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News releases, reports, statements and associated documents covering state government, cities and counties.
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Rep. Sheats' Measure to Honor Gold Star Families Receives Unanimous Approval From Legislative Committee
AUGUSTA, Maine, Feb. 16 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release:
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- Rep. Bettyann Sheats, D-Auburn, presents her bill to honor Gold Star Families to the Legislature's Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee.
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A bill to honor Gold Star Families, sponsored by Rep. Bettyann Sheats, D-Auburn, received unanimous approval Thursday from the Legislature's Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee.
"We in Maine, especially in recent years, have done a noble job of honoring and rewarding our veterans for their service and our Gold Star Families for their
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AUGUSTA, Maine, Feb. 16 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release:
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- Rep. Bettyann Sheats, D-Auburn, presents her bill to honor Gold Star Families to the Legislature's Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee.
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A bill to honor Gold Star Families, sponsored by Rep. Bettyann Sheats, D-Auburn, received unanimous approval Thursday from the Legislature's Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee.
"We in Maine, especially in recent years, have done a noble job of honoring and rewarding our veterans for their service and our Gold Star Families for theirsacrifice," said Sheats. "This bill is another way to acknowledge these families."
Sheats' measure would allow occupants of a vehicle displaying a Maine Gold Star Family license plate to enter a state-owned park, camping area or beach at no cost. The bill mirrors a similar statute which exempts occupants of a vehicle displaying a Maine Disabled Veteran license plate from paying fees at the locations listed above. Like the statute it mirrors, the bill would require proof of status by the Secretary of State.
"There is one group within the military family that is revered and honored by all. And despite that status, no one wants to join," added Sheats. "That is the burden and honor of being a Gold Star Family."
The bill will now proceed to the full Legislature for final approval.
Sheats, who is a veteran, is a member of the Legislature's Transportation Committee and is serving her second term in the Maine House of Representatives. She serves Minot and part of Auburn.
U.S. Virgin Islands Legislature: 2nd Annual Stenographer's Day
ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands, Feb. 15 -- The U.S. Virgin Islands legislature issued the following news release:
The Office of Sen. Janelle Sarauw and the Legislature of the Virgin Islands Division of Reporters collaborated to host the 2nd Annual Stenographer's Day held at the Capitol Building on Friday. The event showcases the tasks, duties and career opportunities of stenographers to a group of high school students.
"The purpose of today is to expose the youths to the profession of stenography as they begin to explore career possibilities," said Sen. Janelle Sarauw. "Young people will have an
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ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands, Feb. 15 -- The U.S. Virgin Islands legislature issued the following news release:
The Office of Sen. Janelle Sarauw and the Legislature of the Virgin Islands Division of Reporters collaborated to host the 2nd Annual Stenographer's Day held at the Capitol Building on Friday. The event showcases the tasks, duties and career opportunities of stenographers to a group of high school students.
"The purpose of today is to expose the youths to the profession of stenography as they begin to explore career possibilities," said Sen. Janelle Sarauw. "Young people will have anopportunity to learn from professionals in the field who are passionate about stenography and look forward to sharing their profession and experiences."
Sen. Donna Frett-Gregory stated that this is one of the most awesome professions. Lawmakers are researching scholarships to support students who want to pursue a career as a stenographer or a court reporter.
Guest panelists are the Legislative Reporters Tricia Sealey, Casmus Caines, Vashti Berry, and Nataya Munoz; Retired Legislative Reporter Desiree Francis; Official Reporters for the Superior Court are Kai M. Mulley, Suzette Descartes, and Jasmine Wadie-Francis; Freelance Reporters Noreen Surge and Verdell Porter; Student Reporter Joyann Morris.
The 2nd Annual Stenographer's Day is in conjunction with the 2019 NCRA National Court Reporting and Captioning Week which is recognized annually on February 9th-16th. The event creates awareness of court reporting and captioning. Throughout the week, participants learn about the various aspects of the profession to include salaries. The National Court Reporting and Captioning Week is an effort to recruit career seekers to meet the high demand for employment opportunities in the trade.
Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Noah Valenstein as Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Feb. 15 -- Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Florida, issued the following news release:
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Noah Valenstein to serve as the Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
"I'm pleased to announce that I have appointed Noah Valenstein to continue to lead the Department of Environmental Protection," said Governor DeSantis. "Noah has led DEP with distinction and has played an integral role in implementing my vision to protect and restore Florida's environment. I'm confident his continued leadership will bolster
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TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Feb. 15 -- Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Florida, issued the following news release:
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Noah Valenstein to serve as the Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
"I'm pleased to announce that I have appointed Noah Valenstein to continue to lead the Department of Environmental Protection," said Governor DeSantis. "Noah has led DEP with distinction and has played an integral role in implementing my vision to protect and restore Florida's environment. I'm confident his continued leadership will bolsterour efforts to take decisive action on behalf of the people of Florida."
"We applaud Governor Ron DeSantis' decision to appoint Noah Valenstein to this crucial position," said Eric Eikenberg, CEO of The Everglades Foundation. "Secretary Valenstein understands the critical link between cleaning up our water and the economic viability of our state. With Governor DeSantis' transformative and bold leadership, Secretary Valenstein's long-standing commitment to Florida's natural resources will deliver tangible results for Florida's waterways. We look forward to working with Secretary Valenstein, and we are confident that he will successfully implement Governor DeSantis' commitment to expedite Everglades restoration."
"This is a great move by Governor DeSantis for Florida's environment," said Julie Wraithmell, Executive Director of Audubon Florida. "Secretary Valenstein is a Florida-grown conservationist and has the experience with the science and politics of Florida's environment to make real progress for our state. During his brief tenure at DEP, we've already seen Florida Forever funding restored to $100 million, strategic springs restoration projects implemented, and DEP stepping up to drive state efforts on sea level rise adaptation. Secretary Valenstein was a breath of fresh air when he arrived at DEP, and I can't wait to see what he'll accomplish in an administration with such a commitment to meeting Florida's water and other conservation challenges."
"Noah Valenstein clearly understands the connection between Florida's environment and economy," said Captain Daniel Andrews, Executive Director of Captains for Clean Water. "Governor DeSantis has laid out a bold vision to restore the Everglades and solve our water crisis, and we are excited that he has chosen Noah to carry out his vision as Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection. Noah has what it takes to get the job done and we look forward to working with him."
"We at The Nature Conservancy are thrilled to be able to continue to work with Secretary Valenstein and thank Governor DeSantis for his reappointment," said Temperince Morgan, Executive Director of the Florida Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. "Under his leadership, the Department of Environmental Protection has partnered with The Nature Conservancy to advance coastal resilience efforts and further the conservation and preservation of critical habitats and watersheds. We are looking forward to exciting new opportunities to partner with DEP to conserve and protect our precious natural resources."
"SCCF supports Governor DeSantis' announcement of Noah Valenstein as Secretary of DEP," said Rae Ann Wessel, Natural Resource Policy Director of the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation. "Noah has been a valued partner in addressing water quality issues, and under his leadership the state has increased public health notifications, provided additional funding for needed water quality monitoring stations, worked to prevent the loss of water quality monitoring on Lee County's beaches, and has established a statewide program to address and fund coastal resilience projects."
"The Conservancy of Southwest Florida welcomes the announcement by Governor DeSantis of the reappointment of Noah Valenstein as Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection," said Rob Moher, President and CEO of Conservancy of Southwest Florida. "We have had significant experience in working closely with Secretary Valenstein on numerous complex water and conservation policy issues and believe he will be a strong leader for DEP under the new administration's strategic efforts to address our environmental challenges. We congratulate both Secretary Valenstein, and the Governor for appointing him, and look forward to continued meaningful engagement in advancing science-based solutions to protect our water, land and wildlife."
"Secretary Valenstein is well-versed in the issues facing the Everglades and has a track record of working to advance restoration," said Cara Capp, Everglades Restoration Program Manager for the National Parks Conservation Association. "From prioritizing projects that deliver clean water to Florida Bay, to opposing dangerous oil drilling proposals that threaten our water supply, we appreciate his leadership in protecting national parks in Florida and the rest of our state's environment. NPCA thanks Governor DeSantis for this appointment and looks forward to our continued partnership with Secretary Valenstein in the years ahead."
Noah Valenstein has served as Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection since May 23, 2017, when he was appointed by Governor Rick Scott. Prior to being Secretary, Noah served as the Executive Director of the Suwannee River Water Management District. Secretary Valenstein has years of experience working on environmental issues in the Executive Office of the Governor, the Florida House of Representatives, and with some of Florida's leading environmental non-profits. Secretary Valenstein graduated from the University of Florida's School of Natural Resources and Environment and the Florida State University College of Law.
Governor Cuomo Announces Closure of Additional Prisons Following Record Declines in Incarceration and Crime Rates
ALBANY, New York, Feb. 15 -- Gov. Andrew Cuomo, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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- Closures Advance Governor's Landmark Criminal Justice, Correction, and Re-Entry Reforms
- Governor Cuomo's Action Builds on Legacy of Closing the Most Prisons in State History
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Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced plans to close up to three correctional facilities following record reductions in the State's incarcerated population and reported crime. Specifically, under legislation introduced as a budget amendment, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision will select
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ALBANY, New York, Feb. 15 -- Gov. Andrew Cuomo, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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- Closures Advance Governor's Landmark Criminal Justice, Correction, and Re-Entry Reforms
- Governor Cuomo's Action Builds on Legacy of Closing the Most Prisons in State History
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Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced plans to close up to three correctional facilities following record reductions in the State's incarcerated population and reported crime. Specifically, under legislation introduced as a budget amendment, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision will selectthe prisons, transition staff and incarcerated individuals, and cease facility operations by no later than September 1, 2019. This decisive action is proof positive that the Governor's smart and fair criminal justice reforms are working to reduce reliance on mass incarceration and improve the rehabilitation of the individuals who are involved in the justice system.
"In my first State of the State address eight years ago, I said prisons are not a jobs program. Since then, I am proud to have closed more prisons than any governor in history and at the same time proved that New York can remain the safest large state in the nation. But we must do more," Governor Cuomo said. "These new closures are another step toward reversing the era of mass incarceration and recognizing that there are more effective alternatives to lengthy imprisonment."
Since Governor Cuomo took office in 2011, the prison population has declined by nearly 10,000 - a 16.7% reduction - from 56,419 to 46,973 people, as of today. In fact, the current population is at its lowest level in thirty years and leads the nation with the lowest imprisonment rate of any large state. From its peak of 72,649 twenty years ago, the population has decreased by more than 25,000 people - a 35.3% reduction. As the number of people involved in the criminal justice system plummeted during his administration, Governor Cuomo has taken aggressive action to right-size the correctional and juvenile justice system, closing 24 prisons and juvenile detention centers, more than any governor in state history. These prison closures eliminated over 5,500 beds resulting in an annual savings of approximately $162 million. This restructuring was recommended by the Governor's Spending and Government Efficiency (SAGE) Commission.
New York's reduction in prison population has coincided with significant decreases in reported crime, including both violent and property offenses. In 2017, reported crime reached an all-time low since statewide reporting began in 1975. Preliminary data for 2018 shows that crime continued to decline for the sixth consecutive year and will mark yet another historic low. Over the past decade, the state's crime rate has declined by nearly 25% due to the precipitous decline in crime and increase in number of residents. This has cemented New York's position as the safest large state in the nation.
Now, the shrinking population of individuals in state custody and plunging crime rate have resulted in the need for fewer correctional facilities. At the Governor's direction, DOCCS will carefully review the operations at its 54 correctional facilities and select up to three for closure based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to physical infrastructure, program offerings, facility security level, specialized medical and mental care, and potential reuse. The closure plan will not anticipate staff layoffs and will provide impacted DOCCS employees with opportunities to transition to other facilities or positions. In prior facility closures, more than 96% of staff have chosen to continue state service, retire, or pursue other opportunities. While it is ultimately dependent on the exact facilities, the closures are estimated to eliminate at least 1,200 beds and result in an annual savings of, at least, $35 million. The budget amendment provides the Department with the authority to close the prisons on an expedited schedule.
Governor Cuomo's 2019 Justice Agenda and Criminal Justice Reforms
Today's announced prison closures join a suite of progressive proposals within the Governor's 2019 Justice Agenda to ensure the promise of full, true justice for all New Yorkers. One of the pillars of the agenda is an aggressive effort to ensure fairness in the criminal justice system. Specifically, the Governor is urging the State legislature to address injustice by passing reforms to end cash bail, ensure the right to a speedy trial, and modernize the discovery process. The Governor is also calling for drastic reforms to improve the re-entry and reintegration process for individuals returning from incarceration.
These comprehensive proposals build upon the list of important and long-overdue reforms to New York's criminal justice system achieved under Governor Cuomo. Over the past two years, Governor Cuomo led the successful effort to raise the age of criminal responsibility, passed legislation that required law enforcement to video-record custodial interrogations for serious offenses, allowed the use of photo arrays to identify witnesses to be admissible at trial, and extended the landmark Hurrell-Harring settlement's indigent criminal defense reforms to the entire state, becoming the first state in the nation to completely overhaul its public defense system. Additionally, Governor Cuomo formed the State's first Council on Community Re-Entry and Reintegration in 2014 to address obstacles formerly incarcerated people face upon re-entering society. Since its creation, the Council has helped implement changes to improve re-entry ranging from adopting "Fair Chance Hiring" principles in state agencies to issuing guidance that forbids discrimination at New York-financed housing based on a conviction alone.
Governor Abbott Delivers State of the State Remarks at North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 15 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release:
Governor Greg Abbott today delivered remarks at the North San Antonio Chamber Of Commerce Luncheon in San Antonio as part of his State of the State tour. The Governor discussed his commitment to reining in property tax growth and fostering a friendly business climate in Texas. He also spoke on the need to prioritize school finance reform and implement strategies to improve student outcomes throughout the state.
"What I have discussed today just scratches the surface of what we will accomplish this session,"
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AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 15 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release:
Governor Greg Abbott today delivered remarks at the North San Antonio Chamber Of Commerce Luncheon in San Antonio as part of his State of the State tour. The Governor discussed his commitment to reining in property tax growth and fostering a friendly business climate in Texas. He also spoke on the need to prioritize school finance reform and implement strategies to improve student outcomes throughout the state.
"What I have discussed today just scratches the surface of what we will accomplish this session,"said Governor Abbott. "No doubt, we are advancing a bold agenda that can transform the state of Texas. I'm grateful to business leaders like you for being a part of this transformation by charting a new path for the Texas economy. By prioritizing both school finance and property tax reform, we will usher in a new era of prosperity for Texas."
Founded in 1974, the North San Antonio Chamber Of Commerce represents over 1,200 member businesses throughout the city of San Antonio.
This is Governor Abbott's second stop on his State of the State tour throughout Texas. He previously visited the Richardson Chamber of Commerce and will visit Houston next week.
Gov. Polis Announces Boards and Commissions Appointments
DENVER, Colorado, Feb. 15 -- Gov. Jared Polis, D-Colorado, issued the following news:
Gov. Jared Polis today announced appointments to the following boards and commissions:
State Board of Stock Inspectors
Underground Damage Prevention Safety Commission
Wine Industry Development Board
Uninsured Employer Board
Special Funds Board for Workers' Compensation Self Insurers
Workers' Compensation Cost Containment Board
Rocky Mountain Low Level Radioactive Waste Compact
Solid and Hazardous Waste Commission
Water Quality Control Commission
Colorado Banking Board
State Electrical Board
Board
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DENVER, Colorado, Feb. 15 -- Gov. Jared Polis, D-Colorado, issued the following news:
Gov. Jared Polis today announced appointments to the following boards and commissions:
State Board of Stock Inspectors
Underground Damage Prevention Safety Commission
Wine Industry Development Board
Uninsured Employer Board
Special Funds Board for Workers' Compensation Self Insurers
Workers' Compensation Cost Containment Board
Rocky Mountain Low Level Radioactive Waste Compact
Solid and Hazardous Waste Commission
Water Quality Control Commission
Colorado Banking Board
State Electrical Board
Boardof Mortgage Loan Originators
State Plumbing Board
Board of Real Estate Appraisers
Securities Board
Hospital Provider Fee Oversight and Advisory Board
Private Occupational School Board
Board of Directors of the State Historical Society
Colorado Student Leaders Institute Executive Board
Colorado Commission on the Aging
Colorado Traumatic Brain Injury Board
Board of Assessment Appeals
Energy Impact Assistance Advisory Committee
Colorado Board of Veterans Affairs
Board of Commissioners of Veterans Community Living Centers
Coal Mine Board of Examiners
Ground Water Commission
Fire and Police Pension Association Board of Directors
Public Employees Retirement Benefit Plans Pension Review Subcommittee
Statewide Internet Portal Authority
Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority
State Board of Parole
Colorado Aeronautical Board
Colorado Tourism Office Board of Directors
State Housing Board
Colorado Educational and Cultural Facilities Authority Board of Directors
CollegeInvest Board of Directors
Colorado Civil Rights Commission
Air Quality Control Commission
Sickle-Cell Anemia Advisory Board
Urban Drainage and Flood Control District Board of Directors
Minority Business Advisory Council
eHealth Commission
Public Trustees
Colorado Coordinating Council for the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
Stroke Advisory Board
Board of Trustees for the Colorado School for the Dead and the Blind
Colorado Water Conservation Board
Click here (https://www.colorado.gov/governor/sites/default/files/all_press_releases_polis_0.pdf) to see the full list of appointees.
Florida Attorney General Issues Weekly Briefing on Feb. 15
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Feb. 15 -- Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody issued the following weekly briefing:
Tax season is here, and this week, our office issued a Consumer Alert to warn Floridians of a new phishing tactic that could wreak havoc on people preparing their taxes.
The tactic, called conversation hijacking, involves scammers accessing an ongoing email conversation and sending a new message containing a malicious link or attachment--giving the appearance that the message is from a trusted source. Victims clicking on the link or opening the attachment are then prompted to provide personal
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TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Feb. 15 -- Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody issued the following weekly briefing:
Tax season is here, and this week, our office issued a Consumer Alert to warn Floridians of a new phishing tactic that could wreak havoc on people preparing their taxes.
The tactic, called conversation hijacking, involves scammers accessing an ongoing email conversation and sending a new message containing a malicious link or attachment--giving the appearance that the message is from a trusted source. Victims clicking on the link or opening the attachment are then prompted to provide personalinformation that could be used to submit fraudulent tax returns.
Floridians should remain cautious. Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments that seem suspicious. Never share passwords or login information with anybody. Change passwords frequently--using numbers and special characters.
For more tips to guard against conversation hijacking scams, click here (https://myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/0E4D8D3D7CE455A08525839F006D7479).
As technology evolves, so do the methods scammers use to bypass security and trick users into compromising sensitive information. Conversation hijacking attacks are just the latest trick being used to steal people's identities and access their financial information.
As Attorney General, I will work with our Consumer Protection Division to stay ahead of the trends and technologies scammers use to commit identity theft and steal from Floridians.
Please take steps to protect your personal and financial information. If you encounter a scam, please report it to my office by visiting MyFloridaLegal.com or calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM.
