States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
S.D. A.G. Jackley Joins Coalition Urging Congress To Support Stronger Online Protection for Children
PIERRE, South Dakota, May 29 -- South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Attorney General Jackley Joins Coalition Urging Congress To Support Stronger Online Protection for Children
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackey has joined a coalition of 44 Attorneys General urging Congress reject the House version of the federal Kids Internet and Digital Safety Act and instead pass stronger legislation that would better protect children online.
"South Dakota has passed laws that I initially proposed that protect children and young adults
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PIERRE, South Dakota, May 29 -- South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Attorney General Jackley Joins Coalition Urging Congress To Support Stronger Online Protection for Children
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackey has joined a coalition of 44 Attorneys General urging Congress reject the House version of the federal Kids Internet and Digital Safety Act and instead pass stronger legislation that would better protect children online.
"South Dakota has passed laws that I initially proposed that protect children and young adultsfrom online predators," said Attorney General Jackley.
"Now we need Congress to take action on a bill that also holds accountable online platforms."
The AG coalition, in a letter to Congressional leadership, said it supports the Senate version of the act that includes provision requiring online platforms to act in the best interests of minors while preserving states' authority to enforce stronger protections for children and teens.
Attorneys General also participating in the coalition are from: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
The letter can be read here (https://atg.sd.gov/OurOffice/Media/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?id=3088)
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Original text here: https://atg.sd.gov/OurOffice/Media/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?id=3088
Rhode Island Supreme Court Issues Opinion on Jay Patel Vs. LandingPartners
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, May 29 -- The Rhode Island Supreme Court issued the following opinion:
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Jay Patel v. LandingPartners LLC et al.
Present: Suttell, C.J., Goldberg, Robinson, Lynch Prata, and Long, JJ.
OPINION
Justice Long, for the Court. The plaintiff, Jay Patel (Mr. Patel or plaintiff), a self-represented litigant, appeals from a judgment of the Superior Court in favor of the defendants, LandingPartners LLC (LandingPartners), 1850 Post Road Owner LLC (1850 Post Road), and Centreville Bank (Centreville) (together, defendants) following the entry of two orders dismissing the plaintiff's
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PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, May 29 -- The Rhode Island Supreme Court issued the following opinion:
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Jay Patel v. LandingPartners LLC et al.
Present: Suttell, C.J., Goldberg, Robinson, Lynch Prata, and Long, JJ.
OPINION
Justice Long, for the Court. The plaintiff, Jay Patel (Mr. Patel or plaintiff), a self-represented litigant, appeals from a judgment of the Superior Court in favor of the defendants, LandingPartners LLC (LandingPartners), 1850 Post Road Owner LLC (1850 Post Road), and Centreville Bank (Centreville) (together, defendants) following the entry of two orders dismissing the plaintiff'samended complaint, which asserted various claims and sought monetary damages. On appeal, Mr. Patel argues that the trial justice erred by applying res judicata to dismiss his complaint.
This case came before the Supreme Court pursuant to an order directing the parties to appear and show cause why the issues raised in this appeal should not be summarily decided. After considering the parties' written and oral submissions and reviewing the record, we conclude that cause has not been shown and that we may decide this case without further briefing or argument. For the reasons set forth herein, we affirm the judgment of the Superior Court.
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Opinion No.: 2024-360-Appeal. (KC 23-1095)
To view entire opinion click here: https://www.courts.ri.gov/Opinions/Supreme-24-360.pdf
Okla. A.G. Drummond Encourages Congress to Support Stronger Online Protections for Children
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, May 29 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on May 27, 2026:
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Drummond encourages Congress to support stronger online protections for children
Attorney General Gentner Drummond is asking Congress to oppose the flawed Kids Internet and Digital Safety (KIDS) Act, arguing the bill weakens states' abilities to protect children online while insulating Big Tech from accountability.
In a letter sent this week to Congressional leadership, Drummond and 43 other attorneys general warned that the KIDS Act would broadly preempt state
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OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, May 29 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on May 27, 2026:
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Drummond encourages Congress to support stronger online protections for children
Attorney General Gentner Drummond is asking Congress to oppose the flawed Kids Internet and Digital Safety (KIDS) Act, arguing the bill weakens states' abilities to protect children online while insulating Big Tech from accountability.
In a letter sent this week to Congressional leadership, Drummond and 43 other attorneys general warned that the KIDS Act would broadly preempt statelaws addressing online harms to minors, including social media harms, obscenity, social gaming platforms and artificial intelligence chatbots. Drummond asked Congress to instead advance legislation that includes meaningful safety requirements for online platforms.
"Our children deserve an online environment that protects their safety, their mental health and their future," Drummond said. "Congress must act to establish enforceable protections that value the well-being of our kids over corporate profits."
Drummond and the coalition expressed support for the Senate version of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which includes a key duty of care provision requiring online platforms to act in the best interests of minors while preserving states' authority to enforce stronger protections for children and teens.
The letter comes as attorneys general across the country continue investigations and litigation involving major social media platforms, including Meta and TikTok, over allegations that their platforms target and harm underage users. Earlier this month, Drummond filed a lawsuit against Roblox, the massively popular online gaming platform, for endangering children and deceiving parents.
In addition to Oklahoma, joining the letter are the attorneys general of Connecticut, Hawaii, Ohio, Tennessee, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
Read the letter (https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/oag/news-documents/2026/may/KIDS%20Act%20_%20FINAL.pdf).
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Original text here: https://oklahoma.gov/oag/news/newsroom/2026/may/drummond-encourages-congress-to-support-stronger-online-protecti.html
Gov. Shapiro, Mayor Parker, Philadelphia Sports Teams, and Regional Partners Announce Comprehensive Plan to Reduce Traffic, Improve Safety, and Support Economic Growth Around the Sports Complex
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 29 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Governor Shapiro, Mayor Parker, Philadelphia Sports Teams, and Regional Partners Announce Comprehensive Plan to Reduce Traffic, Improve Safety, and Support Economic Growth Around the Sports Complex
A comprehensive plan led by the Shapiro Administration will reduce traffic congestion around the Sports Complex, helping fans get to and from games more quickly and preparing Lower South Philadelphia for explosive economic growth.
The nearly $30 million plan includes a new
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 29 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Governor Shapiro, Mayor Parker, Philadelphia Sports Teams, and Regional Partners Announce Comprehensive Plan to Reduce Traffic, Improve Safety, and Support Economic Growth Around the Sports Complex
A comprehensive plan led by the Shapiro Administration will reduce traffic congestion around the Sports Complex, helping fans get to and from games more quickly and preparing Lower South Philadelphia for explosive economic growth.
The nearly $30 million plan includes a newI-76 westbound entrance ramp, upgraded traffic operations, improved signage, new traffic signals, and additional infrastructure improvements to reduce congestion and improve mobility in South Philadelphia.
The Philadelphia Sports Complex drives major economic activity for both the city and Commonwealth, welcoming more than eight million attendees each year across more than 300 events and generating billions in economic impact.
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Today, Governor Josh Shapiro, alongside Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, Philadelphia's sports teams, Live Casino & Hotel, and regional stakeholders, announced a comprehensive plan to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, and strengthen transportation access around the Philadelphia Sports Complex and the Lower South Philadelphia Region. The first phase will begin immediately, kicking off a multi-year effort to improve mobility for residents, commuters, businesses, and the millions of visitors who travel to the area each year.
The nearly $30 million plan will make several important near-term infrastructure upgrades, including a new westbound entrance ramp to I-76, a second left turn lane from Front Street onto I-95 North which opened earlier this month, a new event operations hub, upgraded signage, and new smart traffic signals, designed to reduce bottlenecks and improve safety around one of Pennsylvania's busiest economic and entertainment corridors. Once the Delaware River Port Authority real estate transfer is finalized to build the new entrance ramp, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) will begin engineering work.
"South Philadelphia is one of the most important economic hubs in our Commonwealth and Pennsylvanians deserve transportation infrastructure that keeps people moving safely and efficiently," said Governor Shapiro. "Whether families are heading to a game, workers are commuting to their jobs, or businesses are moving goods through this region, these investments will reduce traffic congestion, improve safety for fans and surrounding neighborhoods, and set the stage for explosive economic growth. My Administration brought all the leaders and stakeholders to the table to get this done - and we are committed to creating more opportunity in Philadelphia as a way to drive growth across the Commonwealth."
The new westbound entrance ramp to I-76 will provide access for approximately 800 vehicles per hour and improve westbound travel options, which are currently limited to a single access ramp at Broad Street. The new dual-turn lane on Front Street provides access to I-95 northbound for approximately 500 more vehicles per hour than the current on ramp -- a more than 50 percent increase over current conditions.
"The Shapiro Administration knows that a strong transportation system is critical for our economy, especially in South Philadelphia's Sports District that draws tens of thousands of visitors daily. In addition to repairing roads and bridges every day, the Department has also been charged with finding solutions to longstanding issues, which often unlocks opportunities. This expansive partnership is one of those opportunities," said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. "By improving roadway access, modernizing traffic management, and coordinating investments across agencies and partners, we are creating safer, more reliable transportation options for residents, workers, and visitors."
The Philadelphia Sports Complex is a critical economic driver for both the city and Commonwealth, hosting more than eight million visitors annually across more than 300 events. According to PFM Advisors, the complex generates approximately $2.3 billion in annual economic impact for the City of Philadelphia, supports roughly 15,000 jobs, and contributes $104 million in annual city fiscal impact. Statewide, it generates approximately $2.5 billion in economic impact, supports 16,000 jobs, and contributes $51 million in annual state fiscal impact. By increasing mobility and reducing congestion, this plan provides increased opportunities to contribute to the local economy.
"Philadelphia's stadium district and tourism industry is a huge economic driver for the city and the entire southeast region, and we are proud to support this project which will make it easier for visitors and sports fans to enjoy the best of Philadelphia," said Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger. "This effort will not only ensure visitors will have more convenient access to everything Philadelphia has to offer, but will enable further economic growth at the Navy Yard, the Bellwether District, and throughout South Philadelphia. We will continue to make targeted investments that benefit Pennsylvania's economy long-term."
The plan is being advanced through the Lower South Infrastructure & Resiliency Collaborative (LSIRC), a regional partnership launched in 2022 to improve transportation coordination and unlock long-term growth opportunities in Lower South Philadelphia. The collaborative brings together state agencies, the City of Philadelphia, PennDOT, SEPTA, the Navy Yard, PhilaPort, regional planning partners, sports organizations, rail operators, and private-sector stakeholders to align infrastructure investments and improve mobility across one of the region's busiest areas.
"Transportation and traffic infrastructure improvements are essential to a well-functioning city, including in our stadium district, where so many fans attend multitudes of sporting events," said Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "Transportation improvements mean jobs and economic opportunity, and we strongly support these enhancements coming to our stadium district. We're grateful to Governor Shapiro and every agency and stakeholder involved in today's announcement."
More than $20 million will be used to complete the collaborative's near-term nine-point plan, with the near-term improvements targeted for completion by the end of 2028.
Near-Term Projects to Reduce Traffic Congestion and Improve Safety
Work on the first aspects of the Shapiro Administration's nine-point plan has begun, with significant infrastructure projects to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety. In addition, the LSIRC will conduct a series of important studies to make further improvements in the future. These projects include:
* A completed second left turn lane from Front Street onto I-95N;
* Constructing a new westbound entrance ramp to I-76 on 7th Street;
* Building a new event operations center - a centralized, digital command center for real-time, on-the-ground traffic management - housed within the sports complex;
* Installing 19 new, smart traffic lights throughout the area;
* Conducting a study on existing signage and wayfinder assets around the Sports Complex to improve navigation for visitors, event attendees, and emergency responders;
* Conducting a Priority Corridor Study for South Broad Street through the Sports Complex to determine future upgrades;
* Conducting a Priority Corridor Study for the intersection of 26th Street and Penrose Avenue to determine future upgrades;
* Conducting a Freight Network Study to determine the best routes for increasing commercial traffic between PhilaPort and the Bellwether District as both areas grow; and
* Developing a complex-wide Events Management Plan to improve multi-stakeholder coordination around event traffic.
Building off the initial steps taken as part of this plan, LSIRC and the Shapiro Administration will work to improve the Priority Corridors identified above, improve signage and wayfinder communication throughout the Sports Complex, improve access to the Navy Yard, PhilaPort, and Bellwether District, and explore opportunities for additional intermodal transportation.
"South Philadelphia is a major economic engine, bringing our region to the global stage through iconic concerts and premier sporting events," said the Philadelphia Eagles, Flyers, Phillies, and 76ers. "These traffic and transportation improvements are a critical step to ensuring our incredible momentum continues by directly addressing fan feedback and creating a strong foundation for future growth and development. We are grateful to the Commonwealth and City for their work, support, and we look forward to future opportunities to expand on these great initiatives."
"Improving overall ingress and egress to the Stadium District during events has been a priority for both Stadium District attractions and the local neighborhoods for many years, particularly minimizing Stadium traffic flow through residential areas," said Joe Billhimer, COO of Cordish Gaming. "We and our local community partners look forward to working with the State on this plan to improve both traffic flow and pedestrian safety in the District."
The Shapiro Administration has already invested more than $50 million in the Lower South Philadelphia Region, including multimodal improvements on South Broad Street near the Navy Yard and grade crossing upgrades to reduce congestion near PhilaPort.
In 2025, DCED awarded the Philadelphia Navy Yard a $30 million PA Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites Program (SITES) grant to develop the Greenway District, while securing a nearly $100 million investment from Rhoads Industries to expand their operations at the Navy Yard. The Administration also secured more than $600 million in private sector investment in the Bellwether District from DrinkPAK and TerraPower Isotopes -- and just last month, Governor Shapiro and DCED Secretary Siger celebrated the official return of cruise ship service to the Port of Philadelphia.
Together, these investments will help improve safety, reduce congestion, strengthen access to jobs and economic opportunity, and ensure one of Pennsylvania's most active regional hubs can continue to grow for decades to come.
Strengthening Pennsylvania's Economy and Boosting Tourism
By improving mobility for residents, commuters, businesses, and the millions of visitors who travel to the South Philadelphia region each year, this coordinated plan builds on the Shapiro Administration's investments in long-term economic growth while working to benefit the day-to-day lives of Pennsylvanians in every corner of the Commonwealth.
Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania's economy has boomed and his Administration's success in economic development has earned national recognition.
* Pennsylvania is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy, based on analysis done by Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi.
* Last year, Site Selection Magazine named Pennsylvania one of the top business climates in the nation.
* Area Development ranked Pennsylvania among the top 20 "Best States for Business" -- the only Northeastern state to make the list -- and placed the Commonwealth in the top 10 for "Site Readiness Programs."
Strengthening one of Pennsylvania's largest industries has also contributed to the Shapiro Administration's work to bolster the Commonwealth's economy. In addition to leveraging global sporting and cultural moments during America's 250th birthday, the Governor has worked to grow Pennsylvania's tourism industry.
* Since 2023, Pennsylvania's tourism industry has grown by $7 billion and 30,000 jobs, with increased funding for Visit PA to nearly $60 million in 2025.
* In 2024, the Governor rebranded Pennsylvania as the "Great American Getaway" to encourage visitors to come back for future trips.
* Secured in the 2025-26 budget, Governor Shapiro has ensured Pennsylvania is ready to welcome millions of visitors for America250 and other major sporting events with a $50 million investment in successful execution.
Infrastructure improvements in the Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget also include more than $300 million annually for critical transportation services across the Commonwealth to strengthen the safety of Pennsylvania's roads, bridges, public transit, and more.
Learn more about Governor Shapiro's 2026-27 proposed budget to support the Commonwealth's workers and businesses in pursuit of a stronger, more competitive economy for all Pennsylvanians.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/gov-shapiro-announces-comprehensive-plan-to-improve-safety-aroun
Gov. Shapiro Hands Out Breakfast to Upper Dublin Students, Highlights Administration's Commitment to Creating Opportunity for Pennsylvania Students and Families
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 29 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Governor Shapiro Hands Out Breakfast to Upper Dublin Students, Highlights Administration's Commitment to Creating Opportunity for Pennsylvania Students and Families
The Governor has secured funding for universal free breakfast in each of his three budgets, ensuring every child can start their day with a nutritious meal, regardless of income.
During the 2024-25 school year, Pennsylvania schools served nearly 93 million breakfasts - a 13.8 percent increase over two years.
Governor
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 29 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Governor Shapiro Hands Out Breakfast to Upper Dublin Students, Highlights Administration's Commitment to Creating Opportunity for Pennsylvania Students and Families
The Governor has secured funding for universal free breakfast in each of his three budgets, ensuring every child can start their day with a nutritious meal, regardless of income.
During the 2024-25 school year, Pennsylvania schools served nearly 93 million breakfasts - a 13.8 percent increase over two years.
GovernorShapiro's 2026-27 proposed budget continues funding free breakfasts for each and every one of Pennsylvania's 1.7 million students.
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Fort Washington, PA - Today, Governor Josh Shapiro visited Fort Washington Elementary School, part of the Upper Dublin School District, to distribute free breakfast to local students and reaffirm the Shapiro Administration's commitment to investing in students' success.
Since taking office, the Governor has fought for and delivered universal free breakfast for every one of Pennsylvania's 1.7 million students, securing funding in each budget since 2023 -- with continued funding in the Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget.
"Our kids can't learn on an empty stomach. That's why I fought for and delivered universal free breakfast in Pennsylvania schools when I took office three years ago," said Governor Shapiro. "Universal free breakfast helps our students succeed by ensuring they start the day with a full stomach, ready to learn. My Administration is proud to invest in our students' success and we're going to keep delivering for students all across the Commonwealth."
Last year, as a result of the Governor's investments, Pennsylvania schools served nearly 93 million breakfasts - a 13.8 percent increase over two years - with more than 70 million of those breakfasts served to students who were at-risk for hunger or who came from low-income families. The Upper Dublin School District -- a 2025 Governor's School Breakfast Program Awardee -- served over 19,000 free breakfasts in the 2024-25 school year, with more than 3,000 free breakfasts served at Fort Washington.
"In Upper Dublin School District, we take great pride in giving students the resources they need to learn and thrive throughout the school day. Providing access to a healthy breakfast is one important way we can support student success," said Dr. Laurie Smith, Superintendent of Upper Dublin School District. "We appreciate our dedicated Food Services team and Governor Shapiro's efforts to highlight the role nutrition plays in student learning, health, and well-being."
Governor Shapiro also secured an 18.4 percent increase in funding for Upper Dublin since the 2022-23 school year, bringing more than $6.71 million to the district last year. In the Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget, Upper Dublin would receive an additional $97,004 in state funding.
"No child should be asked to learn on an empty stomach. I was proud to welcome Governor Shapiro to Montgomery County this morning and join him at Fort Washington Elementary, in the heart of the 12th District, where kids showed up ready to learn," said Senator Maria Collett, PA's 12th Senate District. "A good breakfast is part of what makes that possible. I'm proud to keep fighting for universal free school breakfast for every student in Pennsylvania."
"You can't expect a kid with an empty belly to focus on schoolwork - we've already seen the positive impact Governor Shapiro's free breakfast program has had on students and classrooms, and we need to keep delivering this win for kids in this year's state budget," said Representative Ben Sanchez, PA's 153rd House District. "This is all part of how we're reinventing school funding in PA to help every kid in every district and make sure all students have the tools they need to succeed."
Shapiro Administration's Historic Investments in Education
The Shapiro Administration has consistently delivered for Pennsylvania's students at all levels, ensuring they have the opportunity to chart their own course and succeed.
* Across the Governor's first three budgets, he delivered nearly $3 billion in new funding to schools and under his leadership, for the first time in its history, the Commonwealth is spending nearly $12 billion on K-12 public education.
* Since January 2023, the Shapiro Administration has secured nearly $375 million to support student mental health and security needs, allowing 778 schools to expand mental health services.
* Governor Shapiro increased funding for career and technical education (CTE) and apprenticeships by nearly $65 million - a nearly 50% increase - helping more students gain knowledge and skills needed to succeed in higher education and their future careers.
* Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has secured $400 million for 208 school facilities and solar projects to address structural and environmental concerns in school buildings across Pennsylvania -- and his 2026-27 proposed budget continues this support with an additional $125 million investment.
* In 2025, Governor Shapiro secured a $10 million increase for the Student Teacher Stipend Program, helping address educator shortages and making teaching a more accessible and rewarding career path - raising the annual amount available for the program to $30 million.
* The Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget continues this progress by investing an additional $18 million into vo-tech, CTE, and apprenticeship programs, and directs an additional $565 million through the bipartisan adequacy formula.
Governor Shapiro has made historic funding for public education and access to higher education a priority -- and as Pennsylvania's future continues to grow, graduate, and succeed, his Administration will continue delivering real results for them.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/governor-shapiro-hands-out-breakfast-to-upper-dublin-students
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces New Funding for Nonprofits and Faith-Based Groups Following San Diego Mosque Shooting
SACRAMENTO, California, May 29 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces new funding for nonprofits and faith-based groups following San Diego mosque shooting
California totals $300 million in safety investments to help protect nonprofits and faith-based organizations from hate and violence since 2015
What you need to know: California is awarding $80 million in funding to 343 nonprofit and faith-based organizations throughout California to invest in safety enhancements, alarm systems, and emergency preparedness improvements.
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Strengthening
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SACRAMENTO, California, May 29 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces new funding for nonprofits and faith-based groups following San Diego mosque shooting
California totals $300 million in safety investments to help protect nonprofits and faith-based organizations from hate and violence since 2015
What you need to know: California is awarding $80 million in funding to 343 nonprofit and faith-based organizations throughout California to invest in safety enhancements, alarm systems, and emergency preparedness improvements.
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Strengtheningsafety and preparedness at nonprofit and faith-based organizations statewide, Governor Gavin Newsom, in partnership with the Legislature, today announced the state is awarding $80 million to 343 nonprofit organizations, 228 of which are faith-based groups, through the California Nonprofit Security Grant Program.
Reaffirming California's support for victims and communities impacted by recent acts of violence, including the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, the announcement marks a major milestone of more than $300 million in state investments to 1,614 nonprofits and places of worship, to help them protect themselves against violent attacks and hate crimes since the program's inception in 2015.
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Hate and violence have no place in California. By investing in critical security upgrades, we are leading the nation in protecting places of worship and high-risk communities, strengthening preparedness, and ensuring every Californian can gather safely and without fear. - Governor Gavin Newsom
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"At a moment of rising threats, we are doubling down on our commitment to protect our most vulnerable communities," said Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee and author of legislation which established the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program. "We know that the Nonprofit Security Grant Program is a tested and effective tool and we applaud Governor Newsom for his leadership in securing this critically important funding."
In addition to funding security improvements at faith-based institutions, certain nonprofit healthcare facilities are also eligible to benefit from the program.
"Reproductive health clinics are a big, important piece of California's healthcare safety net. So right now, when we're seeing access to care challenged in so many states across the country, these clinics really matter," said Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, chair of the California Legislative Women's Caucus. "They not only help protect public health, but they support equity in healthcare, and make sure people can get timely, basic reproductive and preventive care with dignity and respect."
Learn more about the competitively chosen grantees here.
Through the latest round of funding:
* $80 million has been awarded to strengthen security at 343 nonprofit organizations statewide.
* 228 faith-based organizations are among the recipients.
* $76 million will go directly to nonprofits for security improvements.
* $4 million will support program administration and technical assistance.
Supporting nonprofits and faith communities across California
Administered by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides funding for critical safety improvements, including:
* Reinforced doors and gates
* High-intensity lighting
* Alarm systems
* Surveillance and access controls
* Emergency preparedness enhancements
The program has grown into the largest grant initiative administered by Cal OES and has expanded in recent years to address evolving threats facing nonprofits, cultural institutions, and places of worship increasingly targeted by hate-motivated violence.
"This critical funding will have an immediate impact for organizations working every day to serve their communities" said Cal OES Director Caroline Thomas Jacobs. "These investments help keep people safe and enhance safety across the state. Cal OES stands with every community to fight against hate and ensure access to a safe place to gather."
California included an additional $40 million in the revised budget proposal to continue supporting organizations facing heightened threats and hate-motivated violence.
Victim support services available for San Diego community
California is also making victim support resources available to individuals and families impacted by the May 18 shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego.
Victims, family members, and witnesses may be eligible for assistance through the California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB), which can help cover:
* Medical costs
* Mental health treatment
* Lost wages
* Funeral and burial expenses
* Other crime-related expenses
Eligible victims may qualify for up to $70,000 in lifetime benefits.
"No one should have to navigate the emotional and financial impacts of violence alone," said CalVCB Executive Officer Lynda Gledhill. "CalVCB is here to support victims and their loved ones affected by these horrific acts as they begin the healing process. We encourage those impacted to apply."
Applications are available online and in paper form in 18 languages. Victims can also receive assistance applying through the San Diego Victim Witness Assistance Center.
Additional information about eligibility and applications is available through the California Victim Compensation Board.
The California Civil Rights Department enforces the state's robust civil rights laws, as well as civil protections against hate violence, and reduces discrimination through a range of proactive outreach efforts, including conducting trainings and presentations, publishing and disseminating guides and factsheets, and working directly with community partners to identify and respond to civil rights challenges faced by Californians across the state. The department also offers community-based mediation services through its Community Conflict Resolution Unit and supports the work of the Commission on the State of Hate, which tracks trends in hate activity and issues policy recommendations.
"Places of worship should always be places of peace," said CRD Director Kevin Kish. "Muslims should not have to fear for their lives to practice their faith. Our hearts are with everyone impacted by the violent attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego and the families of those who lost their lives."
California's ongoing commitment to safety and resilience
The latest grant awards build on California's continued efforts to strengthen preparedness and resilience for organizations facing elevated threats due to their beliefs, mission, or identity.
As threats targeting places of worship and community organizations continue nationwide, California remains committed to helping vulnerable communities protect themselves and recover from violence and hate.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/05/28/governor-newsom-announces-new-funding-for-nonprofits-and-faith-based-groups-following-san-diego-mosque-shooting/
Ariz. A.G. Mayes Announces Conviction in Empowerment Scholarship Account Fraud Case
PHOENIX, Arizona, May 29 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Attorney General Mayes Announces Conviction in Empowerment Scholarship Account Fraud Case
TUCSON - Attorney General Mayes today announced the conviction of Amanda Elizabeth Maestas for theft of Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) funds.
Maestas was convicted in Pima County Superior Court (Case No. CR2025-3702-001) of Theft, a Class 6 offense after entering a guilty plea on May 15, 2026. She has been ordered to pay $28,433.19 in restitution to the ESA Program and
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PHOENIX, Arizona, May 29 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on May 28, 2026:
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Attorney General Mayes Announces Conviction in Empowerment Scholarship Account Fraud Case
TUCSON - Attorney General Mayes today announced the conviction of Amanda Elizabeth Maestas for theft of Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) funds.
Maestas was convicted in Pima County Superior Court (Case No. CR2025-3702-001) of Theft, a Class 6 offense after entering a guilty plea on May 15, 2026. She has been ordered to pay $28,433.19 in restitution to the ESA Program andwill serve a term of supervised probation.
According to her indictment, between June 23, 2023 and May 7, 2024, Maestas continued collecting ESA funds after she and her child relocated to Texas, rendering her child ineligible for the program.
Arizona residency is a formal condition of ESA participation, which Maestas had explicitly acknowledged when enrolling in the program.
"Protecting tax payer dollars is a top priority for my office," said Attorney General Mayes. "Those who defraud the ESA program and steal from taxpayers will be held accountable."
Maestas is set for sentencing on June 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM in Pima County Superior Court. The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Haleigh Wright.
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Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-announces-conviction-empowerment-scholarship-account-fraud
