everyone needs in that moment. Batteries store that power. Then in the evening, right as everyone gets home, turns on the lights, and the sun goes down, the power in those batteries is available for use.
That timing matters. The evening is exactly when California has historically leaned on expensive natural gas plants to keep the lights on. Every time a battery does that job instead, it means less air pollution and more cost-effective electricity on the grid.
When Governor Newsom took office in 2019, fewer than 700 MW of battery storage served the California grid. Today, that number stands at 21,112 MW, including roughly 18,000 MW of grid-scale storage that discharges directly onto the grid, plus another 3,000 MW of smaller batteries at homes, schools, farms, and businesses that help offset demand on-site. That's an increase of over 2,500% in just seven and a half years. Thanks to the Legislature's partnership and sustained state investment and policy, California is the nation's clean energy leader and a global model for the energy transition.
"California has always prioritized innovation, investing in the science and technology of the future and advancing the goalpost on what is possible," said CEC Chair David Hochschild. "We are seeing renewables and batteries perform like never before, proof that our vision of a 100% clean energy future is absolutely possible."
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has played the central role in building the nation's largest battery storage fleet by requiring utilities and other load-serving entities to procure thousands of megawatts of energy storage, helping ensure our reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean electric grid.
"California's battery storage success is the result of thoughtful planning and sustained investment," said CPUC President John Reynolds. "The CPUC has worked to ensure these resources are brought online in a way that strengthens grid reliability, supports the integration of more clean energy, and delivers long-term benefits for California customers, especially for affordability. As we continue planning for the grid of the future, battery storage will remain a critical part of keeping the lights on while advancing our clean energy goals."
Solar and batteries: a winning formula
California leads the nation in solar and battery power because of our commitment to a carbon-neutral future by 2045. It's also because solar power and batteries make economic sense. Twenty-five years ago, solar panels cost about $5 per watt. Today, that number is down to just 15 cents per watt. Lithium-ion battery prices have also dropped more than 90% over the last ten years.
* Solar takes the lead: For the first time ever, solar power has surpassed natural gas as the largest source of electricity in California during the first half of 2026. While seasonal factors play a role -- solar production is strong, and electricity use is relatively moderate in spring -- the trend highlights how the growing contribution of solar and battery storage is changing how California's grid operates. That shift means less air pollution, fewer costly natural gas plants firing up, and long-term cost savings for Californians.
* Solar growth by the numbers: Comparing January through June of 2024 to that same stretch in 2026, solar power usage grew by 22%, while natural gas usage dropped by 51%, according to a California Energy Commission (CEC) analysis of state grid data. Meanwhile, grid battery storage capacity grew by 80% over that same period, giving solar power somewhere to go even after the sun sets. California's solar energy capacity breaks new records regularly, reaching over 23,000 MW in June 2026.
* Largest energy storage capacity: California's battery storage system has the most capacity of any system in the nation. California's fleet is dominated by 4-hour-duration systems interconnected to the bulk electric grid, allowing it to deliver stored power for roughly twice as long as systems like in Texas. California isn't stopping there: the state is procuring and building even longer-duration storage, and recently celebrated its first 8-hour battery project, the Tumbleweed Energy Storage facility in Kern County.
This shift reflects years of Newsom administration and legislative investments and a whole-of-government approach to building an economy that creates good-paying jobs, lowers costs for families, and positions California to win the global clean energy economy.
California's clean energy leadership
Since Governor Newsom took office in 2019, California has added more than 37,000 megawatts of utility-scale clean and renewable energy to serve the California grid. That's helped make the grid more reliable and pushed the state further along its path in the clean energy transition.
Batteries play a key role in California's goal of getting all of its electricity from clean sources by 2045. The most recent numbers, from the end of 2024, show real progress: 67% of retail electricity sales in the state already come from clean energy. Last year, clean energy met 100% of the state's electricity needs for at least part of the day on 279 separate days. So far in 2026, that's happened on more than nine out of 10 days during the first half of the year.
California is building this fleet safely. In 2024, Governor Newsom launched a State Battery Storage Safety Collaborative that has already delivered updated fire codes, new state oversight of battery facilities, and stronger safety standards statewide. The CPUC helps maintain electric grid reliability for the public by ensuring power plants and energy storage systems comply with CPUC standards for operations and maintenance.
Clean energy is also good for the economy. California leads the nation in total clean energy jobs, with 552,300 workers employed across clean energy technologies, nearly twice as many as the second-ranked state, Texas, according to a 2025 report from E2. California's clean energy workforce grew by nearly 7,300 workers in 2024, outpacing job growth in the rest of the state's economy by more than three times.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/07/governor-newsom-announces-3500-instant-rebates-now-available-for-californians-buying-their-first-zero-emission-vehicle/
Ariz. A.G. Mayes Seeks Sanctions Against Redwood Mobile Home Park Owners for Defying Court Order
PHOENIX, Arizona, Aug. 8 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
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Attorney General Mayes Seeks Sanctions Against Redwood Mobile Home Park Owners for Defying Court Order
TUCSON - Attorney General Kris Mayes announced today that she is seeking sanctions against the owners and operators of Redwood Mobile Home Park for failing to comply with court ordered safety testing of the park's electrical systems.
In September 2025 Attorney General Mayes filed a consumer fraud lawsuit against Redwood Thunderbird MHPS, LLC, and BoaVida Communities, LLC, ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, Aug. 8 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Attorney General Mayes Seeks Sanctions Against Redwood Mobile Home Park Owners for Defying Court Order TUCSON - Attorney General Kris Mayes announced today that she is seeking sanctions against the owners and operators of Redwood Mobile Home Park for failing to comply with court ordered safety testing of the park's electrical systems. In September 2025 Attorney General Mayes filed a consumer fraud lawsuit against Redwood Thunderbird MHPS, LLC, and BoaVida Communities, LLC,owners and operators of Redwood Mobile Home Park for allegedly failing to inform Park residents that the Park's electrical system was dangerous, unreliable, and overloaded, causing frequent electrical outages during the hottest times of the year.
In connection with that lawsuit, the Court entered a stipulation requiring Redwood to test the insulation of its underground electrical wires. Improperly insulated underground electrical wiring and can pose a serious risk of electrocution. This week, the Attorney General's Office filed a request for sanctions against Redwood, alleging that the Park has refused to perform the safety testing as ordered by the Court, and continues to expose its residents to hazardous conditions.
"Families at Redwood Mobile Home Park have been forced to live in unsafe conditions while corporate landlords ignored their duty to provide habitable living conditions," said Attorney General Mayes. "Now it appears that these same landlords are ignoring court orders entered for the safety of their residents. We are asking the court to hold them accountable for their inaction."
The Court granted a half-day evidentiary hearing to take place on August 21, 2026 to determine whether Redwood has violated the preliminary injunction order and to determine an appropriate remedy. Pursuant to A.R.S. Sec. 44-1532, businesses and individuals who violated an order entered under the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act, can face penalties up to $25,000 per violation.
"These landlords have the right to defend the way in which they have conducted their business, but they do not have the right to violate the Court's orders," continued Mayes. "They are not above the law, and my office will not allow them jeopardize the safety of their residents."
If you believe you have been the victim of consumer fraud or unfair practices, you can file a complaint with the Attorney General's Office at www.azag.gov/consumer. If you need a complaint form sent to you, you can contact the Attorney General's Office in Phoenix at (602) 542-5763, in Tucson at (520) 628-6648, or outside the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas at (800) 352-8431.
A copy of the Order to Show Cause (https://us.list-manage.com/OBjbayY41VX?e=9153ff6c96&c2id=9a759fc70c6d734a91a2647ef652fab2) is available.
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Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-seeks-sanctions-against-redwood-mobile-home-park-owners
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Attorney General Mayes Seeks Sanctions Against Redwood Mobile Home Park Owners for Defying Court Order
TUCSON - Attorney General Kris Mayes announced today that she is seeking sanctions against the owners and operators of Redwood Mobile Home Park for failing to comply with court ordered safety testing of the park's electrical systems.
In September 2025 Attorney General Mayes filed a consumer fraud lawsuit against Redwood Thunderbird MHPS, LLC, and BoaVida Communities, LLC, ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, Aug. 8 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Attorney General Mayes Seeks Sanctions Against Redwood Mobile Home Park Owners for Defying Court Order TUCSON - Attorney General Kris Mayes announced today that she is seeking sanctions against the owners and operators of Redwood Mobile Home Park for failing to comply with court ordered safety testing of the park's electrical systems. In September 2025 Attorney General Mayes filed a consumer fraud lawsuit against Redwood Thunderbird MHPS, LLC, and BoaVida Communities, LLC,owners and operators of Redwood Mobile Home Park for allegedly failing to inform Park residents that the Park's electrical system was dangerous, unreliable, and overloaded, causing frequent electrical outages during the hottest times of the year.
In connection with that lawsuit, the Court entered a stipulation requiring Redwood to test the insulation of its underground electrical wires. Improperly insulated underground electrical wiring and can pose a serious risk of electrocution. This week, the Attorney General's Office filed a request for sanctions against Redwood, alleging that the Park has refused to perform the safety testing as ordered by the Court, and continues to expose its residents to hazardous conditions.
"Families at Redwood Mobile Home Park have been forced to live in unsafe conditions while corporate landlords ignored their duty to provide habitable living conditions," said Attorney General Mayes. "Now it appears that these same landlords are ignoring court orders entered for the safety of their residents. We are asking the court to hold them accountable for their inaction."
The Court granted a half-day evidentiary hearing to take place on August 21, 2026 to determine whether Redwood has violated the preliminary injunction order and to determine an appropriate remedy. Pursuant to A.R.S. Sec. 44-1532, businesses and individuals who violated an order entered under the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act, can face penalties up to $25,000 per violation.
"These landlords have the right to defend the way in which they have conducted their business, but they do not have the right to violate the Court's orders," continued Mayes. "They are not above the law, and my office will not allow them jeopardize the safety of their residents."
If you believe you have been the victim of consumer fraud or unfair practices, you can file a complaint with the Attorney General's Office at www.azag.gov/consumer. If you need a complaint form sent to you, you can contact the Attorney General's Office in Phoenix at (602) 542-5763, in Tucson at (520) 628-6648, or outside the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas at (800) 352-8431.
A copy of the Order to Show Cause (https://us.list-manage.com/OBjbayY41VX?e=9153ff6c96&c2id=9a759fc70c6d734a91a2647ef652fab2) is available.
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Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-seeks-sanctions-against-redwood-mobile-home-park-owners