States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
States, Cities and Counties
Featured Stories
W.Va. State Treasurer Pack Announces Hope Scholarship Technology Improvements Boost Order Productivity by 42 Percent
CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Aug. 28 -- West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026:
* * *
Treasurer Pack Announces Hope Scholarship Technology Improvements Boost Order Productivity by 42 Percent
More Than 18,600 TheoPay Orders Completed Since July 1
-
State Treasurer Larry Pack, who serves as Chairman of the Hope Scholarship Board, today announced new technology improvements to the Hope Scholarship Program have increased productivity for processing TheoPay orders by 42 percent as families begin utilizing scholarship funds for the 2026-2027 school ... Show Full Article CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Aug. 28 -- West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * Treasurer Pack Announces Hope Scholarship Technology Improvements Boost Order Productivity by 42 Percent More Than 18,600 TheoPay Orders Completed Since July 1 - State Treasurer Larry Pack, who serves as Chairman of the Hope Scholarship Board, today announced new technology improvements to the Hope Scholarship Program have increased productivity for processing TheoPay orders by 42 percent as families begin utilizing scholarship funds for the 2026-2027 schoolyear. As part of the new TheoPay Self-Serve process, artificial intelligence technology reviews eligible orders under $75, allowing families to more quickly access approved educational items while increasing the program's overall processing capacity.
"The Hope Scholarship Program continues to grow rapidly, and it's important that the technology supporting the program scale with it," Treasurer Pack said. "By embracing artificial intelligence and regularly reviewing the program with Student First Technologies, we can find smarter, more efficient ways to serve families. Thanks to these efforts, our team has processed thousands more orders while giving parents greater flexibility and faster access to the educational resources their children need."
"This is exactly the kind of innovation we should pursue across state government. By using technology to improve efficiency and reduce processing times, we can deliver a better experience for the people we serve. It is time for all agencies to move at the speed of business, not bureaucracy."
From July 1 through August 24, the Hope Scholarship Program completed 18,647 TheoPay orders, an increase of nearly 87 percent compared to the 9,974 orders completed during the same period last year.
Of the 18,647 TheoPay orders approved and completed since July 1, 10,769 were processed through TheoPay Fulfillment. An additional 7,878 orders were eligible and completed through the new TheoPay Self-Serve option between August 10 and August 24. The Self-Serve technology has increased TheoPay order productivity by 42 percent.
The Hope Scholarship Program is also utilizing artificial intelligence technology to assist with identifying eligible educational products. To date, the technology has scanned more than 125,000 eligible items.
"TheoPay allows Hope Scholarship families to purchase qualifying educational items through approved external websites," Hope Scholarship Executive Director Michelle Penaloza said. "The addition of the TheoPay Self-Serve option provides parents an opportunity to work directly with the designed artificial intelligence technology to identify Hope Scholarship eligible expenses. The use of this technology has increased the program's overall efficiency and provides more direct access to educational resources than any other Educational Savings Account program in the nation."
The technology improvements come as the Hope Scholarship Program experiences significant growth following expanded eligibility for the 2026-2027 school year. More than 25,000 approved Hope Scholarship students received their first quarterly funding this month.
For more information about the Hope Scholarship or to apply to the program, visit www.HopeScholarshipWV.gov.
* * *
Original text here: https://wvtreasury.gov/About/Press-Releases/details/treasurer-pack-announces-hope-scholarship-technology-improvements-boost-order-productivity-by-42-percent
* * *
Treasurer Pack Announces Hope Scholarship Technology Improvements Boost Order Productivity by 42 Percent
More Than 18,600 TheoPay Orders Completed Since July 1
-
State Treasurer Larry Pack, who serves as Chairman of the Hope Scholarship Board, today announced new technology improvements to the Hope Scholarship Program have increased productivity for processing TheoPay orders by 42 percent as families begin utilizing scholarship funds for the 2026-2027 school ... Show Full Article CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Aug. 28 -- West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * Treasurer Pack Announces Hope Scholarship Technology Improvements Boost Order Productivity by 42 Percent More Than 18,600 TheoPay Orders Completed Since July 1 - State Treasurer Larry Pack, who serves as Chairman of the Hope Scholarship Board, today announced new technology improvements to the Hope Scholarship Program have increased productivity for processing TheoPay orders by 42 percent as families begin utilizing scholarship funds for the 2026-2027 schoolyear. As part of the new TheoPay Self-Serve process, artificial intelligence technology reviews eligible orders under $75, allowing families to more quickly access approved educational items while increasing the program's overall processing capacity.
"The Hope Scholarship Program continues to grow rapidly, and it's important that the technology supporting the program scale with it," Treasurer Pack said. "By embracing artificial intelligence and regularly reviewing the program with Student First Technologies, we can find smarter, more efficient ways to serve families. Thanks to these efforts, our team has processed thousands more orders while giving parents greater flexibility and faster access to the educational resources their children need."
"This is exactly the kind of innovation we should pursue across state government. By using technology to improve efficiency and reduce processing times, we can deliver a better experience for the people we serve. It is time for all agencies to move at the speed of business, not bureaucracy."
From July 1 through August 24, the Hope Scholarship Program completed 18,647 TheoPay orders, an increase of nearly 87 percent compared to the 9,974 orders completed during the same period last year.
Of the 18,647 TheoPay orders approved and completed since July 1, 10,769 were processed through TheoPay Fulfillment. An additional 7,878 orders were eligible and completed through the new TheoPay Self-Serve option between August 10 and August 24. The Self-Serve technology has increased TheoPay order productivity by 42 percent.
The Hope Scholarship Program is also utilizing artificial intelligence technology to assist with identifying eligible educational products. To date, the technology has scanned more than 125,000 eligible items.
"TheoPay allows Hope Scholarship families to purchase qualifying educational items through approved external websites," Hope Scholarship Executive Director Michelle Penaloza said. "The addition of the TheoPay Self-Serve option provides parents an opportunity to work directly with the designed artificial intelligence technology to identify Hope Scholarship eligible expenses. The use of this technology has increased the program's overall efficiency and provides more direct access to educational resources than any other Educational Savings Account program in the nation."
The technology improvements come as the Hope Scholarship Program experiences significant growth following expanded eligibility for the 2026-2027 school year. More than 25,000 approved Hope Scholarship students received their first quarterly funding this month.
For more information about the Hope Scholarship or to apply to the program, visit www.HopeScholarshipWV.gov.
* * *
Original text here: https://wvtreasury.gov/About/Press-Releases/details/treasurer-pack-announces-hope-scholarship-technology-improvements-boost-order-productivity-by-42-percent
Time for Fox News to Update Their Talking Points: California's Economy is Dominating
SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 28 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026:
* * *
Time for Fox News to update their talking points: California's economy is dominating
The Golden State leads the nation in innovation, growth, and industry -- it's time the talking points reflect that.
What you need to know: California's economy continues to defy the tired Fox News narrative. We're leading in innovation, business creation, talent, jobs, wages, manufacturing, and the industries shaping the future. Consider this the updated set of talking points for anyone ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 28 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * Time for Fox News to update their talking points: California's economy is dominating The Golden State leads the nation in innovation, growth, and industry -- it's time the talking points reflect that. What you need to know: California's economy continues to defy the tired Fox News narrative. We're leading in innovation, business creation, talent, jobs, wages, manufacturing, and the industries shaping the future. Consider this the updated set of talking points for anyonestill repeating an outdated story about the Golden State.
-
Today, Governor Gavin Newsom is highlighting key updates for Fox News and its right-wing friends to refresh their talking points on California's economic success. Despite the steady drumbeat of right-wing propaganda, the reality is clear: the Golden State has no peers. As the world's fourth-largest economy, California continues to attract entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from across the country and around the world -- leading the nation in new business creation, venture capital, technological innovation, advanced manufacturing, high-tech industries, and economic output. In fact, the Golden State continues to be: #1 state for new business starts, #1 state for manufacturing, #1 state for high-tech business, #1 state for agriculture.
* * *
Fox News needs to update their talking points, because their tired narrative simply doesn't match reality. California is dominating, attracting talent, capital, businesses, and ideas that are shaping the future. The right wing propaganda can keep recycling the same tired attacks, but they don't get to substitute ideology for reality. California isn't just leading, it's setting the pace for what comes next.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
IMPORTANT UPDATES ON CALIFORNIA'S ECONOMIC RECORD:
California's economic story continues to move in one direction: forward. These updates reflect the latest evidence of California's strength across growth, innovation, talent, business creation, jobs, and wages -- and provide clarity to the tired right-wing narrative that California is in decline.
UPDATE: California's growth and economic output dominate.
* After Governor Newsom took office in January 2019. California's gross domestic product surged 40% to more than $4 trillion, accounting for almost 14% of US output. This outpaced major economies including China (expanded 32%) and Germany (expanded 16%).
* California drove 40%+ of the growth in value of the nation's publicly traded equities, despite being12% of the entire U.S. population.
* California companies are thriving - "spending $527 billion annually on acquisitions during Newsom's tenure, almost three times the $179 billion spent annually in the 20 years prior to 2019."
* California is the single largest contributor to national productivity growth and accounts for roughly 14% of total U.S. economic output, despite representing just 12% of the nation's population.
UPDATE: California is a talent pipeline
* "With more than 600 colleges and universities, California today has no peers in higher education, whether in the US or any of the world's developed economies."
* California has the highest density in higher education to create a top talent pipeline, with one college or university for every 64,000 citizens, more than the UK and Germany.
* California produces more engineers than any other state.
* "Investors in California are getting 11% of their return from the University of California, the Los Angeles Unified School District and California State University."
UPDATE: California's industries are fueling the nation
According to Bloomberg, here are the industries contributing to California's economic dominance:
* Technology firms based in California lead the nationwide industry with 41 companies producing a 603% total return over the past decade. That's four times the gain of their global peers in the past two, three and five years.
* Health care contributed 52% more to California's GDP in 2025 than it did in 2019, despite MAGA attacks on the industry. "California's uninsured rate declined to a record-low 6.4% in 2023, the largest drop in the US, from more than 17% a decade ago, helped by the Covered California and Medi-Cal expanded coverage programs."
* Infrastructure and trade keep the U.S. economy moving due to this administration's infrastructure investments. California's Port of Los Angeles is the "US gateway to global trade, handling more than $300 billion of cargo annually."
* Clean energy and clean transportation are helping California maintain its future-facing dominance with eight California-based clean-energy companies valued at $100 million or mores seeing the value of their stocks appreciate an average 56% since 2019, compared to 40% for their global peers. "Their 7% average annual gain in revenue crushes the 5% global average. California renewable energy companies will see 17% revenue growth in the coming year, more than doubling the 7% increase of global peers, according to analyst estimates."
* Innovation, California attracted more venture capital funding than 49 states COMBINED. Fueled by California's unmatched leadership in technology, artificial intelligence, and innovation, the state secured $366 billion in venture capital funding raised by companies big and small so far in 2026.
UPDATE: California CONTINUES to lead in job creation while raising wages
* California wages are rising faster than the national average. Average weekly wages increased 4.6% over the year, reaching $1,954 in the fourth quarter of 2025 -- outpacing the 4.2% national increase. California's economic growth is translating into stronger paychecks for workers, not just stronger topline economic numbers.
* California is making sure workers share in the state's growth. The statewide minimum wage will rise to $17.40 per hour on January 1, 2027, under a law that adjusts wages annually to keep pace with inflation. While the federal minimum wage has remained unchanged for nearly two decades, California is continuing to raise the floor for working people and protect their purchasing power.
* California is the small business capital of the country. The state has more businesses than any other state, including Florida and Texas, and 99.8% are small businesses, more than 4.3 million in total, employing 7.6 million Californians and powering communities across the state.
* Through July 2026, California accounted for one in six new jobs in the nation. The Golden State has contributed 16.5 percent of the nation's overall job growth since the beginning of the year. From the first quarter of 2025 to the first quarter of 2026, California employers added approximately 131,534 jobs -- more than any other state during the same period.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/27/time-for-fox-news-to-update-their-talking-points-californias-economy-is-dominating/
* * *
Time for Fox News to update their talking points: California's economy is dominating
The Golden State leads the nation in innovation, growth, and industry -- it's time the talking points reflect that.
What you need to know: California's economy continues to defy the tired Fox News narrative. We're leading in innovation, business creation, talent, jobs, wages, manufacturing, and the industries shaping the future. Consider this the updated set of talking points for anyone ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 28 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * Time for Fox News to update their talking points: California's economy is dominating The Golden State leads the nation in innovation, growth, and industry -- it's time the talking points reflect that. What you need to know: California's economy continues to defy the tired Fox News narrative. We're leading in innovation, business creation, talent, jobs, wages, manufacturing, and the industries shaping the future. Consider this the updated set of talking points for anyonestill repeating an outdated story about the Golden State.
-
Today, Governor Gavin Newsom is highlighting key updates for Fox News and its right-wing friends to refresh their talking points on California's economic success. Despite the steady drumbeat of right-wing propaganda, the reality is clear: the Golden State has no peers. As the world's fourth-largest economy, California continues to attract entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from across the country and around the world -- leading the nation in new business creation, venture capital, technological innovation, advanced manufacturing, high-tech industries, and economic output. In fact, the Golden State continues to be: #1 state for new business starts, #1 state for manufacturing, #1 state for high-tech business, #1 state for agriculture.
* * *
Fox News needs to update their talking points, because their tired narrative simply doesn't match reality. California is dominating, attracting talent, capital, businesses, and ideas that are shaping the future. The right wing propaganda can keep recycling the same tired attacks, but they don't get to substitute ideology for reality. California isn't just leading, it's setting the pace for what comes next.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
IMPORTANT UPDATES ON CALIFORNIA'S ECONOMIC RECORD:
California's economic story continues to move in one direction: forward. These updates reflect the latest evidence of California's strength across growth, innovation, talent, business creation, jobs, and wages -- and provide clarity to the tired right-wing narrative that California is in decline.
UPDATE: California's growth and economic output dominate.
* After Governor Newsom took office in January 2019. California's gross domestic product surged 40% to more than $4 trillion, accounting for almost 14% of US output. This outpaced major economies including China (expanded 32%) and Germany (expanded 16%).
* California drove 40%+ of the growth in value of the nation's publicly traded equities, despite being12% of the entire U.S. population.
* California companies are thriving - "spending $527 billion annually on acquisitions during Newsom's tenure, almost three times the $179 billion spent annually in the 20 years prior to 2019."
* California is the single largest contributor to national productivity growth and accounts for roughly 14% of total U.S. economic output, despite representing just 12% of the nation's population.
UPDATE: California is a talent pipeline
* "With more than 600 colleges and universities, California today has no peers in higher education, whether in the US or any of the world's developed economies."
* California has the highest density in higher education to create a top talent pipeline, with one college or university for every 64,000 citizens, more than the UK and Germany.
* California produces more engineers than any other state.
* "Investors in California are getting 11% of their return from the University of California, the Los Angeles Unified School District and California State University."
UPDATE: California's industries are fueling the nation
According to Bloomberg, here are the industries contributing to California's economic dominance:
* Technology firms based in California lead the nationwide industry with 41 companies producing a 603% total return over the past decade. That's four times the gain of their global peers in the past two, three and five years.
* Health care contributed 52% more to California's GDP in 2025 than it did in 2019, despite MAGA attacks on the industry. "California's uninsured rate declined to a record-low 6.4% in 2023, the largest drop in the US, from more than 17% a decade ago, helped by the Covered California and Medi-Cal expanded coverage programs."
* Infrastructure and trade keep the U.S. economy moving due to this administration's infrastructure investments. California's Port of Los Angeles is the "US gateway to global trade, handling more than $300 billion of cargo annually."
* Clean energy and clean transportation are helping California maintain its future-facing dominance with eight California-based clean-energy companies valued at $100 million or mores seeing the value of their stocks appreciate an average 56% since 2019, compared to 40% for their global peers. "Their 7% average annual gain in revenue crushes the 5% global average. California renewable energy companies will see 17% revenue growth in the coming year, more than doubling the 7% increase of global peers, according to analyst estimates."
* Innovation, California attracted more venture capital funding than 49 states COMBINED. Fueled by California's unmatched leadership in technology, artificial intelligence, and innovation, the state secured $366 billion in venture capital funding raised by companies big and small so far in 2026.
UPDATE: California CONTINUES to lead in job creation while raising wages
* California wages are rising faster than the national average. Average weekly wages increased 4.6% over the year, reaching $1,954 in the fourth quarter of 2025 -- outpacing the 4.2% national increase. California's economic growth is translating into stronger paychecks for workers, not just stronger topline economic numbers.
* California is making sure workers share in the state's growth. The statewide minimum wage will rise to $17.40 per hour on January 1, 2027, under a law that adjusts wages annually to keep pace with inflation. While the federal minimum wage has remained unchanged for nearly two decades, California is continuing to raise the floor for working people and protect their purchasing power.
* California is the small business capital of the country. The state has more businesses than any other state, including Florida and Texas, and 99.8% are small businesses, more than 4.3 million in total, employing 7.6 million Californians and powering communities across the state.
* Through July 2026, California accounted for one in six new jobs in the nation. The Golden State has contributed 16.5 percent of the nation's overall job growth since the beginning of the year. From the first quarter of 2025 to the first quarter of 2026, California employers added approximately 131,534 jobs -- more than any other state during the same period.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/27/time-for-fox-news-to-update-their-talking-points-californias-economy-is-dominating/
R.I. A.G. Neronha Helps Secure $170 Million in Bill Credits, Climate Mandates on Behalf of Rhode Island Ratepayers
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Aug. 28 -- Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026:
* * *
Attorney General Neronha helps secure $170 million in bill credits, climate mandates on behalf of Rhode Island ratepayers
The PUC rejects Rhode Island Energy's efforts to maximize profits following the Office's successful advocacy
-
Attorney General Peter F. Neronha today announced that his Office helped secure $170 million in bill credits, climate mandates, and numerous other benefits for Rhode Island ratepayers following the Office's advocacy in Rhode ... Show Full Article PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Aug. 28 -- Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * Attorney General Neronha helps secure $170 million in bill credits, climate mandates on behalf of Rhode Island ratepayers The PUC rejects Rhode Island Energy's efforts to maximize profits following the Office's successful advocacy - Attorney General Peter F. Neronha today announced that his Office helped secure $170 million in bill credits, climate mandates, and numerous other benefits for Rhode Island ratepayers following the Office's advocacy in RhodeIsland Energy's distribution "rate case" before the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). On Friday, August 21, 2026, the Commission issued its decision in the rate case, siding with the Attorney General on nearly all of the Office's positions.
In June and July, the Office participated in 17 days of evidentiary hearings advocating on behalf of Rhode Island ratepayers, and recently submitted post-hearing positions to the Commission. On August 13, 2026, following the conclusion of those hearings, the Attorney General argued that the PUC should reject Rhode Island Energy's attempt to increase its profits while Rhode Islanders increasingly struggle to afford energy costs.
"Rhode Island Energy continues to acknowledge publicly that energy prices are too high while simultaneously petitioning our Public Utilities Commission to allow them to increase their profit margins," said Attorney General Neronha. "I am thankful to the PUC for rejecting this Company's attempts at adding to the financial distress of Rhode Island ratepayers who already pay far too much for essentials including food, health care, and of course, energy. Thanks to my Office's advocacy, Rhode Islanders will receive more than $20 million in additional gas and electric bill credits from an agreement my Office required during the sale of Narragansett Electric to Rhode Island Energy. As some may recall, the Company and the governor tried to ram through a deal to issue these credits using a calculation that would have shortchanged Rhode Islanders by up to $39 million, before ultimately walking away when we called them on it. While I continue to believe that the additional $21 million is less than what Rhode Island ratepayers are owed, I am grateful that they will receive $170 million rather than the $148 million deal that Rhode Island Energy and the governor tried to sneak through last year. Additionally, the PUC agreed with my Office that Rhode Island Energy must take important steps towards implementing a clean energy future, namely phasing out subsidies for fossil fuels and integrated planning and coordinated gas and electric long-term forecasting in line with Act on Climate compliance.
"We cannot simply count on Rhode Island Energy to be good community partners - after all they answer, at least in part, to their investors. Therefore, it is up to regulators and public officials to hold their feet to the fire and ensure that these utilities deliver affordable, clean energy."
Within its decision, and largely in accordance with the Attorney General's recommendations, the Commission:
* Conditionally approved Hold Harmless Customer bill credits only if the Company calculates its obligation using a customer-centric discount rate as proposed by our Office, and the Company agreed, resulting in an additional $21.3 million for Rhode Islanders in energy bill discounts for a total of $170 million;
* Rejected Rhode Island Energy's multi-year rate proposal and only a one-year increase will be allowed;
* Rejected the Company's proposed return on equity (ROE) of 10.75%, keeping the current ROE of 9.275% in place;
* Reduced the Company's equity ratio to 52% instead of the proposed 57%;
* Phased out Line Extension Allowances completely over 3 years, beginning with a 33% reduction in April 2027;
* Required the Company to work on integrated planning and coordinated gas and electric long-term forecasting in line with Act on Climate compliance.
* Required the Company to propose a schedule for Time of Use rate implementation, which will help the environment and save customers money;
* Ordered certain IT investments be reviewed in subsequent proceedings and some recovery was denied (including a request for retroactive payments);
* Reduced recovery of outside counsel investments by approximately $450,000; and
* Approved a change to a seasonal distribution rate for electric service - lowering winter and raising summer distribution rates by up to 1.5 cents per kWh, which stands to benefit all customers in combating winter prices, including heat pump customers who use larger load to heat their homes during the winter.
The PUC's decision is the result of its review of a periodic request by Rhode Island Energy to increase its base distribution rates in a rate review proposal, or a "rate case." This was the first base distribution rate case since 2018, in part because of a condition required by the Attorney General at the time of the sale of Narragansett Electric which barred the Company from requesting distribution rate increases for three years, while also securing $200 million in value for Rhode Island ratepayers.
According to Rhode Island Energy, a distribution rate case was needed "to reflect what it really costs to deliver safe, reliable energy" and "cover funding for critical infrastructure, better customer service, modern technology, and meeting state requirements." Importantly, rate case considerations include review of the Company's Return on Equity (ROE), or allowed profits, for which the Company sought an increase from 9.275% to 10.75%. Overall, Rhode Island Energy asked the PUC for an increase of more than $200 million in distribution rates for their gas and electric systems. As a result of the PUC's decision, the Company will receive significantly less than requested.
RIAG Energy Advocacy
Advocating for ratepayers has always been a top priority for Attorney General Neronha. In 2022, the Attorney General fought to secure more than $200 million in value for Rhode Island ratepayers, along with mandated steps toward meeting Act on Climate goals, after challenging the approval of the sale of Narragansett Electric by National Grid to PPL Corporation, DBA Rhode Island Energy. The agreement provided for $50 million in ratepayer credits, and $43.5 million in discharge of bill amounts for low-income and protected residential customers, the cost of which would likely have been borne by ratepayers. In addition to this direct ratepayer relief, the Attorney General required that PPL forgo recovery of $103 million from ratepayers: $82 million in costs for new investments it will make as a result of the sale and $21 million of costs already incurred by National Grid.
Since that sale, the Office has regularly sought to hold Rhode Island Energy accountable and advocate for affordable energy prices through proceedings at the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). In September 2022, Attorney General Neronha advocated for the PUC to approve a plan to mitigate Rhode Island Energy's proposed rate changes for electric service, which were slated to take effect October 1, 2022. In February 2023, Attorney General Neronha asked the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to deny approval of a proposed plan submitted by Rhode Island Energy (RIE), where the company sought a 3% increase over the next twelve months in the average annual gas bill, arguing that the plan failed to adequately account for Act on Climate mandates to reduce and eliminate greenhouse gas emissions.
On October 24, 2025, in response to bill credits proposed by Rhode Island Energy to resolve the same hold Harmless Commitment considered in the rate case, which severely undervalued the amount owed to Rhode Island ratepayers following the sale, Attorney General Neronha filed a position paper and supporting expert testimony with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to insist that Rhode Island Energy pay consumers what they are owed. As a result, Rhode Island Energy revoked the proposal.
Additionally, alongside attorneys general across the country, Attorney General Neronha has sued the Trump Administration to protect wind energy, including Revolution Wind, solar energy, electric vehicle infrastructure, and energy and related infrastructure funding, among other actions.
For more information on the Office's energy and environmental advocacy work, as well as Attorney General Neronha's recommendations, please visit our website (https://www.riag.ri.gov/about-our-office/divisions-and-units/civil-division/public-protection/environment-energy).
* * *
Original text here: https://riag.ri.gov/press-releases/attorney-general-neronha-helps-secure-170-million-bill-credits-climate-mandates
* * *
Attorney General Neronha helps secure $170 million in bill credits, climate mandates on behalf of Rhode Island ratepayers
The PUC rejects Rhode Island Energy's efforts to maximize profits following the Office's successful advocacy
-
Attorney General Peter F. Neronha today announced that his Office helped secure $170 million in bill credits, climate mandates, and numerous other benefits for Rhode Island ratepayers following the Office's advocacy in Rhode ... Show Full Article PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Aug. 28 -- Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * Attorney General Neronha helps secure $170 million in bill credits, climate mandates on behalf of Rhode Island ratepayers The PUC rejects Rhode Island Energy's efforts to maximize profits following the Office's successful advocacy - Attorney General Peter F. Neronha today announced that his Office helped secure $170 million in bill credits, climate mandates, and numerous other benefits for Rhode Island ratepayers following the Office's advocacy in RhodeIsland Energy's distribution "rate case" before the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). On Friday, August 21, 2026, the Commission issued its decision in the rate case, siding with the Attorney General on nearly all of the Office's positions.
In June and July, the Office participated in 17 days of evidentiary hearings advocating on behalf of Rhode Island ratepayers, and recently submitted post-hearing positions to the Commission. On August 13, 2026, following the conclusion of those hearings, the Attorney General argued that the PUC should reject Rhode Island Energy's attempt to increase its profits while Rhode Islanders increasingly struggle to afford energy costs.
"Rhode Island Energy continues to acknowledge publicly that energy prices are too high while simultaneously petitioning our Public Utilities Commission to allow them to increase their profit margins," said Attorney General Neronha. "I am thankful to the PUC for rejecting this Company's attempts at adding to the financial distress of Rhode Island ratepayers who already pay far too much for essentials including food, health care, and of course, energy. Thanks to my Office's advocacy, Rhode Islanders will receive more than $20 million in additional gas and electric bill credits from an agreement my Office required during the sale of Narragansett Electric to Rhode Island Energy. As some may recall, the Company and the governor tried to ram through a deal to issue these credits using a calculation that would have shortchanged Rhode Islanders by up to $39 million, before ultimately walking away when we called them on it. While I continue to believe that the additional $21 million is less than what Rhode Island ratepayers are owed, I am grateful that they will receive $170 million rather than the $148 million deal that Rhode Island Energy and the governor tried to sneak through last year. Additionally, the PUC agreed with my Office that Rhode Island Energy must take important steps towards implementing a clean energy future, namely phasing out subsidies for fossil fuels and integrated planning and coordinated gas and electric long-term forecasting in line with Act on Climate compliance.
"We cannot simply count on Rhode Island Energy to be good community partners - after all they answer, at least in part, to their investors. Therefore, it is up to regulators and public officials to hold their feet to the fire and ensure that these utilities deliver affordable, clean energy."
Within its decision, and largely in accordance with the Attorney General's recommendations, the Commission:
* Conditionally approved Hold Harmless Customer bill credits only if the Company calculates its obligation using a customer-centric discount rate as proposed by our Office, and the Company agreed, resulting in an additional $21.3 million for Rhode Islanders in energy bill discounts for a total of $170 million;
* Rejected Rhode Island Energy's multi-year rate proposal and only a one-year increase will be allowed;
* Rejected the Company's proposed return on equity (ROE) of 10.75%, keeping the current ROE of 9.275% in place;
* Reduced the Company's equity ratio to 52% instead of the proposed 57%;
* Phased out Line Extension Allowances completely over 3 years, beginning with a 33% reduction in April 2027;
* Required the Company to work on integrated planning and coordinated gas and electric long-term forecasting in line with Act on Climate compliance.
* Required the Company to propose a schedule for Time of Use rate implementation, which will help the environment and save customers money;
* Ordered certain IT investments be reviewed in subsequent proceedings and some recovery was denied (including a request for retroactive payments);
* Reduced recovery of outside counsel investments by approximately $450,000; and
* Approved a change to a seasonal distribution rate for electric service - lowering winter and raising summer distribution rates by up to 1.5 cents per kWh, which stands to benefit all customers in combating winter prices, including heat pump customers who use larger load to heat their homes during the winter.
The PUC's decision is the result of its review of a periodic request by Rhode Island Energy to increase its base distribution rates in a rate review proposal, or a "rate case." This was the first base distribution rate case since 2018, in part because of a condition required by the Attorney General at the time of the sale of Narragansett Electric which barred the Company from requesting distribution rate increases for three years, while also securing $200 million in value for Rhode Island ratepayers.
According to Rhode Island Energy, a distribution rate case was needed "to reflect what it really costs to deliver safe, reliable energy" and "cover funding for critical infrastructure, better customer service, modern technology, and meeting state requirements." Importantly, rate case considerations include review of the Company's Return on Equity (ROE), or allowed profits, for which the Company sought an increase from 9.275% to 10.75%. Overall, Rhode Island Energy asked the PUC for an increase of more than $200 million in distribution rates for their gas and electric systems. As a result of the PUC's decision, the Company will receive significantly less than requested.
RIAG Energy Advocacy
Advocating for ratepayers has always been a top priority for Attorney General Neronha. In 2022, the Attorney General fought to secure more than $200 million in value for Rhode Island ratepayers, along with mandated steps toward meeting Act on Climate goals, after challenging the approval of the sale of Narragansett Electric by National Grid to PPL Corporation, DBA Rhode Island Energy. The agreement provided for $50 million in ratepayer credits, and $43.5 million in discharge of bill amounts for low-income and protected residential customers, the cost of which would likely have been borne by ratepayers. In addition to this direct ratepayer relief, the Attorney General required that PPL forgo recovery of $103 million from ratepayers: $82 million in costs for new investments it will make as a result of the sale and $21 million of costs already incurred by National Grid.
Since that sale, the Office has regularly sought to hold Rhode Island Energy accountable and advocate for affordable energy prices through proceedings at the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). In September 2022, Attorney General Neronha advocated for the PUC to approve a plan to mitigate Rhode Island Energy's proposed rate changes for electric service, which were slated to take effect October 1, 2022. In February 2023, Attorney General Neronha asked the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to deny approval of a proposed plan submitted by Rhode Island Energy (RIE), where the company sought a 3% increase over the next twelve months in the average annual gas bill, arguing that the plan failed to adequately account for Act on Climate mandates to reduce and eliminate greenhouse gas emissions.
On October 24, 2025, in response to bill credits proposed by Rhode Island Energy to resolve the same hold Harmless Commitment considered in the rate case, which severely undervalued the amount owed to Rhode Island ratepayers following the sale, Attorney General Neronha filed a position paper and supporting expert testimony with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to insist that Rhode Island Energy pay consumers what they are owed. As a result, Rhode Island Energy revoked the proposal.
Additionally, alongside attorneys general across the country, Attorney General Neronha has sued the Trump Administration to protect wind energy, including Revolution Wind, solar energy, electric vehicle infrastructure, and energy and related infrastructure funding, among other actions.
For more information on the Office's energy and environmental advocacy work, as well as Attorney General Neronha's recommendations, please visit our website (https://www.riag.ri.gov/about-our-office/divisions-and-units/civil-division/public-protection/environment-energy).
* * *
Original text here: https://riag.ri.gov/press-releases/attorney-general-neronha-helps-secure-170-million-bill-credits-climate-mandates
N.Y. State Dept. and Village of Nyack Announce Completion of Waterfront Revitalization Project at Memorial Park
ALBANY, New York, Aug. 28 -- The New York Department of State issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026:
* * *
NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND VILLAGE OF NYACK ANNOUNCE COMPLETION OF WATERFRONT REVITALIZATION PROJECT AT MEMORIAL PARK
New Accessible Pathway, Shoreline Resiliency Upgrades and Art Pad for Public Art Installations
Projects Funded Through the State Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
Nyack Also a Round 3 NY Forward Program Winner
-
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley and Village of Nyack Mayor Joe Rand announced today the completion of several waterfront ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, Aug. 28 -- The New York Department of State issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND VILLAGE OF NYACK ANNOUNCE COMPLETION OF WATERFRONT REVITALIZATION PROJECT AT MEMORIAL PARK New Accessible Pathway, Shoreline Resiliency Upgrades and Art Pad for Public Art Installations Projects Funded Through the State Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Nyack Also a Round 3 NY Forward Program Winner - New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley and Village of Nyack Mayor Joe Rand announced today the completion of several waterfrontimprovements to Memorial Park in Nyack. Projects unveiled at a ribbon-cutting today include a new accessible pathway; resilient shoreline stabilization upgrades; and a public art installation pad. The projects were supported by a $417,000 grant from the New York State Department of State's Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP). Nyack is also a round 3 Mid-Hudson region winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.
"Accessible waterfront recreation and downtown revitalization are coming together here in Nyack, creating a perfect recipe for long-term sustainability, resiliency and economic development," said New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. "We are thrilled that two of our signature community development programs have converged to improve the waterfront experience and re-connect the waterfront to this burgeoning downtown."
Improvements funded through this LWRP Grant include:
* Accessible waterfront pathway along the Hudson River from the pedestrian bridge south to the fishing pier at memorial park, replacing a previous gravel path that was difficult to navigate.
* Shoreline stabilization--with landscaping and other materials--to enhance resilience to storm surge and climate change impacts.
* An art installation pad to accommodate future public art projects.
* New public gathering spaces, picnic tables, landscaping, lighting and rain gardens.
Nyack also received and implemented several previous LWRP awards over the past 30 years for waterfront improvements totaling $1.3 million Some of the projects include:
* Memorial Park/Village Marina Connection and Waterfront Pathway ($401,000). Designed and constructed a walkway along the Hudson River connecting Memorial Park to the Village marina. This grant also supported the inlet pedestrian bridge connecting Memorial Park to the Village.
* Update to LWRP Plan ($75,000). The Village amended its LWRP plan to guide development within their waterfront area.
* Boat Ramp and Dock ($150,000). Designed and constructed a ramp and eco-dock at the Nyack Marina to create safe access to the Hudson River for boats.
* Memorial Park Shoreline and Fishing Pier ($150,000). Designed and constructed a fishing pier with railings and an accessible boat ramp.
Nyack also received a $590,000 grant in 2025 from the Department of State's Coastal Rehabilitation and Resiliency project program to further bolster resiliency along the shoreline. That program is funded through Governor Hochul's Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, which New York voters approved overwhelmingly in 2022.
Nyack was also named the Mid-Hudson NY Forward program winner for the third round of the program in 2025. Other NY Forward winners in the region include Village of Sleepy Hollow, Town of Cornwall/Village of Cornwall-on-Hudson, Village of Highland Falls, Village of Montgomery, Village of Dobbs Ferry and most recently Village of Ellenville and Town of Rockland/Livingston Manor.
State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, "Under Governor Hochul's leadership, state agencies continue to make historic investments to bolster both environmental and economic impacts in communities like Nyack. DEC applauds our partners at the Department of State for investing in the Memorial Park shoreline stabilization project that complements and furthers our ongoing efforts to promote resiliency, protect waterways, and support sustainable outdoor recreation."
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Kathy Moser said, "New York's waterfront parks are vital recreational and environmental resources for shoreline communities. Through programs like the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, cities, towns and villages like Nyack can restore these spaces while strengthening resilience to flooding. By stabilizing the Hudson River shoreline and creating new accessible pathways, Nyack is ensuring that future generations and New Yorkers of all abilities can enjoy Memorial Park and all the riverfront has to offer."
Village of Nyack Mayor Joe Rand said, "Nyack is blessed with a spectacular waterfront park, a place to relax, attend special events such as our summer music series, and connect with friends and neighbors. NYS support has enabled us to make the waterfront accessible and sustainable for residents and tourists alike."
* * *
About the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
The Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) provides grants to communities to develop community-driven waterfront revitalization plans that cultivate a vision for their waterfront; identify projects to implement that vision; and provide coastal policies to guide future planning, development and infrastructure. LWRP also funds Watershed Management Plans (WMPs), which protect and restore water quality and watersheds as well as address watershed-wide resiliency. LWRP projects help communities expand public access to their waterfronts and protect the environment, while also boosting tourism, economic development and community resiliency.
LWRP is funded through the State's Environmental Protection Fund. Governor Hochul has made available an unprecedented $450 million this year for programs supported through the State Environmental Protection Fund, up from $300 million in 2023.
* * *
About the NY Forward Program
First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State's revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.
NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through four rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $340 million to 77 communities across every region of the State.
* * *
Original text here: https://dos.ny.gov/news/new-york-department-state-and-village-nyack-announce-completion-waterfront-revitalization
* * *
NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND VILLAGE OF NYACK ANNOUNCE COMPLETION OF WATERFRONT REVITALIZATION PROJECT AT MEMORIAL PARK
New Accessible Pathway, Shoreline Resiliency Upgrades and Art Pad for Public Art Installations
Projects Funded Through the State Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
Nyack Also a Round 3 NY Forward Program Winner
-
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley and Village of Nyack Mayor Joe Rand announced today the completion of several waterfront ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, Aug. 28 -- The New York Department of State issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND VILLAGE OF NYACK ANNOUNCE COMPLETION OF WATERFRONT REVITALIZATION PROJECT AT MEMORIAL PARK New Accessible Pathway, Shoreline Resiliency Upgrades and Art Pad for Public Art Installations Projects Funded Through the State Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Nyack Also a Round 3 NY Forward Program Winner - New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley and Village of Nyack Mayor Joe Rand announced today the completion of several waterfrontimprovements to Memorial Park in Nyack. Projects unveiled at a ribbon-cutting today include a new accessible pathway; resilient shoreline stabilization upgrades; and a public art installation pad. The projects were supported by a $417,000 grant from the New York State Department of State's Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP). Nyack is also a round 3 Mid-Hudson region winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.
"Accessible waterfront recreation and downtown revitalization are coming together here in Nyack, creating a perfect recipe for long-term sustainability, resiliency and economic development," said New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. "We are thrilled that two of our signature community development programs have converged to improve the waterfront experience and re-connect the waterfront to this burgeoning downtown."
Improvements funded through this LWRP Grant include:
* Accessible waterfront pathway along the Hudson River from the pedestrian bridge south to the fishing pier at memorial park, replacing a previous gravel path that was difficult to navigate.
* Shoreline stabilization--with landscaping and other materials--to enhance resilience to storm surge and climate change impacts.
* An art installation pad to accommodate future public art projects.
* New public gathering spaces, picnic tables, landscaping, lighting and rain gardens.
Nyack also received and implemented several previous LWRP awards over the past 30 years for waterfront improvements totaling $1.3 million Some of the projects include:
* Memorial Park/Village Marina Connection and Waterfront Pathway ($401,000). Designed and constructed a walkway along the Hudson River connecting Memorial Park to the Village marina. This grant also supported the inlet pedestrian bridge connecting Memorial Park to the Village.
* Update to LWRP Plan ($75,000). The Village amended its LWRP plan to guide development within their waterfront area.
* Boat Ramp and Dock ($150,000). Designed and constructed a ramp and eco-dock at the Nyack Marina to create safe access to the Hudson River for boats.
* Memorial Park Shoreline and Fishing Pier ($150,000). Designed and constructed a fishing pier with railings and an accessible boat ramp.
Nyack also received a $590,000 grant in 2025 from the Department of State's Coastal Rehabilitation and Resiliency project program to further bolster resiliency along the shoreline. That program is funded through Governor Hochul's Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, which New York voters approved overwhelmingly in 2022.
Nyack was also named the Mid-Hudson NY Forward program winner for the third round of the program in 2025. Other NY Forward winners in the region include Village of Sleepy Hollow, Town of Cornwall/Village of Cornwall-on-Hudson, Village of Highland Falls, Village of Montgomery, Village of Dobbs Ferry and most recently Village of Ellenville and Town of Rockland/Livingston Manor.
State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, "Under Governor Hochul's leadership, state agencies continue to make historic investments to bolster both environmental and economic impacts in communities like Nyack. DEC applauds our partners at the Department of State for investing in the Memorial Park shoreline stabilization project that complements and furthers our ongoing efforts to promote resiliency, protect waterways, and support sustainable outdoor recreation."
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Kathy Moser said, "New York's waterfront parks are vital recreational and environmental resources for shoreline communities. Through programs like the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, cities, towns and villages like Nyack can restore these spaces while strengthening resilience to flooding. By stabilizing the Hudson River shoreline and creating new accessible pathways, Nyack is ensuring that future generations and New Yorkers of all abilities can enjoy Memorial Park and all the riverfront has to offer."
Village of Nyack Mayor Joe Rand said, "Nyack is blessed with a spectacular waterfront park, a place to relax, attend special events such as our summer music series, and connect with friends and neighbors. NYS support has enabled us to make the waterfront accessible and sustainable for residents and tourists alike."
* * *
About the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
The Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) provides grants to communities to develop community-driven waterfront revitalization plans that cultivate a vision for their waterfront; identify projects to implement that vision; and provide coastal policies to guide future planning, development and infrastructure. LWRP also funds Watershed Management Plans (WMPs), which protect and restore water quality and watersheds as well as address watershed-wide resiliency. LWRP projects help communities expand public access to their waterfronts and protect the environment, while also boosting tourism, economic development and community resiliency.
LWRP is funded through the State's Environmental Protection Fund. Governor Hochul has made available an unprecedented $450 million this year for programs supported through the State Environmental Protection Fund, up from $300 million in 2023.
* * *
About the NY Forward Program
First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State's revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.
NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through four rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $340 million to 77 communities across every region of the State.
* * *
Original text here: https://dos.ny.gov/news/new-york-department-state-and-village-nyack-announce-completion-waterfront-revitalization
N.Y. Comptroller DiNapoli: NYC Public Schools Should Fix Deficiencies Overseeing Student Suspensions
ALBANY, New York, Aug. 28 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026:
* * *
DiNapoli: NYC Public Schools Should Fix Deficiencies Overseeing Student Suspensions
An audit of New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) oversight of student suspensions released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli found many students receiving multiple disciplinary actions, low attendance at required alternative education sites during suspensions, and a need for NYCPS to improve the administration of student interventions to better support students ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, Aug. 28 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * DiNapoli: NYC Public Schools Should Fix Deficiencies Overseeing Student Suspensions An audit of New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) oversight of student suspensions released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli found many students receiving multiple disciplinary actions, low attendance at required alternative education sites during suspensions, and a need for NYCPS to improve the administration of student interventions to better support studentsfacing disciplinary actions.
"My auditors found concerning trends and deficiencies that indicate the need for stronger monitoring and improvements by New York City Public Schools to better support at-risk students," DiNapoli said. "I urge school officials to act on our recommendations to keep these students from falling through the cracks."
NYCPS, the nation's largest public school system, serves more than 900,000 students across over 1,800 schools in grades K-12 throughout the five boroughs. The audit looked at four school years (2019-20 through 2022-23), during which 54,565 students were involved in 88,356 incidents that resulted in a disciplinary response. Of these, 16,605 students (30%) were disciplined two or more times. The majority of these students - 92% - were disciplined between two and five times, while the rest were disciplined six or more times.
Of the students who were disciplined two or more times, 6,735 (41%) had no records indicating they received any support or intervention, as required. Multiple disciplinary responses with little to no corresponding support and intervention may worsen student behavior rather than improve it.
Students who received superintendent suspensions for more serious behavioral issues were absent nearly half of the days they were assigned to receive instruction at alternate locations, as required. For the 11,878 students in grades 3 through 12, with a total of 15,100 superintendent suspensions, the absenteeism rate averaged 54% for their suspension days. Missing this many instruction days may cause students to fall behind academically, struggle to catch up, and potentially drop out of school.
Auditors also noted disparities in suspension length across racial/ethnic groups, with the most frequent infractions with Black students receiving more disciplinary days, on average, compared with the other ethnic groups. For example, for intimidating and bullying behavior, Black and Hispanic students were disciplined an average of 5.75 and 4.66 days, respectively, compared with 3.88 days for white students and 3.61 days for Asian students.
The audit also identified:
* A failure to ensure all school staff completed required behavioral supports training.
* In 2019, NYCPS implemented a policy capping school suspensions at 20 days, except when longer suspensions are required by law or when the infraction falls under Level 5 (Seriously Dangerous or Violent Behavior). However, 113 students received suspensions lasting more than 20 days for Level 4 infractions (Aggressive or Injurious/Harmful Behavior).
* Regulations require parents to receive written notification of a principal or superintendent suspension within 24 hours. Many of the 134 suspension notifications provided for a sample of 59 students were missing information such as the date of the decision to suspend, the suspension start date, and the date the notification was issued to parents. Lacking this information, there is no assurance that notifications to parents were made on time.
DiNapoli's audit recommended NYCPS:
* Ensure appropriate supports and interventions are provided consistently to all students, especially those at high risk of being disciplined multiple times.
* Monitor the length of suspensions assessed to ensure consistency across all racial/ethnic groups.
* Ensure all staff (including non-instructional staff) attend all mandated trainings, including those that address biases.
* Monitor the use of suspensions that exceed 20 days by identifying behaviors that lead to lengthy suspensions.
* Monitor students' attendance at alternative learning locations during superintendent suspensions and assess reasons for and take actions to address low attendance.
* Ensure compliance with parental notification and conference/hearing requirements.
NYCPS generally disagreed with several audit findings, noting that three of the four academic years examined were during periods of COVID-related disruptions, but generally agreed with the report's recommendations. The department's full response is included in the audit.
* * *
Audit
* New York City Public Schools: Oversight of Student Suspensions (https://www.osc.ny.gov/state-agencies/audits/2026/08/27/oversight-student-suspensions)
* * *
Original text here: https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2026/08/dinapoli-nyc-public-schools-should-fix-deficiencies-overseeing-student-suspensions
* * *
DiNapoli: NYC Public Schools Should Fix Deficiencies Overseeing Student Suspensions
An audit of New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) oversight of student suspensions released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli found many students receiving multiple disciplinary actions, low attendance at required alternative education sites during suspensions, and a need for NYCPS to improve the administration of student interventions to better support students ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, Aug. 28 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * DiNapoli: NYC Public Schools Should Fix Deficiencies Overseeing Student Suspensions An audit of New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) oversight of student suspensions released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli found many students receiving multiple disciplinary actions, low attendance at required alternative education sites during suspensions, and a need for NYCPS to improve the administration of student interventions to better support studentsfacing disciplinary actions.
"My auditors found concerning trends and deficiencies that indicate the need for stronger monitoring and improvements by New York City Public Schools to better support at-risk students," DiNapoli said. "I urge school officials to act on our recommendations to keep these students from falling through the cracks."
NYCPS, the nation's largest public school system, serves more than 900,000 students across over 1,800 schools in grades K-12 throughout the five boroughs. The audit looked at four school years (2019-20 through 2022-23), during which 54,565 students were involved in 88,356 incidents that resulted in a disciplinary response. Of these, 16,605 students (30%) were disciplined two or more times. The majority of these students - 92% - were disciplined between two and five times, while the rest were disciplined six or more times.
Of the students who were disciplined two or more times, 6,735 (41%) had no records indicating they received any support or intervention, as required. Multiple disciplinary responses with little to no corresponding support and intervention may worsen student behavior rather than improve it.
Students who received superintendent suspensions for more serious behavioral issues were absent nearly half of the days they were assigned to receive instruction at alternate locations, as required. For the 11,878 students in grades 3 through 12, with a total of 15,100 superintendent suspensions, the absenteeism rate averaged 54% for their suspension days. Missing this many instruction days may cause students to fall behind academically, struggle to catch up, and potentially drop out of school.
Auditors also noted disparities in suspension length across racial/ethnic groups, with the most frequent infractions with Black students receiving more disciplinary days, on average, compared with the other ethnic groups. For example, for intimidating and bullying behavior, Black and Hispanic students were disciplined an average of 5.75 and 4.66 days, respectively, compared with 3.88 days for white students and 3.61 days for Asian students.
The audit also identified:
* A failure to ensure all school staff completed required behavioral supports training.
* In 2019, NYCPS implemented a policy capping school suspensions at 20 days, except when longer suspensions are required by law or when the infraction falls under Level 5 (Seriously Dangerous or Violent Behavior). However, 113 students received suspensions lasting more than 20 days for Level 4 infractions (Aggressive or Injurious/Harmful Behavior).
* Regulations require parents to receive written notification of a principal or superintendent suspension within 24 hours. Many of the 134 suspension notifications provided for a sample of 59 students were missing information such as the date of the decision to suspend, the suspension start date, and the date the notification was issued to parents. Lacking this information, there is no assurance that notifications to parents were made on time.
DiNapoli's audit recommended NYCPS:
* Ensure appropriate supports and interventions are provided consistently to all students, especially those at high risk of being disciplined multiple times.
* Monitor the length of suspensions assessed to ensure consistency across all racial/ethnic groups.
* Ensure all staff (including non-instructional staff) attend all mandated trainings, including those that address biases.
* Monitor the use of suspensions that exceed 20 days by identifying behaviors that lead to lengthy suspensions.
* Monitor students' attendance at alternative learning locations during superintendent suspensions and assess reasons for and take actions to address low attendance.
* Ensure compliance with parental notification and conference/hearing requirements.
NYCPS generally disagreed with several audit findings, noting that three of the four academic years examined were during periods of COVID-related disruptions, but generally agreed with the report's recommendations. The department's full response is included in the audit.
* * *
Audit
* New York City Public Schools: Oversight of Student Suspensions (https://www.osc.ny.gov/state-agencies/audits/2026/08/27/oversight-student-suspensions)
* * *
Original text here: https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2026/08/dinapoli-nyc-public-schools-should-fix-deficiencies-overseeing-student-suspensions
Maine State Sen. Tim Nangle Appointed to Emergency Medical Services Commission
AUGUSTA, Maine, Aug. 28 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham:
* * *
Sen. Tim Nangle appointed to Emergency Medical Services Commission
Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham, was appointed by Senate President Mattie Daughtry, D-Brunswick, to serve on the Maine Emergency Medical Services Commission, a newly established permanent commission charged with monitoring Maine's emergency medical services system and recommending changes to strengthen it for the future. His appointment took effect July 29.
"EMS is the safety net people don't ... Show Full Article AUGUSTA, Maine, Aug. 28 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham: * * * Sen. Tim Nangle appointed to Emergency Medical Services Commission Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham, was appointed by Senate President Mattie Daughtry, D-Brunswick, to serve on the Maine Emergency Medical Services Commission, a newly established permanent commission charged with monitoring Maine's emergency medical services system and recommending changes to strengthen it for the future. His appointment took effect July 29. "EMS is the safety net people don'tthink about until the moment they need it," said Sen. Nangle. "I know firsthand that the quality of emergency care depends on the people, equipment, resources and coordination behind every response. Maine has outstanding EMS professionals, but many services are operating under real strain. I'm looking forward to bringing my perspective as a former paramedic and current policymaker to this commission and helping build a system that our communities can count on for the long term."
Before entering public office, Sen. Nangle spent 27 years as a paramedic with Portland Fire Department's Medical Crisis Unit. He has also previously served as a firefighter, police officer and 911 dispatcher.
The Maine Emergency Medical Services Commission was established through LD 245, "An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission to Study Emergency Medical Services in the State." The law grew out of the work of a Blue Ribbon Commission tasked with examining the structure, support and delivery of emergency medical services in Maine and identified concerns about the long-term financial stability, oversight and resilience of the system. The Legislature found that some EMS entities were at immediate or future risk of failure, potentially leaving communities without adequate access to emergency medical care.
The permanent, 18-member commission includes lawmakers alongside representatives from Maine EMS, municipal and nonmunicipal ambulance services, practicing EMS professionals, dispatch centers, hospitals, municipalities, air ambulance services, EMS training programs, physicians and fire chiefs. The commission must meet at least quarterly.
As part of its work, the commission will assess current and future EMS resource needs and potential funding options; evaluate existing programs and initiatives; examine recruitment and retention of paid and volunteer EMS professionals; consider improvements to EMS data collection and system evaluation; and review how municipalities plan and provide ambulance and other transporting EMS services. The commission may also hold public hearings, workshops and other meetings to hear directly about challenges facing the system and potential solutions.
The commission is required to submit its first annual report with findings and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature's committee overseeing public safety matters by Jan. 1, 2027. Lawmakers may then introduce legislation based on the commission's recommendations.
Sen. Nangle is serving his second term in the Maine Senate, representing Casco, Frye Island, Raymond, Windham and part of Westbrook. He serves as Senate chair of the Transportation Committee and sits on the Health and Human Services Committee.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.mainesenate.org/sen-tim-nangle-appointed-to-emergency-medical-services-commission/
* * *
Sen. Tim Nangle appointed to Emergency Medical Services Commission
Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham, was appointed by Senate President Mattie Daughtry, D-Brunswick, to serve on the Maine Emergency Medical Services Commission, a newly established permanent commission charged with monitoring Maine's emergency medical services system and recommending changes to strengthen it for the future. His appointment took effect July 29.
"EMS is the safety net people don't ... Show Full Article AUGUSTA, Maine, Aug. 28 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham: * * * Sen. Tim Nangle appointed to Emergency Medical Services Commission Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham, was appointed by Senate President Mattie Daughtry, D-Brunswick, to serve on the Maine Emergency Medical Services Commission, a newly established permanent commission charged with monitoring Maine's emergency medical services system and recommending changes to strengthen it for the future. His appointment took effect July 29. "EMS is the safety net people don'tthink about until the moment they need it," said Sen. Nangle. "I know firsthand that the quality of emergency care depends on the people, equipment, resources and coordination behind every response. Maine has outstanding EMS professionals, but many services are operating under real strain. I'm looking forward to bringing my perspective as a former paramedic and current policymaker to this commission and helping build a system that our communities can count on for the long term."
Before entering public office, Sen. Nangle spent 27 years as a paramedic with Portland Fire Department's Medical Crisis Unit. He has also previously served as a firefighter, police officer and 911 dispatcher.
The Maine Emergency Medical Services Commission was established through LD 245, "An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission to Study Emergency Medical Services in the State." The law grew out of the work of a Blue Ribbon Commission tasked with examining the structure, support and delivery of emergency medical services in Maine and identified concerns about the long-term financial stability, oversight and resilience of the system. The Legislature found that some EMS entities were at immediate or future risk of failure, potentially leaving communities without adequate access to emergency medical care.
The permanent, 18-member commission includes lawmakers alongside representatives from Maine EMS, municipal and nonmunicipal ambulance services, practicing EMS professionals, dispatch centers, hospitals, municipalities, air ambulance services, EMS training programs, physicians and fire chiefs. The commission must meet at least quarterly.
As part of its work, the commission will assess current and future EMS resource needs and potential funding options; evaluate existing programs and initiatives; examine recruitment and retention of paid and volunteer EMS professionals; consider improvements to EMS data collection and system evaluation; and review how municipalities plan and provide ambulance and other transporting EMS services. The commission may also hold public hearings, workshops and other meetings to hear directly about challenges facing the system and potential solutions.
The commission is required to submit its first annual report with findings and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature's committee overseeing public safety matters by Jan. 1, 2027. Lawmakers may then introduce legislation based on the commission's recommendations.
Sen. Nangle is serving his second term in the Maine Senate, representing Casco, Frye Island, Raymond, Windham and part of Westbrook. He serves as Senate chair of the Transportation Committee and sits on the Health and Human Services Committee.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.mainesenate.org/sen-tim-nangle-appointed-to-emergency-medical-services-commission/
Ga. Gov. Kemp: Walmart to Bring 1,000 Jobs, Next-Gen Fulfillment Center to Carnesville
ATLANTA, Georgia, Aug. 28 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026:
* * *
Gov. Kemp: Walmart to Bring 1,000 Jobs, Next-Gen Fulfillment Center to Carnesville
LIMA, PERU - Governor Brian P. Kemp today, while continuing an economic development mission in South America, announced that Walmart, Inc. plans to build a high-tech, next-generation fulfillment center in Carnesville, creating 1,000 new jobs and bringing $1.3 billion in investment to Franklin County.
"This massive investment from Walmart in a rural part of our state will not only create new, good-paying ... Show Full Article ATLANTA, Georgia, Aug. 28 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * Gov. Kemp: Walmart to Bring 1,000 Jobs, Next-Gen Fulfillment Center to Carnesville LIMA, PERU - Governor Brian P. Kemp today, while continuing an economic development mission in South America, announced that Walmart, Inc. plans to build a high-tech, next-generation fulfillment center in Carnesville, creating 1,000 new jobs and bringing $1.3 billion in investment to Franklin County. "This massive investment from Walmart in a rural part of our state will not only create new, good-payingjobs for hardworking Georgians, it will also allow them to work close to home rather than commuting to a larger city for work," said Governor Brian P. Kemp. "Every Georgian should have opportunity, no matter their zipcode, and Walmart is helping us deliver on that promise."
Walmart's presence in Georgia includes 209 Walmart stores and Sam's Clubs, as well as 11 supply chain facilities, employing more than 65,300 associates across the state. The retailer also supports local businesses in Georgia, spending more than $26.2 billion with Georgia suppliers and supporting more than 167,600 supplier jobs in fiscal year 2025, alone.
"As customer expectations continue to evolve, investments like our new fulfillment center in Carnesville help us deliver the speed, convenience, and reliability customers count on," said Karisa Sprague, Senior Vice President, Supply Chain, Walmart U.S. "We're excited to join the Carnesville community and create meaningful career opportunities where associates can grow and build their future with Walmart."
The new 1.5 million-square-foot automated facility will be located at the Franklin 85 Logistics Center in Carnesville. Walmart's next-generation fulfillment centers are located in strategic markets to expand same-day and next-day shipping capabilities across the United States. Construction is expected to begin in late 2026.
"This investment represents a significant milestone for our community and reflects the confidence that businesses have in our workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life," said Franklin Springs Mayor and Chairman of the Franklin County Industrial Authority Lee Moore. "The jobs and economic opportunities created through this project will benefit local families and strengthen our economy for years to come. We are proud to partner with Walmart and appreciate their commitment to investing in Franklin County."
"This announcement is the result of strong partnerships among the Franklin County Industrial Building Authority, our state partners, utility partners and all those who have worked together to bring this to life," said Tonya Powers, President of the Franklin County Industrial Building Authority. "Walmart's decision to locate and grow in Franklin County demonstrates the competitive advantages we offer and reinforces our commitment to creating an environment where businesses can succeed. We look forward to supporting their continued growth and celebrating their success in the years ahead."
Assistant Director of Statewide Projects Elizabeth McLean represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development on this competitive project in partnership with the Franklin County Industrial Building Authority, Georgia EMC, and Georgia Quick Start.
"An investment and job-creating project of this magnitude will deliver generational opportunity for Franklin County and communities across northeast Georgia," said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. "Having grown up in Franklin County, I know what it means to see an investment of this scale come to a rural community. Walmart's decision to build and grow here is a testament to the strength of this community and the opportunities that exist beyond Georgia's major metropolitan areas. This is about more than 1,000 jobs and $1.3 billion in investment. It is about giving people the opportunity to build a future in the community they call home. We are proud to welcome Walmart to Franklin County and grateful to all of our partners who helped make this possible."
* * *
About Walmart
Walmart, Inc. (Nasdaq: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better - anytime and anywhere - in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 280 million customers and members visit more than 10,900 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2026 revenue of $713 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart, on X at x.com/walmart, and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/walmart.
* * *
Original text here: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2026-08-27/gov-kemp-walmart-bring-1000-jobs-next-gen-fulfillment-center-carnesville
* * *
Gov. Kemp: Walmart to Bring 1,000 Jobs, Next-Gen Fulfillment Center to Carnesville
LIMA, PERU - Governor Brian P. Kemp today, while continuing an economic development mission in South America, announced that Walmart, Inc. plans to build a high-tech, next-generation fulfillment center in Carnesville, creating 1,000 new jobs and bringing $1.3 billion in investment to Franklin County.
"This massive investment from Walmart in a rural part of our state will not only create new, good-paying ... Show Full Article ATLANTA, Georgia, Aug. 28 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * Gov. Kemp: Walmart to Bring 1,000 Jobs, Next-Gen Fulfillment Center to Carnesville LIMA, PERU - Governor Brian P. Kemp today, while continuing an economic development mission in South America, announced that Walmart, Inc. plans to build a high-tech, next-generation fulfillment center in Carnesville, creating 1,000 new jobs and bringing $1.3 billion in investment to Franklin County. "This massive investment from Walmart in a rural part of our state will not only create new, good-payingjobs for hardworking Georgians, it will also allow them to work close to home rather than commuting to a larger city for work," said Governor Brian P. Kemp. "Every Georgian should have opportunity, no matter their zipcode, and Walmart is helping us deliver on that promise."
Walmart's presence in Georgia includes 209 Walmart stores and Sam's Clubs, as well as 11 supply chain facilities, employing more than 65,300 associates across the state. The retailer also supports local businesses in Georgia, spending more than $26.2 billion with Georgia suppliers and supporting more than 167,600 supplier jobs in fiscal year 2025, alone.
"As customer expectations continue to evolve, investments like our new fulfillment center in Carnesville help us deliver the speed, convenience, and reliability customers count on," said Karisa Sprague, Senior Vice President, Supply Chain, Walmart U.S. "We're excited to join the Carnesville community and create meaningful career opportunities where associates can grow and build their future with Walmart."
The new 1.5 million-square-foot automated facility will be located at the Franklin 85 Logistics Center in Carnesville. Walmart's next-generation fulfillment centers are located in strategic markets to expand same-day and next-day shipping capabilities across the United States. Construction is expected to begin in late 2026.
"This investment represents a significant milestone for our community and reflects the confidence that businesses have in our workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life," said Franklin Springs Mayor and Chairman of the Franklin County Industrial Authority Lee Moore. "The jobs and economic opportunities created through this project will benefit local families and strengthen our economy for years to come. We are proud to partner with Walmart and appreciate their commitment to investing in Franklin County."
"This announcement is the result of strong partnerships among the Franklin County Industrial Building Authority, our state partners, utility partners and all those who have worked together to bring this to life," said Tonya Powers, President of the Franklin County Industrial Building Authority. "Walmart's decision to locate and grow in Franklin County demonstrates the competitive advantages we offer and reinforces our commitment to creating an environment where businesses can succeed. We look forward to supporting their continued growth and celebrating their success in the years ahead."
Assistant Director of Statewide Projects Elizabeth McLean represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development on this competitive project in partnership with the Franklin County Industrial Building Authority, Georgia EMC, and Georgia Quick Start.
"An investment and job-creating project of this magnitude will deliver generational opportunity for Franklin County and communities across northeast Georgia," said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. "Having grown up in Franklin County, I know what it means to see an investment of this scale come to a rural community. Walmart's decision to build and grow here is a testament to the strength of this community and the opportunities that exist beyond Georgia's major metropolitan areas. This is about more than 1,000 jobs and $1.3 billion in investment. It is about giving people the opportunity to build a future in the community they call home. We are proud to welcome Walmart to Franklin County and grateful to all of our partners who helped make this possible."
* * *
About Walmart
Walmart, Inc. (Nasdaq: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better - anytime and anywhere - in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 280 million customers and members visit more than 10,900 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2026 revenue of $713 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart, on X at x.com/walmart, and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/walmart.
* * *
Original text here: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2026-08-27/gov-kemp-walmart-bring-1000-jobs-next-gen-fulfillment-center-carnesville