States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Wash. State Utilities & Transportation Commission: State Regulators Order Avista to Refund Over-Collected Rates
OLYMPIA, Washington, Dec. 20 -- The Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission issued the following news on Dec. 19, 2025:
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State regulators order Avista to refund over-collected rates
LACEY, Wash. - On Dec. 19, 2025, the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission rejected tariff sheets Avista filed in October 2024 and revised in December 2025. The commission previously allowed Avista's rate increase to recover costs related to the coal-fired Colstrip power plant, subject to refund. After considering the full record, the commission ordered Avista to file new tariff
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OLYMPIA, Washington, Dec. 20 -- The Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission issued the following news on Dec. 19, 2025:
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State regulators order Avista to refund over-collected rates
LACEY, Wash. - On Dec. 19, 2025, the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission rejected tariff sheets Avista filed in October 2024 and revised in December 2025. The commission previously allowed Avista's rate increase to recover costs related to the coal-fired Colstrip power plant, subject to refund. After considering the full record, the commission ordered Avista to file new tariffsheets that will result in a $5.86 million decrease in revenue. The decrease will be refunded to customers starting in January 2026 for rates Avista overcharged related to Colstrip.
Avista sought recovery for capital investments made in the coal plant in 2024 and 2025. The commission denied full recovery of the investments. Instead, they required Avista to prorate the amounts and not charge customers for any coal investments with an in-service date after Jan. 1, 2026, as they will no longer be necessary or useful to Washington customers. The commission allowed full recovery of investments made to protect health and safety at the plant.
Washington's Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA) requires all electric utilities serving Washington to remove coal-fired electricity from rates by Dec. 31, 2025. To comply with CETA, Avista is transferring its 15 percent ownership share of Colstrip to NorthWestern Energy Corporation on Jan. 1, 2026. As part of the order, the commission required Avista to submit any future property transfers made to comply with CETA to the commission for review.
On Sept. 24, 2025, the commission held a public comment hearing where customers shared concerns over additional rate increases, subsidizing coal electricity for use by other states, and CETA compliance. The commission made their decision with these comments in mind. The order honors CETA and the public interest by supporting the transition to a clean energy economy, reducing burdens to vulnerable populations and highly impacted communities, and ensures fairness for customers.
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About the UTC
The UTC regulates investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities in Washington. The commission ensures regulated companies provide safe, equitable, and reliable service to customers at reasonable rates, while earning a fair profit.
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About Avista
Spokane-based Avista Utilities provides electricity to around 403,000 customers and natural gas to about 369,000 customers across 30,000 square miles in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Montana.
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Original text here: https://www.utc.wa.gov/news/2025/state-regulators-order-avista-refund-over-collected-rates
W.Va. State Treasurer Pack Celebrates 11th Anniversary of ABLE Savings Plans With Improvements to the Program
CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Dec. 20 -- West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Treasurer Pack Celebrates 11th Anniversary of ABLE Savings Plans with Improvements to the Program
State Treasurer Larry Pack today announced improvements to the West Virginia ABLE program due to the passage of the federal ABLE Age Adjustment Act, which includes expansion. Today also marks the 11thanniversary of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, which launched a groundbreaking financial tool for eligible people with disabilities across the country.
"There
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CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Dec. 20 -- West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Treasurer Pack Celebrates 11th Anniversary of ABLE Savings Plans with Improvements to the Program
State Treasurer Larry Pack today announced improvements to the West Virginia ABLE program due to the passage of the federal ABLE Age Adjustment Act, which includes expansion. Today also marks the 11thanniversary of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, which launched a groundbreaking financial tool for eligible people with disabilities across the country.
"Thereis truly so much to celebrate with the anniversary of the ABLE Act and the many ways our program is growing to benefit both current and future WVABLE accountholders," State Treasurer Larry Pack said. "Making accounts more affordable, offering new ways to save, and opening enrollment to tens of thousands more West Virginians means even more people with disabilities can take control of their financial future. We are thrilled about these changes and eager to get the word out so our current and future accountholders can be informed and prepared come January 1."
Since the bill was signed into law in 2014, ABLE savings accounts have helped people across the nation, including those in West Virginia, save and pay for essential expenses. Prior to the passage of the ABLE Act, individuals with a disability were not permitted to save more than $2,000 without being at risk of losing federal needs-based benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid.
Since the launch of ABLE accounts, more than 223,000 accounts have been opened nationwide, with more than $2.87 billion saved for future needs with an average account balance of $12,863. There are currently more than 1,025 active WVABLE accounts in West Virginia with more than $10.5 million in total assets under management. The average account balance now stands at $10,297.
The federal ABLE Age Adjustment Act, which is set to take effect January 1, 2026, will raise the age limit for the onset of a disability from before 26 to before 46. West Virginia residents who developed a disability or blindness before the age of 46 and are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, or have a signed Diagnosis Form from a licensed physician, are eligible to open a WVABLE account.
Other changes to STABLE accounts starting January 1, 2026, WVABLE will no longer have an account maintenance fee. This update will appear on the accountholder's first-quarter statement which will be available in April 2026. (Note: This fee elimination does not include investment or asset-based fees.)
Additionally, a STABLE Account Enrollment Incentive will be available to all eligible West Virginians who open a new WVABLE account beginning January 1, 2026. Through this effort, STABLE Account will match the minimum initial deposit of $25 that the new accountholder contributes when opening an account.
West Virginia residents may set up WVABLE savings accounts and learn additional information at WVABLE.com. Money in a WVABLE account can be used for a wide range of qualified disability-related expenses such as medical bills, housing, transportation, education and assistive technology.
WVABLE is administered by the West Virginia State Treasurer's Office through a partnership with the Ohio Treasurer's Office STABLE program.
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Original text here: https://wvtreasury.gov/About/Press-Releases/details/treasurer-pack-celebrates-11th-anniversary-of-able-savings-plans-with-improvements-to-the-program
Pa. Community & Economic Development Dept.: Shapiro Administration Invests More Than $14 Million to Enhance Communities and Further Boost Pennsylvania's Economy
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Dec. 20 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development issued the following news on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Shapiro Administration Invests More Than $14 Million to Enhance Communities and Further Boost Pennsylvania's Economy
Today's funding approvals through the Commonwealth Financing Authority will support flood mitigation projects, recreational trails, sewage facilities improvements, and restoring watersheds.
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Today, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger announced 135 new project approvals through the Commonwealth
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Dec. 20 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development issued the following news on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Shapiro Administration Invests More Than $14 Million to Enhance Communities and Further Boost Pennsylvania's Economy
Today's funding approvals through the Commonwealth Financing Authority will support flood mitigation projects, recreational trails, sewage facilities improvements, and restoring watersheds.
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Today, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger announced 135 new project approvals through the CommonwealthFinancing Authority (CFA) totaling more than $14 million in grants.
The new CFA approvals align with the Shapiro Administration's continued focus on strengthening communities, enhancing infrastructure, and spurring economic development across Pennsylvania.
"By investing in projects that protect our environment and strengthen our infrastructure, we're building safer, healthier, and stronger communities across Pennsylvania," said Secretary Siger. "From flood mitigation and watershed restoration to sewage facilities improvements and supporting our recreational trails, these initiatives are delivering real results that improve quality of life for all Pennsylvanians and continue our economic momentum."
A full list of the following approvals is available online.
Act 13 Program Approvals:
* Flood Mitigation Program (FMP) - Five projects approved; $813,520 total funding. The program provides funding for statewide initiatives to assist with flood mitigation projects. For example, Tioga County was approved for $265,380 for the Mansfied Flood Mitigation Project.
* The Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program (GTRP) - 119 projects approved; $12,122,417 total funding. The program provides funding for the planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks, and beautification projects. For example, Hampden Township was approved for $100,000 in funding for pedestrian improvements to Srouji Park in Cumberland County.
* Sewage Facilities Program (SFP) - Two projects approved; $77,529 total funding. The program provides funding for statewide initiatives for complying with the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act. For example, Lowell Township in Lehigh County was approved for $52,529 for planning costs associated with the update to their Act 537 plan.
* Watershed Restoration Protection Program (WRPP) - Nine projects approved; $1,095,895 total funding. The program provides funding for watershed restoration and protection projects. For example, O'Hara Township was approved for $100,000 in funding for Woodland Park pond improvements in Allegheny County.
The CFA was established in 2004 as an independent agency of DCED to administer Pennsylvania's economic stimulus packages. The CFA holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania's economic growth.
For more information about the Commonwealth Financing Authority's website or Department of Community and Economic Development, visit DCED website.
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Original text here: https://dced.pa.gov/newsroom/shapiro-administration-invests-more-than-14-million-to-enhance-communities-and-further-boost-pennsylvanias-economy/
Pa. Community & Economic Development Dept.: Shapiro Administration Announces New Main Street Designation in Central Pennsylvania, Highlights Continued Investments in Downtowns and Main Streets Across the Commonwealth
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Dec. 20 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development issued the following news on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Shapiro Administration Announces New Main Street Designation in Central Pennsylvania, Highlights Continued Investments in Downtowns and Main Streets Across the Commonwealth
This new Main Street designation for Gettysburg, which encompasses the Historic District and Historic District Extensions, provides up to $225,000 in supportive grant funding.
In his 2025-26 state budget, Governor Josh Shapiro secured $20 million to continue supporting and
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Dec. 20 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development issued the following news on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Shapiro Administration Announces New Main Street Designation in Central Pennsylvania, Highlights Continued Investments in Downtowns and Main Streets Across the Commonwealth
This new Main Street designation for Gettysburg, which encompasses the Historic District and Historic District Extensions, provides up to $225,000 in supportive grant funding.
In his 2025-26 state budget, Governor Josh Shapiro secured $20 million to continue supporting andrevitalizing our downtowns through the Main Street Matters program.
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Today, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger joined local leaders to announce that downtown Gettysburg is receiving a new Main Street designation through the Main Street Matters program. Governor Josh Shapiro created Main Street Matters in 2024 and secured another $20 million for the program in his 2025-26 state budget to continue providing downtown business districts with the tools they need to create healthy, vibrant communities.
This designation will allow Main Street Gettysburg to apply for up to $225,000 in funding and free technical assistance to implement its approved five-year strategy. The strategy focuses on creating a welcoming, walkable, and accessible historic district; revitalizing historic tourism on Steinwehr Avenue; and strengthening the physical connections of the Olde Getty Place neighborhood within the Historic District.
Secretary Siger toured downtown Gettysburg and visited the following small businesses: Lark Gifts; Martin's Family Shoes; Lucky Paw; Gettysburg Community Theater; and crEATe@48.
"This new designation for Main Street Gettysburg will provide important benefits for development and community improvements while preserving the downtown's historic character," said Secretary Siger. "Governor Shapiro secured continued funding for Main Street Matters in his 2025-26 state budget because he understands that main streets are the economic engines that fuel local and regional growth. This Administration is committed to ensuring communities have the tools they need to reach their full potential."
Main Street Matters is a key part of Pennsylvania's 10-year Economic Development Strategy to help revitalize downtowns, support small businesses, and strengthen local economies.
Main Street Gettysburg has had a leadership role in revitalizing Gettysburg's historic district downtown for several decades, preserving its character while supporting economic development.
"Designation is both an investment in Gettysburg's future and a commitment to protecting its history," said Jill Sellers, President, Main Street Gettysburg. "It allows us to put our five-year strategy into action--improving walkability and accessibility, strengthening neighborhoods, and preserving our historic district. Together will ensure that Gettysburg remains vibrant and welcoming to residents, businesses, and visitors of today and for generations to come."
Pennsylvania Downtown Center, a statewide nonprofit dedicated solely to the revitalization of the Commonwealth's core communities, provides outreach, technical assistance, and educational services to assist communities in revitalizing central business districts and surrounding residential neighborhoods.
"As DCED's nonprofit partner and statewide coordinator for Main Street America, Pennsylvania Downtown Center looks forward to assisting Jill Sellers, her board, and staff at Main Street Gettysburg with their commitment to this initiative," said Julie Fitzpatrick, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Downtown Center. "The Main Street Approach for community revitalization is an ideal way to support local business districts to encourage sustainable economic development to balance tourism and local quality of life so that the district retains its local history and heritage while being the best and most authentic version of itself."
Main Street Matters received more than 229 applications requesting more than $68 million in the latest application round, underscoring the demand for more strategic investments in Main Streets across Pennsylvania.
The program's competitive project grant amounts vary depending upon the application category. Funding can be used for community planning grants, facade grants, business improvement grants, district development grants and accessible housing grants.
Unleashing Pennsylvania's Economic Potential, Streamlining Permitting to Drive Economic Growth, and Supporting Pennsylvania's Small Businesses
* Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has made Pennsylvania more competitive -- cutting red tape, streamlining permitting and licensing, and attracting nearly $32.5 billion in private-sector investment that has created more than 18,000 good-paying jobs across the Commonwealth. That includes the largest private-sector investment in Pennsylvania history -- Amazon's initial $20 billion investment to build new AI and cloud computing campuses, creating thousands of high-tech and construction jobs.
* Governor Shapiro has made economic competitiveness and government efficiency top priorities, launching Pennsylvania's first comprehensive economic development strategy in nearly two decades, cutting permit backlogs -- including eliminating the Department of Environmental Protection's backlog of 2,400 permits -- and investing $550 million to prepare more sites for business expansion, strengthen main streets, and support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
* The Governor's 2025-26 budget continues to make historic progress on permitting reform, funds key staff at agencies responsible for processing permits, licenses, and certifications, and invests in Pennsylvania's main streets.
Learn more about the Shapiro Administration's efforts to support Pennsylvania's workers and businesses and spur the economy, and discover how the Administration is creating economic opportunity to build a stronger, more competitive economy for all Pennsylvanians.
For more information about the Main Street Matters program or Department of Community and Economic Development, visit DCED website.
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Original text here: https://dced.pa.gov/newsroom/shapiro-administration-announces-new-main-street-designation-in-central-pennsylvania-highlights-continued-investments-in-downtowns-and-main-streets-across-the-commonwealth/
Minnesota DNR Finalizes Off-Highway Vehicle Strategic Master Plans
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Dec. 20 -- The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Minnesota DNR finalizes off-highway vehicle strategic master plans
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has finalized strategic master plans for each of the three primary categories of off-highway vehicle recreation: all-terrain vehicles, off-road vehicles and off-highway motorcycles.
The plans communicate the background and trends of OHV recreation, share information about statewide OHV trail management and strategic planning, and provide guidance
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ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Dec. 20 -- The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Minnesota DNR finalizes off-highway vehicle strategic master plans
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has finalized strategic master plans for each of the three primary categories of off-highway vehicle recreation: all-terrain vehicles, off-road vehicles and off-highway motorcycles.
The plans communicate the background and trends of OHV recreation, share information about statewide OHV trail management and strategic planning, and provide guidanceregarding future trail maintenance and development practices. The plans also highlight conditions that are suitable for future trail development. Additionally, safety and responsible riding are core considerations throughout the plans, including guidance on education, design, signage and enforcement. The DNR also developed an overview document that ties the three individual plans together.
Each plan incorporates input from a wide range of groups, individuals and other levels of government received during plan development and after the draft plans were shared for review. Feedback during a 60-day comment period helped the DNR refine the plans to reflect statewide priorities, local perspectives, and the interests and concerns of people who engage in both motorized and non-motorized uses of public lands. The plans and overview document are available on the OHV strategic master plans webpage on the DNR website. For questions or to request a printed copy, contact Molly Lou Pintok at [email protected] or 651-259-5095.
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Original text here: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/2025/12/19/minnesota-dnr-finalizes-highway-vehicle-strategic-master-plans
MTA Unveils Renovated Valley Stream Long Island Rail Road Station
NEW YORK, Dec. 20 -- The New York State Metropolitan Transportation Authority issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2025:
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MTA Unveils Renovated Valley Stream Long Island Rail Road Station
Renovated Station Features Accessibility Upgrades and Better Wayfinding
New LED Lighting Installed, Along with Upgraded Communication and Security Systems
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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced a newly renovated Valley Stream Long Island Rail Road station. The project, completed on budget and on schedule, improves accessibility, modernizes the station and brings
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NEW YORK, Dec. 20 -- The New York State Metropolitan Transportation Authority issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2025:
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MTA Unveils Renovated Valley Stream Long Island Rail Road Station
Renovated Station Features Accessibility Upgrades and Better Wayfinding
New LED Lighting Installed, Along with Upgraded Communication and Security Systems
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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced a newly renovated Valley Stream Long Island Rail Road station. The project, completed on budget and on schedule, improves accessibility, modernizes the station and bringsit into a state of good repair.
This project was completed using a design-build contracting technique that speeds work by allowing a single private-sector consortium to undertake both design and construction of a project from start to finish. This project bundle will add seven stations to the list of accessible LIRR stations and replace elevators and escalators at two stations that are currently accessible.
"The new MTA is all about results. 137,000 riders use this station every month, and we're thrilled to deliver these long-awaited upgrades," said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber. "There's more to come as part of the 2025-2029 Capital Plan's $6 billion investment in LIRR projects."
"Valley Stream is one of the LIRR's busiest stations, and we were able to perform major upgrades and state of good repair work with minimal impact to our customers," said LIRR President Rob Free. "So much of this project was completed by our in-house workforce, and I'm looking forward to more projects like these to improve the customer experience at more LIRR stations throughout the system."
"In addition to accessibility upgrades, crews made customer focused enhancements like new security cameras and updated signage to improve visibility and safety," said MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer. "By using new and innovative methods, the MTA is able to deliver projects better, faster and cheaper than ever before."
"We are spending billions of dollars on station improvement projects, and it matters because everyday people rely on us to get to school, work, and everything else the region has to offer," said MTA Chief Accessibility Officer Quemuel Arroyo. "State of good repair is synonymous with accessibility, and the MTA is committed to making the system work for all New Yorkers."
In addition to replacing the escalator, crews installing a new staircase and replacing an elevator, crews installed a new elevator machine room, electrical room and made service upgrades and installed elevator vestibules as required for weather protection. The project also included new parking spaces, improved lighting, sidewalks and crosswalks and new CCTV cameras.
Crews also performed state of good repair work including installing new station signage, painting steel columns and girders, making structural crack and spall repairs, replacing tactile strips, platform markers and rubbing edge boards and upgraded the station's public address system.
The project includes more than $12 million in federal funding. Citnalta/Scalamandre, J.V. with Parsons Transportation Group is the Designer of Record with Major Sub-Contractors Bana Electric, Mid-American, Premier, Superior, and Welkin.
On weekdays, 63 westbound and 57 eastbound trains stop at Valley Stream. On weekends, the station sees 43 westbound trains and 44 heading east. In 2025, the monthly ridership average is nearly 137,000. The Valley Stream station also offers connections to NICE Buses.
"The LIRR and MTA listened to concerns from the Valley Stream community and delivered on promises by delivering a beautiful new train station," said Assembly Member Michaelle Solages. "I want to thank the MTA and their labor partners for giving us a station that is worthy of the people who use it every day."
"We do these projects to benefit the community, and we will continue to move forward to see more success stories like the one here in Valley Stream," said SMART General Chairman Anthony Simon. "I want to thank the men and women of labor who are out here every day, no matter the weather, getting this job done."
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Original text here: https://www.mta.info/press-release/mta-unveils-renovated-valley-stream-long-island-rail-road-station
Kansas Courts: Chief Justice Marla Luckert to Step Back From Role
TOPEKA, Kansas, Dec. 20 -- The Kansas Supreme Court issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Chief Justice Marla Luckert to step back from role
Chief Justice Marla Luckert will resign from the office of chief justice on January 2, but she will remain as a justice on the Supreme Court until she retires on a date to be announced.
The Kansas Constitution includes a provision that allows Luckert to step back from her duties as chief justice while she continues to serve as justice. She said it is her intent to finish work on cases she heard before mid-October, when she took medical
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TOPEKA, Kansas, Dec. 20 -- The Kansas Supreme Court issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2025:
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Chief Justice Marla Luckert to step back from role
Chief Justice Marla Luckert will resign from the office of chief justice on January 2, but she will remain as a justice on the Supreme Court until she retires on a date to be announced.
The Kansas Constitution includes a provision that allows Luckert to step back from her duties as chief justice while she continues to serve as justice. She said it is her intent to finish work on cases she heard before mid-October, when she took medicalleave following a stroke.
Luckert said her decision to step back as chief justice and ultimately retire from the Supreme Court was made through careful deliberation, both individually and with her family, and it was not without hesitation.
"When I left Goodland to attend college and law school, I never imagined I would serve on the Supreme Court or as chief justice," she said. "I achieved far more than I imagined I would as a young woman from rural Kansas, and it has been my great honor to serve Kansans as a judge, justice, and chief justice."
Luckert's video message to Kansas (https://youtu.be/_NGjIp0AL_U)
Luckert was the second woman to be appointed to the Supreme Court and the second to serve as chief justice. She said the privilege to engage in work she loves made her decision to step back and ultimately retire more difficult. She added that knowing she leaves the court in good hands made her decision easier.
Justice Eric Rosen, who has served recently as acting chief justice, will formally step into the chief justice role on January 2. The role is reserved for the justice who has the most continuous years of service on the court.
"Justice Rosen and I have served side by side for more than 20 years, and I appreciate his leadership serving as acting chief justice these last few months," Luckert said. "It reassures me to know I will transfer responsibility to his very capable hands."
Luckert and Rosen both served as district judges in the 3rd Judicial District, a one-county district composed of Shawnee County, before they were appointed to the Supreme Court in 2002 and 2005.
Rosen said he's grateful for his years working with Luckert and for her guiding influence as chief justice. He noted her efforts to build and strengthen relationships within state government and for ushering the court system through adversity.
"Her tenure as chief justice was fraught with challenge, but she managed it all with unflappable grace," he said. "Not only did she help us overcome major obstacles, but she also made our court system stronger, more resilient, and better prepared for the future. I will greatly miss her as a colleague and confidant, but she will always remain both a professional and close personal friend."
Luckert said she will also resign from her roles on national committees. She currently is chair of the Civil Justice Committee and a member of the Access and Fairness Committees, both of which are joint ventures involving the Conference of Chief Justices and the Conference of State Court Administrators.
She will also resign her position on the Committee on Federal-State Jurisdiction, which is part of the Judicial Conference of the United States, and her service is on the invitation of Chief Justice John Roberts.
Luckert is a fourth-generation native of Sherman County. She has been a Shawnee County resident since enrolling at Washburn University for her undergraduate studies. She earned a bachelor's degree in history and a law degree from Washburn University School of Law.
After working 12 years in private practice, she was appointed a district judge for the 3rd Judicial District in 1992. She later served as the district's chief judge, a role she held for three years. She was the first woman in Kansas appointed to a chief judge role.
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Original text here: https://kscourts.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/News/2025-News-Releases/December/Chief-Justice-Marla-Luckert-to-step-back-from-role