States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
States, Cities and Counties
Featured Stories
Wash. State Commerce Dept.: All 99 Washington Opportunity Zones to Spur Economic Development Get Federal Approval
OLYMPIA, Washington, Nov. 14 -- The Washington State Department of Commerce issued the following news:
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All 99 Washington Opportunity Zones to spur economic development get federal approval
November 13, 2026
Federal designations will encourage private investment in communities across 27 counties, including rural and tribal areas
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OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury has approved all 99 census tracts nominated by Gov. Bob Ferguson for designation under the federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program. The approved areas span 27 counties, including 17 tribal lands and 36 rural ... Show Full Article OLYMPIA, Washington, Nov. 14 -- The Washington State Department of Commerce issued the following news: * * * All 99 Washington Opportunity Zones to spur economic development get federal approval November 13, 2026 Federal designations will encourage private investment in communities across 27 counties, including rural and tribal areas - OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury has approved all 99 census tracts nominated by Gov. Bob Ferguson for designation under the federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program. The approved areas span 27 counties, including 17 tribal lands and 36 ruralcommunities. The new designations take effect Jan. 1, 2027.
The approval marks the next step in Washington's efforts to attract private investment to low-income communities. Opportunity Zones encourage investors, developers and financial institutions to invest in businesses, housing and other community development projects within designated census tracts through federal tax incentives.
"Every community in Washington deserves the opportunity to grow and prosper," Gov. Ferguson said. "With all of our nominations approved, we can help connect private investment with communities that are ready to build housing, support local businesses and create jobs. These designations give communities another tool to shape their economic futures."
Gov. Ferguson announced the state's 99 nominations Oct. 8, following a months-long public engagement and application process led by the Washington State Department of Commerce. Commerce received 152 applications and developed recommendations based on investment readiness, community need and policy alignment.
Community members, business leaders and federally recognized tribes in Washington participated in public engagement opportunities that helped inform the state's selection criteria and nomination process.
"These designations reflect months of collaboration with communities across Washington," Sarah Clifthorne, Commerce interim director, said. "We listened to local priorities and evaluated opportunities for investment that align with community needs. With federal approval secured, our focus turns to helping communities share their opportunities and connect with investors who can support long-term economic development."
Building on the original Opportunity Zones program
Established under the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the original Opportunity Zones program encouraged private investment in designated low-income census tracts. The first generation of the program spurred an estimated $100 billion in private investment nationwide.
Congress made the program permanent in July 2025, establishing new designation cycles every 10 years and updating eligibility requirements, investment incentives and reporting standards.
Washington's original program included 139 designated census tracts across 36 counties. Those designations remain in effect through Dec. 31, 2028, overlapping with the new Opportunity Zones 2.0 designations during 2027 and 2028.
The updated program also includes enhanced incentives for qualifying investments in rural Opportunity Zones.
What's next for the program
The newly approved Opportunity Zones will become effective Jan. 1, 2027, and remain designated through Dec. 31, 2036.
Commerce will continue providing information and resources to help communities promote their designated areas and connect with potential investors. Communities, project sponsors and investors can explore the approved census tracts through Commerce's interactive Opportunity Zones map and dashboard.
For more information, visit Commerce's Opportunity Zones webpage.
Contact
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Original text here: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/all-99-washington-opportunity-zones-to-spur-economic-development-get-federal-approval/
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All 99 Washington Opportunity Zones to spur economic development get federal approval
November 13, 2026
Federal designations will encourage private investment in communities across 27 counties, including rural and tribal areas
-
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury has approved all 99 census tracts nominated by Gov. Bob Ferguson for designation under the federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program. The approved areas span 27 counties, including 17 tribal lands and 36 rural ... Show Full Article OLYMPIA, Washington, Nov. 14 -- The Washington State Department of Commerce issued the following news: * * * All 99 Washington Opportunity Zones to spur economic development get federal approval November 13, 2026 Federal designations will encourage private investment in communities across 27 counties, including rural and tribal areas - OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury has approved all 99 census tracts nominated by Gov. Bob Ferguson for designation under the federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program. The approved areas span 27 counties, including 17 tribal lands and 36 ruralcommunities. The new designations take effect Jan. 1, 2027.
The approval marks the next step in Washington's efforts to attract private investment to low-income communities. Opportunity Zones encourage investors, developers and financial institutions to invest in businesses, housing and other community development projects within designated census tracts through federal tax incentives.
"Every community in Washington deserves the opportunity to grow and prosper," Gov. Ferguson said. "With all of our nominations approved, we can help connect private investment with communities that are ready to build housing, support local businesses and create jobs. These designations give communities another tool to shape their economic futures."
Gov. Ferguson announced the state's 99 nominations Oct. 8, following a months-long public engagement and application process led by the Washington State Department of Commerce. Commerce received 152 applications and developed recommendations based on investment readiness, community need and policy alignment.
Community members, business leaders and federally recognized tribes in Washington participated in public engagement opportunities that helped inform the state's selection criteria and nomination process.
"These designations reflect months of collaboration with communities across Washington," Sarah Clifthorne, Commerce interim director, said. "We listened to local priorities and evaluated opportunities for investment that align with community needs. With federal approval secured, our focus turns to helping communities share their opportunities and connect with investors who can support long-term economic development."
Building on the original Opportunity Zones program
Established under the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the original Opportunity Zones program encouraged private investment in designated low-income census tracts. The first generation of the program spurred an estimated $100 billion in private investment nationwide.
Congress made the program permanent in July 2025, establishing new designation cycles every 10 years and updating eligibility requirements, investment incentives and reporting standards.
Washington's original program included 139 designated census tracts across 36 counties. Those designations remain in effect through Dec. 31, 2028, overlapping with the new Opportunity Zones 2.0 designations during 2027 and 2028.
The updated program also includes enhanced incentives for qualifying investments in rural Opportunity Zones.
What's next for the program
The newly approved Opportunity Zones will become effective Jan. 1, 2027, and remain designated through Dec. 31, 2036.
Commerce will continue providing information and resources to help communities promote their designated areas and connect with potential investors. Communities, project sponsors and investors can explore the approved census tracts through Commerce's interactive Opportunity Zones map and dashboard.
For more information, visit Commerce's Opportunity Zones webpage.
Contact
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Original text here: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/all-99-washington-opportunity-zones-to-spur-economic-development-get-federal-approval/
Help Fight Food Insecurity In Wisconsin: Participate In The DNR's Deer Donation Program
MADISON, Wisconsin, Nov. 14 -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release:
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2026-11-13
Help Fight Food Insecurity In Wisconsin: Participate In The DNR's Deer Donation Program
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages hunters to donate Wisconsin-harvested deer through the DNR's Deer Donation Program. The program supports Wisconsin residents in need by helping stock food pantry shelves with ground venison made from donated deer.
Since the program began in the year 2000, hunters have donated more than 100,000 deer, totaling ... Show Full Article MADISON, Wisconsin, Nov. 14 -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release: * * * 2026-11-13 Help Fight Food Insecurity In Wisconsin: Participate In The DNR's Deer Donation Program MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages hunters to donate Wisconsin-harvested deer through the DNR's Deer Donation Program. The program supports Wisconsin residents in need by helping stock food pantry shelves with ground venison made from donated deer. Since the program began in the year 2000, hunters have donated more than 100,000 deer, totalingover 4 million pounds of ground venison. Wisconsin has a network of venison donation partners, including county land and water conservation departments, food pantries, charitable organizations, USDA-Wildlife Services and participating meat processors, who all help implement and administer the program.
"This program offers communities a great opportunity to both help manage local deer populations and provide families in need with quality lean meat," said Marcus Rufledt, deer donation program manager. According to data from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, almost 900,000 Wisconsin residents (about 15% of the state's population) received food assistance at least once in 2025. "Community pantries all over Wisconsin have seen a rise in demand for food assistance, especially for nutritious options like venison provided through the Deer Donation Program. This program succeeds because a lot of everyday people do a little bit extra; we are confident hunters and volunteers will continue to meet the moment."
Deer harvested outside Wisconsin cannot be donated. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services requires deer harvested in certain counties to be tested for chronic wasting disease (CWD) before or at the time of donation. Hunters interested in donating a Wisconsin-harvested deer to the DNR's Deer Donation Program should follow these steps:
1. Field dress the deer. Please handle the carcass as if it were destined for your own plate. A couple of bags of ice placed in the cavity will help preserve the carcass in warm weather.
2. Register the deer through GameReg. Please note the registration confirmation number and keep it on hand when dropping off the deer. If your deer was harvested from a county that requires CWD testing, please ensure you complete the required CWD testing before or at the time of donation. An up-to-date list and map of counties where testing is required can be found on the Deer Donation Program webpage.
3. Call ahead. Contact a participating processor before dropping off the deer to make sure they have space to accept it. More processors may be added later in the season, so check back if you don't see one currently in your area.
4. Bring the deer to the processor. If donating a deer being tested for CWD, inform the processor and provide the CWD barcode number. The processor will not distribute the deer until the results are known.
Note: If you don't have your Go Wild customer number, game registration numbers or CWD testing information, please log into your Go Wild account or contact DNR Customer Service staff to retrieve that information.
Hunters and non-hunters may also support the Deer Donation Program through a monetary donation in person at any Wisconsin hunting license sales location or online through their Go Wild account.
Visit Wisconsin's Deer Donation Program webpage to learn more about the program.
Hunters participating in the Deer Donation program are encouraged to reduce the chance of introducing lead fragments to donated venison by using lead-free ammunition or taking simple steps to reduce risks when utilizing lead bullets. Lead is toxic to humans, even in very low amounts.
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Wisconsin income taxes are not used to directly fund any wildlife projects or to facilitate the hunting/trapping seasons. Instead, 95% of the funding for the Wildlife Management Program comes from two sources: revenue from the sale of hunting, fishing and trapping licenses and a federal tax on firearm and ammunition purchases.
The Wildlife Management Program directly supports key wildlife projects, including population surveys, habitat restoration, wildlife disease monitoring, and the maintenance for 650,000 acres of public land managed for hunting, trapping and other outdoor recreation.
Wisconsin has seen the number of purchased licenses drop over the last 20 years, which directly limits available funding for current and future wildlife projects and limits the department's ability to absorb rising costs from inflation.
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Original text here: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/newsroom/release/132071
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2026-11-13
Help Fight Food Insecurity In Wisconsin: Participate In The DNR's Deer Donation Program
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages hunters to donate Wisconsin-harvested deer through the DNR's Deer Donation Program. The program supports Wisconsin residents in need by helping stock food pantry shelves with ground venison made from donated deer.
Since the program began in the year 2000, hunters have donated more than 100,000 deer, totaling ... Show Full Article MADISON, Wisconsin, Nov. 14 -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release: * * * 2026-11-13 Help Fight Food Insecurity In Wisconsin: Participate In The DNR's Deer Donation Program MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages hunters to donate Wisconsin-harvested deer through the DNR's Deer Donation Program. The program supports Wisconsin residents in need by helping stock food pantry shelves with ground venison made from donated deer. Since the program began in the year 2000, hunters have donated more than 100,000 deer, totalingover 4 million pounds of ground venison. Wisconsin has a network of venison donation partners, including county land and water conservation departments, food pantries, charitable organizations, USDA-Wildlife Services and participating meat processors, who all help implement and administer the program.
"This program offers communities a great opportunity to both help manage local deer populations and provide families in need with quality lean meat," said Marcus Rufledt, deer donation program manager. According to data from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, almost 900,000 Wisconsin residents (about 15% of the state's population) received food assistance at least once in 2025. "Community pantries all over Wisconsin have seen a rise in demand for food assistance, especially for nutritious options like venison provided through the Deer Donation Program. This program succeeds because a lot of everyday people do a little bit extra; we are confident hunters and volunteers will continue to meet the moment."
Deer harvested outside Wisconsin cannot be donated. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services requires deer harvested in certain counties to be tested for chronic wasting disease (CWD) before or at the time of donation. Hunters interested in donating a Wisconsin-harvested deer to the DNR's Deer Donation Program should follow these steps:
1. Field dress the deer. Please handle the carcass as if it were destined for your own plate. A couple of bags of ice placed in the cavity will help preserve the carcass in warm weather.
2. Register the deer through GameReg. Please note the registration confirmation number and keep it on hand when dropping off the deer. If your deer was harvested from a county that requires CWD testing, please ensure you complete the required CWD testing before or at the time of donation. An up-to-date list and map of counties where testing is required can be found on the Deer Donation Program webpage.
3. Call ahead. Contact a participating processor before dropping off the deer to make sure they have space to accept it. More processors may be added later in the season, so check back if you don't see one currently in your area.
4. Bring the deer to the processor. If donating a deer being tested for CWD, inform the processor and provide the CWD barcode number. The processor will not distribute the deer until the results are known.
Note: If you don't have your Go Wild customer number, game registration numbers or CWD testing information, please log into your Go Wild account or contact DNR Customer Service staff to retrieve that information.
Hunters and non-hunters may also support the Deer Donation Program through a monetary donation in person at any Wisconsin hunting license sales location or online through their Go Wild account.
Visit Wisconsin's Deer Donation Program webpage to learn more about the program.
Hunters participating in the Deer Donation program are encouraged to reduce the chance of introducing lead fragments to donated venison by using lead-free ammunition or taking simple steps to reduce risks when utilizing lead bullets. Lead is toxic to humans, even in very low amounts.
* * *
Wisconsin income taxes are not used to directly fund any wildlife projects or to facilitate the hunting/trapping seasons. Instead, 95% of the funding for the Wildlife Management Program comes from two sources: revenue from the sale of hunting, fishing and trapping licenses and a federal tax on firearm and ammunition purchases.
The Wildlife Management Program directly supports key wildlife projects, including population surveys, habitat restoration, wildlife disease monitoring, and the maintenance for 650,000 acres of public land managed for hunting, trapping and other outdoor recreation.
Wisconsin has seen the number of purchased licenses drop over the last 20 years, which directly limits available funding for current and future wildlife projects and limits the department's ability to absorb rising costs from inflation.
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Original text here: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/newsroom/release/132071
Governor Moore and Maryland Department of Labor Announce $1.5M Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program
BALTIMORE, Maryland, Nov. 14 -- The Maryland Department of Labor issued the following news release:
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Governor Moore and Maryland Department of Labor Announce $1.5M Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program
ANNAPOLIS, MD -- Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland Department of Labor today announced the launch of the Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program, a $1.5 million competitive grant initiative designed to tackle the biggest barriers working parents encounter while looking for child care by increasing the number of licensed, home-based providers operating in underserved neighborhoods and ... Show Full Article BALTIMORE, Maryland, Nov. 14 -- The Maryland Department of Labor issued the following news release: * * * Governor Moore and Maryland Department of Labor Announce $1.5M Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program ANNAPOLIS, MD -- Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland Department of Labor today announced the launch of the Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program, a $1.5 million competitive grant initiative designed to tackle the biggest barriers working parents encounter while looking for child care by increasing the number of licensed, home-based providers operating in underserved neighborhoods andat unconventional hours.
"Every child deserves the care they need to grow and every family deserves the opportunity to provide that care," said Gov. Moore. "By investing in child care programs with proven results, we're building communities that foster Maryland children's success and support hardworking families no matter their situation."
"Child care is essential for working families," said Maryland Secretary of Labor Portia Wu. "The Maryland Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program will be a game-changer: expanding the number of family child care providers and the number of child care spaces available across our state. Critically, this program will focus on expanding child care during nontraditional hours to support workers in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and warehousing."
The Maryland Department of Labor will award grants of up to $250,000 to organizations with demonstrated expertise in guiding prospective child care providers through the process of establishing or expanding family child care facilities.
This support will help current and prospective child care providers that run care centers out of their own homes more quickly overcome financial and operational barriers, like navigating the administrative requirements to confirm a facility meets health and safety regulations and that new staff meet training standards. Grants will fund expenses such as staffing support and licensure, business coaching, safety modifications or equipment, child development or instructional materials, and staff recruitment costs.
The program is funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which enables governors to designate funds to support their states' highest workforce development priorities.
"Costs are skyrocketing for Americans--from groceries to gas to child care," said U.S Senator Angela Alsobrooks. "States like Maryland are taking it into their own hands to fight back. I am thrilled that with the launch of this program, more children in the state will have the affordable, accessible child care and support they need, and that parents here in Maryland will have some much needed relief. We know the greatest divide in our country at this moment is between the American people and the American dream. Grants like this one help us close the gap and bring Maryland families closer to achieving the American dream. I'm grateful that Governor Moore is expanding investments in the home care workforce and finding innovative solutions for families."
Accessible, reliable, and affordable child care is a critical economic driver for Maryland families and businesses. Every year, thousands of Maryland parents must change jobs, decline new opportunities, or leave the workforce because they cannot find child care that meets their needs, especially parents who work early mornings, evenings, or overnight shifts.
Eligible applicants include non-profits, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, institutions of higher education, child care networks, local government or county agencies (including local workforce development boards), registered apprenticeship sponsors, and other organizations as approved by the Maryland Department of Labor.
The agency will give scoring preference to applications focused on communities designated under Maryland's ENOUGH Initiative, administered by the Governor's Office for Children to combat childhood poverty.
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a pre-proposal conference on Monday, November 30 at 10 a.m. Applications are due Friday, January 29, 2027 by 11:59 p.m. EST.
For complete grant guidelines, policy documentation, and to register for the pre-proposal conference, visit the Maryland Department of Labor website.
Federal Funding Disclosure: The Maryland Home-Based Child Care Program is 100 percent funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through awards totaling $1,500,000.
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The Maryland Department of Labor strives to create an equitable and inclusive Maryland where all residents have the opportunities and resources to attain financial stability, reach their career potential, and contribute to their communities; where businesses have access to capital and the skilled workforce they need to succeed; where workplaces are safe and well-regulated; and where the economy is resilient and growing. For updates and information, follow MD Labor on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and visit our website.
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Original text here: https://www.dllr.state.md.us/whatsnews/gov-moore-mdlabor-home-based-child-care-expansion.shtml
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Governor Moore and Maryland Department of Labor Announce $1.5M Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program
ANNAPOLIS, MD -- Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland Department of Labor today announced the launch of the Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program, a $1.5 million competitive grant initiative designed to tackle the biggest barriers working parents encounter while looking for child care by increasing the number of licensed, home-based providers operating in underserved neighborhoods and ... Show Full Article BALTIMORE, Maryland, Nov. 14 -- The Maryland Department of Labor issued the following news release: * * * Governor Moore and Maryland Department of Labor Announce $1.5M Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program ANNAPOLIS, MD -- Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland Department of Labor today announced the launch of the Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program, a $1.5 million competitive grant initiative designed to tackle the biggest barriers working parents encounter while looking for child care by increasing the number of licensed, home-based providers operating in underserved neighborhoods andat unconventional hours.
"Every child deserves the care they need to grow and every family deserves the opportunity to provide that care," said Gov. Moore. "By investing in child care programs with proven results, we're building communities that foster Maryland children's success and support hardworking families no matter their situation."
"Child care is essential for working families," said Maryland Secretary of Labor Portia Wu. "The Maryland Home-Based Child Care Expansion Program will be a game-changer: expanding the number of family child care providers and the number of child care spaces available across our state. Critically, this program will focus on expanding child care during nontraditional hours to support workers in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and warehousing."
The Maryland Department of Labor will award grants of up to $250,000 to organizations with demonstrated expertise in guiding prospective child care providers through the process of establishing or expanding family child care facilities.
This support will help current and prospective child care providers that run care centers out of their own homes more quickly overcome financial and operational barriers, like navigating the administrative requirements to confirm a facility meets health and safety regulations and that new staff meet training standards. Grants will fund expenses such as staffing support and licensure, business coaching, safety modifications or equipment, child development or instructional materials, and staff recruitment costs.
The program is funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which enables governors to designate funds to support their states' highest workforce development priorities.
"Costs are skyrocketing for Americans--from groceries to gas to child care," said U.S Senator Angela Alsobrooks. "States like Maryland are taking it into their own hands to fight back. I am thrilled that with the launch of this program, more children in the state will have the affordable, accessible child care and support they need, and that parents here in Maryland will have some much needed relief. We know the greatest divide in our country at this moment is between the American people and the American dream. Grants like this one help us close the gap and bring Maryland families closer to achieving the American dream. I'm grateful that Governor Moore is expanding investments in the home care workforce and finding innovative solutions for families."
Accessible, reliable, and affordable child care is a critical economic driver for Maryland families and businesses. Every year, thousands of Maryland parents must change jobs, decline new opportunities, or leave the workforce because they cannot find child care that meets their needs, especially parents who work early mornings, evenings, or overnight shifts.
Eligible applicants include non-profits, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, institutions of higher education, child care networks, local government or county agencies (including local workforce development boards), registered apprenticeship sponsors, and other organizations as approved by the Maryland Department of Labor.
The agency will give scoring preference to applications focused on communities designated under Maryland's ENOUGH Initiative, administered by the Governor's Office for Children to combat childhood poverty.
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a pre-proposal conference on Monday, November 30 at 10 a.m. Applications are due Friday, January 29, 2027 by 11:59 p.m. EST.
For complete grant guidelines, policy documentation, and to register for the pre-proposal conference, visit the Maryland Department of Labor website.
Federal Funding Disclosure: The Maryland Home-Based Child Care Program is 100 percent funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through awards totaling $1,500,000.
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The Maryland Department of Labor strives to create an equitable and inclusive Maryland where all residents have the opportunities and resources to attain financial stability, reach their career potential, and contribute to their communities; where businesses have access to capital and the skilled workforce they need to succeed; where workplaces are safe and well-regulated; and where the economy is resilient and growing. For updates and information, follow MD Labor on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and visit our website.
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Original text here: https://www.dllr.state.md.us/whatsnews/gov-moore-mdlabor-home-based-child-care-expansion.shtml
Governor Abbott Announces Over $2.2 Million Job Training Grant To Tarrant County College
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release:
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Governor Abbott Announces Over $2.2 Million Job Training Grant To Tarrant County College
November 13, 2026 | Austin, Texas
Governor Greg Abbott today announced a Skills Development Fund (SDF) grant award totaling $2,241,184 to Tarrant County College and local partners. Through this grant, administered by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), Tarrant County College will provide customized training for 1,000 new and current workers at Cummings Electrical for high-demand occupations as electricians and ... Show Full Article AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * Governor Abbott Announces Over $2.2 Million Job Training Grant To Tarrant County College November 13, 2026 | Austin, Texas Governor Greg Abbott today announced a Skills Development Fund (SDF) grant award totaling $2,241,184 to Tarrant County College and local partners. Through this grant, administered by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), Tarrant County College will provide customized training for 1,000 new and current workers at Cummings Electrical for high-demand occupations as electricians andelectrician helpers.
"Texas leads the nation in economic opportunity because we invest in the skills Texans need for high-demand careers," said Governor Abbott. "This grant will equip 1,000 workers for jobs as electricians and electrician helpers, give employers the skilled workforce they need to grow, and create more opportunity for Texans."
"By partnering with institutions like Tarrant County College and leading employers, we are making sure the skills of our workforce align with the needs of Texas businesses," said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. "This funding will help 1,000 local workers elevate their careers while enabling a world-class employer to strengthen operations in Texas."
Earlier today, Chairman Esparza presented the award to representatives from Tarrant County College, Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County, Cummings Electrical, and other local partners during a ceremony held at Cummings Electrical in Fort Worth.
SDF is the state's workforce training grant program to help businesses upskill their new or incumbent workforce. In partnership with the public community and technical colleges, workforce development boards, Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station, and Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, TWC collaborates to provide customized, innovative training to Texas businesses of all sizes.
The SDF grant program has provided training opportunities in partnership with more than 5,000 employers to upgrade or support the creation of over 446,000 jobs throughout Texas since the program's inception in 1996.
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Original text here: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-over-2.2-million-job-training-grant-to-tarrant-county-college
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Governor Abbott Announces Over $2.2 Million Job Training Grant To Tarrant County College
November 13, 2026 | Austin, Texas
Governor Greg Abbott today announced a Skills Development Fund (SDF) grant award totaling $2,241,184 to Tarrant County College and local partners. Through this grant, administered by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), Tarrant County College will provide customized training for 1,000 new and current workers at Cummings Electrical for high-demand occupations as electricians and ... Show Full Article AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * Governor Abbott Announces Over $2.2 Million Job Training Grant To Tarrant County College November 13, 2026 | Austin, Texas Governor Greg Abbott today announced a Skills Development Fund (SDF) grant award totaling $2,241,184 to Tarrant County College and local partners. Through this grant, administered by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), Tarrant County College will provide customized training for 1,000 new and current workers at Cummings Electrical for high-demand occupations as electricians andelectrician helpers.
"Texas leads the nation in economic opportunity because we invest in the skills Texans need for high-demand careers," said Governor Abbott. "This grant will equip 1,000 workers for jobs as electricians and electrician helpers, give employers the skilled workforce they need to grow, and create more opportunity for Texans."
"By partnering with institutions like Tarrant County College and leading employers, we are making sure the skills of our workforce align with the needs of Texas businesses," said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. "This funding will help 1,000 local workers elevate their careers while enabling a world-class employer to strengthen operations in Texas."
Earlier today, Chairman Esparza presented the award to representatives from Tarrant County College, Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County, Cummings Electrical, and other local partners during a ceremony held at Cummings Electrical in Fort Worth.
SDF is the state's workforce training grant program to help businesses upskill their new or incumbent workforce. In partnership with the public community and technical colleges, workforce development boards, Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station, and Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, TWC collaborates to provide customized, innovative training to Texas businesses of all sizes.
The SDF grant program has provided training opportunities in partnership with more than 5,000 employers to upgrade or support the creation of over 446,000 jobs throughout Texas since the program's inception in 1996.
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Original text here: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-over-2.2-million-job-training-grant-to-tarrant-county-college
Gov. Kemp: October Tax Revenues Up 0.2%
ATLANTA, Georgia, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release:
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November 12, 2026
Gov. Kemp: October Tax Revenues Up 0.2%
ATLANTA - The State of Georgia's net tax collections during the month of October totaled roughly $2.71 billion, for an increase of $6.7 million, or 0.2%, compared to October 2025, when net tax collections approached $2.71 billion for the month. Year-to-date, net tax revenue collections totaled $11.13 billion, for an increase of $247 million, or 2.3%, over last year, when net tax collections totaled $10.88 billion after four months of ... Show Full Article ATLANTA, Georgia, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release: * * * November 12, 2026 Gov. Kemp: October Tax Revenues Up 0.2% ATLANTA - The State of Georgia's net tax collections during the month of October totaled roughly $2.71 billion, for an increase of $6.7 million, or 0.2%, compared to October 2025, when net tax collections approached $2.71 billion for the month. Year-to-date, net tax revenue collections totaled $11.13 billion, for an increase of $247 million, or 2.3%, over last year, when net tax collections totaled $10.88 billion after four months ofFY 2026.
The changes within the following tax categories account for October's overall net tax revenue increase:
Individual Income Tax: Individual Income Tax collections in October totaled $1.22 billion, down from a total of nearly $1.34 billion in FY 2026, for a year-over-year decrease of $115.1 million or 8.6%.
The following notable components within Individual Income Tax combine for the net decrease:
* Individual Income Tax refunds issued (net of voided checks) decreased by $18.1 million, or 7.1%
* Income Tax Withholding payments for October decreased by $106.6 million, or 8.6%, from FY 2026
* Individual Income Tax Return payments decreased by $14.2 million, or 5.4%, compared to FY 2026
* All other Individual Tax categories, including Estimated tax payments, were down a combined $12.5 million
Sales and Use Tax: Gross Sales and Use Tax collections in October approached a total of $1.74 billion, for an increase of $135.3 million, or 8.5%, over FY 2026. Net Sales and Use Tax increased by $52.7 million, or 6.7%, compared to last year, when net Sales Tax revenue totaled $790 million. The adjusted Sales Tax distribution to local governments totaled $883.3 million, which was an increase of $86.2 million, or 10.8%, over last year's adjusted distribution total of $797.1 million. Sales Tax refunds decreased by $3.5 million compared to FY 2026.
Corporate Income Tax: Corporate Income Tax collections for the month increased by $29.7 million, or 48.7%, compared to October 2025, when net Corporate Tax revenues totaled $61.1 million.
The following notable components within Corporate Income Tax make up the net increase:
* Corporate Income Tax refunds issued (net of voids) declined by $38.7 million compared to October 2025
* Corporate Income Tax Estimated payments decreased by $18.4 million, or 22.3%, from FY 2026
* All other Corporate Tax payments, including Corporate Assessment payments, were up $9.4 million
Motor Fuel Taxes: Motor Fuel Tax collections for October fell by $8.3 million, or 4.3%, compared to last year, as Governor Kemp's Executive Order to suspend the motor fuel tax and give Georgians relief from high gas prices went into effect on September 28th, 2026, thereby slightly impacting the current month's collections relative to last year's full complement of motor fuel tax collections in October.
Motor Vehicle - Tag & Title Fees: Motor Vehicle Tag & Title Fee collections for the month declined by $4.7 million, or 11.5% compared to last year, while Title ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) collections increased by $2.1 million, or 2.9%, from October of FY 2026.
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Original text here: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2026-11-12/gov-kemp-october-tax-revenues-02
* * *
November 12, 2026
Gov. Kemp: October Tax Revenues Up 0.2%
ATLANTA - The State of Georgia's net tax collections during the month of October totaled roughly $2.71 billion, for an increase of $6.7 million, or 0.2%, compared to October 2025, when net tax collections approached $2.71 billion for the month. Year-to-date, net tax revenue collections totaled $11.13 billion, for an increase of $247 million, or 2.3%, over last year, when net tax collections totaled $10.88 billion after four months of ... Show Full Article ATLANTA, Georgia, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release: * * * November 12, 2026 Gov. Kemp: October Tax Revenues Up 0.2% ATLANTA - The State of Georgia's net tax collections during the month of October totaled roughly $2.71 billion, for an increase of $6.7 million, or 0.2%, compared to October 2025, when net tax collections approached $2.71 billion for the month. Year-to-date, net tax revenue collections totaled $11.13 billion, for an increase of $247 million, or 2.3%, over last year, when net tax collections totaled $10.88 billion after four months ofFY 2026.
The changes within the following tax categories account for October's overall net tax revenue increase:
Individual Income Tax: Individual Income Tax collections in October totaled $1.22 billion, down from a total of nearly $1.34 billion in FY 2026, for a year-over-year decrease of $115.1 million or 8.6%.
The following notable components within Individual Income Tax combine for the net decrease:
* Individual Income Tax refunds issued (net of voided checks) decreased by $18.1 million, or 7.1%
* Income Tax Withholding payments for October decreased by $106.6 million, or 8.6%, from FY 2026
* Individual Income Tax Return payments decreased by $14.2 million, or 5.4%, compared to FY 2026
* All other Individual Tax categories, including Estimated tax payments, were down a combined $12.5 million
Sales and Use Tax: Gross Sales and Use Tax collections in October approached a total of $1.74 billion, for an increase of $135.3 million, or 8.5%, over FY 2026. Net Sales and Use Tax increased by $52.7 million, or 6.7%, compared to last year, when net Sales Tax revenue totaled $790 million. The adjusted Sales Tax distribution to local governments totaled $883.3 million, which was an increase of $86.2 million, or 10.8%, over last year's adjusted distribution total of $797.1 million. Sales Tax refunds decreased by $3.5 million compared to FY 2026.
Corporate Income Tax: Corporate Income Tax collections for the month increased by $29.7 million, or 48.7%, compared to October 2025, when net Corporate Tax revenues totaled $61.1 million.
The following notable components within Corporate Income Tax make up the net increase:
* Corporate Income Tax refunds issued (net of voids) declined by $38.7 million compared to October 2025
* Corporate Income Tax Estimated payments decreased by $18.4 million, or 22.3%, from FY 2026
* All other Corporate Tax payments, including Corporate Assessment payments, were up $9.4 million
Motor Fuel Taxes: Motor Fuel Tax collections for October fell by $8.3 million, or 4.3%, compared to last year, as Governor Kemp's Executive Order to suspend the motor fuel tax and give Georgians relief from high gas prices went into effect on September 28th, 2026, thereby slightly impacting the current month's collections relative to last year's full complement of motor fuel tax collections in October.
Motor Vehicle - Tag & Title Fees: Motor Vehicle Tag & Title Fee collections for the month declined by $4.7 million, or 11.5% compared to last year, while Title ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) collections increased by $2.1 million, or 2.9%, from October of FY 2026.
* * *
Original text here: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2026-11-12/gov-kemp-october-tax-revenues-02
Drawdown of Lake Frances at Nescopeck State Park to Continue as DCNR Evaluates Existing Dam Structural Issues
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 14 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources issued the following news:
* * *
Drawdown of Lake Frances at Nescopeck State Park to Continue as DCNR Evaluates Existing Dam Structural Issues
November 12, 2026
Drums, PA -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is continuing engineering evaluations of the dam at Lake Frances in Nescopeck State Park following the discovery of conditions that have raised concerns about the long-term stability of the structure.
DCNR initially drained the nine-acre lake in ... Show Full Article HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 14 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources issued the following news: * * * Drawdown of Lake Frances at Nescopeck State Park to Continue as DCNR Evaluates Existing Dam Structural Issues November 12, 2026 Drums, PA -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is continuing engineering evaluations of the dam at Lake Frances in Nescopeck State Park following the discovery of conditions that have raised concerns about the long-term stability of the structure. DCNR initially drained the nine-acre lake infall 2025(opens in a new tab) to replace its drop inlet spillway structure. During the project, additional investigation revealed that the foundation beneath the spillway structure and potential locations of the dam embankment are not stable. These conditions present significant engineering and safety challenges, raising questions about the ability of the existing dam to safely maintain a full lake.
Based on the findings to date, the dam cannot safely accommodate maximum lake levels under current conditions and Lake Frances will remain drawn down while these evaluations continue. DCNR will not refill the lake until the necessary engineering evaluations are completed and the operational safety of the dam can be confirmed.
"We recognize the importance of Lake Frances to Nescopeck State Park and the surrounding community," said State Parks Director John Hallas. "At this stage, additional study is needed before we can make informed decisions. Our priority is to fully understand the engineering challenges and identify a responsible, sustainable approach that considers both public safety and the long-term stewardship of the park."
Lake-based recreational activities, including fishing and kayaking, will remain unavailable during the extended drawdown. Trout stocking will also remain suspended until conditions allow the lake to safely support those activities. Those looking to enjoy water-based recreational activities in the region are encouraged to consider the Nescopeck Creek, Lehigh River, Francis E. Walter Dam, or Hickory Run Lake as alternatives.
DCNR will share additional information with the public as the evaluation progresses and more is known about the project's next steps.
DCNR is working with engineering professionals and coordinating with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) as it evaluates the conditions and determines the additional information needed to move forward.
The complexity of the foundation conditions means that this work extends beyond the scope of the original intake replacement project. Any future work will require careful consideration of engineering requirements, environmental permitting, project costs, and long-term sustainability.
Nescopeck State Park(opens in a new tab) encompasses approximately 3,550 acres in Luzerne County, featuring diverse forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. The park offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, environmental education, wildlife watching, and other outdoor recreation. Lake Frances has historically served as a focal point for visitors, providing opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the surrounding natural setting.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources manages Pennsylvania's 125 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forestlands, which are free and open to the public every day.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/newsroom/drawdown-of-lake-frances-at-nescopeck-state-park-to-continue
* * *
Drawdown of Lake Frances at Nescopeck State Park to Continue as DCNR Evaluates Existing Dam Structural Issues
November 12, 2026
Drums, PA -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is continuing engineering evaluations of the dam at Lake Frances in Nescopeck State Park following the discovery of conditions that have raised concerns about the long-term stability of the structure.
DCNR initially drained the nine-acre lake in ... Show Full Article HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 14 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources issued the following news: * * * Drawdown of Lake Frances at Nescopeck State Park to Continue as DCNR Evaluates Existing Dam Structural Issues November 12, 2026 Drums, PA -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is continuing engineering evaluations of the dam at Lake Frances in Nescopeck State Park following the discovery of conditions that have raised concerns about the long-term stability of the structure. DCNR initially drained the nine-acre lake infall 2025(opens in a new tab) to replace its drop inlet spillway structure. During the project, additional investigation revealed that the foundation beneath the spillway structure and potential locations of the dam embankment are not stable. These conditions present significant engineering and safety challenges, raising questions about the ability of the existing dam to safely maintain a full lake.
Based on the findings to date, the dam cannot safely accommodate maximum lake levels under current conditions and Lake Frances will remain drawn down while these evaluations continue. DCNR will not refill the lake until the necessary engineering evaluations are completed and the operational safety of the dam can be confirmed.
"We recognize the importance of Lake Frances to Nescopeck State Park and the surrounding community," said State Parks Director John Hallas. "At this stage, additional study is needed before we can make informed decisions. Our priority is to fully understand the engineering challenges and identify a responsible, sustainable approach that considers both public safety and the long-term stewardship of the park."
Lake-based recreational activities, including fishing and kayaking, will remain unavailable during the extended drawdown. Trout stocking will also remain suspended until conditions allow the lake to safely support those activities. Those looking to enjoy water-based recreational activities in the region are encouraged to consider the Nescopeck Creek, Lehigh River, Francis E. Walter Dam, or Hickory Run Lake as alternatives.
DCNR will share additional information with the public as the evaluation progresses and more is known about the project's next steps.
DCNR is working with engineering professionals and coordinating with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) as it evaluates the conditions and determines the additional information needed to move forward.
The complexity of the foundation conditions means that this work extends beyond the scope of the original intake replacement project. Any future work will require careful consideration of engineering requirements, environmental permitting, project costs, and long-term sustainability.
Nescopeck State Park(opens in a new tab) encompasses approximately 3,550 acres in Luzerne County, featuring diverse forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. The park offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, environmental education, wildlife watching, and other outdoor recreation. Lake Frances has historically served as a focal point for visitors, providing opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the surrounding natural setting.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources manages Pennsylvania's 125 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forestlands, which are free and open to the public every day.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/newsroom/drawdown-of-lake-frances-at-nescopeck-state-park-to-continue
As Trump Abandons America's Allies, Governor Newsom Rallies World Leaders at UN Climate Summit, Meets With Brazil's President Lula, and Signs New Partnership With Portugal
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release:
* * *
Nov 12, 2026
As Trump abandons America's allies, Governor Newsom rallies world leaders at UN climate summit, meets with Brazil's President Lula, and signs new partnership with Portugal
The Trump administration stayed home. California came to work.
What you need to know: Governor Newsom kicked off California's participation at COP31 by meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, joined Netherlands Climate Envoy Jan Versteeg for a fireside chat hosted by America Is All ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release: * * * Nov 12, 2026 As Trump abandons America's allies, Governor Newsom rallies world leaders at UN climate summit, meets with Brazil's President Lula, and signs new partnership with Portugal The Trump administration stayed home. California came to work. What you need to know: Governor Newsom kicked off California's participation at COP31 by meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, joined Netherlands Climate Envoy Jan Versteeg for a fireside chat hosted by America Is AllIn, and advanced new partnerships on clean energy, wildfire resilience and climate action across Europe and Africa, including a new memorandum of understanding with Portugal. For the second year in a row, the Trump administration failed to send a delegation.
ANTALYA, TURKIYE - Governor Gavin Newsom brought California's climate leadership to COP31, the United Nations climate conference, sitting down with leaders from Brazil, Portugal, Ethiopia, and the Netherlands to build and reaffirm partnerships that cut pollution, accelerate clean energy, and protect communities from wildfire and extreme weather. While Donald Trump abandons America's seat at the table, California is showing up and keeping its word.
* * *
"California is here at COP31, and we're putting our partnerships to work, from fighting wildfires together to building a cleaner, safer energy future. Donald Trump's empty chair won't stop us from pulling up our own and leading the climate fight."
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
From Belem to Antalya: deepening ties with Brazil
Governor Newsom met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to discuss opportunities to strengthen California's ties with Brazil's federal government.
The meeting builds on the climate partnership California and Brazil signed in September 2025 to advance collaboration around carbon pricing, clean transportation and air quality, and on the cooperation the two advanced last year when Brazil hosted COP30 in Belem, where California also signed a wildfire partnership with the Brazilian state of Para.
California and Brazil share a commitment to protecting forests, expanding clean energy and confronting the growing costs of climate change.
America is still in this fight
Governor Newsom joined Netherlands Climate Envoy Jan Versteeg on the main stage of the America Is All In Pavilion for "Local Action, Global Partnerships," a fireside chat moderated by Bloomberg TV's Jennifer Zabasajja. Governor Newsom made the case that clean energy is now an economic and strategic imperative, pointing to battery storage as the backbone of California's grid reliability and urging the United States to compete with China on electric vehicles and clean technology. He also highlighted California's extension of Cap-and-Invest through 2045, designed with affordability in mind, and the state's decade of partnership with the Netherlands on clean energy, electric vehicles, water management, and resilience.
The conversation underscored how clean energy strengthens energy security and the economy, and how states and cities keep climate cooperation alive when national politics break down.
Governor Newsom co-chairs America Is All In with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb. Its partners represent roughly two-thirds of the U.S. population and three-quarters of the U.S. economy.
When women thrive, communities can weather the storm
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined women entrepreneurs from around the world for "Engendering Sustainability," a panel hosted by The Climate Registry at its USA Climate Pavilion, to discuss women's empowerment as a cornerstone of climate resilience and a necessary climate adaptation strategy.
The First Partner made the case that gender equality is essential to climate resilience. When women have greater economic security, they have the power to make decisions for the future of their families, their communities, and the environment.
"Women are only receiving 1.1% of venture capital dollars in the United States of America right now," said First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. "Money and power are what is valued in our society, and money and power aren't in the hands of women."
The First Partner also emphasized that women's leadership is essential to building a more resilient future. When women have a seat at the table, in government, boardrooms and communities, they champion the inclusive policies and investments that build climate resilience. Closing the wage gap, expanding workforce participation and investing in women entrepreneurs, especially in food, land, water and technology, lifts families out of poverty, strengthens economies and helps communities withstand climate-driven instability.
"No woman can reach her full potential if her physical safety, mental health, or healthcare needs are compromised," the First Partner said. "Strengthening women, the backbone of communities, ensures they will be resilient enough to withstand climate shocks, survive disasters, and lead long-term recovery."
The First Partner also highlighted the work of California's Women's Wealth Advisory Council and the state's nation-leading Farm to School Program, which sources school meals from local, regenerative and organic farms, cutting supply chain emissions. Through the Healthy School Food Pathway apprenticeship, school food workers, a predominantly female workforce, receive paid, hands-on training in scratch cooking that creates a direct path to higher wages and financial independence.
Fighting fire, together
Governor Newsom opened the day trading wildfire lessons with leaders from around the world at Turkiye's International Forestry Training Center, during a high-level exchange among states and regions hosted by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, the Under2 Coalition, and Turkiye's General Directorate of Forestry.
The center trains firefighters and forestry professionals from across the region, using an advanced simulator that lets incident commanders battle virtual fires across shifting weather, terrain, and vegetation. California, which co-founded the Under2 Coalition in 2015, shared what it has learned from investing in forest health, prescribed fire, and cutting-edge firefighting technology, and heard lessons from Turkiye and other partners facing the same growing threat.
Partnering with Portugal on wildfire and clean energy
California and Portugal are partnering to share best practices, accelerate the transition to clean, renewable, carbon-free energy, and strengthen wildfire prevention, response and recovery. Governor Newsom met with Portugal's Secretary of State for Environment, Joao Manuel Esteves, to finalize a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed by California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot.
The MOU deepens cooperation on clean energy, climate resilience and economic development, including offshore wind, battery storage and recycling, zero-emission transportation and port decarbonization. It builds on a 2022 wildfire partnership between CAL FIRE and Portugal's Agency for Integrated Rural Fire Management, with new opportunities for joint training, forest management, satellite-based fire monitoring and emergency preparedness. Like California, Portugal has a Mediterranean climate and faces growing risks from wildfire, drought, and extreme heat.
Laying the groundwork for COP32 in Africa
Governor Newsom congratulated Ethiopia's Minister of Foreign Affairs and COP32 President-designate, Dr. Gedion Timothewos, on hosting next year's conference in Addis Ababa, the first COP in sub-Saharan Africa since 2011. They discussed his priorities for the summit and Ethiopia's remarkably quick adoption of electric vehicles, as well as California's work to expand battery storage and EV charging.
In 2024, Ethiopia became the first African country to prohibit imports of gasoline and diesel vehicles. EVs now make up about 8% of its vehicle fleet, and more than 95% of its electricity comes from renewable sources, mainly hydropower. Like California, Ethiopia faces severe climate-driven weather, including an El Nino-linked drought affecting about 3.5 million people, and is advancing reforestation through its Green Legacy Initiative.
States and cities showed up
Governor Newsom closed the day at the invitation of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, joining governors and mayors from around the world, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, to elevate the role of states and cities in global climate action.
Governor Newsom thanked the Secretary-General for his longstanding commitment to climate action and for creating forums where states and cities can share what works. Calling this an era of implementation, he pointed to California's Cap-and-Invest program as an example of what states can deliver and said the work of turning commitments into results is now underway.
California at COP31
COP31 is the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, an annual global climate conference that brings together world leaders, scientists, businesses, non-governmental organizations, and civil society to advance action on climate change. Held in Antalya, Turkiye, from November 9-20, 2026, the conference is hosted by Turkiye, with Australia leading the negotiations. This year's focus is on implementation: turning climate commitments into concrete, measurable results.
As a founding member of the Under2 Coalition and the U.S. Climate Alliance and as co-chair of America Is All In, California is demonstrating how states and regions can sustain international cooperation, accelerate clean energy, and deliver climate solutions that lower costs, create jobs, and strengthen resilience, even as the federal government retreats.
California's delegation includes Governor Gavin Newsom; First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom; California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot; California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross; California Public Utilities Commission President John Reynolds; California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez; and Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation Director Samuel Assefa.
California's climate leadership
Since Governor Newsom took office in 2019, California has added more than 39,000 megawatts of utility-scale clean 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.
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.
Solar and battery storage have been a key part of that progress, and are changing how California keeps the lights on. Since 2019, battery resources serving California grew from fewer than 700 megawatts to more than 23,000 megawatts -- an increase of more than 3,100%. Batteries store solar power when it is abundant and deliver it after sunset. That reduces how often the state needs to run natural gas plants, which cuts air pollution and supports a more cost-effective electricity system.
California's approach is also where the money is heading. Global investors are now putting roughly two dollars into clean-energy technology for every dollar that goes into fossil fuels. California is leading that shift while Donald Trump watches from the sidelines.
For California, that means investing in the good-paying jobs of the future. The Golden State is the 4th-largest economy in the world and 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.
California's global climate network
California has long been a key player on the international stage, from taking joint action on climate change to identifying new pathways and partnerships for sustained economic growth. During the Newsom administration alone, California has formed over 70 international partnerships that lay critical groundwork for our continued economic success, while prioritizing workers and businesses that benefit from these new opportunities.
Golden State and global partnerships
* United Kingdom (2026): California and the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding to tackle climate change and promote sustainable development together. The memorandum of understanding builds on an already strong history of cooperation, and focuses on areas for collaboration including clean energy technologies, climate resilience, decarbonizing transportation, and protecting the natural environment.
* Chile (2025): California and Chile signed a memorandum of understanding regarding exchanging information, developing best practices, and cooperating on methane emissions reduction. Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas, and the partnership between California and Chile opens up new opportunities for both partners to cooperate on methane reduction in waste, agriculture, and energy sectors.
* Colombia (2025): California and Colombia signed a partnership to advance joint efforts on forest conservation, methane reduction, climate resilience, and clean energy development. The memorandum of understanding deepens coordination on protecting the Amazon, strengthening biodiversity, and expanding nature-based climate solutions that support sustainable and equitable economic growth.
* Nigeria (2025): California signed a memorandum of understanding with Nigeria on sustainable urban transportation, green ports, low-carbon transportation fuels, climate adaptation, methane detection and abatement policies, greenhouse gas emissions and air quality, and academic exchange and university partnerships. The partnership will build upon our shared commitment to sustainable growth, accelerate the transition to zero-emission transportation, and expand opportunities for the next generation.
* Brazil (2025): California signed a memorandum of understanding with the Brazilian federal government to scale up cooperation on climate, clean energy, cutting pollution, and job-creating climate opportunities. This new partnership, announced in September 2025, will advance market-based carbon pricing programs, expand clean transportation, including zero-emission vehicles and low-carbon fuels, and strengthen air quality management through enhanced monitoring and regulatory controls. The partnership also focuses on conserving 30% of lands and coastal waters by 2030, including nature-based solutions and biodiversity protection. In 2025, California also advanced a partnership with the State of Para to strengthen cooperation on wildfire prevention and response -- enhancing forest monitoring, identifying areas most at risk, and sharing research and expertise to improve firefighting and emergency management.
* Kenya (2025): California signed a partnership focused on cutting pollution and supporting trade. The partnership advances medium- and long-term low-carbon development, policy research, development, and innovation in sustainable land use and urban planning that reduces long commutes and urban sprawl, while promoting integrated land use and transport systems.
* Noord-Holland (2024): California and Noord-Holland signed a Letter of Intent advancing next-generation air mobility -- from drones to zero-emission aircraft. Joint innovation missions are producing pilot projects that inform California's Advanced Air Mobility Implementation Plan and readiness for major global events.
* Australia (2023): California signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Australia that helped inform the country's first-ever vehicle carbon emissions standards through input from the California Air Resources Board. The California Public Utilities Commission and California ISO have also advised Australia on electricity market reform to better align incentives for renewable energy.
* British Columbia (2023): California and British Columbia signed a memorandum of understanding on mutual wildfire assistance that is delivering results. British Columbia sent incident management experts to support California's Palisades Fire in 2025, while CAL FIRE deployed personnel during British Columbia's 2025 fire season. These exchanges established a lasting framework for cross-border wildfire support.
* China (2023): California signed five Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with China's National Development and Reform Commission, the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu, and the municipalities of Beijing and Shanghai to advance cooperation in cutting greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning away from fossil fuels, and developing clean energy.
* Denmark (2021): California and Denmark signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on groundwater mapping, leak detection, and water efficiency, which has modernized California's data systems and informed key state programs, like the Airborne Electromagnetic Survey. Danish technologies and expertise have helped strengthen drought and water-supply resilience statewide.
* Mexico (Baja California & Sonora): California signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Mexican states of Baja California and Sonora to advance zero-emission freight corridors, clean ports, and battery manufacturing -- strengthening North American supply chains and workforce readiness. Joint forums have already produced new research collaborations and training programs advancing clean-tech.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/11/12/as-trump-abandons-americas-allies-governor-newsom-rallies-world-leaders-at-un-climate-summit-meets-with-brazils-president-lula-and-signs-new-partnership-with-portugal/
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Nov 12, 2026
As Trump abandons America's allies, Governor Newsom rallies world leaders at UN climate summit, meets with Brazil's President Lula, and signs new partnership with Portugal
The Trump administration stayed home. California came to work.
What you need to know: Governor Newsom kicked off California's participation at COP31 by meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, joined Netherlands Climate Envoy Jan Versteeg for a fireside chat hosted by America Is All ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 14 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release: * * * Nov 12, 2026 As Trump abandons America's allies, Governor Newsom rallies world leaders at UN climate summit, meets with Brazil's President Lula, and signs new partnership with Portugal The Trump administration stayed home. California came to work. What you need to know: Governor Newsom kicked off California's participation at COP31 by meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, joined Netherlands Climate Envoy Jan Versteeg for a fireside chat hosted by America Is AllIn, and advanced new partnerships on clean energy, wildfire resilience and climate action across Europe and Africa, including a new memorandum of understanding with Portugal. For the second year in a row, the Trump administration failed to send a delegation.
ANTALYA, TURKIYE - Governor Gavin Newsom brought California's climate leadership to COP31, the United Nations climate conference, sitting down with leaders from Brazil, Portugal, Ethiopia, and the Netherlands to build and reaffirm partnerships that cut pollution, accelerate clean energy, and protect communities from wildfire and extreme weather. While Donald Trump abandons America's seat at the table, California is showing up and keeping its word.
* * *
"California is here at COP31, and we're putting our partnerships to work, from fighting wildfires together to building a cleaner, safer energy future. Donald Trump's empty chair won't stop us from pulling up our own and leading the climate fight."
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
From Belem to Antalya: deepening ties with Brazil
Governor Newsom met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to discuss opportunities to strengthen California's ties with Brazil's federal government.
The meeting builds on the climate partnership California and Brazil signed in September 2025 to advance collaboration around carbon pricing, clean transportation and air quality, and on the cooperation the two advanced last year when Brazil hosted COP30 in Belem, where California also signed a wildfire partnership with the Brazilian state of Para.
California and Brazil share a commitment to protecting forests, expanding clean energy and confronting the growing costs of climate change.
America is still in this fight
Governor Newsom joined Netherlands Climate Envoy Jan Versteeg on the main stage of the America Is All In Pavilion for "Local Action, Global Partnerships," a fireside chat moderated by Bloomberg TV's Jennifer Zabasajja. Governor Newsom made the case that clean energy is now an economic and strategic imperative, pointing to battery storage as the backbone of California's grid reliability and urging the United States to compete with China on electric vehicles and clean technology. He also highlighted California's extension of Cap-and-Invest through 2045, designed with affordability in mind, and the state's decade of partnership with the Netherlands on clean energy, electric vehicles, water management, and resilience.
The conversation underscored how clean energy strengthens energy security and the economy, and how states and cities keep climate cooperation alive when national politics break down.
Governor Newsom co-chairs America Is All In with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb. Its partners represent roughly two-thirds of the U.S. population and three-quarters of the U.S. economy.
When women thrive, communities can weather the storm
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined women entrepreneurs from around the world for "Engendering Sustainability," a panel hosted by The Climate Registry at its USA Climate Pavilion, to discuss women's empowerment as a cornerstone of climate resilience and a necessary climate adaptation strategy.
The First Partner made the case that gender equality is essential to climate resilience. When women have greater economic security, they have the power to make decisions for the future of their families, their communities, and the environment.
"Women are only receiving 1.1% of venture capital dollars in the United States of America right now," said First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. "Money and power are what is valued in our society, and money and power aren't in the hands of women."
The First Partner also emphasized that women's leadership is essential to building a more resilient future. When women have a seat at the table, in government, boardrooms and communities, they champion the inclusive policies and investments that build climate resilience. Closing the wage gap, expanding workforce participation and investing in women entrepreneurs, especially in food, land, water and technology, lifts families out of poverty, strengthens economies and helps communities withstand climate-driven instability.
"No woman can reach her full potential if her physical safety, mental health, or healthcare needs are compromised," the First Partner said. "Strengthening women, the backbone of communities, ensures they will be resilient enough to withstand climate shocks, survive disasters, and lead long-term recovery."
The First Partner also highlighted the work of California's Women's Wealth Advisory Council and the state's nation-leading Farm to School Program, which sources school meals from local, regenerative and organic farms, cutting supply chain emissions. Through the Healthy School Food Pathway apprenticeship, school food workers, a predominantly female workforce, receive paid, hands-on training in scratch cooking that creates a direct path to higher wages and financial independence.
Fighting fire, together
Governor Newsom opened the day trading wildfire lessons with leaders from around the world at Turkiye's International Forestry Training Center, during a high-level exchange among states and regions hosted by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, the Under2 Coalition, and Turkiye's General Directorate of Forestry.
The center trains firefighters and forestry professionals from across the region, using an advanced simulator that lets incident commanders battle virtual fires across shifting weather, terrain, and vegetation. California, which co-founded the Under2 Coalition in 2015, shared what it has learned from investing in forest health, prescribed fire, and cutting-edge firefighting technology, and heard lessons from Turkiye and other partners facing the same growing threat.
Partnering with Portugal on wildfire and clean energy
California and Portugal are partnering to share best practices, accelerate the transition to clean, renewable, carbon-free energy, and strengthen wildfire prevention, response and recovery. Governor Newsom met with Portugal's Secretary of State for Environment, Joao Manuel Esteves, to finalize a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed by California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot.
The MOU deepens cooperation on clean energy, climate resilience and economic development, including offshore wind, battery storage and recycling, zero-emission transportation and port decarbonization. It builds on a 2022 wildfire partnership between CAL FIRE and Portugal's Agency for Integrated Rural Fire Management, with new opportunities for joint training, forest management, satellite-based fire monitoring and emergency preparedness. Like California, Portugal has a Mediterranean climate and faces growing risks from wildfire, drought, and extreme heat.
Laying the groundwork for COP32 in Africa
Governor Newsom congratulated Ethiopia's Minister of Foreign Affairs and COP32 President-designate, Dr. Gedion Timothewos, on hosting next year's conference in Addis Ababa, the first COP in sub-Saharan Africa since 2011. They discussed his priorities for the summit and Ethiopia's remarkably quick adoption of electric vehicles, as well as California's work to expand battery storage and EV charging.
In 2024, Ethiopia became the first African country to prohibit imports of gasoline and diesel vehicles. EVs now make up about 8% of its vehicle fleet, and more than 95% of its electricity comes from renewable sources, mainly hydropower. Like California, Ethiopia faces severe climate-driven weather, including an El Nino-linked drought affecting about 3.5 million people, and is advancing reforestation through its Green Legacy Initiative.
States and cities showed up
Governor Newsom closed the day at the invitation of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, joining governors and mayors from around the world, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, to elevate the role of states and cities in global climate action.
Governor Newsom thanked the Secretary-General for his longstanding commitment to climate action and for creating forums where states and cities can share what works. Calling this an era of implementation, he pointed to California's Cap-and-Invest program as an example of what states can deliver and said the work of turning commitments into results is now underway.
California at COP31
COP31 is the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, an annual global climate conference that brings together world leaders, scientists, businesses, non-governmental organizations, and civil society to advance action on climate change. Held in Antalya, Turkiye, from November 9-20, 2026, the conference is hosted by Turkiye, with Australia leading the negotiations. This year's focus is on implementation: turning climate commitments into concrete, measurable results.
As a founding member of the Under2 Coalition and the U.S. Climate Alliance and as co-chair of America Is All In, California is demonstrating how states and regions can sustain international cooperation, accelerate clean energy, and deliver climate solutions that lower costs, create jobs, and strengthen resilience, even as the federal government retreats.
California's delegation includes Governor Gavin Newsom; First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom; California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot; California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross; California Public Utilities Commission President John Reynolds; California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez; and Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation Director Samuel Assefa.
California's climate leadership
Since Governor Newsom took office in 2019, California has added more than 39,000 megawatts of utility-scale clean 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.
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.
Solar and battery storage have been a key part of that progress, and are changing how California keeps the lights on. Since 2019, battery resources serving California grew from fewer than 700 megawatts to more than 23,000 megawatts -- an increase of more than 3,100%. Batteries store solar power when it is abundant and deliver it after sunset. That reduces how often the state needs to run natural gas plants, which cuts air pollution and supports a more cost-effective electricity system.
California's approach is also where the money is heading. Global investors are now putting roughly two dollars into clean-energy technology for every dollar that goes into fossil fuels. California is leading that shift while Donald Trump watches from the sidelines.
For California, that means investing in the good-paying jobs of the future. The Golden State is the 4th-largest economy in the world and 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.
California's global climate network
California has long been a key player on the international stage, from taking joint action on climate change to identifying new pathways and partnerships for sustained economic growth. During the Newsom administration alone, California has formed over 70 international partnerships that lay critical groundwork for our continued economic success, while prioritizing workers and businesses that benefit from these new opportunities.
Golden State and global partnerships
* United Kingdom (2026): California and the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding to tackle climate change and promote sustainable development together. The memorandum of understanding builds on an already strong history of cooperation, and focuses on areas for collaboration including clean energy technologies, climate resilience, decarbonizing transportation, and protecting the natural environment.
* Chile (2025): California and Chile signed a memorandum of understanding regarding exchanging information, developing best practices, and cooperating on methane emissions reduction. Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas, and the partnership between California and Chile opens up new opportunities for both partners to cooperate on methane reduction in waste, agriculture, and energy sectors.
* Colombia (2025): California and Colombia signed a partnership to advance joint efforts on forest conservation, methane reduction, climate resilience, and clean energy development. The memorandum of understanding deepens coordination on protecting the Amazon, strengthening biodiversity, and expanding nature-based climate solutions that support sustainable and equitable economic growth.
* Nigeria (2025): California signed a memorandum of understanding with Nigeria on sustainable urban transportation, green ports, low-carbon transportation fuels, climate adaptation, methane detection and abatement policies, greenhouse gas emissions and air quality, and academic exchange and university partnerships. The partnership will build upon our shared commitment to sustainable growth, accelerate the transition to zero-emission transportation, and expand opportunities for the next generation.
* Brazil (2025): California signed a memorandum of understanding with the Brazilian federal government to scale up cooperation on climate, clean energy, cutting pollution, and job-creating climate opportunities. This new partnership, announced in September 2025, will advance market-based carbon pricing programs, expand clean transportation, including zero-emission vehicles and low-carbon fuels, and strengthen air quality management through enhanced monitoring and regulatory controls. The partnership also focuses on conserving 30% of lands and coastal waters by 2030, including nature-based solutions and biodiversity protection. In 2025, California also advanced a partnership with the State of Para to strengthen cooperation on wildfire prevention and response -- enhancing forest monitoring, identifying areas most at risk, and sharing research and expertise to improve firefighting and emergency management.
* Kenya (2025): California signed a partnership focused on cutting pollution and supporting trade. The partnership advances medium- and long-term low-carbon development, policy research, development, and innovation in sustainable land use and urban planning that reduces long commutes and urban sprawl, while promoting integrated land use and transport systems.
* Noord-Holland (2024): California and Noord-Holland signed a Letter of Intent advancing next-generation air mobility -- from drones to zero-emission aircraft. Joint innovation missions are producing pilot projects that inform California's Advanced Air Mobility Implementation Plan and readiness for major global events.
* Australia (2023): California signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Australia that helped inform the country's first-ever vehicle carbon emissions standards through input from the California Air Resources Board. The California Public Utilities Commission and California ISO have also advised Australia on electricity market reform to better align incentives for renewable energy.
* British Columbia (2023): California and British Columbia signed a memorandum of understanding on mutual wildfire assistance that is delivering results. British Columbia sent incident management experts to support California's Palisades Fire in 2025, while CAL FIRE deployed personnel during British Columbia's 2025 fire season. These exchanges established a lasting framework for cross-border wildfire support.
* China (2023): California signed five Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with China's National Development and Reform Commission, the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu, and the municipalities of Beijing and Shanghai to advance cooperation in cutting greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning away from fossil fuels, and developing clean energy.
* Denmark (2021): California and Denmark signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on groundwater mapping, leak detection, and water efficiency, which has modernized California's data systems and informed key state programs, like the Airborne Electromagnetic Survey. Danish technologies and expertise have helped strengthen drought and water-supply resilience statewide.
* Mexico (Baja California & Sonora): California signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Mexican states of Baja California and Sonora to advance zero-emission freight corridors, clean ports, and battery manufacturing -- strengthening North American supply chains and workforce readiness. Joint forums have already produced new research collaborations and training programs advancing clean-tech.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/11/12/as-trump-abandons-americas-allies-governor-newsom-rallies-world-leaders-at-un-climate-summit-meets-with-brazils-president-lula-and-signs-new-partnership-with-portugal/