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Va. Health Dept.: State Distributes More Than $6 Million Annually to Boost HIV Care and Support Services Across the Commonwealth
RICHMOND, Virginia, July 23 -- The Virginia Department of Health issued the following news release on July 22, 2026:
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Virginia Distributes More Than $6 Million Annually to Boost HIV Care and Support Services Across the Commonwealth
Strengthens Life-Saving Funding for Virginia's HIV Communities
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Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced that it is distributing $6.6 million annually in state funding to support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part B. The Virginia General Assembly played an essential part of this success by appropriating these funds to boost Virginia's statewide
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RICHMOND, Virginia, July 23 -- The Virginia Department of Health issued the following news release on July 22, 2026:
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Virginia Distributes More Than $6 Million Annually to Boost HIV Care and Support Services Across the Commonwealth
Strengthens Life-Saving Funding for Virginia's HIV Communities
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Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced that it is distributing $6.6 million annually in state funding to support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part B. The Virginia General Assembly played an essential part of this success by appropriating these funds to boost Virginia's statewidenetwork of HIV care services.
"Access to high-quality HIV care and services depends on robust partnerships between public health, health care providers, and community organizations across Virginia," said Laurie Forlano, State Epidemiologist, VDH. "Thanks to the General Assembly, this funding helps maintain the continuity of services for eligible clients while supporting our shared goal of improving health outcomes statewide."
The General Assembly's investment will provide critical funding for HIV medical care and support services across the Commonwealth. VDH developed funding allocations using a comprehensive review process that included regular communications with partners, service utilization data, the number of clients served, geographic considerations, and the impact of services.
The federal Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part B provides funding to states to improve the quality, availability, and organization of HIV health care and support services for people living with HIV who have limited financial resources. In Virginia, the program includes support to a statewide network of providers delivering medical care, medications, and essential support services that improve health outcomes and help reduce HIV transmission.
The agency will continue to evaluate future funding decisions using both quantitative and qualitative data, along with input from community partners and people with lived experience.
During the Grant Year 2026 (April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027), VDH will increase funding to the following existing subrecipients:
* AIDS Response Effort
* Council of Community Services
* Daily Planet Health Services
* Eastern Shore Health District
* Fredericksburg Area Health and Support Services (FAHASS)
* Health Brigade
* INOVA Juniper
* Mary Washington Healthcare
* Minority Health Consortium
* Nationz Foundation
* Northern Virginia Regional Commission (which subcontracts with NOVA Salud and Virginia Health Options)
* Serenity
* Three Rivers Health District
* University of Virginia
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Original text here: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/news/virginia-distributes-more-than-6-million-annually-to-boost-hiv-care-and-support-services-across-the-commonwealth/
R.I. Gov. McKee Ceremonially Signs Bills Creating New Disability Access & RAMP Specialty License Plates
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, July 23 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on July 22, 2026:
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Governor McKee Ceremonially Signs Bills Creating New Disability Access & RAMP Specialty License Plates
CRANSTON, RI -- Today, during Disability Pride Month, Governor Dan McKee was joined by bill sponsors Representative Earl Read (D-Dist. 26, Coventry, West Warwick, Warwick), Senator Lori Urso (D-Dist. 8, Pawtucket), Representative Richard Fascia (R-Dist. 42, Johnston, Cranston) and Senator Andrew Dimitri (D-Dist. 25, Johnston); and Tina Guenette, President/CEO
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PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, July 23 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on July 22, 2026:
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Governor McKee Ceremonially Signs Bills Creating New Disability Access & RAMP Specialty License Plates
CRANSTON, RI -- Today, during Disability Pride Month, Governor Dan McKee was joined by bill sponsors Representative Earl Read (D-Dist. 26, Coventry, West Warwick, Warwick), Senator Lori Urso (D-Dist. 8, Pawtucket), Representative Richard Fascia (R-Dist. 42, Johnston, Cranston) and Senator Andrew Dimitri (D-Dist. 25, Johnston); and Tina Guenette, President/CEOof Real Access Motivates Progress (RAMP), to ceremonially sign two pieces of legislation: creating special license plates for vehicles adapted for those with disabilities (S2178A/H 7308A) and creating a special license plate to benefit the nonprofit RAMP which is dedicated to advancing accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunity for people with disabilities (S2185/H7229).
"These are more than just license plates. They're a statement that Rhode Island is committed to accessibility, inclusion, and building a state where everyone belongs," said Governor Dan McKee. "I'm especially proud to ceremonially sign this legislation during Disability Pride Month, celebrating the achievements and rights of people with disabilities. I want to thank our bill sponsors and advocates for their leadership."
The first piece of legislation (S2178A/H7308A), sponsored by Representative Read and Senator Urso, creates a new license plate for vehicles adapted for those with disabilities. It will also allow these vehicles to park in designated accessible loading zones and parking places and will provide exemptions from certain vehicle dimension restrictions that apply to non-modified vehicles.
"When it comes to accessibility, we listened to the expertise of the disabled community, who brought to our attention some shortcomings of the previous placard system for owners of adaptive vehicles," said Representative Earl A. Read III (D-Dist. 26, Coventry, West Warwick, Warwick). "For adaptive vehicles, which are often extensively modified to fit the mobility challenges of a specific individual, it makes more sense for the license plate to follow the vehicle, not the person. This bill makes a small change that will improve the quality of life of many Rhode Islanders."
"Think for a moment, as a person with full use of your body, of the inconvenience of dropping something between your car seat and console, the process of retrieving it which often involves first trying to reach into the crevice, then getting out of your vehicle and reaching under the seat from the front, often followed by reaching under the back of your seat through the back door. Now imagine that same burden when faced by a driver with physical mobility issues. It is important that we put ourselves in their shoes and understand that these mere inconveniences for us can be near impossibilities for them. Temporary placards are inconvenient, easily lost or stolen. For those with a permanent disability who require an adaptive vehicle, there should be a permanent solution," Senator Lori Urso (D-Dist. 8, Pawtucket).
The second piece of legislation (S2185/H7229), sponsored by Representative Fascia and Senator Dimitri, creates a special license plate for the nonprofit RAMP. A portion of every plate sold will support RAMP's mission to build a more accessible and inclusive Rhode Island.
"I am very proud to have sponsored this important legislation," said Representative Richard Fascia (R-Dist. 42, Johnston, Cranston). "This registration plate will not only help raise funds for Real Access Motivates Progress (RAMP) but more importantly, it will highlight the innovative efforts of RAMP to break barriers and champion accessibility for the disabled. As important contributors to our communities, this special plate will help to support a more equitable future for our disabled friends and neighbors."
"I am extremely proud to have sponsored legislation to create a R.A.M.P. charity license plate, which will generate critical awareness and support for accessibility in our communities. Like so many other great causes, I am grateful that Rhode Islanders will now have the opportunity to display their support for this outstanding organization on their vehicles," said Senator Andrew R. Dimitri (D-Dist. 25, Johnston).
"Twelve years ago, five minutes changed my life when I became a wheelchair user. Today, five minutes with a pen changes lives for thousands of Rhode Islanders. We are all only temporarily able-bodied. The Governor's signature today doesn't just sign a bill -- it signs off on hope, on independence, and on the idea that access isn't special treatment, it's the starting line. The work we do today protects everyone's tomorrow," said Tina Guenette, Founder, RAMP.
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Original text here: https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-mckee-ceremonially-signs-bills-creating-new-disability-access-ramp
Pa. State Sen. Argall Bill to Remove Employment Barriers for Cosmetologists Signed Into Law
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, July 23 -- The Pennsylvania Senate Republicans issued the following news release:
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Argall Bill to Remove Employment Barriers for Cosmetologists Signed into Law
Legislation authored by Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) to streamline licensing for the cosmetology workforce has been signed into law by the governor, a major step in addressing Pennsylvania's ongoing workforce shortages.
"With salons and small businesses across Pennsylvania struggling to find enough licensed professionals, this new law will make it far easier for experienced cosmetologists to continue their careers,"
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, July 23 -- The Pennsylvania Senate Republicans issued the following news release:
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Argall Bill to Remove Employment Barriers for Cosmetologists Signed into Law
Legislation authored by Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) to streamline licensing for the cosmetology workforce has been signed into law by the governor, a major step in addressing Pennsylvania's ongoing workforce shortages.
"With salons and small businesses across Pennsylvania struggling to find enough licensed professionals, this new law will make it far easier for experienced cosmetologists to continue their careers,"Argall said. "There is no reason why a cosmetologist in good standing should need to start from scratch just because they crossed a state border. This bipartisan law cuts through bureaucracy and supports employers who are desperate for qualified workers."
Act 43 of 2026 authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, an interstate agreement that makes it easier for licensed cosmetologists -- who provide treatments for hair, skin and nails -- to obtain a multistate license and work in participating states without unnecessary red tape. The bill also ensures cosmetology professionals in active-duty military families face no burdensome licensure requirements in compact states.
With the governor's signature, Pennsylvania becomes the 13th state to enter the compact, joining neighboring states Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland and Delaware.
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Original text here: https://www.pasenategop.com/news/argall-bill-to-remove-employment-barriers-for-cosmetologists-signed-into-law/
Pa. Senators Hail Court Ruling as Victory for State Property Owners
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, July 23 -- The Pennsylvania Senate Republicans issued the following statement:
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Senators Hail Court Ruling as Victory for PA Property Owners
Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41), Senate Game & Fisheries Committee Chairman Greg Rothman (R-34) and Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) issued the following statement regarding the Pennsylvania Supreme Court's decision on Tuesday in favor of the Punxsutawney Hunting Club and the Pitch Pine Hunting Club:
"Every Pennsylvanian deserves to feel safe and secure on their own property, and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court was right
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, July 23 -- The Pennsylvania Senate Republicans issued the following statement:
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Senators Hail Court Ruling as Victory for PA Property Owners
Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41), Senate Game & Fisheries Committee Chairman Greg Rothman (R-34) and Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) issued the following statement regarding the Pennsylvania Supreme Court's decision on Tuesday in favor of the Punxsutawney Hunting Club and the Pitch Pine Hunting Club:
"Every Pennsylvanian deserves to feel safe and secure on their own property, and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court was rightto uphold the strong privacy and property protections provided by our state constitution.
"This ruling is a major victory that correctly overturns the 2007 decision in Commonwealth v. Russo and puts needed restrictions on the use of warrantless searches.
"Game Commission Officers no doubt have an important and dangerous job in enforcing game laws, which we certainly respect.
"However, it is now clear the Pennsylvania Game Commission must also respect the lawful rights of property owners.
"The Pennsylvania Supreme Court's unanimous decision is a tremendous win for private property rights across the commonwealth."
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Original text here: https://www.pasenategop.com/news/senators-hail-court-ruling-as-victory-for-pa-property-owners/
N.J. A.G. Davenport: 2025 State Recoveries Reach $193 Million
TRENTON, New Jersey, July 23 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on July 22, 2026:
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AG Davenport: 2025 State Recoveries Reach $193 Million
Civil enforcement efforts recouped $193 million for the State of New Jersey in 2025, Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced today. Settlements in 2025 included--among other things--the State's largest-ever non-Medicaid False Claims Act settlement.
The amount does not include settlements that are awaiting approval by a court--including, for example, New Jersey's landmark settlements against major
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TRENTON, New Jersey, July 23 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on July 22, 2026:
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AG Davenport: 2025 State Recoveries Reach $193 Million
Civil enforcement efforts recouped $193 million for the State of New Jersey in 2025, Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced today. Settlements in 2025 included--among other things--the State's largest-ever non-Medicaid False Claims Act settlement.
The amount does not include settlements that are awaiting approval by a court--including, for example, New Jersey's landmark settlements against majorcompanies in connection with PFAS contamination, which were valued at over $2.5 billion and included the largest single-state environmental settlement in U.S. history.
"I am so proud of the dedicated team in the Division of Law, who work tirelessly every day to defend New Jerseyans against consumer fraud, environmental wrongdoing, financial scams, and more" said Attorney General Davenport. "We will continue to stand up for New Jerseyans in court and protect New Jerseyans from unlawful practices that drive up costs for consumers and make our communities less safe."
"Public service is a calling and is exemplified by the 500 attorneys and legal staff within the Division of Law," said Michael C. Walters, Director of the Division of Law. "The Division's attorneys and staff work tirelessly on the thousands of matters handled to achieve the best possible outcome for the State and its residents, whether the matter involves a recovery or payment by the State."
These are the top settlements received by New Jersey in 2025:
Horizon Healthcare Services ... $100,000,000.00 ... Horizon Healthcare False Claims Act
Solvay ... $33,950,000.00 ... Arkema Judicial Consent Order
Lyf t... $19,435,087.05 ... Lyft Driver Misclassification
Daimler/Mercedes ... $11,066,162.00 ... Mercedes Consumer Fraud, Environmental Claims
Financial Services for America ... $2,217,055.73 ... Financial Services Mortgage Relief Scheme
Township of North Wildwood ... $1,700,000.00 ... North Wildwood ACO
ADS Renovation Group... $1,699,174.93 ... ADS Renovation Group Final Order
Presperse Corporation ... $1,667,830.29 ... Presperse Corp. Proof of Claim
MV Realty PBC ... $1,500,000.00 ... MV Realty Consumer Misrepresentation
The amount recovered by the State reflects judgments or settlements obtained by the State. It does not reflect other forms of relief obtained in some of those matters that directly benefit victims, such as restitution for defrauded consumers or investors, balance forgiveness, and/or debt relief.
Separately, litigation-related settlements and judgments paid by the State in 2025 totaled approximately $189 million.
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Original text here: https://www.njoag.gov/ag-davenport-2025-state-recoveries-reach-193-million/
Florida Commerce Dept.: On Third Day of Business Development Leadership Mission to the United Kingdom, Florida Delegation Visits Scotland
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, July 23 -- Florida Department of Commerce issued the following news release:
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On Third Day of Business Development Leadership Mission to the United Kingdom, Florida Delegation Visits Scotland
Governor Ron DeSantis celebrated the 250th anniversary of Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations by presiding over an academic partnership signing between Florida International University (FIU) and Heriot-Watt University.
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EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND -- On the third day of the International Business Development Leadership Mission to the United Kingdom, the delegation hosted a Florida Business
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TALLAHASSEE, Florida, July 23 -- Florida Department of Commerce issued the following news release:
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On Third Day of Business Development Leadership Mission to the United Kingdom, Florida Delegation Visits Scotland
Governor Ron DeSantis celebrated the 250th anniversary of Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations by presiding over an academic partnership signing between Florida International University (FIU) and Heriot-Watt University.
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EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND -- On the third day of the International Business Development Leadership Mission to the United Kingdom, the delegation hosted a Florida BusinessSeminar in Edinburgh, Scotland where Florida leadership, including Secretary Kelly, spoke to an audience of Scottish companies from several key industries--emphasizing that Florida is the best place to do business. Additionally, Governor Ron DeSantis celebrated the 250th anniversary of Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations by presiding over an academic partnership signing between Florida International University (FIU) and Heriot-Watt University. This visit to Scotland follows two inbound delegation visits from Scotland to Florida earlier this year.
"Under Governor DeSantis, Florida has positioned itself as one of the strongest, free market economies in the world--today's business seminar gave Scottish stakeholders the opportunity to hear about Florida's commitment to strengthening shared key industries, like aerospace and aviation, military and defense, FinTech, advanced manufacturing, maritime and quantum, through economic collaboration," said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. "In helping Scottish companies expand beyond their own borders, Florida is bolstering its economic portfolio through trade and investment--creating jobs for Floridians and cementing our position as an economic powerhouse on the world stage."
"Scotland's rise in the aerospace industry shows what focused ambition can achieve, and it mirrors the story we have written in Florida. Building a strong aerospace economy takes deliberate investment, smart policy, and the discipline to compete on substance. The regions that understand this are the ones that will lead, and Florida is proud to lead the charge," said Rob Long, President & CEO, Space Florida.
Showcasing the commercial strength of Florida's economy, Florida Business Seminar attendees received a comprehensive overview of Florida's key sectors from senior leadership. The seminar served as a strategic platform for advancing the goals laid out in the 2023 Florida-U.K. Memorandum of Understanding signed by Governor DeSantis--driving opportunities for capital investment and long-term partnerships between Florida and U.K. private sector stakeholders. Florida higher education institutions were highlighted today with leadership from Florida International University, the Florida Institute of Technology and the University of Central Florida speaking to Scottish stakeholders at several events.
The Aerospace Panel Discussion that followed the Seminar brought together key government, higher education and industry stakeholders from both Florida and the U.K. to discuss the regions' transatlantic aerospace partnership, aerospace infrastructure, commercialization, workforce development and innovation. Panelists identified potential opportunities to strengthen the relationship between Florida and the U.K.'s aerospace industries through investment and economic collaboration. These efforts solidify Florida and Scotland's positions as international leaders in the space race by ensuring companies have the tools they need to build and test their products.
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations, Governor DeSantis announced a new Letter of Friendship and Institutional Collaboration between FIU and Heriot-Watt University signed today at Panmure House, the final residence of Adam Smith. The new partnership establishes a framework for academic cooperation that builds on the intellectual heritage of Adam Smith--reinforcing Florida's commitment to free market capitalism.
In the evening, the delegation came together for an activation event and networking reception with business leaders, governmental leadership and international partners--strengthening relationships with Scottish stakeholders and promoting future trade and investment opportunities.
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Original text here: https://floridajobs.org/news-center/DEO-Press/2026/07/22/on-third-day-of-business-development-leadership-mission-to-the-united-kingdom--florida-delegation-visits-scotland
Ariz. Commerce Authority: State Celebrates Biggest Economic Development Year Yet
PHOENIX, Arizona, July 23 -- The Arizona Commerce Authority issued the following news:
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Arizona Celebrates Biggest Economic Development Year Yet
Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) marked the most successful year for economic development in Arizona's history.
During the 12 month period ending June 30, 2026, the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) and local economic development partners worked with companies that committed to creating 26,225 projected new Arizona jobs and investing more than $109 billion into communities statewide -- both single year records.
The projected new jobs carry an average
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PHOENIX, Arizona, July 23 -- The Arizona Commerce Authority issued the following news:
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Arizona Celebrates Biggest Economic Development Year Yet
Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) marked the most successful year for economic development in Arizona's history.
During the 12 month period ending June 30, 2026, the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) and local economic development partners worked with companies that committed to creating 26,225 projected new Arizona jobs and investing more than $109 billion into communities statewide -- both single year records.
The projected new jobs carry an averagewage of $81,368, higher than the state median wage.
"Across the state, we're delivering the family sustaining jobs and economic growth that are moving Arizona forward," said Governor Katie Hobbs. "From Phoenix to Southern Arizona, to our rural communities and beyond, we are strengthening the state's workforce, investing in our people, and advancing an economy that creates opportunity for every Arizonan."
This new fiscal year also marks the 15 year anniversary of the Arizona Commerce Authority -- the state's leading economic development agency. Created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, Governor Jan Brewer and the Arizona Legislature established the ACA to diversify and strengthen Arizona's economy by targeting high value industries for strategic business attraction, expansion, and creation.
Since its inception in 2011, the ACA and partners have secured more than 1,428 competitive projects, representing over 338,000 projected new jobs and more than $304 billion in capital investment statewide.
"Arizona is delivering unprecedented economic opportunity statewide," said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. "We are incredibly grateful to Governor Hobbs and all our economic development partners for their support. With Arizona's thriving industry clusters, unmatched business climate, talented workforce, top-tier education, and robust innovation ecosystem, our state continues to attract global leaders--expanding economic opportunity and reinforcing Arizona's position as premier destination for business."
In FY26, expansion projects took place in 23 communities across the state, including Buckeye, Chandler, Cochise County, Eloy, Gila Bend, Glendale, Goodyear, La Paz County, Litchfield Park, Marana, Maricopa, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise, Tempe, Tolleson, Tucson, Waddell, Yavapai County, and Yuma.
Expansion projects in Fiscal Year 2026 included:
* Amkor in Peoria;
* TSMC, ASML, and United Foods International in Phoenix;
* Hadrian, Gifthealth, DSV, Strive Pharmacy, and Garmin in Mesa;
* ERMCO in Maricopa County and Axon in Scottsdale;
* Applied Materials, Brewer Science, Tocalo, and Busch Vacuum Solutions in Chandler;
* Syenta, Cognite, RoviSys, and Kestra Holdings in Tempe;
* KPPC Advanced Chemicals in Casa Grande;
* Burlington in Buckeye and Buc-ee's in Goodyear;
* And Gunnison Copper in Cochise County.
We're moving!
Now in its fifteenth year, the ACA is positioning the organization to capitalize on continued growth and emerging opportunities statewide. Beginning August 3, 2026, the ACA will relocate to the Bank of America Tower, 201 E. Washington Street, in the heart of Downtown Phoenix.
The new location reflects the ACA's commitment to responsible stewardship, professional excellence, and delivering meaningful results for communities across Arizona.
"This move marks an exciting new chapter for the ACA, strengthening our ability to support businesses and communities statewide while continuing to advance Arizona's economic future," said Sandra Watson. "This space will strengthen our ability to collaborate, innovate, and serve partners across the state. We're ready for this next phase and look forward to the new opportunities it will create for Arizonans and the communities we serve."
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About the Arizona Commerce Authority
The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state's leading economic development organization with a streamlined mission to grow and strengthen Arizona's economy. The ACA uses a three-pronged approach to advance the overall economy: attract, expand, create - attract out-of-state companies to establish operations in Arizona; work with existing companies to expand their business in Arizona and beyond; and help entrepreneurs create new Arizona businesses in targeted industries. For more information, please visit azcommerce.com and follow the ACA on X @azcommerce.
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Original text here: https://www.azcommerce.com/news-events/news/2026/7/aca-fiscal-year-2026/
