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N.M. Environment Dept.: Public Input Sought on Future of PFAS Protections for Consumers
SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 8 -- The New Mexico Department of Environment issued the following news release:
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Public input sought on future of PFAS protections for consumers
Webinar meeting scheduled, public comment portal to open
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The New Mexico Environment Department will host a public webinar in August to explain how the public can participate in the state's review of the PFAS Protection Act, which regulates per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products.
The New Mexico Legislature passed House Joint Memorial 3 during the 2026 legislative session.
The memorial requests ... Show Full Article SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 8 -- The New Mexico Department of Environment issued the following news release: * * * Public input sought on future of PFAS protections for consumers Webinar meeting scheduled, public comment portal to open - The New Mexico Environment Department will host a public webinar in August to explain how the public can participate in the state's review of the PFAS Protection Act, which regulates per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products. The New Mexico Legislature passed House Joint Memorial 3 during the 2026 legislative session. The memorial requeststwo reports examining implementation of the 2025 law:
* The Environmental Improvement Board will report on implementation of the PFAS Protection Act, including the effectiveness of the rules it adopted to implement the law.
* NMED, in consultation with other state agencies, will evaluate the public health, environmental and economic risks associated with exemptions in the law and recommend whether the Legislature should continue, modify or remove those exemptions.
"The State of New Mexico has taken bold action against PFAS contamination under Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's administration, with overwhelming bipartisan support from the Legislature," said Environment Secretary James Kenney. "However, our job isn't finished. The reports requested under House Joint Memorial 3 will help guide future regulatory, legislative and administrative actions, and public input will be critical to determining what comes next."
"With the PFAS Protection Act, New Mexico is leading the nation in addressing PFAS contamination, particularly in everyday products that can expose people to these harmful chemicals," said Rep. Dayan Hochman-Vigil, sponsor of HJM 3 and the PFAS Protection Act. "Responsible policymaking also requires us to evaluate how the law is working, understand its effects and consider what steps may be needed next."
The rules implementing the PFAS Protection Act require educational labels on many consumer products sold in New Mexico that contain intentionally added PFAS, while phasing out other products containing intentionally added PFAS.
The law and its rules are based on a significant body of scientific research linking exposure to certain PFAS to adverse health effects, including thyroid disease, liver and kidney damage, certain cancers, decreased fertility and developmental effects. Consumer products containing intentionally added PFAS can also contaminate drinking water supplies through their use or disposal.
According to a 2023 study from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, removing PFAS from the environment is a costly endeavor. While PFAS-containing consumer products can be purchased at big-box retailers for as little as $10, removing just one pound of PFAS from municipal wastewater treatment systems can cost between $2.7 million and $18 million.
The upcoming webinar will include an overview of the current regulatory landscape related to PFAS in consumer products, the legislature's request under HJM 3, and opportunities for the public to provide input.
* What: Public webinar on House Joint Memorial 3
* When: Tuesday, August 18, 2026, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
* Where: Virtual via Zoom
* Sign up: Visit NMED's webinar registration page (https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_gA0VwYIZR_CBrYpcd2NgBQ)
In addition, NMED will open a public comment portal on Aug. 18 to gather public input to inform the HJM 3 reports.
NMED will present preliminary findings of its efforts under HJM 3 to the Radiation and Hazardous Waste Interim Committee on Nov. 5, 2026 and submit a final report to the Legislature by Aug. 1, 2027.
The PFAS Protection Act begins phasing out certain products in 2027, including cookware, food packaging, juvenile products and firefighting foam. In 2028, the phaseout expands to additional categories, including cosmetics, carpets, textiles, cleaning products and upholstered furniture.
By 2032, New Mexico will prohibit the sale of nearly all non-exempt products containing intentionally added PFAS.
The public can learn more about the PFAS Protection Act, HJM 3 and New Mexico's other PFAS-related actions on NMED's PFAS webpage (https://www.env.nm.gov/pfas/).
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Original text here: https://www.env.nm.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2026-08-07-COMMS-Public-input-sought-on-future-of-PFAS-protections-for-consumers.pdf
* * *
Public input sought on future of PFAS protections for consumers
Webinar meeting scheduled, public comment portal to open
-
The New Mexico Environment Department will host a public webinar in August to explain how the public can participate in the state's review of the PFAS Protection Act, which regulates per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products.
The New Mexico Legislature passed House Joint Memorial 3 during the 2026 legislative session.
The memorial requests ... Show Full Article SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 8 -- The New Mexico Department of Environment issued the following news release: * * * Public input sought on future of PFAS protections for consumers Webinar meeting scheduled, public comment portal to open - The New Mexico Environment Department will host a public webinar in August to explain how the public can participate in the state's review of the PFAS Protection Act, which regulates per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products. The New Mexico Legislature passed House Joint Memorial 3 during the 2026 legislative session. The memorial requeststwo reports examining implementation of the 2025 law:
* The Environmental Improvement Board will report on implementation of the PFAS Protection Act, including the effectiveness of the rules it adopted to implement the law.
* NMED, in consultation with other state agencies, will evaluate the public health, environmental and economic risks associated with exemptions in the law and recommend whether the Legislature should continue, modify or remove those exemptions.
"The State of New Mexico has taken bold action against PFAS contamination under Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's administration, with overwhelming bipartisan support from the Legislature," said Environment Secretary James Kenney. "However, our job isn't finished. The reports requested under House Joint Memorial 3 will help guide future regulatory, legislative and administrative actions, and public input will be critical to determining what comes next."
"With the PFAS Protection Act, New Mexico is leading the nation in addressing PFAS contamination, particularly in everyday products that can expose people to these harmful chemicals," said Rep. Dayan Hochman-Vigil, sponsor of HJM 3 and the PFAS Protection Act. "Responsible policymaking also requires us to evaluate how the law is working, understand its effects and consider what steps may be needed next."
The rules implementing the PFAS Protection Act require educational labels on many consumer products sold in New Mexico that contain intentionally added PFAS, while phasing out other products containing intentionally added PFAS.
The law and its rules are based on a significant body of scientific research linking exposure to certain PFAS to adverse health effects, including thyroid disease, liver and kidney damage, certain cancers, decreased fertility and developmental effects. Consumer products containing intentionally added PFAS can also contaminate drinking water supplies through their use or disposal.
According to a 2023 study from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, removing PFAS from the environment is a costly endeavor. While PFAS-containing consumer products can be purchased at big-box retailers for as little as $10, removing just one pound of PFAS from municipal wastewater treatment systems can cost between $2.7 million and $18 million.
The upcoming webinar will include an overview of the current regulatory landscape related to PFAS in consumer products, the legislature's request under HJM 3, and opportunities for the public to provide input.
* What: Public webinar on House Joint Memorial 3
* When: Tuesday, August 18, 2026, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
* Where: Virtual via Zoom
* Sign up: Visit NMED's webinar registration page (https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_gA0VwYIZR_CBrYpcd2NgBQ)
In addition, NMED will open a public comment portal on Aug. 18 to gather public input to inform the HJM 3 reports.
NMED will present preliminary findings of its efforts under HJM 3 to the Radiation and Hazardous Waste Interim Committee on Nov. 5, 2026 and submit a final report to the Legislature by Aug. 1, 2027.
The PFAS Protection Act begins phasing out certain products in 2027, including cookware, food packaging, juvenile products and firefighting foam. In 2028, the phaseout expands to additional categories, including cosmetics, carpets, textiles, cleaning products and upholstered furniture.
By 2032, New Mexico will prohibit the sale of nearly all non-exempt products containing intentionally added PFAS.
The public can learn more about the PFAS Protection Act, HJM 3 and New Mexico's other PFAS-related actions on NMED's PFAS webpage (https://www.env.nm.gov/pfas/).
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Original text here: https://www.env.nm.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2026-08-07-COMMS-Public-input-sought-on-future-of-PFAS-protections-for-consumers.pdf
N.J. Environmental Protection Dept.: Federal Court Approves Historic PFAS Settlements Valued At Approximately $2.5 Billion
TRENTON, New Jersey, Aug. 8 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
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FEDERAL COURT APPROVES HISTORIC PFAS SETTLEMENTS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY $2.5 BILLION
SETTLEMENT WILL CLEAN UP FOUR CONTAMINATED SITES, PROTECT NEW JERSEY'S RESIDENTS, AND RESTORE NATURAL RESOURCES
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Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced judicial approval of two groundbreaking settlements to remedy long-standing statewide contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl ... Show Full Article TRENTON, New Jersey, Aug. 8 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * FEDERAL COURT APPROVES HISTORIC PFAS SETTLEMENTS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY $2.5 BILLION SETTLEMENT WILL CLEAN UP FOUR CONTAMINATED SITES, PROTECT NEW JERSEY'S RESIDENTS, AND RESTORE NATURAL RESOURCES - Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced judicial approval of two groundbreaking settlements to remedy long-standing statewide contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylsubstances), also known as "forever chemicals," as well as PFAS and other pollutants originating from four significant industrial sites. The settlements resolve the State's claims in years-long litigation against E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Co. (now known as EIDP, Inc.) and other DuPont-related entities, and separate litigation against 3M.
The settlement with the DuPont entities, valued at over $2 billion, is on its own the largest environmental settlement ever achieved by a single state. Together, the settlements resolving the claims against the DuPont entities and 3M are valued at approximately $2.5 billion
"This is truly a historic moment for New Jersey, which has experienced disproportionate and extensive pollution impacts from decades of PFAS manufacturing and use by DuPont and 3M," Acting Commissioner Potosnak said. "But this is only the beginning of what will be a long road to restore our environment from the unfortunate legacy of these chemicals. The DEP and the Sherrill Administration are committed to engaging the public and our stakeholders to maximize the public health and environmental protection benefits of these funds to heal New Jersey."
"For years, corporate polluters have profited from 'forever chemicals' while causing untold damage to our communities--endangering the health of our kids, contaminating the water we drink, and exposing our first responders to dangerous carcinogens. Today's landmark settlement cements New Jersey's national leadership in the fight against forever chemicals and is a critical first step in undoing the damage DuPont and 3M have caused to our state," said Attorney General Davenport. "Our office will continue to hold corporations accountable whenever they harm our communities, and I am eager to see the work begin to repair the decades of damage DuPont and 3M have caused in the Garden State."
Including the settlements announced today and other settlements announced in recent years, New Jersey is slated to recover over $3 billion from lawsuits it has commenced since 2019 to compensate the State and address the damage caused by PFAS and other pollutants--confirming the State's position as a national leader in protecting the public from the harms caused by PFAS.
The Dangers of PFAS
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been manufactured in the United States since the 1940s. They are used to make a variety of household, consumer, and industrial products and are known as "forever chemicals" because they do not degrade or break down over time, continuing to accumulate in the environment and in humans.
They are classified as likely carcinogens, with studies having shown that exposure to the chemicals may cause kidney, liver, and testicular cancer, as well as autoimmune and endocrine disorders in adults. PFAS have also been linked to developmental issues affecting fetuses during pregnancy and infants who breastfeed. In addition, babies and children are believed to be more susceptible to the harmful effects of PFAS.
Background on the Litigation
Together, both settlements resolve several years-long lawsuits against the DuPont defendants and 3M, including litigation regarding four DuPont industrial sites in New Jersey (including the Chambers Works site in Salem County); statewide litigation regarding the firefighting material known as aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF); and claims for PFAS contamination statewide, including claims associated with the defendants' responsibilities under DEP's Statewide PFAS Directive. The DuPont entities include EIDP, Inc.; the Chemours Company and The Chemours Company FC, LLC, both of which DuPont spun off in 2015; DuPont Specialty Products USA, LLC; Corteva Inc.; and DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
The proposed settlements with 3M and the DuPont entities, respectively, were announced in mid-2025. Consistent with New Jersey's Spill Act, DEP published notices of both proposed settlements in the New Jersey Register and on DEP's website. After sixty days of public comment, DEP carefully considered and responded to all comments before seeking judicial approval.
The State moved for judicial approval of the settlements in late 2025. Since then, the State has resolved objections raised by eighteen counties and a coalition of publicly owned wastewater treatment plants, further solidifying broad support for the settlements.
Settlement Funds
The total settlement payments by the DuPont entities and 3M will occur annually over 25 years.
PFAS Abatement Fund. Payments to be made for PFAS abatement collectively total up to $795 million. These funds will be held in dedicated trust accounts for the abatement of PFAS statewide. The PFAS Abatement Damages proceeds will be disbursed through two primary means.
First, PFAS Abatement Damages received by the State will be deposited into a separate, non-lapsing fund to be known as the "PFAS Abatement Fund." That Fund will be allocated for use by the New Jersey Water Bank to provide loans that include no-interest, low-interest, and/or principal forgiveness. Those loans will finance water quality projects to ensure that drinking water systems and publicly-owned treatment works have a long-term, reliable funding source for the needed capital upgrades to address PFAS in our water supply. DEP will provide a minimum of $150 million from the PFAS Abatement Fund to the Water Bank to assist publicly-owned treatment works with the costs of abating PFAS.
Second, DEP will also use PFAS Abatement Damages to provide financial assistance to county, municipal, and local government units and the public, including private potable well owners, for projects to remediate and otherwise abate PFAS contamination. This will include a minimum of $90 million to a designated fund to be used by counties to investigate and remediate PFAS contamination at county-owned fire training academies and airports, both of which used aqueous film-forming foam containing PFAS.
Natural Resource Damages. Up to $365 million will compensate the State for damage to natural resources caused by releases of PFAS and other contaminants, and, consistent with the New Jersey Constitution, will be used to restore natural resources, including in the vicinity of four specific sites. Those sites are: Pompton Lakes Works, in Pompton Lakes and Wanaque, Passaic County; the Parlin site, in Sayreville, Middlesex County; the Repauno site, in Greenwich Township, Gloucester County; and Chambers Works, in Pennsville and Carneys Point Township, Salem County.
DEP will engage with the public on potential restoration projects. Municipalities and members of the public may submit potential restoration projects through DEP Office of Natural Resource Restoration's Potential Restoration Project Submission Portal found at https://dep.nj.gov/nrr/potential-restoration-project-submission-portal/
Remediation Funding. In addition, to ensure that all the cleanup work at the four industrial sites is paid for without public funds, the DuPont entities also agreed to create remediation funding sources of up to $1.2 billion and to establish an additional reserve fund of $475 million to ensure that if any one of fails to fulfill their responsibilities to the state, taxpayers won't be left to foot the bill. Under the settlement, the DuPont entities are required to fully remediate the industrial sites, regardless of ultimate cost.
Fees and costs. Finally, approximately $195 million in recovered funds will cover legal fees and costs.
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Resources
NJDEP Dupont/Chemours PFAS Settlement Website (https://dep.nj.gov/dupont/)
NJDEP 3M PFAS Settlement Website (https://dep.nj.gov/3m/)
NJDEP PFAS Website (https://dep.nj.gov/pfas/)
NJDEP PFAS Strategy (https://dep.nj.gov/pfas/strategy/)
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Original text here: https://dep.nj.gov/newsrel/26_0041/
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FEDERAL COURT APPROVES HISTORIC PFAS SETTLEMENTS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY $2.5 BILLION
SETTLEMENT WILL CLEAN UP FOUR CONTAMINATED SITES, PROTECT NEW JERSEY'S RESIDENTS, AND RESTORE NATURAL RESOURCES
-
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced judicial approval of two groundbreaking settlements to remedy long-standing statewide contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl ... Show Full Article TRENTON, New Jersey, Aug. 8 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * FEDERAL COURT APPROVES HISTORIC PFAS SETTLEMENTS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY $2.5 BILLION SETTLEMENT WILL CLEAN UP FOUR CONTAMINATED SITES, PROTECT NEW JERSEY'S RESIDENTS, AND RESTORE NATURAL RESOURCES - Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak today announced judicial approval of two groundbreaking settlements to remedy long-standing statewide contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylsubstances), also known as "forever chemicals," as well as PFAS and other pollutants originating from four significant industrial sites. The settlements resolve the State's claims in years-long litigation against E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Co. (now known as EIDP, Inc.) and other DuPont-related entities, and separate litigation against 3M.
The settlement with the DuPont entities, valued at over $2 billion, is on its own the largest environmental settlement ever achieved by a single state. Together, the settlements resolving the claims against the DuPont entities and 3M are valued at approximately $2.5 billion
"This is truly a historic moment for New Jersey, which has experienced disproportionate and extensive pollution impacts from decades of PFAS manufacturing and use by DuPont and 3M," Acting Commissioner Potosnak said. "But this is only the beginning of what will be a long road to restore our environment from the unfortunate legacy of these chemicals. The DEP and the Sherrill Administration are committed to engaging the public and our stakeholders to maximize the public health and environmental protection benefits of these funds to heal New Jersey."
"For years, corporate polluters have profited from 'forever chemicals' while causing untold damage to our communities--endangering the health of our kids, contaminating the water we drink, and exposing our first responders to dangerous carcinogens. Today's landmark settlement cements New Jersey's national leadership in the fight against forever chemicals and is a critical first step in undoing the damage DuPont and 3M have caused to our state," said Attorney General Davenport. "Our office will continue to hold corporations accountable whenever they harm our communities, and I am eager to see the work begin to repair the decades of damage DuPont and 3M have caused in the Garden State."
Including the settlements announced today and other settlements announced in recent years, New Jersey is slated to recover over $3 billion from lawsuits it has commenced since 2019 to compensate the State and address the damage caused by PFAS and other pollutants--confirming the State's position as a national leader in protecting the public from the harms caused by PFAS.
The Dangers of PFAS
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been manufactured in the United States since the 1940s. They are used to make a variety of household, consumer, and industrial products and are known as "forever chemicals" because they do not degrade or break down over time, continuing to accumulate in the environment and in humans.
They are classified as likely carcinogens, with studies having shown that exposure to the chemicals may cause kidney, liver, and testicular cancer, as well as autoimmune and endocrine disorders in adults. PFAS have also been linked to developmental issues affecting fetuses during pregnancy and infants who breastfeed. In addition, babies and children are believed to be more susceptible to the harmful effects of PFAS.
Background on the Litigation
Together, both settlements resolve several years-long lawsuits against the DuPont defendants and 3M, including litigation regarding four DuPont industrial sites in New Jersey (including the Chambers Works site in Salem County); statewide litigation regarding the firefighting material known as aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF); and claims for PFAS contamination statewide, including claims associated with the defendants' responsibilities under DEP's Statewide PFAS Directive. The DuPont entities include EIDP, Inc.; the Chemours Company and The Chemours Company FC, LLC, both of which DuPont spun off in 2015; DuPont Specialty Products USA, LLC; Corteva Inc.; and DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
The proposed settlements with 3M and the DuPont entities, respectively, were announced in mid-2025. Consistent with New Jersey's Spill Act, DEP published notices of both proposed settlements in the New Jersey Register and on DEP's website. After sixty days of public comment, DEP carefully considered and responded to all comments before seeking judicial approval.
The State moved for judicial approval of the settlements in late 2025. Since then, the State has resolved objections raised by eighteen counties and a coalition of publicly owned wastewater treatment plants, further solidifying broad support for the settlements.
Settlement Funds
The total settlement payments by the DuPont entities and 3M will occur annually over 25 years.
PFAS Abatement Fund. Payments to be made for PFAS abatement collectively total up to $795 million. These funds will be held in dedicated trust accounts for the abatement of PFAS statewide. The PFAS Abatement Damages proceeds will be disbursed through two primary means.
First, PFAS Abatement Damages received by the State will be deposited into a separate, non-lapsing fund to be known as the "PFAS Abatement Fund." That Fund will be allocated for use by the New Jersey Water Bank to provide loans that include no-interest, low-interest, and/or principal forgiveness. Those loans will finance water quality projects to ensure that drinking water systems and publicly-owned treatment works have a long-term, reliable funding source for the needed capital upgrades to address PFAS in our water supply. DEP will provide a minimum of $150 million from the PFAS Abatement Fund to the Water Bank to assist publicly-owned treatment works with the costs of abating PFAS.
Second, DEP will also use PFAS Abatement Damages to provide financial assistance to county, municipal, and local government units and the public, including private potable well owners, for projects to remediate and otherwise abate PFAS contamination. This will include a minimum of $90 million to a designated fund to be used by counties to investigate and remediate PFAS contamination at county-owned fire training academies and airports, both of which used aqueous film-forming foam containing PFAS.
Natural Resource Damages. Up to $365 million will compensate the State for damage to natural resources caused by releases of PFAS and other contaminants, and, consistent with the New Jersey Constitution, will be used to restore natural resources, including in the vicinity of four specific sites. Those sites are: Pompton Lakes Works, in Pompton Lakes and Wanaque, Passaic County; the Parlin site, in Sayreville, Middlesex County; the Repauno site, in Greenwich Township, Gloucester County; and Chambers Works, in Pennsville and Carneys Point Township, Salem County.
DEP will engage with the public on potential restoration projects. Municipalities and members of the public may submit potential restoration projects through DEP Office of Natural Resource Restoration's Potential Restoration Project Submission Portal found at https://dep.nj.gov/nrr/potential-restoration-project-submission-portal/
Remediation Funding. In addition, to ensure that all the cleanup work at the four industrial sites is paid for without public funds, the DuPont entities also agreed to create remediation funding sources of up to $1.2 billion and to establish an additional reserve fund of $475 million to ensure that if any one of fails to fulfill their responsibilities to the state, taxpayers won't be left to foot the bill. Under the settlement, the DuPont entities are required to fully remediate the industrial sites, regardless of ultimate cost.
Fees and costs. Finally, approximately $195 million in recovered funds will cover legal fees and costs.
* * *
Resources
NJDEP Dupont/Chemours PFAS Settlement Website (https://dep.nj.gov/dupont/)
NJDEP 3M PFAS Settlement Website (https://dep.nj.gov/3m/)
NJDEP PFAS Website (https://dep.nj.gov/pfas/)
NJDEP PFAS Strategy (https://dep.nj.gov/pfas/strategy/)
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Original text here: https://dep.nj.gov/newsrel/26_0041/
Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation Insulating Illinois From Trump Administration's Anti-Environment Agenda
SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Aug. 8 -- Gov. JB Pritzker, D-Illinois, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Insulating Illinois from Trump Administration's Anti-Environment Agenda
New laws make Illinois independent from federal environmental rollbacks, further protect Illinoisans from pollution, and strengthens environmental equality
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CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker signed three bills (HB 5070, SB 3772 and HB 4418) that protect Illinoisans from the legacy of toxic pollution and insulate the state from some of the worst impacts of the Trump administration's ... Show Full Article SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Aug. 8 -- Gov. JB Pritzker, D-Illinois, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Insulating Illinois from Trump Administration's Anti-Environment Agenda New laws make Illinois independent from federal environmental rollbacks, further protect Illinoisans from pollution, and strengthens environmental equality - CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker signed three bills (HB 5070, SB 3772 and HB 4418) that protect Illinoisans from the legacy of toxic pollution and insulate the state from some of the worst impacts of the Trump administration'sfederal environmental policy rollbacks. Environmental and community advocates across the state are celebrating the new laws as a set of historic "firsts" that will result in cleaner air and water and improved public health across the state.
"Access to clean air and safe drinking water is not a luxury, but a basic human right - and providing this means prioritizing people over big polluters," said Governor JB Pritzker. "While the Trump administration continues to roll back critical environmental protections, Illinois takes another step forward to preserve the health and well-being of all residents."
"Each of these bills further strengthen the mission of the Illinois EPA and provide the necessary tools to implement our goals," said Illinois EPA Director James Jennings. "Thanks to the work of the Illinois General Assembly and Governor Pritzker, these laws will ensure Illinois maintains its strong environmental protections that are legally supported and based on sound science."
As Trump Weakens Environmental Protections, Illinois Strengthens Them
The Trump administration continues to march forward with its anti-environment agenda, dismantling bedrock environmental protections, including rescinding the U.S. EPA's greenhouse gas endangerment finding, weakening vehicle emissions standards, accelerating fossil fuel permitting and, most recently, curtailing clean water protections, all in an increasingly warming world.
As the federal government aggressively moves to weaken federal environmental protections, Illinois is instead strengthening them. In signing HB 5070, Gov. Pritzker, his Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the General Assembly have, for the first time, ended the state's automatic adoption of federal environmental rules when such rollbacks would weaken existing state protections.
"The Trump administration has repeatedly moved to prioritize big polluters at the expense of our health and wellbeing, but with the enactment of HB 5070, we've made it much harder for him to pull us backward," said the bill's chief house sponsor, State Representative Ann Williams.
The Trump administration recently announced its intention to roll back protective national drinking water standards for toxic Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, in community water supplies. Found in drinking water, wildlife, and even the human bloodstreams, these "forever chemicals" are linked to cancer, immune system suppression, and developmental harms. HB 5070 ensures that Illinois will keep its nationally leading, science-based, state-level PFAS standards in place, despite a federal standards rollback.
"I am extremely proud of our state, our Illinois EPA and our Governor for stepping up to inoculate Illinoisans from some of the worst impacts of the Trump administration's anti-environment agenda," said HB 5070's chief Senate sponsor, State Senator Laura Ellman. "The U.S. EPA may cater to Big Polluters, but in Illinois, we've chosen a path grounded in science, public health and the understanding that clean air and clean water keep life more affordable for Illinoisans."
HB 5070 prohibits the use of expedited rulemaking processes before the Board to adopt any new federal standards that are less stringent than Illinois's existing clean air, clean water, safe drinking water, and hazardous waste standards. This will ensure Illinois maintains its strong environmental protections that are legally supported and based on sound science, even as the federal government celebrates rolling those same standards back.
Historic Environmental Justice Protections in Illinois' Most Polluted Neighborhoods
By enacting SB 3772, Gov. Pritzker and the Illinois General Assembly have further solidified Illinois' legacy as the home of the Environmental Justice (EJ) movement. SB 3772 codifies, for the first time in Illinois law, a legal framework for addressing the cumulative impact of industrial air pollution in Illinois' Environmental Justice communities. The Illinois EPA will have greater air permitting authority to protect environmental justice communities, now defined by data analysis pinpointing low-income communities of color with historically disproportionately high concentrations of polluting industries, against increasingly toxic accumulations of air pollution. Researchers estimate that air pollution contributes to about five percent of premature deaths in environmental justice communities.
"For too long in Illinois, the worst polluters have been allowed to turn low-income communities of color into sacrifice zones for their pollution, but the enactment of SB 3772 begins to change that," said the bill's Chief House Sponsor, State Rep. Lilian Jimenez. "I am so proud of this step toward righting decades of environmental racism in our state; by defining 'Environmental Justice communities' in statute, we can be data-driven and precise in how we consider multiple pollution indicators and demographic factors in determining an overall cumulative pollution burden."
The new Illinois law will also require a cumulative impact analysis assessing all existing air pollution sources, sensitive populations, and other factors that increase community vulnerability to the overall effect of newly proposed polluting projects seeking permits. An assessment indicating disproportionately adverse pollution impacts in an EJ community would require the Illinois EPA to consider changes prior to granting new permits, whether through additional modeling, stronger permit conditions, increased inspections, or prioritizing beneficial funding for the impacted community. The agency can now, for the first time, also consider an applicant's past compliance and violation history, require stronger community outreach, and encourage the use of pollution prevention technologies.
"The Illinois Constitution makes it clear that all residents have the right to a healthful environment, meaning no communities in the state should be forced to bear the disproportionate and adverse weight that comes with air pollution," said State Senator Celina Villanueva. "Unfortunately, we know low-income, minority and immigrant communities are historically the ones who carry this burden and live with the effects of pollution exposure, and the neighborhoods I represent, where asthma rates affect children at two to three times the state average, have lived with this unjust reality for far too long. This law recognizes that enough is enough and that our communities and families deserve better."
SB 3772 applies to the two largest categories of air permits, the Clean Air Act Permit Program (CAAPP) permits and Federally Enforceable State Operating Permits (FESOPs), and enhances their protections by allowing for improved air monitoring, fugitive dust controls, operational limits, increased testing, and odor control and monitoring.
"We are extremely grateful for the leadership of Gov. JB Pritzker's office and to the team from the Illinois EPA for championing this historic environmental justice win and helping us finally get it across the finish line," said Jen Walling, CEO of the Illinois Environmental Council. "As our EJ leaders have said, this is a significant and meaningful step forward for communities who simply want clean air to breathe, and our work to secure that basic human right continues."
Leading the Great Lakes States in Tackling Plastic Pollution to Protect Clean Water
With the Governor's signature of HB 4418, Illinois state law will officially designate plastic pellets as a pollutant for the first time. In doing so, Illinois will become the first of the Great Lakes states to hold producers of industrial plastic pellets accountable for spills of these toxic pellets into our waterways.
HB 4418 defines pre-production plastic pellets as a pollutant and directs the Illinois EPA to develop and implement stormwater pollution controls that specifically target plastic pellets. That means polluters would be required to have a plan to keep plastic pellets out of our waters, protecting wildlife and our drinking water sources from these toxic microplastics.
"Clean water is one of Illinois' most valuable resources, and protecting it means addressing pollution before it reaches our rivers and lakes," said bill chief House sponsor, State Representative Joyce Mason. "Plastic pellets may be small, but their impact on our environment, wildlife, and public health is significant. By recognizing these industrial plastic pellets as a pollutant and requiring commonsense prevention measures, Illinois is taking a proactive step to reduce plastic pollution and safeguard the Great Lakes and our waterways for future generations."
Plastic pollution adversely affects clean water, wildlife, and public health. An estimated 22 million pounds of plastic waste ends up in the Great Lakes each year, and 86% of litter collected on Great Lakes beaches is plastic. A recent report found microplastics in 100% of tested waterways across Illinois.
"This new law ensures that manufacturers and transporters take responsibility for preventing these pellets from entering our waterways in the first place," said the bill's chief Senate Sponsor, State Senator Julie Morrison. "Illinois is setting a strong example for the Great Lakes region by putting practical protections in place that will help keep our drinking water cleaner, protect wildlife, and reduce plastic pollution at its source."
These pre-production plastic pellets, sometimes referred to as "nurdles," are the building blocks of plastics manufacturing. They are a recurring source of plastic pollution in the environment because they get dumped or spilled from stormwater runoff from plastic factories and during transportation between facilities.
"We applaud Illinois for being the first Great Lakes state to hold producers and transporters of industrial plastic pellets accountable for spills that pollute our waters," said Andrea Densham, Director of Regional Government Affairs at the Alliance for the Great Lakes. "With the legislative leadership of Senator Morrison and Representative Mason and Gov. Pritzker's signature, polluters will be required to have a plan to keep plastic pellets out of our waters, protecting wildlife and our drinking water sources from these toxic microplastics."
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Original text here: https://www.illinois.gov/news/release.html?releaseid=32813
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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Insulating Illinois from Trump Administration's Anti-Environment Agenda
New laws make Illinois independent from federal environmental rollbacks, further protect Illinoisans from pollution, and strengthens environmental equality
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CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker signed three bills (HB 5070, SB 3772 and HB 4418) that protect Illinoisans from the legacy of toxic pollution and insulate the state from some of the worst impacts of the Trump administration's ... Show Full Article SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Aug. 8 -- Gov. JB Pritzker, D-Illinois, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Insulating Illinois from Trump Administration's Anti-Environment Agenda New laws make Illinois independent from federal environmental rollbacks, further protect Illinoisans from pollution, and strengthens environmental equality - CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker signed three bills (HB 5070, SB 3772 and HB 4418) that protect Illinoisans from the legacy of toxic pollution and insulate the state from some of the worst impacts of the Trump administration'sfederal environmental policy rollbacks. Environmental and community advocates across the state are celebrating the new laws as a set of historic "firsts" that will result in cleaner air and water and improved public health across the state.
"Access to clean air and safe drinking water is not a luxury, but a basic human right - and providing this means prioritizing people over big polluters," said Governor JB Pritzker. "While the Trump administration continues to roll back critical environmental protections, Illinois takes another step forward to preserve the health and well-being of all residents."
"Each of these bills further strengthen the mission of the Illinois EPA and provide the necessary tools to implement our goals," said Illinois EPA Director James Jennings. "Thanks to the work of the Illinois General Assembly and Governor Pritzker, these laws will ensure Illinois maintains its strong environmental protections that are legally supported and based on sound science."
As Trump Weakens Environmental Protections, Illinois Strengthens Them
The Trump administration continues to march forward with its anti-environment agenda, dismantling bedrock environmental protections, including rescinding the U.S. EPA's greenhouse gas endangerment finding, weakening vehicle emissions standards, accelerating fossil fuel permitting and, most recently, curtailing clean water protections, all in an increasingly warming world.
As the federal government aggressively moves to weaken federal environmental protections, Illinois is instead strengthening them. In signing HB 5070, Gov. Pritzker, his Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the General Assembly have, for the first time, ended the state's automatic adoption of federal environmental rules when such rollbacks would weaken existing state protections.
"The Trump administration has repeatedly moved to prioritize big polluters at the expense of our health and wellbeing, but with the enactment of HB 5070, we've made it much harder for him to pull us backward," said the bill's chief house sponsor, State Representative Ann Williams.
The Trump administration recently announced its intention to roll back protective national drinking water standards for toxic Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, in community water supplies. Found in drinking water, wildlife, and even the human bloodstreams, these "forever chemicals" are linked to cancer, immune system suppression, and developmental harms. HB 5070 ensures that Illinois will keep its nationally leading, science-based, state-level PFAS standards in place, despite a federal standards rollback.
"I am extremely proud of our state, our Illinois EPA and our Governor for stepping up to inoculate Illinoisans from some of the worst impacts of the Trump administration's anti-environment agenda," said HB 5070's chief Senate sponsor, State Senator Laura Ellman. "The U.S. EPA may cater to Big Polluters, but in Illinois, we've chosen a path grounded in science, public health and the understanding that clean air and clean water keep life more affordable for Illinoisans."
HB 5070 prohibits the use of expedited rulemaking processes before the Board to adopt any new federal standards that are less stringent than Illinois's existing clean air, clean water, safe drinking water, and hazardous waste standards. This will ensure Illinois maintains its strong environmental protections that are legally supported and based on sound science, even as the federal government celebrates rolling those same standards back.
Historic Environmental Justice Protections in Illinois' Most Polluted Neighborhoods
By enacting SB 3772, Gov. Pritzker and the Illinois General Assembly have further solidified Illinois' legacy as the home of the Environmental Justice (EJ) movement. SB 3772 codifies, for the first time in Illinois law, a legal framework for addressing the cumulative impact of industrial air pollution in Illinois' Environmental Justice communities. The Illinois EPA will have greater air permitting authority to protect environmental justice communities, now defined by data analysis pinpointing low-income communities of color with historically disproportionately high concentrations of polluting industries, against increasingly toxic accumulations of air pollution. Researchers estimate that air pollution contributes to about five percent of premature deaths in environmental justice communities.
"For too long in Illinois, the worst polluters have been allowed to turn low-income communities of color into sacrifice zones for their pollution, but the enactment of SB 3772 begins to change that," said the bill's Chief House Sponsor, State Rep. Lilian Jimenez. "I am so proud of this step toward righting decades of environmental racism in our state; by defining 'Environmental Justice communities' in statute, we can be data-driven and precise in how we consider multiple pollution indicators and demographic factors in determining an overall cumulative pollution burden."
The new Illinois law will also require a cumulative impact analysis assessing all existing air pollution sources, sensitive populations, and other factors that increase community vulnerability to the overall effect of newly proposed polluting projects seeking permits. An assessment indicating disproportionately adverse pollution impacts in an EJ community would require the Illinois EPA to consider changes prior to granting new permits, whether through additional modeling, stronger permit conditions, increased inspections, or prioritizing beneficial funding for the impacted community. The agency can now, for the first time, also consider an applicant's past compliance and violation history, require stronger community outreach, and encourage the use of pollution prevention technologies.
"The Illinois Constitution makes it clear that all residents have the right to a healthful environment, meaning no communities in the state should be forced to bear the disproportionate and adverse weight that comes with air pollution," said State Senator Celina Villanueva. "Unfortunately, we know low-income, minority and immigrant communities are historically the ones who carry this burden and live with the effects of pollution exposure, and the neighborhoods I represent, where asthma rates affect children at two to three times the state average, have lived with this unjust reality for far too long. This law recognizes that enough is enough and that our communities and families deserve better."
SB 3772 applies to the two largest categories of air permits, the Clean Air Act Permit Program (CAAPP) permits and Federally Enforceable State Operating Permits (FESOPs), and enhances their protections by allowing for improved air monitoring, fugitive dust controls, operational limits, increased testing, and odor control and monitoring.
"We are extremely grateful for the leadership of Gov. JB Pritzker's office and to the team from the Illinois EPA for championing this historic environmental justice win and helping us finally get it across the finish line," said Jen Walling, CEO of the Illinois Environmental Council. "As our EJ leaders have said, this is a significant and meaningful step forward for communities who simply want clean air to breathe, and our work to secure that basic human right continues."
Leading the Great Lakes States in Tackling Plastic Pollution to Protect Clean Water
With the Governor's signature of HB 4418, Illinois state law will officially designate plastic pellets as a pollutant for the first time. In doing so, Illinois will become the first of the Great Lakes states to hold producers of industrial plastic pellets accountable for spills of these toxic pellets into our waterways.
HB 4418 defines pre-production plastic pellets as a pollutant and directs the Illinois EPA to develop and implement stormwater pollution controls that specifically target plastic pellets. That means polluters would be required to have a plan to keep plastic pellets out of our waters, protecting wildlife and our drinking water sources from these toxic microplastics.
"Clean water is one of Illinois' most valuable resources, and protecting it means addressing pollution before it reaches our rivers and lakes," said bill chief House sponsor, State Representative Joyce Mason. "Plastic pellets may be small, but their impact on our environment, wildlife, and public health is significant. By recognizing these industrial plastic pellets as a pollutant and requiring commonsense prevention measures, Illinois is taking a proactive step to reduce plastic pollution and safeguard the Great Lakes and our waterways for future generations."
Plastic pollution adversely affects clean water, wildlife, and public health. An estimated 22 million pounds of plastic waste ends up in the Great Lakes each year, and 86% of litter collected on Great Lakes beaches is plastic. A recent report found microplastics in 100% of tested waterways across Illinois.
"This new law ensures that manufacturers and transporters take responsibility for preventing these pellets from entering our waterways in the first place," said the bill's chief Senate Sponsor, State Senator Julie Morrison. "Illinois is setting a strong example for the Great Lakes region by putting practical protections in place that will help keep our drinking water cleaner, protect wildlife, and reduce plastic pollution at its source."
These pre-production plastic pellets, sometimes referred to as "nurdles," are the building blocks of plastics manufacturing. They are a recurring source of plastic pollution in the environment because they get dumped or spilled from stormwater runoff from plastic factories and during transportation between facilities.
"We applaud Illinois for being the first Great Lakes state to hold producers and transporters of industrial plastic pellets accountable for spills that pollute our waters," said Andrea Densham, Director of Regional Government Affairs at the Alliance for the Great Lakes. "With the legislative leadership of Senator Morrison and Representative Mason and Gov. Pritzker's signature, polluters will be required to have a plan to keep plastic pellets out of our waters, protecting wildlife and our drinking water sources from these toxic microplastics."
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Original text here: https://www.illinois.gov/news/release.html?releaseid=32813
Ga. Gov. Kemp: Siemens Plans 1,400+ New Jobs in Jackson County
ATLANTA, Georgia, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
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Gov. Kemp: Siemens Plans 1,400+ New Jobs in Jackson County
Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Siemens is planning to create more than 1,400 jobs at its new advanced manufacturing facility in Pendergrass over the next three years. The project represents at least $185 million in investment in Jackson County, pending final approvals.
"For 140 years, Siemens has been a valued part of Georgia's business community, and this latest investment decision is another testament to ... Show Full Article ATLANTA, Georgia, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Gov. Kemp: Siemens Plans 1,400+ New Jobs in Jackson County Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Siemens is planning to create more than 1,400 jobs at its new advanced manufacturing facility in Pendergrass over the next three years. The project represents at least $185 million in investment in Jackson County, pending final approvals. "For 140 years, Siemens has been a valued part of Georgia's business community, and this latest investment decision is another testament tothe strong economic partnership between our state and Germany," said Governor Brian P. Kemp. "We are proud to support this next chapter of growth and look forward to the impact of these quality jobs on the Pendergrass community and the surrounding area."
Siemens is a global technology company and a leader in electrification, automation, and industrial software. Siemens currently supports over 1,700 employees across two manufacturing facilities and six offices in the state, including Siemens' Peachtree Corners Electrical Products facility.
"Georgia was a natural choice for our next manufacturing investment. The state offers a strong business environment, access to a highly skilled workforce, and close proximity to our existing operations and supply chain network across the Southeast," said Barry Powell, North America President of the Siemens Electrical Products business unit. "Building this facility strengthens our ability to serve customers more efficiently while expanding advanced manufacturing capacity in a region that is already home to many of the technicians, suppliers, and industry expertise that support our business."
Siemens' new approximately 550,000-square-foot facility will produce low-voltage electrical components and be located at 580 Raco Parkway near Pendergrass, pending final approvals. Buildout of the facility is expected to begin this November, with plans to begin hiring for engineering, fabrication, assembly, and testing roles in 2027. To learn more about Siemens, including where interested individuals can apply for jobs, visit www.siemens.com/en-us/company/jobs.
"Jackson County, a state leader in economic development, is pleased to welcome the global leader Siemens and their advanced manufacturing facility to our community," said Chairman Marty Clark, Jackson County Board of Commissioners. "Siemens' investment will create high-quality jobs, expand our manufacturing base, strengthen workforce opportunities, and support the county's long-term goals of sustainable economic growth and increased prosperity for our residents."
Assistant Director of Statewide Projects Elizabeth McLean represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development's (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce, Jackson County Industrial Development Authority, Georgia Power, and Georgia Quick Start.
"At the forefront of innovation and a key partner for transportation and other technology solutions, Siemens has played an important role in Georgia's advanced industries for decades," said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. "Our 2025 visit to Siemens' headquarters in Munich marked another important step in the relationship we have built over many years through regular engagement with the company's leadership, both in Germany and here in Georgia. We are proud to celebrate this milestone with Siemens and our partners in Jackson County. We look forward to building on our longstanding partnership as Siemens continues to innovate, invest, and grow in Georgia."
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About Siemens
Siemens Corporation is a U.S. subsidiary of Siemens AG, a leading technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare. The company's purpose is to create technology to transform the everyday, for everyone. By combining the real and the digital worlds, Siemens empowers customers to accelerate their digital and sustainability transformations, making factories more efficient, cities more livable, and transportation more sustainable. A leader in industrial AI, Siemens leverages its deep domain know-how to apply AI - including generative AI - to real-world applications, making AI accessible and impactful for customers across diverse industries. Siemens also owns a majority stake in the publicly listed company Siemens Healthineers, a leading global medical technology provider pioneering breakthroughs in healthcare. For everyone. Everywhere. Sustainably.
In fiscal year 2025, which ended on September 30, 2025, the Siemens Group USA generated revenue of $24.427 billion with 25 manufacturing sites across the U.S. and more than 50,000 employees serving customers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
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Original text here: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2026-08-07/gov-kemp-siemens-plans-1400-new-jobs-jackson-county
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Gov. Kemp: Siemens Plans 1,400+ New Jobs in Jackson County
Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Siemens is planning to create more than 1,400 jobs at its new advanced manufacturing facility in Pendergrass over the next three years. The project represents at least $185 million in investment in Jackson County, pending final approvals.
"For 140 years, Siemens has been a valued part of Georgia's business community, and this latest investment decision is another testament to ... Show Full Article ATLANTA, Georgia, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Gov. Kemp: Siemens Plans 1,400+ New Jobs in Jackson County Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Siemens is planning to create more than 1,400 jobs at its new advanced manufacturing facility in Pendergrass over the next three years. The project represents at least $185 million in investment in Jackson County, pending final approvals. "For 140 years, Siemens has been a valued part of Georgia's business community, and this latest investment decision is another testament tothe strong economic partnership between our state and Germany," said Governor Brian P. Kemp. "We are proud to support this next chapter of growth and look forward to the impact of these quality jobs on the Pendergrass community and the surrounding area."
Siemens is a global technology company and a leader in electrification, automation, and industrial software. Siemens currently supports over 1,700 employees across two manufacturing facilities and six offices in the state, including Siemens' Peachtree Corners Electrical Products facility.
"Georgia was a natural choice for our next manufacturing investment. The state offers a strong business environment, access to a highly skilled workforce, and close proximity to our existing operations and supply chain network across the Southeast," said Barry Powell, North America President of the Siemens Electrical Products business unit. "Building this facility strengthens our ability to serve customers more efficiently while expanding advanced manufacturing capacity in a region that is already home to many of the technicians, suppliers, and industry expertise that support our business."
Siemens' new approximately 550,000-square-foot facility will produce low-voltage electrical components and be located at 580 Raco Parkway near Pendergrass, pending final approvals. Buildout of the facility is expected to begin this November, with plans to begin hiring for engineering, fabrication, assembly, and testing roles in 2027. To learn more about Siemens, including where interested individuals can apply for jobs, visit www.siemens.com/en-us/company/jobs.
"Jackson County, a state leader in economic development, is pleased to welcome the global leader Siemens and their advanced manufacturing facility to our community," said Chairman Marty Clark, Jackson County Board of Commissioners. "Siemens' investment will create high-quality jobs, expand our manufacturing base, strengthen workforce opportunities, and support the county's long-term goals of sustainable economic growth and increased prosperity for our residents."
Assistant Director of Statewide Projects Elizabeth McLean represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development's (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce, Jackson County Industrial Development Authority, Georgia Power, and Georgia Quick Start.
"At the forefront of innovation and a key partner for transportation and other technology solutions, Siemens has played an important role in Georgia's advanced industries for decades," said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. "Our 2025 visit to Siemens' headquarters in Munich marked another important step in the relationship we have built over many years through regular engagement with the company's leadership, both in Germany and here in Georgia. We are proud to celebrate this milestone with Siemens and our partners in Jackson County. We look forward to building on our longstanding partnership as Siemens continues to innovate, invest, and grow in Georgia."
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About Siemens
Siemens Corporation is a U.S. subsidiary of Siemens AG, a leading technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare. The company's purpose is to create technology to transform the everyday, for everyone. By combining the real and the digital worlds, Siemens empowers customers to accelerate their digital and sustainability transformations, making factories more efficient, cities more livable, and transportation more sustainable. A leader in industrial AI, Siemens leverages its deep domain know-how to apply AI - including generative AI - to real-world applications, making AI accessible and impactful for customers across diverse industries. Siemens also owns a majority stake in the publicly listed company Siemens Healthineers, a leading global medical technology provider pioneering breakthroughs in healthcare. For everyone. Everywhere. Sustainably.
In fiscal year 2025, which ended on September 30, 2025, the Siemens Group USA generated revenue of $24.427 billion with 25 manufacturing sites across the U.S. and more than 50,000 employees serving customers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
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Original text here: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2026-08-07/gov-kemp-siemens-plans-1400-new-jobs-jackson-county
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces Appointments on Aug. 7, 2026
SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces appointments 8.7.26
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:
Grecia Staton, of West Sacramento, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the Department of Industrial Relations. Staton has been Deputy Director of Disability Insurance at the Employment Development Department since 2025, where she was Deputy Director of Unemployment Insurance from 2021 to 2025. She held multiple positions at the California Secretary of ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Newsom announces appointments 8.7.26 Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments: Grecia Staton, of West Sacramento, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the Department of Industrial Relations. Staton has been Deputy Director of Disability Insurance at the Employment Development Department since 2025, where she was Deputy Director of Unemployment Insurance from 2021 to 2025. She held multiple positions at the California Secretary ofState from 2019 to 2021, including Chief of the Management Services Division and Staff Services Manager III in the Political Reform Division. Staton held multiple positions at the Employment Development Department from 2008 to 2019, including Staff Services Manager II, Staff Services Manager I, Employment Manager II, Associate Governmental Program Analyst, and Employment Program Manager I. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration from San Diego State University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $205,488. Staton is registered without party preference.
Dana Martinez, of North Hollywood, has been appointed General Counsel at the Public Employment Relations Board. Martinez has been Partner, Shareholder, and Management Committee Member at Bush Gottlieb, ALC since 2018. She was Partner and Shareholder at Garfield Matinez APLC from 2001 to 2018. Martinez was an Organizer at H.E.R.E., Local 11 from 1999 to 2001. She is a member of AFL-CIO Union Lawyers Alliance. Martinez earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $217,692. Martinez is a Democrat.
Salena Chow, of Elk Grove, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at Healthcare Access and Information. Chow was Chief Operating Officer at the Judicial Council of California from 2024 to 2026. She held multiple positions at the California Department of Social Services from 2006 to 2024, including Chief Operating Officer, Fiscal Forecasting and Policy Branch Chief, Bureau Chief, Estimates Manager, and California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Program Analyst. Chow was Risk Management and Project Administrator at Walsh & Forster from 2004 to 2006. She was Executive Assistant at Azteca Construction Inc. from 2003 to 2004. Chow earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $204,000. Chow is a Democrat.
Jami Terrell, of Auburn, has been appointed Deputy Director and Chief Counsel at the California Department of Health Care Services. Terrell has been Assistant Chief Counsel and Deputy Director at Covered California since 2025. She held multiple positions at the Department of Health Care Services from 2017 to 2025, including Assistant Chief Counsel, Attorney IV, and Attorney III. Terrell was a Senior Attorney at Hunt, Jeppson & Griffin LLP from 2015 to 2017. She was Supervising Tax Counsel III at the Board of Equalization from 2012 to 2015. Terrell was an Administrative Litigation Team Staff Counsel at the Department of Health Care Services from 2010 to 2012. She was a Staff Counsel in Family Law at Downey Brand LLP from 2007 to 2010. Terrell was an Associate Attorney at Stein & Baydaline, LLP from 2006 to 2007. She was Associate Attorney at Mayall, Hurley, Knutsen, Smith & Green from 2005 to 2006. Terrell earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Economics from the University of California, Davis. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $232,008. Terrell is a Democrat.
Monica Montano, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs at the Department of Managed Health Care. Montano has been a Senior Regulatory and Legislative Advocate at the California Dental Association since 2021. She was a Health Care Policy Consultant at the Senate Office of Research from 2020 to 2021. Montano was Director of the CalMedForce Grant Program at Physicians for a Healthy California from 2018 to 2020. She was a Science Fellow at the California Council on Science and Technology from 2017 to 2018. She is a member of the California Council on Science and Technology Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Alumni Group. Montano earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Cellular and Molecular Pathology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Rockhurst University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $162,000. Montano is a Democrat.
Natalie Kwong, of Sacramento, has been appointed Assistant Deputy Director of the Office of Communications at the California Department of Public Health. Kwong has been Acting Assistant Deputy Director in the Office of Communications at the California Department of Public Health since 2026, where she was Web Team Manager from 2022 to 2025. She held multiple positions in the Office of Public Affairs at the California Public Employees' Retirement System from 2014 to 2022, including Communications Strategy Manager, Digital Content Manager, and Digital Content Writer. Kwong was Communications Coordinator in the Office of Public Affairs at the California Victim Compensation Program from 2013 to 2014. She held multiple positions at Audacy, Inc. from 2007 to 2013, including Promotion Coordinator and Promotion Assistant. Kwong earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies from California State University, Sacramento. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $144,000. Kwong is registered without party preference.
Diane Sabonis, of Folsom, has been appointed Chief Counsel at the Emergency Medical Services Authority. Sabonis has been Special Advisor to the Emergency Medical Services Authority Director since 2024, where she was Attorney I from 2023 to 2024. She was Attorney Advisor in the Office of Hearing Operations at the Social Security Administration, from 2010 to 2023. She was Attorney at Diane Sabonis, Attorney at Law from 2009 to 2010. Sabonis was Staff Attorney at Rose Law Firm, PC from 2008 to 2009. She was a Forensic Chemist at the United States Department of Justice from 1987 to 1992. Sabonis earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Lincoln Law School of Sacramento and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biochemistry from the University of California, Davis. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $173,928. Sabonis is a Republican.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/07/governor-newsom-announces-appointments-8-7-26/
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Governor Newsom announces appointments 8.7.26
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:
Grecia Staton, of West Sacramento, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the Department of Industrial Relations. Staton has been Deputy Director of Disability Insurance at the Employment Development Department since 2025, where she was Deputy Director of Unemployment Insurance from 2021 to 2025. She held multiple positions at the California Secretary of ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Newsom announces appointments 8.7.26 Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments: Grecia Staton, of West Sacramento, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the Department of Industrial Relations. Staton has been Deputy Director of Disability Insurance at the Employment Development Department since 2025, where she was Deputy Director of Unemployment Insurance from 2021 to 2025. She held multiple positions at the California Secretary ofState from 2019 to 2021, including Chief of the Management Services Division and Staff Services Manager III in the Political Reform Division. Staton held multiple positions at the Employment Development Department from 2008 to 2019, including Staff Services Manager II, Staff Services Manager I, Employment Manager II, Associate Governmental Program Analyst, and Employment Program Manager I. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration from San Diego State University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $205,488. Staton is registered without party preference.
Dana Martinez, of North Hollywood, has been appointed General Counsel at the Public Employment Relations Board. Martinez has been Partner, Shareholder, and Management Committee Member at Bush Gottlieb, ALC since 2018. She was Partner and Shareholder at Garfield Matinez APLC from 2001 to 2018. Martinez was an Organizer at H.E.R.E., Local 11 from 1999 to 2001. She is a member of AFL-CIO Union Lawyers Alliance. Martinez earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $217,692. Martinez is a Democrat.
Salena Chow, of Elk Grove, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at Healthcare Access and Information. Chow was Chief Operating Officer at the Judicial Council of California from 2024 to 2026. She held multiple positions at the California Department of Social Services from 2006 to 2024, including Chief Operating Officer, Fiscal Forecasting and Policy Branch Chief, Bureau Chief, Estimates Manager, and California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Program Analyst. Chow was Risk Management and Project Administrator at Walsh & Forster from 2004 to 2006. She was Executive Assistant at Azteca Construction Inc. from 2003 to 2004. Chow earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $204,000. Chow is a Democrat.
Jami Terrell, of Auburn, has been appointed Deputy Director and Chief Counsel at the California Department of Health Care Services. Terrell has been Assistant Chief Counsel and Deputy Director at Covered California since 2025. She held multiple positions at the Department of Health Care Services from 2017 to 2025, including Assistant Chief Counsel, Attorney IV, and Attorney III. Terrell was a Senior Attorney at Hunt, Jeppson & Griffin LLP from 2015 to 2017. She was Supervising Tax Counsel III at the Board of Equalization from 2012 to 2015. Terrell was an Administrative Litigation Team Staff Counsel at the Department of Health Care Services from 2010 to 2012. She was a Staff Counsel in Family Law at Downey Brand LLP from 2007 to 2010. Terrell was an Associate Attorney at Stein & Baydaline, LLP from 2006 to 2007. She was Associate Attorney at Mayall, Hurley, Knutsen, Smith & Green from 2005 to 2006. Terrell earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Economics from the University of California, Davis. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $232,008. Terrell is a Democrat.
Monica Montano, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs at the Department of Managed Health Care. Montano has been a Senior Regulatory and Legislative Advocate at the California Dental Association since 2021. She was a Health Care Policy Consultant at the Senate Office of Research from 2020 to 2021. Montano was Director of the CalMedForce Grant Program at Physicians for a Healthy California from 2018 to 2020. She was a Science Fellow at the California Council on Science and Technology from 2017 to 2018. She is a member of the California Council on Science and Technology Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Alumni Group. Montano earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Cellular and Molecular Pathology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Rockhurst University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $162,000. Montano is a Democrat.
Natalie Kwong, of Sacramento, has been appointed Assistant Deputy Director of the Office of Communications at the California Department of Public Health. Kwong has been Acting Assistant Deputy Director in the Office of Communications at the California Department of Public Health since 2026, where she was Web Team Manager from 2022 to 2025. She held multiple positions in the Office of Public Affairs at the California Public Employees' Retirement System from 2014 to 2022, including Communications Strategy Manager, Digital Content Manager, and Digital Content Writer. Kwong was Communications Coordinator in the Office of Public Affairs at the California Victim Compensation Program from 2013 to 2014. She held multiple positions at Audacy, Inc. from 2007 to 2013, including Promotion Coordinator and Promotion Assistant. Kwong earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies from California State University, Sacramento. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $144,000. Kwong is registered without party preference.
Diane Sabonis, of Folsom, has been appointed Chief Counsel at the Emergency Medical Services Authority. Sabonis has been Special Advisor to the Emergency Medical Services Authority Director since 2024, where she was Attorney I from 2023 to 2024. She was Attorney Advisor in the Office of Hearing Operations at the Social Security Administration, from 2010 to 2023. She was Attorney at Diane Sabonis, Attorney at Law from 2009 to 2010. Sabonis was Staff Attorney at Rose Law Firm, PC from 2008 to 2009. She was a Forensic Chemist at the United States Department of Justice from 1987 to 1992. Sabonis earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Lincoln Law School of Sacramento and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biochemistry from the University of California, Davis. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $173,928. Sabonis is a Republican.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/07/governor-newsom-announces-appointments-8-7-26/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces $3,500 Instant Rebates Now Available for Californians Buying Their First Zero-emission Vehicle
SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
* * *
Governor Newsom announces $3,500 instant rebates now available for Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle
Driving forward the newest chapter in California's climate leadership: the largest battery arsenal in the country, solar outpacing natural gas, and real savings for drivers going electric
What you need to know: Buying your first zero-emission vehicle in California just got a lot cheaper. Shoppers can now get $3,500 off a new zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Newsom announces $3,500 instant rebates now available for Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle Driving forward the newest chapter in California's climate leadership: the largest battery arsenal in the country, solar outpacing natural gas, and real savings for drivers going electric What you need to know: Buying your first zero-emission vehicle in California just got a lot cheaper. Shoppers can now get $3,500 off a new zero-emission vehicle (ZEV)or $1,750 off a used one, knocked off the price. It's the newest chapter in the story of California's clean energy leadership. This month, California's arsenal of battery storage systems, which soak up solar power during the day, just passed 21,000 megawatts, enough to power roughly 15.75 million California homes for about four hours after the sun goes down.
-
OAKLAND - Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that automakers are now offering instant rebates of up to $3,500 to Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle (ZEV), savings that come off the price before you drive it off the lot, no applications or waiting required. The Governor also announced that California now has more battery storage hooked up to its power grid than any other state, over 21,000 megawatts worth of batteries that soak up extra solar power during the day and are available as the sun starts to set, helping to reduce the use of natural gas.
While Donald Trump is hellbent on burning more expensive fossil fuels and raising costs for Americans, California is proving there's a better way -- from new instant rebates putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of first-time electric car buyers, to an arsenal of batteries across the state that just topped 21,000 megawatts, the nation's largest, helping power the world's fourth-largest economy.
* * *
California is showing the world what real economic security looks like. It's one that can't be held hostage by foreign conflicts and Big Oil. The Golden State is leading the charge on building a reliable, affordable clean future.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
Together, the announcements tell an important story: families don't have to choose between saving money and protecting the air we breathe. Foreign conflicts keep exposing how dependence on global oil markets threatens America's economic and national security, driving up prices at the pump and at the register with every new overseas crisis. As the world's fourth-largest economy, California is determined to break that cycle.
Here's which automakers are plugged in and offering rebates
Today, Governor Newsom announced that three automakers are now offering instant rebates through California's MyFirstEV instant rebate program. As of today, Californians can walk into any Hyundai, Lucid, or Tesla dealer or sales center in the state and buy or lease their first ZEV. Additional automakers are planning to launch soon, including:
* August: Ford, Rivian, Chevrolet, Kia
* September: Toyota/Lexus, Honda, and Subaru
* November: Mitsubishi
* TBD: Nissan and Volvo are still determining launch timelines.
"MyFirstEV makes EV ownership possible for more Californians," said Yana Garcia, California's Secretary for Environmental Protection. "With this program, we continue to lead through innovative policies that clean our air, protect health and provide more affordable options for working people."
"California is once again leading with bold, decisive action and expanding access to the benefits of zero-emission vehicles with the launch of the MyFirstEV program," said California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez. "This program means more than just new technology for California families - it means cleaner air for their children, lower fuel and maintenance costs and the opportunity be part of California's clean air future."
How it works
For California families who have been waiting for the right moment to go electric, that moment is here. The MyFirstEV program will deliver $3,500 off the price of a new zero-emission vehicle right at the dealership. California's $135.5 million state investment is matched dollar-for-dollar by participating automakers, delivering a combined $271 million in total savings to California families at the point of sale.
Here's what buyers need to know:
* $3,500 off new zero-emission vehicles with an MSRP up to $50,000
* $1,750 off used zero-emission vehicles sold for up to $25,000 through manufacturers' pre-owned vehicle programs
* The rebate is open to any Californian buying their first ZEV
Interested Californians should contact participating automakers for more information. Links to manufacturer websites are available on the MyFirstEV program webpage, and information will be added as it becomes available.
Why it matters
California has made great progress in cleaning the air. Still, nearly 18 million residents live in areas with unhealthy air, and 1,500 die from air pollution every year in Southern California alone.
With transportation accounting for 60% of California's smog-forming pollution and 40% of its greenhouse gas emissions, the state must continue cutting vehicle emissions to meet national air quality standards, fulfill state goals, and fight climate change.
Cleaner vehicles will also save Californians billions of dollars in fuel, maintenance, and healthcare costs as the state continues to advance ZEV deployment.
California's grid just hit two records, reducing reliance on fossil fuels
Think of California's battery fleet as a giant rechargeable power bank for the whole state. All day, while the sun is out, solar panels generate cheap, clean electricity, sometimes more than everyone needs in that moment. Batteries store that power. Then in the evening, right as everyone gets home, turns on the lights, and the sun goes down, the power in those batteries is available for use.
That timing matters. The evening is exactly when California has historically leaned on expensive natural gas plants to keep the lights on. Every time a battery does that job instead, it means less air pollution and more cost-effective electricity on the grid.
When Governor Newsom took office in 2019, fewer than 700 MW of battery storage served the California grid. Today, that number stands at 21,112 MW, including roughly 18,000 MW of grid-scale storage that discharges directly onto the grid, plus another 3,000 MW of smaller batteries at homes, schools, farms, and businesses that help offset demand on-site. That's an increase of over 2,500% in just seven and a half years. Thanks to the Legislature's partnership and sustained state investment and policy, California is the nation's clean energy leader and a global model for the energy transition.
"California has always prioritized innovation, investing in the science and technology of the future and advancing the goalpost on what is possible," said CEC Chair David Hochschild. "We are seeing renewables and batteries perform like never before, proof that our vision of a 100% clean energy future is absolutely possible."
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has played the central role in building the nation's largest battery storage fleet by requiring utilities and other load-serving entities to procure thousands of megawatts of energy storage, helping ensure our reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean electric grid.
"California's battery storage success is the result of thoughtful planning and sustained investment," said CPUC President John Reynolds. "The CPUC has worked to ensure these resources are brought online in a way that strengthens grid reliability, supports the integration of more clean energy, and delivers long-term benefits for California customers, especially for affordability. As we continue planning for the grid of the future, battery storage will remain a critical part of keeping the lights on while advancing our clean energy goals."
Solar and batteries: a winning formula
California leads the nation in solar and battery power because of our commitment to a carbon-neutral future by 2045. It's also because solar power and batteries make economic sense. Twenty-five years ago, solar panels cost about $5 per watt. Today, that number is down to just 15 cents per watt. Lithium-ion battery prices have also dropped more than 90% over the last ten years.
* Solar takes the lead: For the first time ever, solar power has surpassed natural gas as the largest source of electricity in California during the first half of 2026. While seasonal factors play a role -- solar production is strong, and electricity use is relatively moderate in spring -- the trend highlights how the growing contribution of solar and battery storage is changing how California's grid operates. That shift means less air pollution, fewer costly natural gas plants firing up, and long-term cost savings for Californians.
* Solar growth by the numbers: Comparing January through June of 2024 to that same stretch in 2026, solar power usage grew by 22%, while natural gas usage dropped by 51%, according to a California Energy Commission (CEC) analysis of state grid data. Meanwhile, grid battery storage capacity grew by 80% over that same period, giving solar power somewhere to go even after the sun sets. California's solar energy capacity breaks new records regularly, reaching over 23,000 MW in June 2026.
* Largest energy storage capacity: California's battery storage system has the most capacity of any system in the nation. California's fleet is dominated by 4-hour-duration systems interconnected to the bulk electric grid, allowing it to deliver stored power for roughly twice as long as systems like in Texas. California isn't stopping there: the state is procuring and building even longer-duration storage, and recently celebrated its first 8-hour battery project, the Tumbleweed Energy Storage facility in Kern County.
This shift reflects years of Newsom administration and legislative investments and a whole-of-government approach to building an economy that creates good-paying jobs, lowers costs for families, and positions California to win the global clean energy economy.
California's clean energy leadership
Since Governor Newsom took office in 2019, California has added more than 37,000 megawatts of utility-scale clean and renewable energy to serve the California grid. That's helped make the grid more reliable and pushed the state further along its path in the clean energy transition.
Batteries play a key role in California's goal of getting all of its electricity from clean sources by 2045. The most recent numbers, from the end of 2024, show real progress: 67% of retail electricity sales in the state already come from clean energy. Last year, clean energy met 100% of the state's electricity needs for at least part of the day on 279 separate days. So far in 2026, that's happened on more than nine out of 10 days during the first half of the year.
California is building this fleet safely. In 2024, Governor Newsom launched a State Battery Storage Safety Collaborative that has already delivered updated fire codes, new state oversight of battery facilities, and stronger safety standards statewide. The CPUC helps maintain electric grid reliability for the public by ensuring power plants and energy storage systems comply with CPUC standards for operations and maintenance.
Clean energy is also good for the economy. California leads the nation in total clean energy jobs, with 552,300 workers employed across clean energy technologies, nearly twice as many as the second-ranked state, Texas, according to a 2025 report from E2. California's clean energy workforce grew by nearly 7,300 workers in 2024, outpacing job growth in the rest of the state's economy by more than three times.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/07/governor-newsom-announces-3500-instant-rebates-now-available-for-californians-buying-their-first-zero-emission-vehicle/
* * *
Governor Newsom announces $3,500 instant rebates now available for Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle
Driving forward the newest chapter in California's climate leadership: the largest battery arsenal in the country, solar outpacing natural gas, and real savings for drivers going electric
What you need to know: Buying your first zero-emission vehicle in California just got a lot cheaper. Shoppers can now get $3,500 off a new zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Aug. 8 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Governor Newsom announces $3,500 instant rebates now available for Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle Driving forward the newest chapter in California's climate leadership: the largest battery arsenal in the country, solar outpacing natural gas, and real savings for drivers going electric What you need to know: Buying your first zero-emission vehicle in California just got a lot cheaper. Shoppers can now get $3,500 off a new zero-emission vehicle (ZEV)or $1,750 off a used one, knocked off the price. It's the newest chapter in the story of California's clean energy leadership. This month, California's arsenal of battery storage systems, which soak up solar power during the day, just passed 21,000 megawatts, enough to power roughly 15.75 million California homes for about four hours after the sun goes down.
-
OAKLAND - Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that automakers are now offering instant rebates of up to $3,500 to Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle (ZEV), savings that come off the price before you drive it off the lot, no applications or waiting required. The Governor also announced that California now has more battery storage hooked up to its power grid than any other state, over 21,000 megawatts worth of batteries that soak up extra solar power during the day and are available as the sun starts to set, helping to reduce the use of natural gas.
While Donald Trump is hellbent on burning more expensive fossil fuels and raising costs for Americans, California is proving there's a better way -- from new instant rebates putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of first-time electric car buyers, to an arsenal of batteries across the state that just topped 21,000 megawatts, the nation's largest, helping power the world's fourth-largest economy.
* * *
California is showing the world what real economic security looks like. It's one that can't be held hostage by foreign conflicts and Big Oil. The Golden State is leading the charge on building a reliable, affordable clean future.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
Together, the announcements tell an important story: families don't have to choose between saving money and protecting the air we breathe. Foreign conflicts keep exposing how dependence on global oil markets threatens America's economic and national security, driving up prices at the pump and at the register with every new overseas crisis. As the world's fourth-largest economy, California is determined to break that cycle.
Here's which automakers are plugged in and offering rebates
Today, Governor Newsom announced that three automakers are now offering instant rebates through California's MyFirstEV instant rebate program. As of today, Californians can walk into any Hyundai, Lucid, or Tesla dealer or sales center in the state and buy or lease their first ZEV. Additional automakers are planning to launch soon, including:
* August: Ford, Rivian, Chevrolet, Kia
* September: Toyota/Lexus, Honda, and Subaru
* November: Mitsubishi
* TBD: Nissan and Volvo are still determining launch timelines.
"MyFirstEV makes EV ownership possible for more Californians," said Yana Garcia, California's Secretary for Environmental Protection. "With this program, we continue to lead through innovative policies that clean our air, protect health and provide more affordable options for working people."
"California is once again leading with bold, decisive action and expanding access to the benefits of zero-emission vehicles with the launch of the MyFirstEV program," said California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez. "This program means more than just new technology for California families - it means cleaner air for their children, lower fuel and maintenance costs and the opportunity be part of California's clean air future."
How it works
For California families who have been waiting for the right moment to go electric, that moment is here. The MyFirstEV program will deliver $3,500 off the price of a new zero-emission vehicle right at the dealership. California's $135.5 million state investment is matched dollar-for-dollar by participating automakers, delivering a combined $271 million in total savings to California families at the point of sale.
Here's what buyers need to know:
* $3,500 off new zero-emission vehicles with an MSRP up to $50,000
* $1,750 off used zero-emission vehicles sold for up to $25,000 through manufacturers' pre-owned vehicle programs
* The rebate is open to any Californian buying their first ZEV
Interested Californians should contact participating automakers for more information. Links to manufacturer websites are available on the MyFirstEV program webpage, and information will be added as it becomes available.
Why it matters
California has made great progress in cleaning the air. Still, nearly 18 million residents live in areas with unhealthy air, and 1,500 die from air pollution every year in Southern California alone.
With transportation accounting for 60% of California's smog-forming pollution and 40% of its greenhouse gas emissions, the state must continue cutting vehicle emissions to meet national air quality standards, fulfill state goals, and fight climate change.
Cleaner vehicles will also save Californians billions of dollars in fuel, maintenance, and healthcare costs as the state continues to advance ZEV deployment.
California's grid just hit two records, reducing reliance on fossil fuels
Think of California's battery fleet as a giant rechargeable power bank for the whole state. All day, while the sun is out, solar panels generate cheap, clean electricity, sometimes more than everyone needs in that moment. Batteries store that power. Then in the evening, right as everyone gets home, turns on the lights, and the sun goes down, the power in those batteries is available for use.
That timing matters. The evening is exactly when California has historically leaned on expensive natural gas plants to keep the lights on. Every time a battery does that job instead, it means less air pollution and more cost-effective electricity on the grid.
When Governor Newsom took office in 2019, fewer than 700 MW of battery storage served the California grid. Today, that number stands at 21,112 MW, including roughly 18,000 MW of grid-scale storage that discharges directly onto the grid, plus another 3,000 MW of smaller batteries at homes, schools, farms, and businesses that help offset demand on-site. That's an increase of over 2,500% in just seven and a half years. Thanks to the Legislature's partnership and sustained state investment and policy, California is the nation's clean energy leader and a global model for the energy transition.
"California has always prioritized innovation, investing in the science and technology of the future and advancing the goalpost on what is possible," said CEC Chair David Hochschild. "We are seeing renewables and batteries perform like never before, proof that our vision of a 100% clean energy future is absolutely possible."
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has played the central role in building the nation's largest battery storage fleet by requiring utilities and other load-serving entities to procure thousands of megawatts of energy storage, helping ensure our reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean electric grid.
"California's battery storage success is the result of thoughtful planning and sustained investment," said CPUC President John Reynolds. "The CPUC has worked to ensure these resources are brought online in a way that strengthens grid reliability, supports the integration of more clean energy, and delivers long-term benefits for California customers, especially for affordability. As we continue planning for the grid of the future, battery storage will remain a critical part of keeping the lights on while advancing our clean energy goals."
Solar and batteries: a winning formula
California leads the nation in solar and battery power because of our commitment to a carbon-neutral future by 2045. It's also because solar power and batteries make economic sense. Twenty-five years ago, solar panels cost about $5 per watt. Today, that number is down to just 15 cents per watt. Lithium-ion battery prices have also dropped more than 90% over the last ten years.
* Solar takes the lead: For the first time ever, solar power has surpassed natural gas as the largest source of electricity in California during the first half of 2026. While seasonal factors play a role -- solar production is strong, and electricity use is relatively moderate in spring -- the trend highlights how the growing contribution of solar and battery storage is changing how California's grid operates. That shift means less air pollution, fewer costly natural gas plants firing up, and long-term cost savings for Californians.
* Solar growth by the numbers: Comparing January through June of 2024 to that same stretch in 2026, solar power usage grew by 22%, while natural gas usage dropped by 51%, according to a California Energy Commission (CEC) analysis of state grid data. Meanwhile, grid battery storage capacity grew by 80% over that same period, giving solar power somewhere to go even after the sun sets. California's solar energy capacity breaks new records regularly, reaching over 23,000 MW in June 2026.
* Largest energy storage capacity: California's battery storage system has the most capacity of any system in the nation. California's fleet is dominated by 4-hour-duration systems interconnected to the bulk electric grid, allowing it to deliver stored power for roughly twice as long as systems like in Texas. California isn't stopping there: the state is procuring and building even longer-duration storage, and recently celebrated its first 8-hour battery project, the Tumbleweed Energy Storage facility in Kern County.
This shift reflects years of Newsom administration and legislative investments and a whole-of-government approach to building an economy that creates good-paying jobs, lowers costs for families, and positions California to win the global clean energy economy.
California's clean energy leadership
Since Governor Newsom took office in 2019, California has added more than 37,000 megawatts of utility-scale clean and renewable energy to serve the California grid. That's helped make the grid more reliable and pushed the state further along its path in the clean energy transition.
Batteries play a key role in California's goal of getting all of its electricity from clean sources by 2045. The most recent numbers, from the end of 2024, show real progress: 67% of retail electricity sales in the state already come from clean energy. Last year, clean energy met 100% of the state's electricity needs for at least part of the day on 279 separate days. So far in 2026, that's happened on more than nine out of 10 days during the first half of the year.
California is building this fleet safely. In 2024, Governor Newsom launched a State Battery Storage Safety Collaborative that has already delivered updated fire codes, new state oversight of battery facilities, and stronger safety standards statewide. The CPUC helps maintain electric grid reliability for the public by ensuring power plants and energy storage systems comply with CPUC standards for operations and maintenance.
Clean energy is also good for the economy. California leads the nation in total clean energy jobs, with 552,300 workers employed across clean energy technologies, nearly twice as many as the second-ranked state, Texas, according to a 2025 report from E2. California's clean energy workforce grew by nearly 7,300 workers in 2024, outpacing job growth in the rest of the state's economy by more than three times.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/07/governor-newsom-announces-3500-instant-rebates-now-available-for-californians-buying-their-first-zero-emission-vehicle/
Ariz. A.G. Mayes Wins Case Protecting Federal Support For Homelessness Services
PHOENIX, Arizona, Aug. 8 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026:
* * *
Attorney General Mayes Wins Case Protecting Federal Support For Homelessness Services
Attorney General Kris Mayes and a multistate coalition have won their case challenging Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) illegal attempt to cap funding for permanent housing projects that help families facing housing insecurity or experiencing homelessness. If the coalition had not successfully challenged HUD's policy, nearly 1800 Arizonans could have lost their homes.
"HUD ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, Aug. 8 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Attorney General Mayes Wins Case Protecting Federal Support For Homelessness Services Attorney General Kris Mayes and a multistate coalition have won their case challenging Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) illegal attempt to cap funding for permanent housing projects that help families facing housing insecurity or experiencing homelessness. If the coalition had not successfully challenged HUD's policy, nearly 1800 Arizonans could have lost their homes. "HUDtried to rewrite the rules governing these critical funds, with no legal authority to do so," said Attorney General Mayes. "Their unlawful efforts could have pushed hundreds of Arizonans out of their homes and onto the streets, worsening the homelessness crisis. My office is proud to have stood up for the rule of law and prevented a disaster for these families."
For more than two decades, HUD has embraced a commitment to permanent housing programs and the Housing First model, which prioritizes rapid placement in permanent housing without requiring people to first meet conditions such as sobriety or a minimum income threshold. But the current federal administration has rejected that commitment and undermined the Continuum of Care (CoC) program.
In June, the states won a separate case against HUD in federal court in Rhode Island regarding the agency's decision last year to impose illegal conditions on billions of dollars in funding for the CoC program, including an attempt to impose a cap on the amount of CoC funds that can support permanent supportive housing.
After that cap was struck down as unlawful, HUD changed its tactics. They issued a notice of funding opportunity that would have created a $1.3 billion set-aside for new projects prioritizing such things as transitional housing, which would have resulted in a de facto cap on permanent housing. That shift threatened housing for at least 97,000 residents of CoC-funded permanent housing across the country, and nearly 1800 in Arizona, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness.
AG Mayes again joined a coalition of states in suing to block these harmful changes. Today, the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island granted critical parts of the coalition's motion for summary judgment, ruling that HUD's set-aside was unlawful and cannot be implemented.
The lawsuit was led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha, and Washington Attorney General Nick Brown. AG Mayes joined the suit with the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin, and the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-wins-case-protecting-federal-support-homelessness-services
* * *
Attorney General Mayes Wins Case Protecting Federal Support For Homelessness Services
Attorney General Kris Mayes and a multistate coalition have won their case challenging Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) illegal attempt to cap funding for permanent housing projects that help families facing housing insecurity or experiencing homelessness. If the coalition had not successfully challenged HUD's policy, nearly 1800 Arizonans could have lost their homes.
"HUD ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, Aug. 8 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on Aug. 7, 2026: * * * Attorney General Mayes Wins Case Protecting Federal Support For Homelessness Services Attorney General Kris Mayes and a multistate coalition have won their case challenging Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) illegal attempt to cap funding for permanent housing projects that help families facing housing insecurity or experiencing homelessness. If the coalition had not successfully challenged HUD's policy, nearly 1800 Arizonans could have lost their homes. "HUDtried to rewrite the rules governing these critical funds, with no legal authority to do so," said Attorney General Mayes. "Their unlawful efforts could have pushed hundreds of Arizonans out of their homes and onto the streets, worsening the homelessness crisis. My office is proud to have stood up for the rule of law and prevented a disaster for these families."
For more than two decades, HUD has embraced a commitment to permanent housing programs and the Housing First model, which prioritizes rapid placement in permanent housing without requiring people to first meet conditions such as sobriety or a minimum income threshold. But the current federal administration has rejected that commitment and undermined the Continuum of Care (CoC) program.
In June, the states won a separate case against HUD in federal court in Rhode Island regarding the agency's decision last year to impose illegal conditions on billions of dollars in funding for the CoC program, including an attempt to impose a cap on the amount of CoC funds that can support permanent supportive housing.
After that cap was struck down as unlawful, HUD changed its tactics. They issued a notice of funding opportunity that would have created a $1.3 billion set-aside for new projects prioritizing such things as transitional housing, which would have resulted in a de facto cap on permanent housing. That shift threatened housing for at least 97,000 residents of CoC-funded permanent housing across the country, and nearly 1800 in Arizona, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness.
AG Mayes again joined a coalition of states in suing to block these harmful changes. Today, the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island granted critical parts of the coalition's motion for summary judgment, ruling that HUD's set-aside was unlawful and cannot be implemented.
The lawsuit was led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha, and Washington Attorney General Nick Brown. AG Mayes joined the suit with the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin, and the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-wins-case-protecting-federal-support-homelessness-services