States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Proposition 1 Continues Delivering Support for Vulnerable Homeless Populations in California
SACRAMENTO, California, Sept. 18 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release:
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Proposition 1 continues delivering support for vulnerable homeless populations in California
What you need to know: Governor Newsom's reforms and strengthening of California's mental health support systems are well underway, with billions of voter-approved Proposition 1 funding being distributed to communities throughout California, including Oakland, Los Angeles, Stockton, and San Jose. This is part of the Governor's strong statewide strategy helping California outperform the nation
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SACRAMENTO, California, Sept. 18 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release:
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Proposition 1 continues delivering support for vulnerable homeless populations in California
What you need to know: Governor Newsom's reforms and strengthening of California's mental health support systems are well underway, with billions of voter-approved Proposition 1 funding being distributed to communities throughout California, including Oakland, Los Angeles, Stockton, and San Jose. This is part of the Governor's strong statewide strategy helping California outperform the nationin reversing the decades-in-the-making homelessness crisis.
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Voter-approved Proposition 1 continues delivering for California, supporting mental health reform throughout the state to help reduce homelessness and get people the care they need. Today, Governor Newsom is announcing new awards of $106.2 million to fund the development of hundreds of supportive housing units serving veterans and other Californians with behavioral health challenges. Mental health reforms and housing are key components of California's comprehensive strategy to remove encampments and get people housing and support that will keep them off the streets for good.
"California has built a strong system to help local communities address the homelessness crisis. For decades prior to my administration, state leaders turned their backs on those dealing with mental health and addiction. I am committed to rebuilding a strong system of support and accountability to ensure that no one suffers on our streets without help. No more excuses -- everyone must step up to address this crisis." - Governor Gavin Newsom
In 2019, during his first State of the State, Governor Newsom announced the state would begin focusing on the homelessness crisis -- becoming the first Governor in history to make this issue a statewide priority. Through new programs and funding, California is outperforming the nation in turning around the decades-in-the-making homelessness crisis. Governor Newsom's structural and foundational model will have positive impacts for generations to come by:
* Addressing mental health and its impact on homelessness
* Streamlining and prioritizing the building of new housing
* Funding new shelters, housing, and supports
* Holding local governments accountable, including to address the needs of Californians living in encampments
* Creating new pathways for those who need it most by updating conservatorship laws for the first time in 50 years
* Connecting the most at-risk to necessary services through a new CARE court system
Governor Newsom has set a strong expectation for all local governments to address encampments in their communities and help connect people with support.
Reforming California's mental health system
More than 1.2 million adults in California live with a serious mental illness, and 1 in 10 residents meet the criteria for a substance use disorder. Additionally, shortages of behavioral health treatment sites contribute to rising rates of homelessness and incarceration among people with mental health disorders.
Prop 1, which was championed by Governor Newsom and approved by voters in 2023, is transforming California's mental health systems with a $6.4 billion Behavioral Health Bond for housing, services, and treatment for veterans and people experiencing homelessness. When fully awarded, funding from Proposition 1 bonds is estimated to create 6,800 residential treatment beds and 26,700 outpatient treatment slots for behavioral health.
Housing for the most vulnerable
More than $2.1 billion of this funding is available for local Homekey+ projects. Homekey+ is modeled after Governor Newsom's highly successful Homekey program and provides funding for local communities to build residential care settings and expand access to behavioral health treatment. In November 2024, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) invited local communities to apply for this funding, and today, HCD is awarding $106.2 million to six communities -- including the cities of Oakland, Los Angeles, Chula Vista, Rancho Cordova, and Napa, as well as the county of Glenn. The projects will create 321 permanent supportive homes for veterans and vulnerable Californians.
With today's awards, Homekey+ has so far awarded $284.6 million to support 16 projects that will create 825 affordable homes with supportive services throughout California. In August, California awarded over $76 million for Homekey+ Projects, with most of this state funding going to a project located in the city of San Jose.
"California's Homekey+ program is investing in people and neighborhoods across the state, providing affordable housing and supportive services for Californians who are experiencing homelessness and living with behavioral health challenges," said Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency Secretary Tomiquia Moss. "The supportive housing projects being awarded today are a testament to the Governor's ongoing partnership with local jurisdictions and unwavering commitment to create housing for all Californians, including our Veterans and our most vulnerable."
"This tremendous partnership with CalVet to house and support veterans and other Californians who are struggling is a testament to the Governor's fervent commitment to addressing a homelessness crisis decades in the making," said HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez. "Across agencies and departments, we are working together--and with local partners--focusing our combined resources to build on ongoing successes in reducing unsheltered homelessness."
"This new round of Homekey+ awards is more good news for California veterans and their families," said CalVet Secretary Lindsey Sin. "We appreciate the hard work of the California Department of Housing & Community Development and other partners in creating innovative housing solutions across the state for those who have served our nation with honor and courage."
Approximately $1.033 billion in Proposition 1 bond funds are available through Homekey+ to cities, counties, housing authorities, and tribal entities for projects serving eligible veterans. Another $1.11 billion is available for projects serving all target populations, through a combination of Proposition 1 bond funds and Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) program funds.
Behavioral health care for the most vulnerable
Prop 1 is also expanding mental health services through the state's Bond Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP). Administered by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), BHCIP is a key component of Mental Health for All, California's ongoing commitment to build a stronger and more equitable behavioral health system. The program will create a comprehensive behavioral health system, ensuring that individuals can access the right care at the right time, whether it be for crisis stabilization, inpatient care, or long-term treatment.
Through BHCIP, DHCS has competitively awarded grants to construct, acquire, and expand properties, as well as invest in mobile crisis infrastructure for behavioral health. These projects are moving forward at a rapid pace, with more behavioral health treatment facilities to be funded and built in 2025 and 2026.
Last week, in San Joaquin County near Stockton, the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services Department broke ground on the Be Well Campus, a new facility in French Camp that will expand access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment in the Central Valley. The campus will include 10 facility types, with 116 behavioral health treatment beds and 1,205 outpatient slots, enabling care for more than 72,000 individuals annually.
"Expanding behavioral health care is one of the most important investments we can make in California's future," said Health and Human Services Secretary Kim Johnson. "Settings like the Be Well Campus strengthen communities by making sure people have access to treatment and support when they need it most. This is how we break cycles of crisis, reduce homelessness, improve wellness, and give tens of thousands of Californians a real chance at recovery and stability.
More data and accountability
In addition to creating stronger accountability, California is creating better public data tools to help service providers and the state measure outcomes and develop key goals. This month, the California Interagency Council on Homelessness unveiled a dynamic new public data tool that presents vital insights into the experiences of domestic violence survivors, their children, and unaccompanied women navigating homelessness in California. In 2024 alone, over 74,000 domestic violence survivors, 24,000 of their children, and 98,000 unaccompanied women accessed homelessness services in the state--illuminating the urgent need for focused data-driven action.
The dashboard is powered by data from the Homeless Data Integration System (HDIS), which aggregates service interactions from California's 44 Continuums of Care (CoCs). While HDIS provides comprehensive insights, it intentionally excludes services delivered exclusively through Victim Service Providers (VSPs) to protect client privacy. Supplementary data from VSP-funded programs through the Governor's Office of Emergency Services is also included.
Highlights revealed by the dashboard include:
* A faster average time to exit homelessness into permanent housing in 2024 across the targeted populations.
* Higher rates of return to homelessness among domestic violence survivors and unaccompanied women compared to the general population.
The dashboard also calls to attention areas for improvement, including opportunities to help domestic abuse survivors remain in permanent housing. The dashboard showed this population was below the state's targeted benchmark.
Strong strategy. Real results
The Governor's strategy is producing real results throughout the state. California is making strong progress in reducing homelessness in communities throughout California, with many communities reporting through the state's support, more people are getting help than ever, and their homelessness rates continue to drop. Through Governor Newsom's support of local government efforts and state investments, like the funding announced today, California is reversing decades of inaction on homelessness.
Between 2014 and 2019--before Governor Newsom took office--unsheltered homelessness in California rose by approximately 37,000 people. Since then, under this Administration, California has significantly slowed that growth, even as many other states have seen worsening trends.
In 2024, while homelessness increased nationally by over 18%, California limited its overall increase to just 3% -- a lower rate than in 40 other states. The state also held the growth of unsheltered homelessness to just 0.45%, compared to a national increase of nearly 7%. States like Florida, Texas, New York, and Illinois saw larger increases both in percentage and absolute numbers. California also achieved the nation's largest reduction in veteran homelessness and made meaningful progress in reducing youth homelessness.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/09/17/proposition-1-continues-delivering-support-for-vulnerable-homeless-populations-in-california/
N.J. A.G. Platkin, DGE Announce Availability of Free Financial Counseling Service
TRENTON, New Jersey, Sept. 18 -- New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin issued the following news release on Sept. 17, 2025:
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AG Platkin, DGE Announce Availability of Free Financial Counseling Service
GamFin Designed to Assist with Gambling-Related Financial Stress
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Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin today announced that New Jersey residents now have access to a free, confidential financial counseling service to help them work though difficulties related to gambling. This program, called GamFin, is made available as a pilot through the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE).
GamFin
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TRENTON, New Jersey, Sept. 18 -- New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin issued the following news release on Sept. 17, 2025:
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AG Platkin, DGE Announce Availability of Free Financial Counseling Service
GamFin Designed to Assist with Gambling-Related Financial Stress
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Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin today announced that New Jersey residents now have access to a free, confidential financial counseling service to help them work though difficulties related to gambling. This program, called GamFin, is made available as a pilot through the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE).
GamFinis a specialized financial wellness service that connects participants with certified financial counselors. Through private one-on-one online sessions, residents can create a budget, manage debt, and develop strategies to rebuild financial stability. Sessions are limited and are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
"Our residents need support when they find that gaming becomes problematic, harmful, or otherwise detrimental to their quality of life. That's why DGE is launching this important pilot to provide financial counseling to those who need support with problem gambling," said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. "If you are experiencing financial difficulties related to gambling, you don't have to go it alone. We strongly encourage anyone who needs professional support to access the resources DGE offers."
"By partnering with GamFin, we are giving New Jersey residents access to practical tools and trusted guidance that can help them regain financial control, reduce stress, and build a healthier future," said DGE Interim Director Mary Jo Flaherty. "We hope that people use this service to achieve financial well-being."
GamFin is available to both individuals who gamble and those impacted by a loved one's gambling, including partners and family members. New Jersey residents can schedule a confidential consultation by visiting www.gamfin.org/nj.
Today's announcement comes during Responsible Gaming Education Month, which is aimed at increasing consumer education and literacy around gaming issues and highlighting available resources to prevent the development of problem gambling. Offering services like GamFin was just one of the recommendations mentioned in the Responsible Gaming Task Force Report (https://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20250421/03/7d/88/c4/e6e26c772bdba87687d31323/RGTF_Final_Report_to_GO_3.31.25.pdf), which was released earlier this year.
Financial difficulties are among the most serious consequences of gambling-related harm, and early access to professional support can be a critical step toward recovery and long-term stability. DGE encourages anyone concerned about their or a loved one's gambling-related financial issues to use the services provided by GamFin, which works with state governments and community partners across the country.
In addition, DGE reminds people that information about the self-exclusion process is available for anyone who decides that a temporary or permanent break from gambling is in their best interest. Confidential support and resources are available by calling or texting New Jersey's free helpline (1-800-GAMBLER). Additional responsible gaming information is available on the DGE website (https://www.njoag.gov/about/divisions-and-offices/division-of-gaming-enforcement-home/responsible-gaming-main/).
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Original text here: https://www.njoag.gov/ag-platkin-dge-announce-availability-of-free-financial-counseling-service/
Md. DHCD-Supported Baltimore Food Hall Receives National Economic Development Award
LANHAM, Maryland, Sept. 18 -- The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development issued the following news release on Sept. 17, 2025:
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DHCD-Supported Baltimore Food Hall Receives National Economic Development Award
The Mill on North Food Hall in Baltimore recognized by International Economic Development Council
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New Carrollton, MD. - The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has been nationally recognized, receiving a 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Award on Sept. 15 from the International Economic Development Council for its support of The Mill on
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LANHAM, Maryland, Sept. 18 -- The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development issued the following news release on Sept. 17, 2025:
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DHCD-Supported Baltimore Food Hall Receives National Economic Development Award
The Mill on North Food Hall in Baltimore recognized by International Economic Development Council
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New Carrollton, MD. - The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has been nationally recognized, receiving a 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Award on Sept. 15 from the International Economic Development Council for its support of The Mill onNorth Food Hall in West Baltimore's Coppin Heights neighborhood.
The department provided $4 million in awards towards the project through its Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Fund as well as its Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative and The Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative programs.
The Mill on North was developed in partnership with the Coppin Heights Community Development Corporation, Osprey Development Company and Neighborhood Housing Services with the aim to convert an old lumber yard into a mixed-use development with a 10,000 square-foot food hall on the ground floor with a 65-unit mixed income (market rate and affordable) apartment complex above. The food hall, which officially opened in April, gathers seven local food vendors under one roof, each with longstanding connections to the area and offers everything from seafood and soul food to brunch favorites, bakery treats, and hand-crafted coffee.
"We are grateful to be recognized by the International Economic Development Council for The Mill on North and thankful for partners such as Coppin Heights Community Development Corporation, Osprey Development Company and Neighborhood Housing Services. This also wouldn't have been possible without the support of Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, State Senator Antonio Hayes, Delegates Marlon Amprey, Frank Conaway and Melissa Wells, City Councilman James Torrance and others," said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. "This is the kind of project DHCD is proud to support in Baltimore and across Maryland. This space will help transform the West North Avenue community and aid in the revitalization of the city."
The Excellence in Economic Development Awards program has 26 unique categories that highlight impactful programs, projects and people in the economic development field. The Department's entry was recognized as a bronze award winner in the "Entrepreneurial & Small Business Development" category.
"This year's winners truly embody the spirit of innovation and excellence in economic development," said Nathan Ohle, IEDC's President and CEO. "Their outstanding efforts have not only enhanced their own communities but serve as a benchmark for impactful and sustainable economic development worldwide."
Competition judges gave The Mill on North project high marks.
"This project demonstrates true collaboration, public and private sector engagement, and leadership which not only lead to the furtherance of the local small business community and opportunities for entrepreneurs but also seeks to transform a neighborhood and implements brownfield redevelopment and adaptive reuse strategies in the process," one judge wrote.
"Not only did the project directly address disinvestment, it did so with community partnership and is impressive in creating opportunities for traditionally distressed communities," another judge noted.
For more information on the Department's community and economic development programs, visit dhcd.maryland.gov.
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Original text here: https://news.maryland.gov/dhcd/2025/09/17/dhcd-supported-baltimore-food-hall-receives-national-economic-development-award/
Iowa Finance Authority Invests $1.3 Million to Prevent Homelessness Statewide
DES MOINES, Iowa, Sept. 18 -- The Iowa Economic Development Authority issued the following news on Sept. 16, 2025:
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Iowa Finance Authority Invests $1.3 Million to Prevent Homelessness Statewide
The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) recently awarded more than $1.3 million to bolster homelessness prevention efforts in every Iowa county. Funding comes through the new Iowa Homelessness Prevention Fund (IHPF) and will help hundreds of Iowans at-risk of homelessness.
"The Iowa Finance Authority is proud to invest in proactive solutions that support Iowans at risk of homelessness," said IFA and Iowa
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DES MOINES, Iowa, Sept. 18 -- The Iowa Economic Development Authority issued the following news on Sept. 16, 2025:
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Iowa Finance Authority Invests $1.3 Million to Prevent Homelessness Statewide
The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) recently awarded more than $1.3 million to bolster homelessness prevention efforts in every Iowa county. Funding comes through the new Iowa Homelessness Prevention Fund (IHPF) and will help hundreds of Iowans at-risk of homelessness.
"The Iowa Finance Authority is proud to invest in proactive solutions that support Iowans at risk of homelessness," said IFA and IowaEconomic Development Authority Director Debi Durham.
"I commend our Board of Directors for their commitment to innovation and their responsiveness to the needs of communities across the state. This investment reflects our dedication to strengthening housing stability statewide."
- Debi Durham
The IHPF builds on the success of IFA's Rapid Rehousing Project Pilot Program, with a refined focus on homelessness prevention. The fund supports flexible, community-driven interventions such as short-term financial assistance (paid to landlords, utility service providers or other third-parties), landlord mediation, housing navigation services, and case management to keep individuals and families stably housed and out of emergency shelters or unsheltered homelessness.
Unlike traditional HUD-funded programs, the IHPF takes a broader view of homelessness, expanding eligibility to include Iowans who are doubled-up or "couch-surfing," a reality often faced by youth and in rural communities. This broader approach allows partner agencies greater flexibility to meet the unique and immediate needs of their communities, including for those who may not qualify for other forms of assistance.
Awards were distributed to partner agencies that participated in the pilot program. In total, $1,335,000 was allocated from IFA's FY2026 Emergency and Innovative Housing Fund, as approved by the IFA Board.
Individuals in need of homelessness assistance should visit iowahousinghelp.com or call the coordinated entry system at 833-739-0065. Residents of Des Moines or Polk County should call centralized intake at 515-248-1850. Residents in the Siouxland area should visit siouxlandhomeless.org or call 712-224-5247.
View the full list of award recipients (https://opportunityiowa.gov/media/7213/download?inline).
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Original text here: https://opportunityiowa.gov/press-release/2025-09-16/iowa-finance-authority-invests-13-million-prevent-homelessness-statewide
ICYMI: Pa. Gov. Shapiro Delivers Keynote Address on Political Violence in America
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Sept. 18 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release:
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ICYMI: Governor Shapiro Delivers Keynote Address on Political Violence in America
"Whether it takes place in Butler, Pennsylvania, suburban Minnesota, or at Utah Valley University -- we must make clear that political violence has no place in our country."
"We must reject the rhetoric of vengeance, and instead focus on the work of healing. Censorship -- using the long arm of government to silence people, businesses, and nonprofits and restrict their right to free speech -- will
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Sept. 18 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release:
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ICYMI: Governor Shapiro Delivers Keynote Address on Political Violence in America
"Whether it takes place in Butler, Pennsylvania, suburban Minnesota, or at Utah Valley University -- we must make clear that political violence has no place in our country."
"We must reject the rhetoric of vengeance, and instead focus on the work of healing. Censorship -- using the long arm of government to silence people, businesses, and nonprofits and restrict their right to free speech -- willnot solve this problem."
"Folks on both sides of the aisle need to universally condemn political violence in all its forms -- no matter what side it comes from or who is targeted."
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Yesterday, Governor Josh Shapiro delivered a keynote address at the 2025 Eradicate Hate Global Summit in Pittsburgh, discussing the need to confront hate and political violence with moral clarity. During yesterday's address, the Governor emphasized that censorship and vengeance are not solutions - and that in this moment, leaders must focus on healing and bringing people together while continuing to protect free speech.
Watch the Governor's remarks here (https://pacast.com/m?p=28341) and read his remarks as prepared for delivery here (https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2025-press-releases/gov-shapiro-s-address-on-political-violence-in-america-as-prepar).
Here's what people are reading and watching about Governor Shapiro's address:
AP News: Pennsylvania governor says US must 'turn the tide' against political violence, reject vengeance
The New York Times: Shapiro, Denouncing Political Violence, Warns Trump Is Inflaming Tensions
The Hill: Shapiro urges US to 'turn the tide' on political violence after Kirk killing
CNN: Josh Shapiro says Trump failed the 'morality test' in his response to Kirk assassination
NBC News: Gov. Josh Shapiro criticizes 'selective condemnation' of political violence
The Philadelphia Inquirer: Josh Shapiro says Donald Trump should learn to manage political violence by looking to Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Months after arson attack, Gov. Shapiro urges unity at Eradicate Hate Summit
Penn Live: Gov. Shapiro says country is less safe because of Trump response to Kirk assassination
The Guardian: Pennsylvania's Josh Shapiro says leaders need 'moral clarity' amid rising political violence
FOX43: "Unacceptable" | Gov. Josh Shapiro condemns political violence in wake of Charlie Kirk's killing
LNP: Shapiro urges rejection of political violence, blasts those who 'cherry pick' instances to condemn
WITF: Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro condemns political violence, and criticizes President Donald Trump
TribLive: Corbett to introduce Shapiro at Pittsburgh summit in bipartisan stand against political violence
WESA: In Pittsburgh, Shapiro calls for both 'moral clarity' and speech protections as violence rises
AXIOS Pittsburgh: Shapiro calls out Trump over selective outrage on violence
Politics PA: Shapiro: "Reject Vengeance, Focus on Healing"
Fox News: Shapiro chides Trump over response to Charlie Kirk assassination
Philly Burbs: Pa. Gov. Shapiro criticizes Trump for 'selective' outrage against political violence
The Tribune-Democrat: Shapiro warns of youth falling into online traps, becoming politically violent
Good Morning America: Gov. Shapiro slams Oval Office's 'cherry picking' of recent political violence(
Reuters: Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro faults Trump's response to Kirk shooting, urges 'calm'
Pennsylvania Capital Star: Shapiro says leaders have a responsibility to "speak and act with moral clarity"
Erie Times News: Pennsylvania Gov. Shapiro slams Trump for 'selective' outrage against political violence
Newsmax: Gov. Shapiro: WH Selectively Condemns Political Violence
ABC 27: Shapiro calls for ending political violence at 'Eradicate Hate' summit; White House responds
Levittown Now: After Attacks, Gov. Shapiro Urges Leaders To Condemn All Political Violence
WTAJ: 'It's all wrong' Governor Shapiro condemns political violence in America
WJAC: PA governor calls for unity, media literacy following acts of political violence
WGAL: Gov. Shapiro addresses political violence at summit
WNEP: Gov. Shapiro delivers address on political violence at Eradicate Hate Global Summit in Pittsburgh
WFMZ: 'Violence is never the answer': Gov. Shapiro calls for end to political violence in Pittsburgh speech
CBS3: Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks out against political violence at Eradicate Hate Global Summit
WNEP: Gov. Shapiro delivers address on political violence at Eradicate Hate Global Summit in Pittsburgh
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2025-press-releases/icymi--gov-shapiro-delivers-keynote-address-on-political-violenc
Calif. Gov. Newsom Signs Legislation
SACRAMENTO, California, Sept. 18 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Sept. 17, 2025:
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Governor Newsom signs legislation
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:
* AB 149 by the Committee on Budget - Public resources trailer bill.
* SB 105 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) - Budget Acts of 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
* SB 146 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Human services.
* SB 151 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Early childhood education and childcare.
* SB 153 by the Committee
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SACRAMENTO, California, Sept. 18 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Sept. 17, 2025:
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Governor Newsom signs legislation
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:
* AB 149 by the Committee on Budget - Public resources trailer bill.
* SB 105 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) - Budget Acts of 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
* SB 146 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Human services.
* SB 151 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Early childhood education and childcare.
* SB 153 by the Committeeon Budget and Fiscal Review - Transportation budget trailer bill.
* SB 156 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Labor.
* SB 157 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Public safety.
* SB 159 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Personal Income Tax Law: Corporation Tax Law: exemptions: wildfire.
* SB 160 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Background checks.
* SB 161 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - State employment: state bargaining units.
* SB 162 by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review - Elections.
For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/09/17/governor-newsom-signs-legislation-9-17-25/
Arizona Corporation Commission Chair Thompson Votes to Initiate Repeal of Costly Energy Efficiency Mandate
PHOENIX, Arizona, Sept. 18 -- The Arizona Corporation Commission issued the following news release on Sept. 17, 2025:
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Chair Thompson Votes to Initiate Repeal of Costly Energy Efficiency Mandate
The Arizona Corporation Commission unanimously initiated the official repeal process for the Demand Side Management / Energy Efficiency (DSM/EE) standards. In February 2024, Thompson offered a motion to kick off the repeal process, culminating with this week's vote to initiate public hearings and eventually a rulemaking repeal pending a final vote of the Commission in the future.
The DSM/EE Rules
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PHOENIX, Arizona, Sept. 18 -- The Arizona Corporation Commission issued the following news release on Sept. 17, 2025:
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Chair Thompson Votes to Initiate Repeal of Costly Energy Efficiency Mandate
The Arizona Corporation Commission unanimously initiated the official repeal process for the Demand Side Management / Energy Efficiency (DSM/EE) standards. In February 2024, Thompson offered a motion to kick off the repeal process, culminating with this week's vote to initiate public hearings and eventually a rulemaking repeal pending a final vote of the Commission in the future.
The DSM/EE Ruleswere first adopted by the Commission in 2010 and required utilities to meet certain energy efficiency standards by 2020, which have been met. Since their inception, the mandates have cost Arizona ratepayers more than $1 Billion in additional surcharges. During the August Open Meeting the Commission also voted to initiate the repeal of the Renewable Energy Standard Tariff (REST) mandate. The two rules combined have cost Arizona ratepayers more than $3.6 Billion since their inception.
"The energy efficiency mandate reached its goals years ago and is not effectively delaying the need to construct new generation today," said Chair Thompson. "You can't use a cup to fill a generation gap that demands buckets of new power. We encourage every customer to practice energy efficiency and viable programs that benefit all ratepayers should continue to be evaluated and approved. However, customers should not be forced to serve as de facto funders for utility slush funds and revenue streams for special interest groups."
Under DSM/EE, customers are assessed monthly surcharges to help fund costs associated with utilities meeting these mandates. Examples of programs that have been funded with DSM/EE budgets include shade trees, smart thermostats, energy efficient light bulbs, rebates for homebuilders to install energy efficient appliances, and electric vehicle charging stations. Unfortunately, these programs are not actually "free" as ratepayers pay the bill. For example, one utility DSM/EE budget funds $10 million in annual subsidies alone in ratepayer dollars paid to homebuilders to install appliances.
Since joining the Commission in 2023, Thompson has worked to tackle these programs and systematically separate waste from benefit as programs come up for annual reviews. On a separate track, the Commission moved forward to explore the complete repeal of the mandate. A repeal of the rules would not mean that all energy efficiency and demand side programs would cease to exist, but utilities and stakeholders will be required to demonstrate that programs actually move the needle in terms of actual energy efficiency and reducing costs for all ratepayers.
For example, earlier this year the Commission approved a DSM/EE "Bring Your Own Battery" Pilot program. The Pilot allows participating APS customers to receive financial compensation for providing energy from their personal battery storage to the electric grid during specified time periods of stress and energy need. The customers' stored energy would be used to help stabilize the grid during peak demand periods when excess power is in limited supply and otherwise typically purchased by a utility at a costly premium (that is then passed on to the ratepayer). By allowing the utility access to stored battery power, participants will receive a monetary benefit, but more importantly all ratepayers will receive the benefit of access to peak power at a discounted rate.
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Original text here: https://www.azcc.gov/news/home/2025/09/17/chair-thompson-votes-to-initiate-repeal-of-costly-energy-efficiency-mandate
