Targeted News Service

States, Cities and Counties

Mass. Elementary & Secondary Education Dept.: Healey-Driscoll Administration Recruits More Organizations to Serve as Summer Eats Meal Sponsors (1/31/26)

Md. Natural Resources Dept.: National Park Service Awards $100,000 to the State of Maryland for AgriTrails (1/31/26)

Md. State Education Dept.: Federal Funds Available to Serve Free Summer Meals for Youth (1/31/26)

Mo. A.G. Hanaway Files Suit Against U.S. Department of Commerce, Census Bureau To Cease Counting Illegal Aliens, Requests Census Recount (1/31/26)

Mont. Public Health & Human Services Dept.: ParentingMontana.org Relaunches With New Design and Expanded Tools to Support Families (1/31/26)

N.H. Justice Dept.: Public Guidance on Vehicle Inspection Program Status (1/31/26)

NCSU and ECU Agricultural Research Projects Receive $1 Million in Grants From NCDA&CS to Boost State's Agricultural Economy (1/31/26)

States, Cities and Counties

Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties

Featured Stories

Virginia Companies Expand Into Global Markets Through Commonwealth's Trade Accelerator Program

RICHMOND, Virginia, Jan. 31 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following news release on Jan. 30, 2026:

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Virginia Companies Expand Into Global Markets Through Commonwealth's Trade Accelerator Program

Lauded International Trade Development Program Announces Latest Class of Virginia Businesses

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Governor Abigail Spanberger today announced that 14 companies across the Commonwealth have graduated from the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP)'s Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program, and that 12 additional companies have joined the two-year program. VALET ... Show Full Article

Shapiro Administration Fights Hunger in Pennsylvania, Invests $4.1 Million in Food Recovery Infrastructure to Commonwealth Nonprofits

HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Jan. 31 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news on Jan. 30, 2026:

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Shapiro Administration Fights Hunger in Pennsylvania, Invests $4.1 Million in Food Recovery Infrastructure to Commonwealth Nonprofits

The Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant Program helps with the costs of equipment used to store, prepare, and transport recovered safe, fresh, wholesome foods for redistribution

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The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is investing $4,125,923 in Commonwealth nonprofits, such as food banks, food pantries, ... Show Full Article

Mont. Public Health & Human Services Dept.: ParentingMontana.org Relaunches With New Design and Expanded Tools to Support Families

HELENA, Montana, Jan. 31 -- The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services issued the following news release on Jan. 30, 2026:

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ParentingMontana.org Relaunches with New Design and Expanded Tools to Support Families

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and Montana State University (MSU) today announced a significant platform update for ParentingMontana.org, a premier digital resource for Montana families.

The update features a redesigned layout and an expanded suite of practical tools.

As a partnership between DPHHS and the Center for Health and Safety ... Show Full Article HELENA, Montana, Jan. 31 -- The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services issued the following news release on Jan. 30, 2026: * * * ParentingMontana.org Relaunches with New Design and Expanded Tools to Support Families The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and Montana State University (MSU) today announced a significant platform update for ParentingMontana.org, a premier digital resource for Montana families. The update features a redesigned layout and an expanded suite of practical tools. As a partnership between DPHHS and the Center for Health and SafetyCulture (CHSC) at MSU, this project enhances user experience, boosts resource accessibility, and provides essential support to Montana parents and caregivers.

"ParentingMontana.org offers parents and caregivers with children of all ages practical, evidence-based tools to navigate common challenges, such as managing stress, establishing routines, building empathy, cultivating healthy friendships, and setting clear expectations," Jami Hansen of the DPHHS Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Division said.

The resources are organized developmentally by age, from birth through 19. For each topic, users can select a tool to learn how to thoughtfully address common challenges with their children. They can then read or listen to an audio version of the tool to address their parenting challenge and print a summary of key words and actions to help them engage with their child.

"The platform is designed around a powerful strategy: cultivating core skills in children that enable them to connect with others, manage their emotions, and make informed decisions," Kari Finley, Ph.D., Director and Research Scholar for the CHSC said. "Research shows that strengthening these skills aligns directly with what Montana parents want for their children."

Growing these foundational abilities delivers powerful results, including reducing risky behaviors (such as underage drinking and misuse of other drugs), preventing mental and emotional disorders like depression and anxiety, and mitigating negative outcomes such as dropping out of school or unemployment. Ultimately, these strong skills lead to better academic performance and workplace success later in life.

The updated website is a valuable resource not only for parents but also for support professionals, such as teachers, physicians, and home-visiting nurses. The enhanced platform signifies DPHHS's continued commitment to providing accessible, effective tools necessary to raise healthy, happy, and resilient youth across Montana.

Visit ParentingMontana.org to explore the new layout and expanded resources.

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Original text here: https://dphhs.mt.gov/News/2026/January/ParentingMontanaorg

Mo. A.G. Hanaway Files Suit Against U.S. Department of Commerce, Census Bureau To Cease Counting Illegal Aliens, Requests Census Recount

JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, Jan. 31 -- Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway issued the following news release:

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Missouri Attorney General Hanaway Files Suit Against U.S. Department of Commerce, Census Bureau To Cease Counting Illegal Aliens, Requests Census Recount

To defend our fundamental right to representation in government, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway filed the most significant election lawsuit in a generation. This first-in-the-nation suit was filed against the United States Department of Commerce (DOC) and the Census Bureau for unconstitutionally allowing illegal ... Show Full Article

Md. Natural Resources Dept.: National Park Service Awards $100,000 to the State of Maryland for AgriTrails

ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, Jan. 31 -- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources issued the following news on Jan. 30, 2026:

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National Park Service Awards $100,000 to the State of Maryland for AgriTrails

Maryland's Best AgriTrails highlights Maryland food along with outdoor recreation

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The Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources were recently awarded $100,000 of grant funding by the National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways to support AgriTrails, highlighting Maryland's agricultural and natural resources. The initiative will connect Maryland agriculture ... Show Full Article ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, Jan. 31 -- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources issued the following news on Jan. 30, 2026: * * * National Park Service Awards $100,000 to the State of Maryland for AgriTrails Maryland's Best AgriTrails highlights Maryland food along with outdoor recreation * The Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources were recently awarded $100,000 of grant funding by the National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways to support AgriTrails, highlighting Maryland's agricultural and natural resources. The initiative will connect Maryland agricultureand aquaculture businesses with outdoor recreation opportunities on public lands and State Parks to increase awareness, appreciation, and economic vitality across Maryland's Chesapeake Bay Gateway communities. The collaboration will guide Marylanders and visitors on an adventure of "Maryland Grown Food and Fun."

"Through the National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways grant, we have the opportunity to showcase Maryland's agricultural resources, while also highlighting Maryland's outdoor recreation," said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. "Sip & Shuck is an example of a marketing campaign that shines a light on Maryland's rich agricultural products."

The State of Maryland plays a vital role in protecting its natural resources, supporting local agriculture and aquaculture, and expanding equitable access to nature. With over half of the Chesapeake Bay located within Maryland's borders, numerous working waterfronts and communities are dependent on Bay resources. Maryland has over 280 dairy farms, 475 commercial shellfish operations, 800 licensed oyster harvesters, and 500,000 acres of public land.

"In Maryland, oysters aren't just food, they're part of our culture, our economy, and our environment," said Sandi Olek, Director of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources' Office of Outdoor Recreation. Maryland's outdoor experiences are just as distinctive as our local flavors. Sip & Shuck brings that story to life by pairing Maryland-grown food with outdoor adventures, helping people experience how the Chesapeake Bay, local farms, and our state's beautiful recreation spaces are all connected."

National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways (NPS Chesapeake Gateways) offers competitive grant opportunities to advance the Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act of 1998 within the full 41-million-acre Chesapeake Bay watershed. Chesapeake Gateways grants inspire and help people discover, experience, and connect with Chesapeake Places and Experiences across its rivers, landscapes, and communities to enhance stewardship, heritage, and outdoor tourism economies throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Through this grant, AgriTrails will link agricultural tourism with outdoor recreation to increase public engagement, support agribusinesses, encourage Bay-friendly consumer practices, and foster a greater understanding of Maryland's natural, cultural, and agricultural heritage. The initiative will showcase Maryland's outdoor landscapes while connecting residents and visitors with local farms and producers.

In 2026, the partnership will offer three Maryland AgriTrails to explore: Sip & Shuck (February-March), Maryland's Best Ice Cream Trail (Memorial Day-Labor Day), and Bikes & Brews (September-November). Interested participants can use the online platform Bandwango, accessible through Maryland's Best website, to learn more about the trails and check in at the designated locations for a chance to win prizes. The first trail to launch, Sip & Shuck, begins February 1 and pairs breweries, restaurants, and distilleries that use local Maryland oysters and ingredients with nearby outdoor recreation activities.

More details are available at marylandsbest.net/agritrails.

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Original text here: https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/2026/01/30/national-park-service-awards-100000-to-the-state-of-maryland-for-agritrails/

Legislative Leaders Move to End Tax Filing Confusion, Advance Full Tax Conformity Package

PHOENIX, Arizona, Jan. 31 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on Jan. 30, 2026:

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Legislative Leaders Move to End Tax Filing Confusion, Advance Full Tax Conformity Package

Action aligns state law with existing Revenue tax forms to protect Arizona taxpayers during filing season

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Arizona House and Senate Republican leadership announced today they will advance full income tax conformity legislation for tax year 2025 to align state law with the Arizona Department of Revenue's existing tax forms, following Governor Katie Hobbs' veto of the Legislature's tax relief ... Show Full Article PHOENIX, Arizona, Jan. 31 -- The Arizona House Republicans issued the following news release on Jan. 30, 2026: * * * Legislative Leaders Move to End Tax Filing Confusion, Advance Full Tax Conformity Package Action aligns state law with existing Revenue tax forms to protect Arizona taxpayers during filing season * Arizona House and Senate Republican leadership announced today they will advance full income tax conformity legislation for tax year 2025 to align state law with the Arizona Department of Revenue's existing tax forms, following Governor Katie Hobbs' veto of the Legislature's tax reliefpackage and her continued refusal to clarify her position on tax conformity.

For months, House and Senate Republicans have called publicly for income tax conformity to give taxpayers certainty heading into filing season. After the Governor vetoed the Legislature's $1.1 billion tax relief plan, Republican leaders immediately sought guidance from the executive branch on how she intended to proceed. That guidance never came.

On January 14, the Governor's Department of Revenue testified that the tax forms it had already issued assume full conformity with recent federal tax law changes and that altering those forms during the filing season would be practically impossible. Despite that testimony, Governor Hobbs has declined to provide any direction, respond to a joint letter from legislative leadership, or reconcile the contradictions between her public statements, proposed budget, and the tax forms taxpayers are being asked to use.

As a result, House and Senate leadership will move forward with legislation to conform Arizona law to the Department of Revenue's existing forms so taxpayers can file legally, with confidence, and without the risk of mid-year rule changes or forced amended returns.

"Arizona taxpayers are being asked to file on forms that do not clearly match state law, while the Governor offers no answers and no alternative plan," said House Speaker Steve Montenegro. "We asked for clarification privately. We asked publicly. We sent a detailed letter. We received silence. With tax season underway, waiting is not an option. This legislation exists because executive inaction left taxpayers exposed, and the Legislature has a responsibility to step in and restore clarity."

"Arizona taxpayers shouldn't have to guess whether the forms they're using are accurate, and they shouldn't be forced to refile or pay more in taxes," said Senate President Warren Petersen. "It's unfortunate the Governor has chosen not to work with us. The Legislature is stepping in to provide certainty by conforming state law to the tax forms her DOR has already released, including the State and Local Tax Deduction. The Governor would call that provision a tax break for the rich. We do not support the SALT deduction, but her agency has already included it on the forms, leaving the Legislature no choice but to address it. Tax reform was meant to make filing simpler and more predictable, not create confusion, anger, and frustration for Arizona taxpayers."

The legislation will provide an estimated $440 million in tax relief for tax year 2025 by conforming state law to federal tax provisions already reflected in Department of Revenue forms. While it does not include the additional child tax credits or dependent care deductions offered in the Republican Majority's vetoed package, leaders stress the immediate priority is preventing disruption during the current filing season.

"The filing season is already underway, and the lack of clarity is creating confusion and serious problems," said House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Justin Olson. "HB 2785 codifies what the Department of Revenue has already instructed taxpayers to file. It would be unacceptable to require taxpayers who relied on the guidance of the Hobbs Administration to file amended returns to pay more of their hard-earned resources to the state. If any policymaker desires to decouple from the income tax changes of H.R.1, those changes should have been agreed upon and adopted months ago--not in the middle of the tax filing season."

House and Senate Republicans in the Legislature will not approve any approach for tax year 2025 that forces tens of thousands of Arizonans to file paper amended returns months from now due to shifting guidance.

"This is definitely not our preferred approach--we would much rather implement the plan that offers more help to working families--but we have no choice but to fix the mess created by the Governor's disastrous leadership," said Senate Finance Committee Chairman J.D. Mesnard. "The Department of Revenue has already told taxpayers how to file, and we are compelled to make sure the law and that guidance align, especially since the Department has publicly advised taxpayers not to wait to file. Doing nothing would only guarantee more confusion and force families and businesses to fix the government's mistakes later. We will never support a plan that requires taxpayers to amend their returns because state leaders failed to act when it mattered. It would be completely unjust."

Broader tax policy discussions can and should occur during budget negotiations, but taxpayers filing today need clear rules now. This legislation ensures they have them.

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Original text here: https://www.azleg.gov/press/house/57LEG/2R/260130CONFORMITY.pdf

Idaho Environmental Quality Dept. Awards $142,500 to Four Water Systems Across Idaho

BOISE, Idaho, Jan. 31 -- The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality issued the following news release on Jan. 30, 2026:

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DEQ awards $142,500 to four water systems across Idaho

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) awarded $142,500 to four water systems to help evaluate deficiencies and determine necessary upgrades.

The following systems received funding:

City of Island Park:

The City of Island Park in Fremont County was awarded $45,000 to prepare a drinking water planning study and environmental review to evaluate the current drinking water system and identify needed ... Show Full Article BOISE, Idaho, Jan. 31 -- The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality issued the following news release on Jan. 30, 2026: * * * DEQ awards $142,500 to four water systems across Idaho The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) awarded $142,500 to four water systems to help evaluate deficiencies and determine necessary upgrades. The following systems received funding: City of Island Park: The City of Island Park in Fremont County was awarded $45,000 to prepare a drinking water planning study and environmental review to evaluate the current drinking water system and identify neededimprovements. The total project cost is $90,000, and the remaining $45,000 will be funded by United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development and the City of Island Park.

Bee Line Water Association:

Bee Line Water Association in Boundary County was awarded $27,500 to prepare a drinking water planning study and environmental review to evaluate the current drinking water system and identify needed improvements. The total project cost is $55,000 and the remaining $27,500 will be funded by Bee Line Water Association.

Gotham Bay Estates Homeowners Association:

Gotham Bay Estates Homeowners Association in Kootenai County was awarded $45,000 to prepare a drinking water planning study and environmental review to evaluate the current drinking water system and identify needed improvements. The total project cost is $101,500, and the remaining $56,500 will be funded by Gotham Bay Estates Homeowners Association.

Princeton-Hampton Sewer District:

Princeton-Hampton Sewer District in Latah County was awarded $25,000 to prepare a wastewater planning study and environmental review to evaluate the current wastewater system and identify needed improvements. The total project cost is $50,000 and the remaining $25,000 will be funded by Princeton-Hampton Sewer District.

Background:

DEQ's Planning Grant Program provides assistance to eligible wastewater and drinking water systems. These grants are used to develop engineering reports identifying the most cost-effective, environmentally sound method of upgrading a system to achieve and maintain compliance with state and federal standards. Grants cover up to 50% of eligible planning costs, with the remaining cost being the grant recipient's responsibility.

For more information about DEQ's Planning Grant Program and to learn more about this year's grant recipients, go to DEQ's Facility Planning Grants page (https://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/grants-and-loans/facility-planning-grants/).

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Original text here: https://www.deq.idaho.gov/deq-awards-142500-to-four-water-systems-across-idaho/

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