States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
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N.Y. State Education Department Announces New York State Green Ribbon Schools Honorees
ALBANY, New York, April 23 -- The New York State Education Department issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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State Education Department Announces New York State Green Ribbon Schools Honorees
Katonah-Lewisboro School District and Williamsville Central School District Named Green Ribbon School Districts
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The State Education Department (NYSED) today announced Katonah-Lewisboro School District and Williamsville School District have been selected as 2025-2026 Green Ribbon Schools Honorees. The Katonah-Lewisboro School District (Westchester County) was selected for its numerous
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ALBANY, New York, April 23 -- The New York State Education Department issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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State Education Department Announces New York State Green Ribbon Schools Honorees
Katonah-Lewisboro School District and Williamsville Central School District Named Green Ribbon School Districts
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The State Education Department (NYSED) today announced Katonah-Lewisboro School District and Williamsville School District have been selected as 2025-2026 Green Ribbon Schools Honorees. The Katonah-Lewisboro School District (Westchester County) was selected for its numerousinitiatives in renewable energy and green technology. The Williamsville Central School District (Erie County) was selected for its various initiatives in student education, health, and wellness programs.
Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. said, "I commend the Katonah-Lewisboro School District and the Williamsville Central School District for their leadership in creating more sustainable and environmentally responsible school communities. These districts exemplify how schools can advance sustainability in meaningful ways while enhancing student learning. Their work reflects a strong commitment to practices that benefit students, staff, local communities, and the planet for generations to come."
State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, "Katonah-Lewisboro School District and Williamsville Central School District should be proud of their work to build more sustainable, environmentally responsible school communities. They have developed creative solutions to environmental challenges while actively engaging students in the process. By integrating sustainability across disciplines--from science and technology to the humanities--these schools have created meaningful, real-world learning experiences that will prepare students to be thoughtful stewards of their communities and the Earth."
In alignment with the three pillars of the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) program, the honorees were selected based on their high achievement within three areas of environmental impact: the reduction of economic and environmental waste; the improvement of health and wellness among students and staff; and the promotion of environmental sustainability education. Although the federal program is currently paused, the New York State Education Department is committed to the continued recognition of candidates making strides in the ED-GRS Pillars.
The Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) program recognizes schools where staff, students, officials, and communities have worked together to produce energy-efficient, sustainable, and healthy school environments, and to ensure the environmental literacy of graduates. This recognition is part of a larger effort to identify and share knowledge about proven practices that result in improved student engagement, academic achievement, graduation rates, workforce preparedness, and increased energy independence and economic security.
Katonah-Lewisboro School District
The Katonah-Lewisboro School District has made demonstrable achievements in its sustainability initiatives over the past several years. In 2019, the district transitioned to 100% renewable wind-powered electricity, lowering its carbon emissions by about 887 metric tons each year. Katonah-Lewisboro has also been able to offset its energy usage by about 120,000 kWh per year by installing solar arrays on the roofs of the middle and high schools. Additional projects, such as upgraded windows and insulation, a districtwide conversion to LED lighting, and a commitment to cleaner transportation have helped the district make a significant impact in its sustainability efforts.
Katonah-Lewisboro students have also played a role in cultivating a culture of care, wellness, and sustainability across the district. This includes organizing annual food and coat drives that support local families, hosting a Spirit Wear Swap to reuse and recycle clothing items, and donating produce from school gardens to the local community center. Students, as well as educators and community members, have earned regional and national recognition for their projects addressing sustainability topics.
The Katonah-Lewisboro School District is currently in the process of crafting and implementing a three-year sustainability vision and plan that creates the conditions for a whole-systems approach across community, campus, and curriculum. This includes the district's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2040, which the district intends to meet by phasing out fossil-fuel boilers and replacing them with geothermal and air-sourced heat pumps, upgrading electrical infrastructure to support full bus fleet electrification by 2035, and placing solar panels on every school roof. These initiatives are estimated to generate 2.1 Megawatts of renewable electricity.
Williamsville Central School District
Williamsville Central School District's hands-on sustainability program has shown success in reducing environmental impacts, improving student knowledge, and providing students with real-world experiences. This includes a green technologies program designed to mitigate the negative effects of human activities on the environment, a school-wide recycling program to encourage the students to think about how their actions impact the environment, and the use of the school courtyard as a green learning space lessons in science, technology, engineering, art, math, and English language arts.
The district also focuses on physical health, mental health, and wellness through initiatives that combine environmental sustainability with the school community's wellbeing, including Wellness Days, Fun Runs, a Farm to School Program, and a Gardening Club. School-wide celebrations of Earth Day and Arbor Day provide students with the opportunity to develop their understanding of the importance of caring for the environment through special projects, speakers, and activities. Students are introduced to various environmental and sustainability careers through field trips and guest speakers, including farmers, wildlife and habitat educators, and electrical energy producers.
Williamsville, in partnership with the New York Power Authority, monitors and reduces the use of energy through heating controls, lighting upgrades, and ventilation equipment improvements. The district has future goals of having high school students create and maintain a pollinator garden that they can use to teach other students and the community about environmental impacts.
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Original text here: https://www.nysed.gov/news/2026/state-education-department-announces-new-york-state-green-ribbon-schools-honorees
Maine State Sen. Brenner Bill to Require Insurance Coverage for PFAS Blood Serum Testing Signed Into Law
AUGUSTA, Maine, April 23 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Stacy Brenner, D-Scarborough:
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Sen. Brenner bill to require insurance coverage for PFAS blood serum testing signed into law
Last week, Gov. Janet T. Mills signed into law legislation sponsored by Sen. Stacy Brenner, D-Scarborough. LD 582 will require insurance providers to cover the cost of medically necessary blood serum testing for PFAS.
"In health care, knowledge is power. Understanding risk factors, whether genetic or environmental, that may increase a patient's susceptibility
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AUGUSTA, Maine, April 23 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Stacy Brenner, D-Scarborough:
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Sen. Brenner bill to require insurance coverage for PFAS blood serum testing signed into law
Last week, Gov. Janet T. Mills signed into law legislation sponsored by Sen. Stacy Brenner, D-Scarborough. LD 582 will require insurance providers to cover the cost of medically necessary blood serum testing for PFAS.
"In health care, knowledge is power. Understanding risk factors, whether genetic or environmental, that may increase a patient's susceptibilityto serious health conditions is crucial to protecting long-term health through informed monitoring and preventative treatment plans," said Sen. Brenner. "PFAS exposure is one such factor that high-risk Mainers deserve to understand. This law will ensure that PFAS blood serum testing is accessible to all Mainers in need, not just those with income to spare."
Dubbed "forever chemicals" because they do not break down over time into less harmful compounds, PFAS are manmade chemicals linked to health concerns like cancer, liver damage, birth defects and high cholesterol. The exposure risk is particularly high among Maine's agricultural workers due to the decades-long practice of applying PFAS-contaminated wastewater sludge to farmland as fertilizer. Once detected, health care providers can recommend preventative treatment and annual screening to minimize the risks associated with PFAS exposure.
Maine has taken great strides to limit the environmental and public health threat posed by PFAS contamination, developing some of the strictest regulations in the country. Maine became the first state to ban the use of PFAS in most consumer products in 2021 and the first state to ban the application of PFAS-contaminated wastewater sludge as fertilizer on farmland in 2022.
Still, many communities face high exposure to PFAS and, for many, the $450 to $600 price tag on blood serum tests is a prohibitive financial barrier to screening and preventative care. LD 582 will increase access by requiring coverage of medically necessary PFAS blood serum tests under all health plans offered in Maine, beginning January 1, 2027. This bill incorporates PFAS blood serum testing into existing Maine law, which already mandates coverage for other preventative screenings and chronic disease management.
As non-emergency legislation, LD 582 will take effect as law 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.
Sen. Brenner is serving her third term in the Maine Senate, representing Gorham and most of Scarborough. She sits on the Environment and Natural Resources Committee.
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Original text here: https://www.mainesenate.org/sen-brenner-bill-to-require-insurance-coverage-for-pfas-blood-serum-testing-signed-into-law/
In Celebration of Earth Day, Calif. Gov. Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom Announce Plan to Create Three New State Parks
SACRAMENTO, California, April 23 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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In celebration of Earth Day, Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom announce plan to create three new state parks
In the face of federal threats, California is advancing conservation and expanding access to the outdoors
What you need to know: Governor Newsom today announced State Parks Forward, adding three new state parks in the Central Valley -- pushing the statewide total to 283 parks -- while growing existing parks by 30,000 acres by the end of the decade.
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SACRAMENTO, California, April 23 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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In celebration of Earth Day, Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom announce plan to create three new state parks
In the face of federal threats, California is advancing conservation and expanding access to the outdoors
What you need to know: Governor Newsom today announced State Parks Forward, adding three new state parks in the Central Valley -- pushing the statewide total to 283 parks -- while growing existing parks by 30,000 acres by the end of the decade.This is the biggest expansion of the State Park System in decades and is providing more access to parks in the Central Valley.
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On Earth Day, Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom announced a plan to create three new state parks in the Central Valley - setting forth a bold vision to rapidly expand the nation's largest and most diverse State Park System through State Parks Forward.
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As Trump sells out America's national parks, California is doubling down on protecting the Golden State's natural beauty. Today, through the State Parks Forward initiative, we're expanding our park system with three new state parks, creating new outdoor recreation opportunities for Central Valley communities, deepening our conservation commitments, and preserving our lands for generations of Californians to come.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
Earth Day reminds us that our planet is a shared home and that our state parks belong to all Californians. With three new state parks through State Parks Forward, we are partnering across agencies to expand access to the outdoors so more children and families can connect with California's unmatched natural beauty.
- First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom
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As the Trump administration dismantles the National Park Service, California's State Parks Forward initiative will drive forward the biggest expansion of the State Park System in decades. Building on key Newsom administration priorities, including Outdoors for All and 30x30 California, the initiative will establish three new state parks near underserved communities in the Central Valley, increasing the number of state parks to 283, which is far more than any other state. It will also expand existing parks by thousands of acres. Thanks to SB 630 (Allen) and AB 679 (Pellerin), which the Governor signed last year, California is fast-tracking the process to grow existing parks through the acquisition of high-value properties at little to no cost to the state. This puts the state on the path to preserve and protect an additional 30,000 acres of land by the end of the decade.
"California's state parks are nothing short of iconic - with locations like Big Sur, Southern California beaches, and the world's tallest trees - but our state has even more to offer," said California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot. "Now through State Parks Forward we're bringing more parks to more places - particularly in the Central Valley, a beautiful region that has too often been overlooked for new parks- while at the same time making critical progress to conserve 30% of our lands by 2030."
"The bold vision laid out today by Governor Newsom sets California on a path to not just grow the State Park System but also provide more access and instill a greater connection and sense of pride for all Californians in their state parks," said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. "State Parks Forward would not be possible without our incomparable staff and partners and the amazing work they do every day in service to the people of California and their public lands."
Making state parks accessible
State Parks Forward is bringing more parks to more places -- particularly in the Central Valley, where residents have long had fewer parks and outdoor recreation opportunities than most Californians. State Parks will start the planning and acquisition process for these three new parks, spanning approximately 330 miles from one end of the Central Valley to the other. Each provides something not currently offered at any of the 280 state parks, like access to the San Joaquin and Feather rivers, or an important piece of California history like the first camps that housed farm workers in California who fled the Dust Bowl. All parks are publicly held and can be acquired at little to no cost to the state. State Parks Forward establishes these three new state parks and lays the groundwork to turn that vision into a reality.
Today's announcement marks Governor Newsom's last Earth Day in office, exactly two years after dedicating Dos Rios, the first new state park in a decade.
Feather River Park (Olivehurst, Yuba County)
Why it's noteworthy: Sitting on nearly 2,000 acres along the Feather River, the park offers multiple benefits, including a floodplain designed to take on water in high-flow years and natural habitat in selected restored areas.
Why it makes a great state park: This would be the first state park in Yuba County, enhancing access to high-quality recreation in an underserved part of the state. The park offers numerous recreational opportunities, including a boat launch and a riverside beach.
San Joaquin River Parkway (Fresno and Madera counties)
Why it's noteworthy: Currently owned by the San Joaquin River Conservancy, the parkway is a vital corridor that enjoys broad public, local and state support. Immediately upriver from the City of Fresno, numerous public properties currently form a mix of multi-use parks with river access on both sides of the San Joaquin River.
Why it makes a great state park: Joining various properties into an 874-acre state park will create expanded recreation opportunities and greater access along the river. The park would complement nearby Millerton Lake State Recreation Area to establish a water recreation hub near a major population center in a fast-growing region of the state.
Dust Bowl Camp (Bakersfield, Kern County)
Why it's noteworthy: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historical Resources, the Sunset Migratory Labor Camp was one of the first camps established by the federal government to house displaced farm workers who fled the Dust Bowl to seek work in California during the Great Depression. Notably, the camp served as the inspiration for John Steinbeck's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Grapes of Wrath, which Steinbeck dedicated to the camp's administrator.
Why it makes a great state park: Located near underserved and disadvantaged communities outside Bakersfield, the historic camp, which is not currently open to the public, would be California's first state park directly touching upon the Dust Bowl and the migrant farming camps of the Great Depression. With numerous historic buildings - the only original buildings left from the Dust Bowl era of the 1930s and 40s in any camp in California - the roughly 2-acre park would offer a new place for learning and exploration of an important era in our state and nation's history. Students and fans of The Grapes of Wrath will now have a place to visit to gain a first-hand understanding of what life was like in a migrant farmworker camp during the Dust Bowl and help give new life to a classic American novel
Expanding existing parks
Coinciding with the new state parks, work is underway and accelerating to add thousands of acres of public land by expanding the footprint of existing state parks - totaling 30,000 acres of added State Park lands by the end of the decade. These strategic no- or low-cost acquisitions - enabled by partnerships with local land trusts and conservation partners and streamlined by recent bills signed into law by Governor Newsom, SB 630 (Allen) and AB 679 (Pellerin) - will preserve and protect sensitive ecosystems and critical wildlife habitat corridors next to existing parks. These expansions further the state's commitment to conserve 30% of California's lands and coastal waters by 2030 (called "30 by 30"), while increasing public access to the outdoors.
Several State Parks Forward acquisitions have already been completed, including additions to three significant parks totaling approximately 804 acres.
453 acres added to Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve (Mendocino County)
Atkins Place property, donated by Save the Redwoods League, adds a second-growth forest featuring a mix of coastal redwood and oak woodlands to serene Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve. The expansion also includes 1.25 miles of high-quality streams for imperiled salmon. The addition increases the size of Montgomery Woods by 16%.
"Donating Atkins Place to State Parks is the realization of the vision we set when we launched our Montgomery Woods Initiative," said Steve Mietz, president and CEO of Save the Redwoods League. "This property was always meant to become part of Montgomery Woods, and seeing it formally join the Reserve on Earth Day is a fitting tribute to the supporters, partners and communities who made it possible. This transfer marks a new milestone for redwood conservation in Mendocino County."
218 acres added to South Yuba River State Park (Nevada County)
The iconic Independence Trail is now completely part of South Yuba River State Park following the donation of the Rush Creek property from the Bear Yuba Land Trust. This popular 4.7-mile trail (one way) in the Sierra Nevada foothills transformed a historic gold mining ditch into the first wheelchair-accessible wilderness trail in the entire country at the time it opened.
"As an organization rooted in this community, we're proud to see this land permanently protected as part of South Yuba River State Park," said Erin Tarr, executive director, Bear Yuba Land Trust. "This transfer reflects years of partnership and a shared commitment to conserving critical habitat while ensuring that iconic places like the Independence Trail remain accessible to all, now and into the future.
133 acres added to Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park (San Mateo County)
Views of the 115-foot Pigeon Point Lighthouse - the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast currently nearing completion of an extensive restoration - are even more majestic from Cloverdale Bluffs, now part of the state park's spectacular coastline following a property donation from Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST). This key addition more than triples the park's footprint and helps preserve the natural beauty of the San Mateo Coast. The acquisition also enables an extension of the California Coastal Trail through 1.5 miles of coastline in the park.
"POST is proud to be a part of State Parks Forward," said Gordon Clark, president of Peninsula Open Space Trust. "We're excited to once again work closely with State Parks to make more lands accessible to Californians for generations to come. This type of partnership between public agencies and private organizations is vital to maintaining our beautiful, productive and essential open spaces.
California's commitment
State Parks Forward is the latest in a series of accomplishments under Governor Newsom to conserve public land, expand access to nature and foster a thriving State Park System. Earlier this month, California welcomed a new class of 36 state park peace officers (rangers and lifeguards) who are now serving as stewards of the state's most valuable natural and cultural resources.
* Outdoors for All: Governor Newsom and the First Partner have led a historic investment of more than $1 billion to expand parks and nature access, prioritizing underserved communities. With this funding, California has partnered with local governments, community organizations, and tribes to support programs that connect people with nature, fostering a sense of belonging for all Californians outdoors, and much more. That includes three innovative free access programs - the Golden Bear Pass for families who receive public assistance, the California State Park Adventure Pass for fourth graders and their families, and the California State Library Parks Pass - that allow residents from all walks of life to experience California's unmatched natural and cultural resources.
As of this month, over the life of these programs more than 144,000 eligible Californians have received a Golden Bear Pass, 97,000-plus fourth graders have signed up for a California State Park Adventure Pass, and 33,000 free passes can be checked out at libraries throughout the state.
* 30x30: The Golden State is leading the nation in protecting its natural resources. Through California's 30x30 initiative, a commitment to conserve 30% of the state's lands and coastal waters by 2030 that has been codified into state law, California has added over 2.5 million acres of conserved land and waters over the last three years. That's roughly the size of the Big Island in Hawaii.
* Cutting green tape: An initiative by the Newsom administration to enable important environmental restoration, conservation and stewardship to happen more quickly and cost effectively by streamlining permitting and funding for environmental projects. This has resulted in more than 500 fast-tracked projects, restoring 300,000 acres of habitat, improving 700 miles of streams, and saving $12 million in permitting costs over the last four years. The commitment is to maintain California's strong environmental standards while increasing efficiency and reducing costs.
* Climate bond: Approved by voters in 2024, the $10 billion bond funds projects that protect communities from climate change impacts - from wildfire prevention and safe drinking water to biodiversity protection and expanded access to nature. It includes nearly $700 million to expand access, and directs agencies to make funding programs more accessible to all communities and better coordinated across agencies.
* Community investments: It is not just about state parks. California provides grants to local communities to establish their own parks, build trails, acquire and restore sensitive habitat, build natural and cultural interpretative facilities, and foster outdoor experiences for children and families. Over the last eight years, thanks to the Governor and State Legislature's investments, State Parks and partner state agencies like the Wildlife Conservation Board and the state's 10 conservancies, have invested over $1 billion into local community parks and open space, and public acquisitions that expand outdoor access.
California's state parks also include historic sites significant to many cultures, including indigenous tribes. While the Trump administration moves to whitewash American history at national parks -- watering down or erasing the complex truth -- California State Parks is doing the opposite through its Reexamining Our Past Initiative, working to tell the full story of how California came to be.
State Parks protect more than 340 miles of coastline; the tallest, largest, and among the oldest trees in the world; deserts, lakes, rivers, and beaches; more than 5,200 miles of trails; 15,000 campsites; and historic sites from prehistoric archaeology to ghost towns to monuments.
Everyone's welcome -- and we mean everyone. Visit parks.ca.gov/OutdoorsforAll
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/04/22/in-celebration-of-earth-day-governor-newsom-and-first-partner-siebel-newsom-announce-plan-to-create-three-new-state-parks/
Gov. Meyer Establishes Election Security Task Force in Delaware
DOVER, Delaware, April 23 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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Governor Meyer Establishes Election Security Task Force in Delaware
Governor Matt Meyer today signed Executive Order 19, establishing the Delaware Task Force on Free, Fair, and Secure Elections. This is a coordinated effort focused on election security, to reinforce public confidence in Delaware's electoral process, and safeguard Delaware from unconstitutional federal interference.
"The U.S. Constitution is clear: elections are run by the states, not the federal government,"
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DOVER, Delaware, April 23 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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Governor Meyer Establishes Election Security Task Force in Delaware
Governor Matt Meyer today signed Executive Order 19, establishing the Delaware Task Force on Free, Fair, and Secure Elections. This is a coordinated effort focused on election security, to reinforce public confidence in Delaware's electoral process, and safeguard Delaware from unconstitutional federal interference.
"The U.S. Constitution is clear: elections are run by the states, not the federal government,"said Governor Meyer. "That's a responsibility we take seriously in Delaware, and we will continue to administer elections that are secure, fair, and trusted by the public. If the federal government tries to highjack the will of the people, we will be ready."
The Executive Order highlights a range of potential risks to election systems, including cybersecurity threats, physical security concerns, voter intimidation, disinformation, and emphasizes the importance of a coordinated plan and response.
Chaired by Secretary of State Charuni Patibanda-Sanchez and Secretary of Safety and Homeland Security Joshua Bushweller, the Task Force will include representatives from key state agencies, law enforcement, cybersecurity leadership, federal partners, and members of the General Assembly.
"Governor Meyer's Executive Order allows us to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure every Delawarean has confidence in our elections," said Secretary Patibanda-Sanchez. "We're working closely with communities across the state to protect the most fundamental right we have, the right to vote, and to make sure every voice is heard and respected."
"At its core, law enforcement exists to protect people, and that includes protecting their right to vote," said Secretary Bushweller. "This Task Force strengthens our ability to safeguard Delawareans from any threat to our election system and ensures we are prepared to respond quickly and effectively."
"Delaware has long been a national leader in running secure, fair, and transparent elections," said State Elections Commissioner Anthony Albence. "Now, we can build on that strong foundation by increasing coordination across state government and leveraging critical expertise to ensure we remain at the forefront of election integrity and voter confidence."
"Voting is our most sacred right, and we cannot take it for granted. We have to fight just as hard to keep it as our forebears fought to win it," said Attorney General Kathy Jennings. "That's why we've gone to Court year after year to defend the right to vote from partisan attacks against absentee voting, against vote by mail, and just this month against our voter rolls themselves. We are ready for anything. It is our job to guarantee that everyone with the right to vote can exercise that right. And we will not allow anyone to take that away from you."
"Voting is a fundamental right, and here in the First State we've made great strides to expand access and encourage civic participation," said Lt. Governor Kyle Evans Gay. "But to complement these efforts, we have to ensure our neighbors feel confident in the system. I am hopeful this task force will both reassure Delaware voters and set a national standard of protecting free and secure elections."
"Poll after poll shows that threats to our democracy, including threats to election security, are top concerns for voters of all backgrounds," said House Speaker Melissa Minor-Brown. "Given the dangerous rhetoric we've been hearing from this federal administration, I'm very glad that Delaware is taking this proactive step to protect the most fundamental and important right we have: the right to vote."
"The right to vote is the most foundational law that we as Americans hold sacred," said Senator Dan Cruce. "As chair of the Senate Elections Committee, I've had the privilege of advancing voting rights legislation that supports free and reliable elections, further protecting our democratic processes. I want to thank Gov. Meyer for establishing a task force that ensures all voices are at the table, and for dedicating conversations to protecting our voting rights."
The Task Force will meet regularly and provide recommendations to the Governor, including reports in advance of primary and general elections and a comprehensive post-election assessment.
The Executive Order takes effect immediately. The full text can be found here (https://governor.delaware.gov/executive-orders/executive-order-19/).
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Original text here: https://news.delaware.gov/2026/04/22/governor-meyer-establishes-election-security-task-force-in-delaware/
Data Centers and Economic Development are the Focus of W.Va. Secretary of State Warner's "Just Three Questions!" Interview With WV Data Economy Liaison Chris Morris
CHARLESTON, West Virginia, April 23 -- West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner issued the following news on April 22, 2026:
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Data Centers and economic development are the focus of Secretary Warner's "Just Three Questions!" interview with WV Data Economy Liaison Chris Morris
During a recent episode of "Just Three Questions!", Chris Morris, who serves as the director of the newly formed West Virginia Data Economy Office, and West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner discussed data center development and the mission of the newly formed Office.
The WV Data Economy Office was established
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CHARLESTON, West Virginia, April 23 -- West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner issued the following news on April 22, 2026:
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Data Centers and economic development are the focus of Secretary Warner's "Just Three Questions!" interview with WV Data Economy Liaison Chris Morris
During a recent episode of "Just Three Questions!", Chris Morris, who serves as the director of the newly formed West Virginia Data Economy Office, and West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner discussed data center development and the mission of the newly formed Office.
The WV Data Economy Office was establishedduring the 2025 legislative session to promote West Virginia's development of microgrids and data centers. Morris serves as the state's single point of contact for industry, local governments, and stakeholders related to development of data centers and microgrids.
Morris said, "I don't see a future where we don't use data centers. My goal is to find ways that we can benefit, bring opportunity for jobs, bring additional revenue for projects, for new schools, for parks and for things that improve our daily life."
Secretary Warner said, "Carefully considered and located, data centers provide a pathway to advance West Virginia's economy through new construction, long-term jobs that will attract other tech businesses, and a substantial and much-needed tax base for local and county governments that desire them."
Morris added, "It's been my goal to create a process we can evaluate the reasonableness of a project, determine if it's in the best interest of the state and of the area, and then make a recommendation to the Secretary of Commerce and whether he should provide the designation for a micro grid development project or a high impact data center project."
The interview with Chris Morris and other recorded episodes of "Just Three Questions!" can be found on the WVSOS YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsniIJgWtoZiGqjCkwjJG6F-34vvg90Et).
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Original text here: https://sos.wv.gov/article/data-centers-and-economic-development-are-focus-secretary-warners-just-three-questions
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces Appointments on April 22, 2026
SACRAMENTO, California, April 23 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces appointments
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:
Nicole Elliott, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California Water Commission. Elliott was Director of the California Department of Cannabis Control from 2021 to 2025. She was Senior Advisor on Cannabis in the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom from 2019 to 2021. Elliott was Director of the San Francisco Office of Cannabis from 2017 to 2019. She held multiple
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, April 23 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces appointments
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:
Nicole Elliott, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California Water Commission. Elliott was Director of the California Department of Cannabis Control from 2021 to 2025. She was Senior Advisor on Cannabis in the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom from 2019 to 2021. Elliott was Director of the San Francisco Office of Cannabis from 2017 to 2019. She held multiplepositions in the Office of San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee from 2011 to 2017, including Director of Legislative and Government Affairs, Board Liaison, Director of Appointments and Commission Liaison. Elliott held multiple positions in the Office of San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom from 2009 to 2010, including Budget Office Policy Assistant, Director of Scheduling and Deputy Board Liaison. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Politics from the University of San Francisco. This position requires Senate confirmation, and compensation is $100 per diem. Elliott is a Democrat.
Marie Ussery, of Orland, has been appointed to the Veterinary Medical Board. Ussery has been a Registered Veterinary Technician services for several large-animal solo practitioners in rural Northern California since 2026 and a Staff Services Specialist at Glenn County Air Pollution Control District since 2026. She was a Registered Veterinary Technician and Manager at Mid-Valley Veterinary Hospital from 2010 to 2026. Ussery was a Veterinary Assistant and Director of Administration at Orland Veterinary Hospital from 2007 to 2010. She is a Member of the Multidisciplinary Advisory Committee of the Veterinary Medical Board since 2021 and the California Veterinary Medical Reserve Corps. Ussery earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from California State University, Chico. This position does not require Senate Confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Ussery is a Republican.
Farshid Towfighi Namin, of Tarzana, has been appointed to the California Acupuncture Board. Namin has been a Licensed Acupuncturist at Acupuncture and Beauty Spa since 2021. He has been a Faculty Member at Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine since 2018, where he has held several roles, including Dean of Clinical Education and Research, Clinical Director, Continuing Education and Symposium Coordinator, Associate Dean for Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and Assistant Dean for Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Namin was an Assistant Manager at CVS Pharmacy from 2012 to 2017. He was a Senior Emergency and Operation Officer at Relief International from 2009 to 2011. Namin was a Consultant to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs team from 2004 to 2009. He was an Emergency Medical Doctor with the International Red Cross and the United Nations from 1998 to 2005. Namin earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from Tehran Medical University, a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine degree from Yo San University and a Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine degree from South Baylo University. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Namin is a Democrat.
Stacy Bragg, of Sacramento, has been reappointed to the Board of Optometry, where she has been serving since 2023. Bragg has been Director of Quality Assurance at First Sight Vision Services, Inc. since 2025 and an Optometrist at Regency Eye Care Inc. since 2017, where she was an Area Doctor from 2017 to 2019. She was a Telehealth Optometrist at Empire Vision Center from 2022 to 2023. Bragg was an Optometrist at Stacy A. Bragg, O.D., Inc. from 2016 to 2017. She was a Managing Optometrist at EYEXAM of California, Inc. from 2014 to 2016. Bragg was an Independent Subleasing Optometrist at FirstSight Vision Services, Inc. from 2007 to 2014. She is a Member of the Board of Directors at California CareForce and Member of the National Vision Doctor of Optometry Network Clinical Advisory Panel. Bragg earned a Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of the Pacific and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Mercer University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Bragg is a Democrat.
Robert Klepa, of Los Angeles, has been reappointed to the California State Board of Optometry, where he has been serving since 2023. Klepa has been a Hearing Officer for the State of Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation Division since 2025, Los Angeles County Employee Relations Commission since 2021, Orange County Employee Retirement System since 2019, Los Angeles City Housing Department since 2018, Ventura County Employees Retirement Association since 2016, Los Angeles County Human Resources Disability Division since 2011 and Los Angeles County Civil Service Commission since 2002. He has been an Instructor at the University of California, Los Angeles Extension Program since 1998. Klepa was an Adjunct Instructor at Santa Monica College from 2002 to 2005. He is Chair of the Paralegal Program Advisory Board at West Los Angeles Community College. Klepa earned a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from University of California, Los Angeles. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Klepa is registered without party preference.
Joseph Pruitt, of Menifee, has been reappointed to the State Board of Optometry, where he has been serving since 2021. Pruitt has been a Telehealth Optometrist at Vision Now! since 2026 and at Digital Optometrics since 2023. He was a Faculty member at Southern California College of Optometry, Marshall B. Ketchum University from 2019 to 2023. Pruitt was a Faculty Member at Western University of Health Science, College of Optometry from 2015 to 2023. He was Director of Eye Care at Riverside-San Bernardino County Indian Health, Inc. from 2014 to 2023, where he was a Staff Optometrist in 2014. Pruitt was a Clinical Assistant Professor at University of the Incarnate Word-Rosenberg School of Optometry from 2012 to 2014. He was an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at Arizona College of Optometry, Midwestern University from 2012 to 2014. Pruitt was a Staff Optometrist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System from 2008 to 2014. He is a Member of the American Optometric Association, Armed Forces Optometric Society and Christian Medical and Dental Association Fellowship of Christian Optometrists. Pruitt earned a Doctor of Optometry degree at Illinois College of Optometry, a Master of Business administration degree from Nova Southeastern University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from California Polytechnic University, Pomona. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Pruitt is registered without party preference.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/04/22/governor-newsom-announces-appointments-4-22-26/
Additional Information Regarding an Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation in Ashland, New Hampshire on April 20, 2026
CONCORD, New Hampshire, April 23 -- New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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Additional Information Regarding an Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation in Ashland, New Hampshire on April 20, 2026
Attorney General John M. Formella announces additional information concerning an officer-involved shooting that occurred Monday, April 20, 2026, on Main Street in Ashland, New Hampshire, during a police motor vehicle stop.
An autopsy has been conducted on Demitri Zimmer, age 24, of Laconia, New Hampshire. The Office of the Chief Medical
... Show Full Article
CONCORD, New Hampshire, April 23 -- New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella issued the following news release on April 22, 2026:
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Additional Information Regarding an Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation in Ashland, New Hampshire on April 20, 2026
Attorney General John M. Formella announces additional information concerning an officer-involved shooting that occurred Monday, April 20, 2026, on Main Street in Ashland, New Hampshire, during a police motor vehicle stop.
An autopsy has been conducted on Demitri Zimmer, age 24, of Laconia, New Hampshire. The Office of the Chief MedicalExaminer determined that Mr. Zimmer's cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds and that the manner of his death was homicide. As used by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, homicide is defined as the killing of one person by another.
The investigation into the officer-involved use of deadly force on Mr. Zimmer is ongoing, and the identity of the officers who used deadly force will be disclosed once formal interviews of all involved in the incident are completed in the coming weeks. Further information will be provided at that time.
The Ashland Police Department officer who was struck and wounded by one of Mr. Zimmer's gunshots was released from the hospital Tuesday.
The exact circumstances surrounding this incident remain under active investigation.
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Original text here: https://www.doj.nh.gov/news-and-media/additional-information-regarding-officer-involved-shooting-investigation-ashland-new
