States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
N.Y. Comptroller DiNapoli: School District Tax Cap Levy Remains at 2%
ALBANY, New York, Jan. 16 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Jan. 14, 2026:
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DiNapoli: School District Tax Cap Levy Remains at 2%
Property tax levy growth for New York's school districts and 10 cities will remain capped at 2% for the fifth year in a row, according to data released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.
The tax cap, which first applied to local governments (excluding New York City) and school districts in 2012, limits annual tax levy increases to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2% with certain exceptions.
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ALBANY, New York, Jan. 16 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Jan. 14, 2026:
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DiNapoli: School District Tax Cap Levy Remains at 2%
Property tax levy growth for New York's school districts and 10 cities will remain capped at 2% for the fifth year in a row, according to data released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.
The tax cap, which first applied to local governments (excluding New York City) and school districts in 2012, limits annual tax levy increases to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2% with certain exceptions.The law includes provisions that allow school districts and municipalities to override the cap. DiNapoli's office calculated the inflation factor at 2.63% for those with a June 30, 2027, fiscal year end.
"For the fifth consecutive year, the property tax levy for school districts and 10 cities will be capped at 2%," DiNapoli said. "School district and municipal officials must continue to find ways to deliver services efficiently as they deal with higher costs and the potential impact of federal actions."
The 2% allowable levy growth affects the tax cap calculations for 675 school districts and 10 cities with fiscal years starting July 1, 2026, including the "Big Four" cities of Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Yonkers, as well as Amsterdam, Auburn, Corning, Long Beach, Watertown, and White Plains.
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Tax Levy Growth Chart
Note: Allowable levy growth is expressed as a percentage.
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List of allowable tax levy growth factors for all local governments (https://www.osc.ny.gov/files/local-government/property-tax-cap/pdf/inflation-and-allowable-levy-growth-factors.pdf)
Real Property Tax Cap and Tax Cap Compliance web page (https://www.osc.ny.gov/local-government/property-tax-cap)
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Original text here: https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2026/01/dinapoli-school-district-tax-cap-levy-remains-at-2-percent
N.Y. Comptroller DiNapoli: Independent Review Finds State Pension Fund Operates at Highest Ethical and Professional Standards
ALBANY, New York, Jan. 16 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Jan. 15, 2026:
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DiNapoli: Independent Review Finds State Pension Fund Operates at Highest Ethical and Professional Standards
An independent fiduciary and conflict of interest review of the $291.4 billion New York State Common Retirement Fund (Fund) recognized the Fund for its exemplary investment oversight, risk management, and ethical governance. Released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, the review concluded the Fund operates with the highest ethical standards,
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ALBANY, New York, Jan. 16 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Jan. 15, 2026:
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DiNapoli: Independent Review Finds State Pension Fund Operates at Highest Ethical and Professional Standards
An independent fiduciary and conflict of interest review of the $291.4 billion New York State Common Retirement Fund (Fund) recognized the Fund for its exemplary investment oversight, risk management, and ethical governance. Released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, the review concluded the Fund operates with the highest ethical standards,is in full compliance with fiduciary and statutory requirements, and acts for the sole benefit of its more than 1.2 million participants. The review was conducted by Weaver and Tidwell LLP (Weaver).
"During my tenure, the New York State Common Retirement Fund has established itself as one of the nation's top public pension funds in performance, transparency, ethics, and public accountability. I'm proud of the results-driven, disciplined work my team accomplishes year-in and year-out," DiNapoli said. "This report confirms that we are meeting and exceeding standards and safeguarding the pension's assets on behalf of over 1.2 million members, retirees, and beneficiaries. I thank the staff at Weaver for their thoughtful and thorough review."
This review, required by state regulations, is part of the reforms that DiNapoli fought for when he became State Comptroller to provide the public with a clear, independent assessment of how the Fund is being managed and where improvements could be made.
Weaver's review found:
* The Fund operates under a strong governance framework with a rigorous system of internal controls, and maintains a high level of operational transparency.
* The Comptroller manages the Fund with the highest ethical, professional, and conflict of interest standards, and acts for the sole benefit of the retirement system's members and beneficiaries.
* The Fund has a great deal of focus on the fees applied to each individual deal and whether the proposed fees fall within prevailing market norms.
* The Fund demonstrates a strategic asset allocation between public and private markets that closely aligns with its peer group.
* Fund staff are knowledgeable and dedicated and manage the Fund in the most efficient and effective manner possible.
Weaver also highlighted that the Fund's high-funded status and conservative assumed rate of return puts it in a stronger financial position to meet long-term obligations than its peers, and is able to weather market volatility. The funded status of the Fund is currently 92.2%, as of March 31, 2025. It is one of the highest funded rates among public pension funds in the United States, and assures that it has assets on hand to meet its obligations. The Fund's assumed rate of return is 5.9%, the second lowest in the country. A lower target reduces risk and increases the likelihood that investments will succeed in meeting expectations.
The review examined documents for all investment transactions requiring DiNapoli's approval during the review period of April 1, 2021 through March 31, 2024. The firm found that every transaction was approved and closed in compliance with the Fund's policies and legal requirements.
Weaver also commended the Fund's operations and made five recommendations for the CRF to consider as it continues to enhance processes, increase efficiencies and build additional operational resilience with technology and operational structure changes. These recommendations have been addressed or are in process.
The independent review is mandated every three years as part of the regulatory framework established by the Department of Financial Services and the State Comptroller's office in 2008. This is the fifth completed review.
Since taking office, DiNapoli has instituted a number of reforms, in addition to requiring this independent review. The reforms strengthen the Fund's performance, transparency, and adherence to strict ethical standards and include a ban on placement agents to eliminate the potential for abuse; a comprehensive Code of Conduct that outlines standards for employees, managers, consultants, and advisory committees; and a ban on pay-to-play practices by prohibiting the Fund from doing business with any investment adviser who had made a political contribution to the State Comptroller or a candidate for State Comptroller within the prior two years.
The New York State Common Retirement Fund is one of the largest public pension funds in the United States and has consistently been ranked as one of the best managed and best funded plans in the nation.
The Fund holds and invests the assets of the New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS) on behalf of more than 1.2 million state and local government employees and retirees and their beneficiaries. There are nearly 3,000 participating employers in the system, and more than 300 different retirement plan combinations. In the state fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, NYSLRS paid out nearly $16.8 billion in benefits.
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Report
New York State Common Retirement Fund: Fiduciary and Conflict of Interest Review (https://www.osc.ny.gov/files/common-retirement-fund/resources/pdf/nyscrf-fiduciary-and-conflict-of-interest-review-2025.pdf)
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Original text here: https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2026/01/dinapoli-independent-review-finds-state-pension-fund-operates-highest-ethical-and-professional
Friday Court Hearing on S.D. A.G. Jackley's Injunction on Abortion Deceptive Advertising Postponed Over State's Objection
PIERRE, South Dakota, Jan. 16 -- South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley issued the following news release:
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Friday Court Hearing on Attorney General Jackley's Injunction On Abortion Deceptive Advertising Postponed Over State's Objection
Friday's scheduled court hearing on South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley's motion to stop Mayday Health from deceptively advertising the sale of abortion pills and abortion services in South Dakota has been postponed at the request of Mayday Health.
The State objected to the postponement, arguing that the deceptive advertisements remain harmful
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PIERRE, South Dakota, Jan. 16 -- South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley issued the following news release:
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Friday Court Hearing on Attorney General Jackley's Injunction On Abortion Deceptive Advertising Postponed Over State's Objection
Friday's scheduled court hearing on South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley's motion to stop Mayday Health from deceptively advertising the sale of abortion pills and abortion services in South Dakota has been postponed at the request of Mayday Health.
The State objected to the postponement, arguing that the deceptive advertisements remain harmfulto women and need to be immediately taken down.
The date and time of the rescheduled hearing has not yet been set. The hearing will be held at the Hughes County Courthouse in Pierre.
For more information, contact Tony Mangan at 605-773-6878.
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Original text here: https://atg.sd.gov/OurOffice/Media/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?id=2989
Del. Gov. Matt Meyer Issues Statement on Retirement of Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola
DOVER, Delaware, Jan. 16 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following statement on Jan. 15, 2026:
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Governor Matt Meyer Issues Statement on Retirement of Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola
Governor Matt Meyer today released the following statement in response to Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola's announcement that he will not seek reelection:
"Senator Dave Sokola is a leader whose steady presence and thoughtful approach have helped shape public service in our state for a generation. He leads with heart as much as with principle, and I never doubt his sincerity, his
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DOVER, Delaware, Jan. 16 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following statement on Jan. 15, 2026:
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Governor Matt Meyer Issues Statement on Retirement of Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola
Governor Matt Meyer today released the following statement in response to Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola's announcement that he will not seek reelection:
"Senator Dave Sokola is a leader whose steady presence and thoughtful approach have helped shape public service in our state for a generation. He leads with heart as much as with principle, and I never doubt his sincerity, hisrespect for this institution, or his deep care for the people we both serve. He brings a quiet strength to his work that steadies the room, and a conviction that reminds all of us why we chose to serve.
"As he prepares to close this chapter, Dave leaves more than a record of legislation -- he leaves an enduring example of what it means to lead with integrity, humility, and grace.
"I look forward to a productive session ahead and to working with Dave for one more year to bring a new, fair public education funding formula across the finish line for the students and families of Delaware. Our state is stronger because of his voice, his judgment, and his spirit."
For any questions, please email govcomm@delaware.gov.
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Original text here: https://news.delaware.gov/2026/01/15/governor-matt-meyer-issues-statement-on-retirement-of-senate-president-pro-tempore-dave-sokola/
Ariz. State Rep. Gress Introduces School Governance Reform Package to Protect Education Dollars and Strengthen Oversight
PHOENIX, Arizona, Jan. 16 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on Jan. 15, 2026:
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Rep. Gress Introduces School Governance Reform Package to Protect Education Dollars and Strengthen Oversight
Recent events involving school district leadership have raised serious questions about the management of public education dollars and what happens when accountability fails. In response, State Representative Matt Gress, Chairman of the House Education Committee and Co-Chair of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, has introduced a package of legislation to tighten oversight,
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PHOENIX, Arizona, Jan. 16 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on Jan. 15, 2026:
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Rep. Gress Introduces School Governance Reform Package to Protect Education Dollars and Strengthen Oversight
Recent events involving school district leadership have raised serious questions about the management of public education dollars and what happens when accountability fails. In response, State Representative Matt Gress, Chairman of the House Education Committee and Co-Chair of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, has introduced a package of legislation to tighten oversight,increase transparency, and keep education decisions focused on students and classrooms.
"The events at Tolleson make clear why stronger accountability measures are necessary," said Representative Gress. "When school leaders control large public budgets with little oversight, taxpayers and classrooms pay the price. Arizona families deserve confidence that education dollars are managed responsibly and that those in authority are held to clear, enforceable standards."
Representative Gress introduced HB2387, HB2386, HB2381, HB2382, HB2377, and HB2385, a package of bills addressing superintendent contracts and duties. Superintendents oversee large public budgets, yet too often operate with limited scrutiny. These measures set clear standards to curb unchecked discretion, increase transparency, and eliminate excessive contract benefits available only to superintendents and not to other district employees. The legislation refocuses compensation and contract terms on performance and results rather than entitlement.
Representative Gress also introduced HB2318, HB2380, and HB2379 to strengthen school board governance. School board members exercise broad authority over district operations, policy decisions, and student safety. One bill requires mandatory training to ensure board members understand their legal responsibilities and are prepared to make informed decisions. The package also establishes consequences when board members fail to carry out their duties.
In addition, Representative Gress introduced legislation to restrict certain school district leasing and financial arrangements, HB2384, HB2376, and HB2383. School districts exist to educate students, not to operate as financial intermediaries. These bills keep education dollars directed toward classrooms, instruction, and student learning.
"Public schools exist to serve students, not administrators or board members who disregard their responsibilities," Representative Gress said. "This legislative package sets clear rules and ensures education dollars stay focused where they belong--on instruction and students."
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Matt Gress is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 4 in Phoenix and is Chairman of the House Committee on Education. Follow him on X at @MatthewGress.
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Original text here: https://www.azleg.gov/press/house/57LEG/2R/260115GRESSSCHOOLREFORMPACKAGE.pdf
Rhode Island Supreme Court Issues Opinion on 1100 North Main Vs. Shoreby Hill Properties
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Jan. 16 -- The Rhode Island Supreme Court issued the following opinion on Jan. 14, 2026:
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1100 North Main LLC v. Shoreby Hill Properties, Inc.
Present: Suttell, C.J., Goldberg, Robinson, Lynch Prata, and Long, JJ.
OPINION
Justice Long, for the Court. The plaintiff, 1100 North Main LLC (plaintiff), appeals from a Superior Court judgment in favor of the defendant, Shoreby Hill Properties, Inc. (defendant), dismissing the plaintiff's complaint for declaratory and equitable or monetary relief related to a purchase and sales agreement concerning the defendant's property
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PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Jan. 16 -- The Rhode Island Supreme Court issued the following opinion on Jan. 14, 2026:
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1100 North Main LLC v. Shoreby Hill Properties, Inc.
Present: Suttell, C.J., Goldberg, Robinson, Lynch Prata, and Long, JJ.
OPINION
Justice Long, for the Court. The plaintiff, 1100 North Main LLC (plaintiff), appeals from a Superior Court judgment in favor of the defendant, Shoreby Hill Properties, Inc. (defendant), dismissing the plaintiff's complaint for declaratory and equitable or monetary relief related to a purchase and sales agreement concerning the defendant's propertylocated at 301 Harris Avenue in Providence, Rhode Island (the Harris Avenue property). The trial justice also quashed two notices of lis pendens that the plaintiff had recorded on the Harris Avenue property and denied the plaintiff's motion to amend its complaint.
This case came before the Supreme Court pursuant to an order directing the parties to appear and show cause why the issues raised in this appeal should not be summarily decided. After considering the parties' written and oral submissions and reviewing the record, we conclude that cause has not been shown and that we may decide this case without further briefing or argument. For the reasons set forth herein, we affirm the judgment of the Superior Court.
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Opinion No.: 2024-203-Appeal (PC 24-1639)
To view entire opinion click here: https://www.courts.ri.gov/Opinions/Supreme-24-203.pdf
R.I. Gov. McKee, Commissioner Infante-Green Spotlight Weekly Attendance Leaders
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Jan. 16 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on Jan. 15, 2026:
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Governor McKee, Commissioner Infante-Green Spotlight Weekly Attendance Leaders
As part of the statewide Attendance Matters RI campaign, today, Governor Dan McKee and Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green recognized Rhode Island schools with the highest weekly attendance rate across elementary, middle, and high school levels.
The following schools are Rhode Island's attendance leaders for the week of January 5, 2026*:
* Elementary: Community School, Cumberland -
... Show Full Article
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Jan. 16 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on Jan. 15, 2026:
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Governor McKee, Commissioner Infante-Green Spotlight Weekly Attendance Leaders
As part of the statewide Attendance Matters RI campaign, today, Governor Dan McKee and Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green recognized Rhode Island schools with the highest weekly attendance rate across elementary, middle, and high school levels.
The following schools are Rhode Island's attendance leaders for the week of January 5, 2026*:
* Elementary: Community School, Cumberland -97.74% weekly attendance rate
* Middle: Jamestown School-Lawn, Jamestown - 98.06% weekly attendance rate
* High School: A-Venture Academy, Providence - 96.04% weekly attendance rate
This week's press release does not include the most improved schools due to the holiday break.
Governor McKee and Commissioner Infante-Green commend all Rhode Island schools for their continued commitment to student success and consistent attendance. These recognitions will be updated weekly and shared publicly to celebrate the hard work of educators, students, and families.
*As of 6:00 a.m. on January 15, 2026
**Schools with multiple grade levels are categorized by RIDE according to their largest student population
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Original text here: https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-mckee-commissioner-infante-green-spotlight-weekly-attendance-leaders-1
