States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
R.I. Gov. McKee, Commissioner Infante-Green Spotlight Weekly Attendance Leaders
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Nov. 22 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Governor McKee, Commissioner Infante-Green Spotlight Weekly Attendance Leaders
As part of the statewide Attendance Matters RI campaign, today, Governor Dan McKee and Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green recognized Rhode Island schools with the highest weekly attendance and most improved attendance rates across elementary, middle, and high school levels.
The following schools are Rhode Island's attendance leaders for the week of November 10, 2025*:
* Elementary:
... Show Full Article
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Nov. 22 -- Gov. Daniel J. McKee, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Governor McKee, Commissioner Infante-Green Spotlight Weekly Attendance Leaders
As part of the statewide Attendance Matters RI campaign, today, Governor Dan McKee and Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green recognized Rhode Island schools with the highest weekly attendance and most improved attendance rates across elementary, middle, and high school levels.
The following schools are Rhode Island's attendance leaders for the week of November 10, 2025*:
* Elementary:Meadowbrook Farms School, East Greenwich - 97.19% weekly attendance rate
* Middle: Barrington Middle School, Barrington - 97.28% weekly attendance rate
* High School: East Greenwich High School, East Greenwich 95.38% weekly attendance rate
Special recognition is extended to the following schools for demonstrating the most improved average attendance rates from the previous week:
* Elementary: Mildred E. Lineham School, Exeter-West Greenwich 3.06% improvement in weekly attendance rate
* Middle: Esek Hopkins Middle School, Providence 2.55% improvement in weekly attendance rate
* High School: The Greene School, West Greenwich, 1.49% improvement in weekly attendance rate
Governor McKee and Commissioner Infante-Green commend all Rhode Island schools for their continued commitment to student success and consistent attendance. These recognitions will be updated weekly and shared publicly to celebrate the hard work of educators, students, and families.
*As of 6:00 a.m. on November 20, 2025.
**Schools with multiple grade levels are categorized by RIDE according to their largest student population.
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Original text here: https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-mckee-commissioner-infante-green-spotlight-weekly-attendance-leaders
Okla. A.G. Drummond Orders OptumRX to Stop Illegal Clawbacks
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, Nov. 22 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Drummond orders OptumRX to stop illegal clawbacks
Attorney General Gentner Drummond has issued a cease and desist letter to OptumRx following reports that the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) attempted to engage in illegal, retroactive reimbursement clawbacks from Oklahoma pharmacies.
The Attorney General's Pharmacy Benefit Manager Compliance and Enforcement Unit received credible information that OptumRx discovered an internal error concerning the Maximum Allowable
... Show Full Article
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, Nov. 22 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Drummond orders OptumRX to stop illegal clawbacks
Attorney General Gentner Drummond has issued a cease and desist letter to OptumRx following reports that the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) attempted to engage in illegal, retroactive reimbursement clawbacks from Oklahoma pharmacies.
The Attorney General's Pharmacy Benefit Manager Compliance and Enforcement Unit received credible information that OptumRx discovered an internal error concerning the Maximum AllowableCost (MAC) list used from January 1 to July 25 of this year. The wrong list resulted in claims being paid at increased amounts to pharmacies across multiple states, including Oklahoma. OptumRx reportedly attempted to reverse and rerun previously paid claims without notification to pharmacies or their contract agents, which is against Oklahoma law.
Drummond sent OptumRx the warning letter yesterday demanding OptumRx immediately halt any attempt to recoup payments or retroactively adjust reimbursements for the affected period.
"This error and the extended delay in identifying it is solely attributable to OptumRx. Moreover, this is not the first instance in recent years in which OptumRx has utilized incorrect MAC lists or attempted retroactive recoupments due to its own administrative mistakes," Drummond wrote in the letter. "This conduct is unacceptable, deceptive, and illegal under Oklahoma law."
Drummond warned OptumRx that violations of Oklahoma's PBM laws may result in penalties up to $10,000 per violation, restitution and potential suspension or revocation of the company's authority to operate in Oklahoma.
Read the Letter (https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/oag/news-documents/2025/november/DOC2_Redacted.pdf)
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November 20, 2025
VIA EMAIL
TO: OptumRx, Inc.,
c/o Mithun Mansinghani
Lehotsky Keller Cohn
Re: CEASE AND DESIST DIRECTIVE - Unlawful Post-Adjudication Recoupments and Violations To Whom It May Concern:
The Oklahoma Attorney General's Office, through its Pharmacy Benefits Management Compliance and Enforcement Unit ("OAG PBM"), hereby places OptumRx, Inc. ("OptumRx") on formal notice that the Office has reason to believe OptumRx is engaged in ongoing and serious violations of Oklahoma's laws governing pharmacy benefit mangers ("PBM"), including but not limited to unlawful post-adjudication recoupments and retroactive reductions of pharmacy reimbursements.
I. Basis for Enforcement Action
OAG PBM has received credible information indicating that OptumRx recently discovered an internal error involving the Maximum Allowable Cost ("MAC") lists applied claims between January 1, 2025, and July 25, 2025. Specifically, it appears OptumRx utilized an incorrect MAC list for a period of several months, resulting certain claims being paid at higher amounts in multiple states, including Oklahoma. We understand that pharmacies were paid the contracted rate rather than the applicable MAC rate.
This error and the extended delay in identifying it is solely attributable to OptumRx. Moreover, this is not the first instance in recent years in which OptumRx has utilized incorrect MAC lists or attempted retroactive recoupments due to its own administrative mistakes.
Upon discovering the error in early November, OptumRx reportedly attempted to unilaterally reverse and rerun claims in order to recoup so-called "overpayments," and did so without any prior notice to the affected Oklahoma pharmacies or their PSAOs. This conduct is unacceptable, deceptive, and illegal under Oklahoma law.
II. Violations of Oklahoma Law
Under 36 O.S. Sec. 6962(B)(6), OptumRx is expressly prohibited from retroactively reducing a reimbursement amount for a claim after the PBM has issued a paid claim response. Any attempt to recoup reimbursement on claims already adjudicated and paid-especially for the purpose of correcting OptumRx's own MAC-loading failureconstitutes a direct violation of this statute.
Although it appears that recoupments have not yet been executed in Oklahoma, OptumRx's reported plan to initiate such recoupments places Oklahoma pharmacies at imminent risk of significant harm.
III. CEASE AND DESIST DIRECTIVE
Accordingly, OPTUMRX IS HEREBY DIRECTED TO IMMEDIATELY CEASE AND DESIST from engaging in any of the following actions:
1. Initiating, attempting, or threatening any recoupment, offset, reversal, or rerun of pharmacy claims previously paid during the period in which the incorrect MAC list was utilized;
2. Reducing or adjusting any past reimbursement amounts after OptumRx has issued a paid claim response, regardless of whether OptumRx believes a payment exceeded the intended MAC rate; AND
3. Engaging in any conduct that constitutes a retroactive reduction of reimbursement in violation of 36 O.S. Sec. 6962(B)(6).
This directive applies to all Oklahoma pharmacies, PSAOs representing Oklahoma pharmacies, and any claim adjudicated under a plan affecting Oklahoma providers or beneficiaries.
IV. Potential Penalties
You are hereby advised that violations of Oklahoma's PBM laws-after notice and opportunity for hearing-may result in enforcement actions under 36 O.S. Sec. 6966.1, including:
* Censure, suspension, or revocation of OptumRx's license to operate as a PBM in Oklahoma;
* Civil or administrative penalties of no less than $100 and up to $10,000 per violation, including per-claim violations;
* Restitution for economic loss suffered by pharmacies or patients;
* Assessment of fees, investigation costs, hearing costs, litigation expenses, and attorney fees incurred by the Attorney General.
Nothing in this Cease and Desist Letter shall be construed as a waiver of the Attorney General's authority to investigate and pursue additional violations that may have occurred to date. OAG PBM expressly reserves all rights and remedies available under state law, including civil, administrative, and equitable relief.
IV. Immediate Required Response
OAG PBM requests written confirmation, no later than five (5) business days from the date of this Letter, that OptumRx has:
1. Implemented a fuli halt on all planned recoupment activity involving Oklahoma pharmacies;
2. Directed all internal departments and subcontractors to freeze any Oklahomarelated recoupment processes; AND
3. Identified the root cause of the MAC-loading error and taken corrective action to prevent recurrence.
Failure to comply will result in the initiation of formal enforcement proceedings.
V. Open Records Notice
The OAG PBM Unit does not consider this Letter confidential. The Office will release it in response to any request made pursuant to the Oklahoma Open Records Act.
If you have questions, please contact Deputy Attorney General Michael Leake at michael.leake@oag.ok.gov.
We expect your full and immediate compliance.
Very truly yours,
Michael T. Leake Jr., Deputy Attorney General, PBM Compliance and Enforcement Unit
CC: VIA EMAIL
Ms. Ashley Scott, Deputy Commissioner, Oklahoma Insurance Department
Ms. Jennifer Molinar, Deputy General Counsel, OptumRx, Inc.
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Original text here: https://oklahoma.gov/oag/news/newsroom/2025/november/drummond-orders-optumrx-to-stop-illegal-clawbacks.html
Minn. Secretary Simon Celebrates St. Louis County Election Workers
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 22 -- Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon issued the following news:
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Secretary Simon Celebrates St. Louis County Election Workers
Five election workers honored with Excellence in Elections Awards
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DULUTH -- On Thursday, November 20, 2025, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon awarded five election workers with the statewide Excellence in Elections Award. The award honors election workers for their outstanding service to the State of Minnesota.
Secretary Simon presented the Excellence in Elections Award to Jon Blevins, St. Louis County Information
... Show Full Article
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 22 -- Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon issued the following news:
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Secretary Simon Celebrates St. Louis County Election Workers
Five election workers honored with Excellence in Elections Awards
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DULUTH -- On Thursday, November 20, 2025, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon awarded five election workers with the statewide Excellence in Elections Award. The award honors election workers for their outstanding service to the State of Minnesota.
Secretary Simon presented the Excellence in Elections Award to Jon Blevins, St. Louis County InformationSpecialist III; Phil Chapman, St. Louis County Clerk of County Board/Elections Manager; Amanda Inman, Municipal Services Secretary for the City of Mountain Iron; Dawn Kehoe, Deputy Clerk/Treasurer for the City of Cook; and, Theresa Martinson, Former City Administrator for the City of Cook.
"Minnesota's elections are the product of talented, committed professionals across the state," said Minnesota Secretary of Steve Simon. "Elections truly are a team effort that require thousands of Minnesotans to rise to the occasion. I'm honored to celebrate the exceptional examples of service in St. Louis County."
"We owe such a debt of gratitude to the many election workers across our county for their tireless dedication to ensure elections run smoothly and provide results that are accurate and trustworthy," said St. Louis County Auditor/Treasurer Nancy Nilsen. "I appreciate the Secretary of State calling attention to the good work these people do."
PHOTO: See a photo from the November 20 event (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mnsecofstate/54936366731/in/album-72177720330446951).
VIDEO: See a video of the event from St. Louis County (https://fb.watch/Dv6BzATmjU/)
About the Honorees
Jon Blevins, St. Louis County Information Specialist III: Jon has worked in the St. Louis County Auditor's Office for six years and is the main election contact for day-to-day election questions. Jon is a great resource for clerks and co-workers regarding election processes and procedures. He is responsible for coordinating equipment programming and ballot creation for all jurisdictions in the county. He also assists with clerk and staff training. Even though Jon is inundated with questions during busy times, he maintains a polite and professional demeanor while providing quality customer service and timely communication.
Phil Chapman, St. Louis County Clerk of County Board/Elections Manager: Throughout his 12 years in this role, Phil consistently demonstrates his dedication to running fair and accurate elections that allow all eligible voters to be able to cast their ballot. As a part of his work, Phil is responsible for training clerks throughout the county, which spans 7,000 square miles.
Amanda Inman, Municipal Services Secretary for the City of Mountain Iron: Amanda has been in charge of elections for 10 years. Amanda is being recognized for ongoing excellence in administering elections. During her tenure, elections have been administered seamless without issues. Staff and election judges are well trained. The city embraces technology, one of the first jurisdictions to implement electronic poll books in the county.
Dawn Kehoe, Deputy Clerk/Treasurer for the City of Cook and Theresa Martinson, Former City Administrator for the City of Cook: In 2024, a flash flood devasted the City of Cook. While responding to the aftermath of the flood, which included road closures, property destruction, local disaster declarations, FEMA paperwork, and other challenges, both Theresa and Dawn administered a flawless primary and general state election.
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Original text here: https://www.sos.mn.gov/about-the-office/news-room/secretary-simon-celebrates-st-louis-county-election-workers/
Maine House Democrats: Stover Named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine
AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 22 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release:
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Stover named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine
Rep. Holly B. Stover, D-Boothbay, was named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine at the industry group's annual summit on Monday. The award recognizes Stover's work at the State House to support local hospitality businesses.
"I have spent my whole life in the Boothbay region, where hospitality is the bedrock of our local economy and character, so it's truly part of who I am," Stover said. "We have the best, most welcoming local businesses and
... Show Full Article
AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 22 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release:
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Stover named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine
Rep. Holly B. Stover, D-Boothbay, was named Legislative Champion by HospitalityMaine at the industry group's annual summit on Monday. The award recognizes Stover's work at the State House to support local hospitality businesses.
"I have spent my whole life in the Boothbay region, where hospitality is the bedrock of our local economy and character, so it's truly part of who I am," Stover said. "We have the best, most welcoming local businesses andhospitality workers here in our community, and I have worked hard to ensure their voices are represented at the State House. It is truly an honor to have that work recognized by HospitalityMaine."
Stover is the inaugural recipient of the award, which was launched this year by HospitalityMaine to recognize lawmakers who demonstrate strong leadership and a deep understanding of the challenges Maine's hospitality businesses face. HospitalityMaine advocates for and supports the state's lodging, restaurant and hospitality industry.
"Rep. Stover consistently listens to the needs of Maine's hospitality community and works tirelessly to support policies that help our businesses thrive," said HospitalityMaine's Government Affairs Director Nate Cloutier. "Her commitment makes a real difference for our industry."
Stover is serving her fourth term in the Maine House and represents Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb, South Bristol, Southport and Westport Island. She is a member of the Legislature's budget-writing Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
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Original text here: https://www.maine.gov/housedems/news/stover-named-legislative-champion-hospitalitymaine
LCRA Awards $15,856 Grant for Renovations to Louise Rice Mill
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 22 -- The Lower Colorado River Authority issued the following news release:
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LCRA awards $15,856 grant for renovations to Louise rice mill
Nonprofit Louise Beautification will help transform local landmark into a vibrant community gathering space
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WHARTON COUNTY, Texas - The historic Louise rice mill soon will get a new roof that will help make it available to host community events year-round, thanks to a $15,856 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The community grant to the nonprofit Louise Beautification, along with $3,964 in matching funds from the
... Show Full Article
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 22 -- The Lower Colorado River Authority issued the following news release:
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LCRA awards $15,856 grant for renovations to Louise rice mill
Nonprofit Louise Beautification will help transform local landmark into a vibrant community gathering space
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WHARTON COUNTY, Texas - The historic Louise rice mill soon will get a new roof that will help make it available to host community events year-round, thanks to a $15,856 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The community grant to the nonprofit Louise Beautification, along with $3,964 in matching funds from theLouise-Hillje Chamber of Commerce, the parent company of the beautification organization, will pay for materials and professional installation of a new metal roof on the historic structure, located at 588 South St. in the Louise community. The building now is out of commission during inclement weather because of its deteriorating roof, but the new, upgraded roof will protect the building from leaks and structural damage and enable it to host community gatherings and celebrations in all kinds of weather.
"The old roof on our building was beginning to sag and was losing shingles regularly," said Liz Lovejoy, president of Louise-Hillje Chamber of Commerce. "Due to its deteriorated state, the roof leaked tremendously, leading to cleanup and a need for drying out after every rain. The new roof will allow the building to be used and enjoyed more regularly during inclement weather."
Once a major employer and the heart of the community, the Louise rice mill stood vacant for years before local volunteers began restoring the site in 2017. Led by Louise-Hillje Chamber of Commerce and Louise Beautification, community members have donated time, labor and funds to turn the former industrial landmark into a safe and welcoming gathering space for residents.
"We are all volunteers in the organization and rely solely on donations for upkeep and repairs," Lovejoy said. "These funds are a huge boost in our effort to beautify Louise, where we always have plenty of clean country air to share."
This is one of 41 grants awarded recently through LCRA Community Grants. These grants are awarded twice a year as part of LCRA's effort to give back to communities in its wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas.
Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in January. More information is available at lcra.org/cdpp.
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About LCRA
The Lower Colorado River Authority serves customers and communities throughout Texas by managing the lower Colorado River; generating and transmitting electric power; providing a clean, reliable water supply; and offering outdoor adventures at more than 40 parks along the Colorado River from the Texas Hill Country to the Gulf Coast. LCRA and its employees are committed to fulfilling our mission to enhance the quality of life of the Texans we serve through water stewardship, energy and community service. LCRA was created by the Texas Legislature in 1934 and receives no state appropriations.
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Original text here: https://www.lcra.org/news/news-releases/lcra-awards-15856-grant-for-renovations-to-louise-rice-mill/
IEDA Board Approves Assistance for Three Companies, Quality of Life Projects and Amended Reinvestment District Plans
DES MOINES, Iowa, Nov. 22 -- The Iowa Economic Development Authority issued the following news on Nov. 21, 2025:
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IEDA Board approves assistance for three companies, quality of life projects and amended reinvestment district plans
Today, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Board approved assistance for a manufacturing company in Muscatine and two innovation companies located in Coralville and Iowa City. Projects in Decorah, Fonda and Sioux City received awards through the Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) program. In addition, reinvestment districts in Cedar Rapids and Des
... Show Full Article
DES MOINES, Iowa, Nov. 22 -- The Iowa Economic Development Authority issued the following news on Nov. 21, 2025:
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IEDA Board approves assistance for three companies, quality of life projects and amended reinvestment district plans
Today, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Board approved assistance for a manufacturing company in Muscatine and two innovation companies located in Coralville and Iowa City. Projects in Decorah, Fonda and Sioux City received awards through the Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) program. In addition, reinvestment districts in Cedar Rapids and DesMoines received approval for amended plans.
Kraft Heinz to upgrade Muscatine facility
Kraft Heinz, a leading U.S. multinational food and beverage company, operates its oldest manufacturing facility in Muscatine, producing a wide range of condiments and sauces. Due to the facility's age and current condition, the company plans significant infrastructure improvements and modernization upgrades to sustain operations in Iowa. This project will help retain 404 jobs and represents a qualifying capital investment of $48 million. The board awarded a $2 million forgivable loan along with tax incentives through the High Quality Jobs (HQJ) program.
Awards made to two startups
Coralville's Pani Clean, Inc. is focused on removing nitrates at the source, converting them to useful products and making clean water more affordable and accessible. Their product is a modular, containerized unit designed for plug-and-play installation connected to a customer's waste stream, where it uses an electrochemical process to convert nitrate into nitrogen gas or green ammonia to be reused on site. The company was awarded a $50,000 Proof of Commercial Relevance (POCR) loan for IP development and evaluation, proof of concept work and key personnel.
Halide Biologics, Inc., based in Iowa City, leverages the potential of chemical biology to enhance the pharmacological properties of protein therapeutics. The company designs novel halogenated protein drugs of increased stability to treat a growing number of medical diseases and conditions. This work seeks to overcome the weaknesses of existing protein drugs currently in clinical use. The company was awarded a $50,000 POCR loan for IP development and evaluation, proof of concept work, product refinement and key personnel.
Award recommendations for these funds are made by the Technology Commercialization Committee to the IEDA Board for approval.
CAT grant awarded to three projects
The City of Decorah was awarded $1 million to develop the Decorah Athletic Complex, which will include four baseball/softball diamonds, two batting cages, eight pickleball courts, concession building and playground. The addition of accessible restrooms will support the Freeport and Trout Run trails located there as well. The city expects to increase travel and overnight stays for families due to weekend tournaments and educational workshops. The total project cost is $4.2 million.
The City of Fonda was awarded $39,000 to construct two new outdoor, professional grade pickleball courts. A sidewalk is also included in the project to connect it to an established park with a swimming pool, playground, shelter house, basketball courts and baseball field. The combination of amenities will enhance the community's recreational opportunities. The total project cost is $130,451.
Camp High Hopes in Sioux City was awarded $818,000 to build a new multi-purpose adaptive recreation center, supporting programs for children, teens and adults with disabilities, special needs and chronic illnesses as well as their friends and families. The nearly 15,000-square-foot facility will include a large gym and two classrooms. The camp expects the rec center to serve 40% more visitors. The total project cost is $4.1 million.
The CAT program provides financial assistance to communities for the construction of recreational, cultural, educational or entertainment facilities that enhance the quality of life in Iowa. Award recommendations for these funds are made by the CAT Review Committee to the IEDA Board for approval.
Cedar Rapids and Des Moines reinvestment district plans receive final approval
On July 22, 2022, the City of Cedar Rapids was approved for a maximum benefit amount of $9 million for the Cedar Rapids Central Reinvestment District with a commencement date established as January 1, 2025. Since then, a couple projects were identified as not ready for development and were removed from the plan. The district will still include mixed-use buildings, public plaza and an entertainment center. At today's board meeting, the amended Cedar Rapids Central Reinvestment District plan was approved for the maximum benefit of $6 million. The projects within the reinvestment district area represent a $162 million investment.
On April 22, 2022, the Merle Hay 28E Board was approved for a maximum benefit amount of $26.5 million for the Merle Hay Reinvestment District with a commencement date of October 1, 2023. In August 2025, the Merle Hay 28E Board proposed an amended district plan, which was reviewed and scored by an evaluation committee. The new project plan includes the development of Merle Hay Arena with volleyball and pickleball courts, a hotel, retailers, a credit union and mixed-used housing opportunities. Today, the amended Merle Hay Reinvestment District plan was approved for the maximum benefit of $26.5 million with modified conditions. The projects within the reinvestment district area represent a $164 million investment.
The Iowa Reinvestment District Program is designed to assist communities in developing transformative projects that improve the quality of life, create and enhance unique opportunities, and substantially benefit the community, region and state. The program provides for up to $100 million in new state hotel/motel and sales tax revenues to be "reinvested" within approved districts that cannot exceed 75 acres in size and must be in an Urban Renewal Area.
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Original text here: https://opportunityiowa.gov/press-release/2025-11-21/ieda-board-approves-assistance-three-companies-quality-life-projects-and-amended-reinvestment
Colo. Public Health & Environment Dept.: Colorado Strengthens Air Quality Standards to Drive 50% Reduction in Ozone-forming Pollution From Upstream Oil and Gas Operations
DENVER, Colorado, Nov. 22 -- The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Colorado strengthens air quality standards to drive 50% reduction in ozone-forming pollution from upstream oil and gas operations
The Colorado Air Quality Control Commission has approved new measures that will drive a 50% reduction in air pollution emissions that form ground-level ozone pollution from upstream oil and gas operations by 2030, compared to 2017 levels. The approved actions include comprehensive updates to air quality regulations and the
... Show Full Article
DENVER, Colorado, Nov. 22 -- The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2025:
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Colorado strengthens air quality standards to drive 50% reduction in ozone-forming pollution from upstream oil and gas operations
The Colorado Air Quality Control Commission has approved new measures that will drive a 50% reduction in air pollution emissions that form ground-level ozone pollution from upstream oil and gas operations by 2030, compared to 2017 levels. The approved actions include comprehensive updates to air quality regulations and theState Implementation Plan, while strategically directing state resources. The measures mark another significant step toward cleaner air for all Coloradans.
"Clean air is the foundation for a thriving and sustainable community," said Michael Ogletree, the senior director of state air quality programs. "With these strategic actions, the state reaffirms its commitment to protecting the health of our residents and the environment for future generations to come."
Ground-level ozone pollution is a harmful air pollutant that can affect lung health, particularly for children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions. It forms at ground-level when pollutants known as "ozone precursors" react in heat and sunlight. Emissions of volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides are ozone precursors. Gasoline-fueled equipment and vehicles, oil and gas operations, and manufacturing facilities are large sources of ozone precursors in Colorado.
In March 2023, the Governor directed state agencies to develop new rules to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from upstream oil and gas operations by 30% in 2025 and 50% by 2030 in the parts of Colorado that do not meet National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone pollution, which are known as ozone nonattainment areas. Following this request, the commission approved new updates to several Colorado Air Quality Control Commission Regulations, targeting sectors emitting high levels of ozone pollution precursors. These include:
* Regulation 7: Extending the nitrogen oxide intensity program, expanding leak detection and repair program requirements for oil and gas operations, including storage and transferring processes.
* Regulation 11: Identifying more vehicles that emit high levels of ozone precursors.
* Regulation 25: Limiting volatile organic compounds for coating materials in aerospace.
* Regulation 26: Strengthening emissions controls for combustion equipment and industrial waste in northern Weld County.
The commission included many of the regulatory updates in changes to Colorado's State Implementation Plan. The plan outlines actions that Colorado is taking to reduce air pollution in the ozone nonattainment areas. Additionally, the updated plan allows for further technical analysis to support future policies reducing ground-level ozone.
The commission also revised administrative protocols and regulatory language. These changes will make ozone pollution-reducing programs, such as the federally required vehicle emissions testing program, sustainable over the long term, correct outdated language to align with current state and federal requirements, and revise modeling and emissions credit rules to make compliance easier.
The commission approved a strategic proposal to proactively reclassify portions of the state as nonattainment for the 2015 National Ambient Air Quality Standard for ground-level ozone. The reclassification would impact a smaller section of northern Weld County. If the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approves the voluntary reclassification request, this would enable the state to focus additional resources on reducing emissions without the burden of administrative tasks.
Colorado is committed to continuing its work on reducing emissions within its control. Learn more about the actions the state is taking to work towards meeting federal ozone pollution standards (https://cdphe.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-strengthens-air-quality-standards-to-drive-50-reduction-in-ozone-forming).
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Original text here: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-strengthens-air-quality-standards-to-drive-50-reduction-in-ozone-forming
