States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Wash. State Health Dept.: State Revokes, Suspends Licenses, Certifications, Registrations of Health Care Providers
OLYMPIA, Washington, Jan. 13 -- The Washington State Department of Health issued the following news release on Jan. 12, 2026:
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State revokes, suspends licenses, certifications, registrations of health care providers
The Washington State Department of Health has revoked or suspended the licenses, certifications, or registrations of the following health care providers in our state. The department has also immediately suspended the credentials of people who have been prohibited from practicing in other states.
The department's Health Systems Quality Assurance Division works with boards, commissions
... Show Full Article
OLYMPIA, Washington, Jan. 13 -- The Washington State Department of Health issued the following news release on Jan. 12, 2026:
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State revokes, suspends licenses, certifications, registrations of health care providers
The Washington State Department of Health has revoked or suspended the licenses, certifications, or registrations of the following health care providers in our state. The department has also immediately suspended the credentials of people who have been prohibited from practicing in other states.
The department's Health Systems Quality Assurance Division works with boards, commissionsand advisory committees to set licensing standards for more than 80 health care professions (e.g., dentists, nursing assistants, counselors).
Information about health care providers is on the agency's website. Click on "Health Care Provider Lookup" under the "Find it Fast" section of the Department of Health website (doh.wa.gov). The site includes information about a health care provider's license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998. This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700. Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are also encouraged to call and report their complaint.
King County
In December 2025 the Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission and Lauren Yielding (VB61208063) entered an agreed order indefinitely suspending Yielding's pharmacy assistant credential. Yielding failed to comply with the terms of a 2023 stipulation requiring her to enter a monitoring program.
Pierce County
In December 2025 the Department of Health summarily suspended Leanna Marie Eaves' (PC61061150) certified medical assistant-phlebotomist credential, pending further disciplinary action. In August 2024, the Department of Social and Health Services found Eaves personally exploited and mentally abused a vulnerable adult and placed her on its long-term care abuse and neglect registry. Placement on the registry prohibits Eaves from working with or having unsupervised access to vulnerable adults.
Snohomish County
In December 2025 the Department of Health and Laura Santana (HM61272025) entered an agreed order indefinitely suspending Santana's home care aide credential. Between July 2023 and January 2024, Santana used a client's credit card for personal purchases totaling $277 and later admitted to the conduct.
Spokane County
In December 2025 the Department of Health indefinitely suspended Lydia Catherine Cicarelli's (CG61227010) agency affiliated counselor credential until she meets the terms and conditions of a 2023 stipulation requiring completion of a five-year monitoring contract. Cicarelli failed to respond to the department's request for information.
Out of State
Colorado: In December 2025 the Department of Health indefinitely suspended Stephen Patrick Flansbaum's (LH60526071) mental health counselor credential until at least December 20, 2026. In September 2024, Flansbaum informed his employer that he would be entering inpatient treatment. Flansbaum failed to respond to the department's multiple requests for information.
Idaho: In December 2025 the Department of Health suspended Michelle Renea Kokkinen's (NC60892961) certified nursing assistant credential for at least four years. Kokkinen failed to comply with the terms and conditions of a November 2024 order suspending her credential by continuing to work until January 2025, constituting the unlicensed practice of nursing assistance.
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Original text here: https://doh.wa.gov/newsroom/state-revokes-suspends-licenses-certifications-registrations-health-care-providers-01-12-2026
Sen. Grohoski and Rep. Milliken Express Strong Support for Bill to Designate the Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway
AUGUSTA, Maine, Jan. 13 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Nicole Grohoski, D-Ellsworth:
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Sen. Grohoski and Rep. Milliken express strong support for bill to designate the Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway
Last week, Sen. Nicole Grohoski, D-Ellsworth, and Rep. Nina Milliken, D-Blue Hill, testified before the Legislature's Transportation Committee in support of a bill, LD 2033, that would designate a portion of Route 3 in Trenton as the "Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway."
"Route 3 in Trenton is where Deputy Gross made the ultimate sacrifice
... Show Full Article
AUGUSTA, Maine, Jan. 13 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Nicole Grohoski, D-Ellsworth:
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Sen. Grohoski and Rep. Milliken express strong support for bill to designate the Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway
Last week, Sen. Nicole Grohoski, D-Ellsworth, and Rep. Nina Milliken, D-Blue Hill, testified before the Legislature's Transportation Committee in support of a bill, LD 2033, that would designate a portion of Route 3 in Trenton as the "Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway."
"Route 3 in Trenton is where Deputy Gross made the ultimate sacrificewhile protecting public safety. Every day, thousands of residents and visitors travel that stretch of road on their way to and from Mount Desert Island," said Sen. Grohoski. "Designating it in his memory would ensure that Luke's service, his compassion and his dedication to others are not forgotten. It would remind all of us driving that route to slow down, move over and watch out for the first responders who put themselves at risk to keep us safe."
"This memorial highway designation would honor Deputy Gross in the very place where he fell, and one that carries forward his legacy every single day," said Rep. Milliken. "His loss shook our entire region. We knew him as so much more than a man devoted to public safety. He treated people warmly, with respect and a smile. He cared deeply about our community."
On Sept. 23, 2021, Deputy Luke Gross was struck and killed by a motorist while investigating a crash on the side of the road. He served in the Hancock County Sheriff's Office for 18 years. He was also an active member of the community, chairing the board for the Hancock Grammar School, teaching D.A.R.E. drug education at local schools and volunteering at Camp POSTCARD. He was only 44 years old, leaving behind a wife and two children.
In the coming weeks, the Transportation Committee will vote on advancing the bill.
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Original text here: https://www.mainesenate.org/sen-grohoski-and-rep-milliken-express-strong-support-for-bill-to-designate-the-deputy-luke-gross-memorial-highway/
R.I. Gov. Dan McKee Statement on Court Issuing Preliminary Injunction Allowing Revolution Wind Work to Resume
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Jan. 13 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following statement on Jan. 12, 2026, on court issuing preliminary injunction allowing Revolution Wind work to resume:
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"Today's court decision puts Revolution Wind back on track, despite the Trump Administration's latest attempt to derail this important project.
Rhode Island's families are dealing with escalating energy costs, and they need relief sooner rather than later.
Revolution Wind provides that relief in the form of affordable energy generated in our own backyard--energy that is on track to power
... Show Full Article
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Jan. 13 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following statement on Jan. 12, 2026, on court issuing preliminary injunction allowing Revolution Wind work to resume:
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"Today's court decision puts Revolution Wind back on track, despite the Trump Administration's latest attempt to derail this important project.
Rhode Island's families are dealing with escalating energy costs, and they need relief sooner rather than later.
Revolution Wind provides that relief in the form of affordable energy generated in our own backyard--energy that is on track to power200,000 Rhode Island homes within the year!
Revolution Wind also benefits our state by creating good-paying jobs and producing clean energy to support our climate goals."
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Original text here: https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-dan-mckee-statement-court-issuing-preliminary-injunction-allowing
Okla. A.G. Drummond: Serial Killer William Reece Now in Oklahoma to Face His Death Sentence
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, Jan. 13 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release:
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Serial killer William Reece now in Oklahoma to face his death sentence
William Lewis Reece, a convicted serial rapist and murderer, has returned to Oklahoma, where he now awaits execution at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester. Reece, 63, was in Texas serving life sentences for three murders.
In 2021, Reece was convicted and sentenced to death by an Oklahoma County jury for the murder of 19-year-old Tiffany Johnston in July 1997. Reece abducted Johnston from a car
... Show Full Article
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, Jan. 13 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release:
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Serial killer William Reece now in Oklahoma to face his death sentence
William Lewis Reece, a convicted serial rapist and murderer, has returned to Oklahoma, where he now awaits execution at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester. Reece, 63, was in Texas serving life sentences for three murders.
In 2021, Reece was convicted and sentenced to death by an Oklahoma County jury for the murder of 19-year-old Tiffany Johnston in July 1997. Reece abducted Johnston from a carwash in Bethany, sexually assaulted and killed her, then dumped her body in a remote location west of Yukon.
The case remained unsolved for nearly two decades until 2016, when Reece confessed to killing Johnston during interviews with a Texas Ranger about murdering and sexually assaulting young women in Oklahoma and Texas. DNA evidence from Johnston's body confirmed Reece's confession.
After his conviction and death sentence in Oklahoma, Reece returned to Texas in 2022, where he pled guilty to the murders of 12-year-old Laura Smither, 17-year-old Jessica Cain and 20-year-old Kelli Cox. He received life sentences for all three murders.
"This predator has left a trail of devastated families across two states. Tiffany Johnston was a young bride with her whole life ahead of her when he violently ended it," said Attorney General Gentner Drummond. "I am grateful to the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for its work to bring back this predator so he can face the punishment a jury determined he deserves."
Reece is currently exhausting the appeals of his death sentence. The Attorney General's Office will vigorously oppose all appeals and will request an execution date at the conclusion of Reece's appeals.
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Original text here: https://oklahoma.gov/oag/news/newsroom/2026/january/serial-killer-william-reece-now-in-oklahoma-to-face-his-death-sentence.html
Maine House Democrats: Rep. Rana Issues Statement on LD 1164
AUGUSTA, Maine, Jan. 13 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following statement on Jan. 12, 2026:
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Rep. Rana issues statement on LD 1164
On Thursday, Gov. Janet Mills announced her decision to let LD 1164 become law. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Ambureen Rana, D-Bangor, will support economic development in Wabanaki communities by authorizing tribal governments to operate internet gaming in Maine.
In response to the announcement, Rana released the following statement:
"By empowering the Wabanaki Nations with exclusive rights to operate internet gaming in Maine, we support the self-determination
... Show Full Article
AUGUSTA, Maine, Jan. 13 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following statement on Jan. 12, 2026:
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Rep. Rana issues statement on LD 1164
On Thursday, Gov. Janet Mills announced her decision to let LD 1164 become law. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Ambureen Rana, D-Bangor, will support economic development in Wabanaki communities by authorizing tribal governments to operate internet gaming in Maine.
In response to the announcement, Rana released the following statement:
"By empowering the Wabanaki Nations with exclusive rights to operate internet gaming in Maine, we support the self-determinationof the Wabanaki people and ensure that gaming revenues stay here in Maine and benefit Maine communities - not big, out-of-state corporations. These funds will support public health initiatives and improve access to housing and economic development - efforts that not only support tribal communities, but also strengthen rural Maine as a whole.
"The people of my district and folks across the state will also benefit from internet gaming revenues. A significant portion of these funds will be directed toward issues that all Mainers have an interest in, including preventing and treating addiction, to keep our communities safe and well. I am grateful to the Wabanaki leaders, who have advocated tirelessly for a brighter future, and to Governor Mills for her decision to support this historic legislation."
Rana is serving her second term in the Maine House and represents House District 21, which includes part of Bangor. She serves on the Legislature's Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
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Original text here: https://www.maine.gov/housedems/news/rep-rana-issues-statement-ld-1164
MDA Seeks Public Comment on Groundwater Protection Rule
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Jan. 13 -- The Minnesota Department of Agriculture issued the following news on Jan. 12, 2026:
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MDA Seeks Public Comment on Groundwater Protection Rule
Commenters can weigh in on whether the rule is sufficient or if additional restrictions are required
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The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is requesting written public comments to help determine whether the state's Groundwater Protection Rule is adequate to protect Minnesota's air, water, land, and other natural resources from nitrate pollution.
On Sept. 5, 2025, the Ramsey County Second Judicial District
... Show Full Article
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Jan. 13 -- The Minnesota Department of Agriculture issued the following news on Jan. 12, 2026:
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MDA Seeks Public Comment on Groundwater Protection Rule
Commenters can weigh in on whether the rule is sufficient or if additional restrictions are required
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The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is requesting written public comments to help determine whether the state's Groundwater Protection Rule is adequate to protect Minnesota's air, water, land, and other natural resources from nitrate pollution.
On Sept. 5, 2025, the Ramsey County Second Judicial DistrictCourt ordered the MDA to make findings on whether the rule provides sufficient protection, or if additional restrictions are needed.
The Groundwater Protection Rule, adopted in 2019, is designed to minimize nitrate contamination in vulnerable groundwater areas and protect drinking water sources. The rule restricts nitrogen fertilizer application in the fall and on frozen soils. It also establishes a framework for reducing contamination in areas where public water supplies already are experiencing elevated nitrate levels.
The MDA is seeking information on the following:
* Whether the Groundwater Protection Rule adequately protects against nitrate contamination from regulated practices; or
* Whether further restrictions should be applied to sensitive regions, including Southeast Minnesota's karst geology and the Central Sands region.
Commenters are asked to provide substantive information and supporting evidence. Comments that state only support for or opposition to the rule will not assist the MDA in its decision-making.
Comments must be received by Thursday, March 12. Submit comments by letter to the address below or email to gpr.mda@state.mn.us (Subject: Groundwater Protection Rule).
Larry Gunderson
Supervisor, Fertilizer Management Unit
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
625 Robert St. North, St. Paul, MN 55155
Phone: 651-201-6168
Email: Larry.Gunderson@state.mn.us
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Original text here: https://www.mda.state.mn.us/mda-seeks-public-comment-groundwater-protection-rule
Gov. Shapiro Administration Invests Nearly $82 Million in Recreation and Conservation Projects to Expand Trails, Parks, and Public Lands Across Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Jan. 13 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on Jan. 12, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Invests Nearly $82 Million in Recreation and Conservation Projects to Expand Trails, Parks, and Public Lands Across Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is supporting more than 295 projects in nearly every Commonwealth county, creating new recreational opportunities, conserving natural resources, and helping revitalize local communities.
In the 2025-26 budget, Governor Josh Shapiro secured a
... Show Full Article
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Jan. 13 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on Jan. 12, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Invests Nearly $82 Million in Recreation and Conservation Projects to Expand Trails, Parks, and Public Lands Across Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is supporting more than 295 projects in nearly every Commonwealth county, creating new recreational opportunities, conserving natural resources, and helping revitalize local communities.
In the 2025-26 budget, Governor Josh Shapiro secured a$13 million increase for DCNR, continuing a commitment to safe and accessible parks and outdoor experiences with the addition of Pennsylvania's 125th state park in 2026.
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Today, Governor Josh Shapiro announced a nearly $82 million investment in new state funding to support more than 295 recreation and conservation projects across Pennsylvania -- a significant investment statewide that will create new recreational opportunities, expand outdoor access, protect natural resources, and strengthen local communities.
The funding, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), will support projects in 58 counties, helping communities improve parks and playgrounds, build and repair trails, conserve open space, restore rivers and watersheds, and grow local economies through outdoor recreation. These grants are administered by DCNR's Bureau of Recreation and Conservation Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2). DCNR also recently announced$2.1 million in funding for nine ATV and snowmobile facilities and trails projects.
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"The outdoors are for everyone -- whether you enjoy spending time at a local park, out on the water, or on a trail -- every Pennsylvanian deserves access to safe, welcoming outdoor spaces close to home," said Governor Shapiro. "Because of our investments, communities across Pennsylvania will be able to improve parks, build new trails, and help more people enjoy the benefits of nature, in cities and rural towns alike. My Administration, through the work of DCNR and Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn, is working to protect and conserve the natural places that truly make Pennsylvania a world class destination and the ultimate Great American Getaway."
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This grant round builds on the 2025-26 budget signed by Governor Shapiro which includes a $13 million increase for DCNR -- reinforcing the Shapiro Administration's commitment to conservation, outdoor recreation, and public lands; investments to combat invasive species; and new funding to support heritage areas.
"These investments open the door for more people to enjoy the parks, rivers, and trails that make Pennsylvania special -- no matter where they live," said DCNR Secretary Dunn. "When we invest in outdoor spaces close to home, we invest in people. These places bring families together, give kids room to play, help neighbors connect, and make our communities healthier and happier. Strong local parks and trails don't just improve daily life, they help our towns and cities thrive for generations to come."
Governor Shapiro has prioritized strengthening Pennsylvania's $19 billion outdoor recreation industry. Since he took office, the industry has grown by 10 percent -- adding $2 billion to the state's economy, nearly 4,000 new jobs, and supporting more than 168,000 jobs overall. Today, outdoor recreation represents two percent of the Commonwealth's GDP and delivers $9 billion in wages and salaries to Pennsylvanians, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Investing in Local Communities, Conservation, and Recreation
Visit DCNR's website for a complete list of C2P2 grants awarded by county. Funding in this round includes:
* $31.3 million for 140 park, recreation, and conservation facility projects
* $16.2 million to conserve 4,818 acres of land and expand public access
* $13.1 million for 53 statewide and regional conservation and recreation organizations
* $9.5 million for 22 community and watershed forestry projects
* $8.2 million for 29 trail planning and development projects
* $3.2 million for 16 river conservation projects
Highlights from across the Commonwealth include:
Trail Development
* The Regional Trail Corporation was awarded $750,000 to improve the Great Allegheny Passage in West Mifflin, Allegheny County, and add ADA access.
* The York County Rail Trail Authority will receive $700,000 to develop the trail and construct a pedestrian bridge, boardwalk, trailhead, ADA access, and other improvements on the Hanover Trolley Trail in Heidelberg Township, York County.
* Clinton Township was awarded $499,900 for the development of the Joint Municipal Trail in Clinton Township and Factoryville, Wyoming County. Work includes development of 1.2 miles of trail, the addition of ADA access, and other site improvements.
Land Conservation
* The Foundation for Sustainable Forests was awarded $1.5 million to support the acquisition of 671 acres in Pulaski Township, Lawrence County for passive recreation, and open space protection.
* Natural Lands was awarded $1.2 million to conserve 21.25 acres of land in Newlin Township, Chester County, for passive recreation and open space protection.
* The North Branch Land Trust was awarded $594,700 to conserve 230 acres in Duryea, Luzerne County, for an addition to Campbell's Ledge Preserve.
Rivers Conservation
* Douglas Township in Berks County was awarded $180,000 to rehabilitate and develop Ganshahawny Park along the Schuylkill River, including construction of a boat launch, pedestrian walkways, and ADA access.
* McKean Township in Erie County will receive $154,600 to construct fishing access, parking, ADA access, and other improvements at McKean Conservation Area.
* Susquehanna Depot in Susquehanna County was awarded $200,000 to construct a boat launch, add ADA access, and make other site-related improvements at Ira Reynolds Park along the Susquehanna River.
Community and Watershed Forestry
* The Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay was awarded $2.9 million to install 235 acres of riparian forest buffers and 75 acres of meadows in the Susquehanna and Potomac River watersheds in Lancaster County.
* Stroud Water Research Center was awarded $1.8 million to install 208 acres of riparian forest buffers along waterways in Berks, Bradford, Centre, Chester, Crawford, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Mercer, Montgomery, Schuylkill, Sullivan, Tioga, Venango, Warren, and Wyoming counties.
* The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society was awarded $500,000 to coordinate urban and community forestry work in the Lower Delaware River Watershed, including the 2026 Trees for Watersheds mini-grant program, in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties.
Recreation and Conservation
* Bedford, Bedford County, was awarded $640,000 to rehabilitate and develop Green Park, including the installation of a pavilion, comfort station, tennis and pickleball courts, a concession stand, sound barrier, parking, picnic tables, fencing, and other site improvements.
* Towanda, Bradford County, was awarded $621,000 to rehabilitate and develop 3rd Ward Playground, including installation of play equipment with required safety surfacing, benches, a pedestrian walkway, a comfort station and pavilion, ADA access, and other site improvements.
* Ford City, Armstrong County, was awarded $237,500 to rehabilitate and develop Malec Memorial Park, including installation of playground equipment and required safety surfacing, a new pavilion, basketball court, pedestrian walkway, and other site improvements.
State and Regional Organizations
* The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling Association was awarded $238,400 to coordinate and manage the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League, expanding engagement, supporting new teams and riding opportunities, providing a bicycle purchase assistance program, expanding the Teen Trail Corps Stewardship Program, and other related initiatives.
* The Keystone Trails Association was awarded $229,600 to coordinate and fund statewide trail-related events and community engagement efforts, including establishing a volunteer management structure to increase volunteer opportunities, training, and safety opportunities.
* ClearWater Conservancy in Centre County was awarded $85,800 to coordinate and fund the Centered Outdoors program, which supports management of a gear library, expands transportation assistance, provides skill and wellness workshops, and more.
Pennsylvania has more than 6,400 local parks, currently 124 state parks, more than 14,000 miles of trails, and more than 84,000 miles of waterways -- attracting more than 38 million visitors each year. Together with more than 2.2 million acres of state forests, the Commonwealth has among the largest expanses of public lands in the eastern United States that offer outdoor recreation opportunities in all four seasons - making Pennsylvania The Great American Getaway.
Since 2014, DCNR has helped to close eight of Pennsylvania's Top 10 Trail Gaps. DCNR works with the Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee to identify Pennsylvania's Top 10 Trail Gaps and priority trail gaps to support a goal of a trail within 10 minutes of every Pennsylvanian.
Funding for this round of C2P2 comes from the Keystone Fund, Environmental Stewardship Fund, and other funding sources. For more information on this grant round or to apply, visit the DCNR Grants Customer Service Portal (https://apps.dcnr.pa.gov/grants/). Visit DCNR's website (https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx) for more information about the agency and check out DCNR's Calendar of Events for events on public lands.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/shapiro-admin-invests-nearly--82-million-in-recreation-and-conse
