States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Wyo. Gov. Gordon Announces Filing of Petition Regarding IBLA's to Block Jonah Gas Field Expansion and the Secretary's Decision to Review It
CHEYENNE, Wyoming, Feb. 17 -- Gov. Mark Gordon, R-Wyoming, issued the following news release:
* * *
Governor Gordon Announces Filing of Petition Regarding IBLA's to Block Jonah Gas Field Expansion and the Secretary's Decision to Review It
Governor Mark Gordon (R-WY) announced that the State of Wyoming, through the Attorney General's Office, filed a Petition this month for Reconsideration to the Interior Board of Land Appeals (IBLA) asking to reverse its Jan. 15 decision that would block a 3,500 well expansion in the Jonah Gas Field.
"This overreach by the IBLA is not only a direct assault
... Show Full Article
CHEYENNE, Wyoming, Feb. 17 -- Gov. Mark Gordon, R-Wyoming, issued the following news release:
* * *
Governor Gordon Announces Filing of Petition Regarding IBLA's to Block Jonah Gas Field Expansion and the Secretary's Decision to Review It
Governor Mark Gordon (R-WY) announced that the State of Wyoming, through the Attorney General's Office, filed a Petition this month for Reconsideration to the Interior Board of Land Appeals (IBLA) asking to reverse its Jan. 15 decision that would block a 3,500 well expansion in the Jonah Gas Field.
"This overreach by the IBLA is not only a direct assaulton Wyoming's economy but a blatant disregard for our state's proven regulatory expertise," Governor Gordon said. "Our Department of Environmental Quality has primacy over air quality for a reason, they have the technical knowledge and the local experience to manage our resources responsibly. We are filing this petition to defend Wyoming's right to manage its own affairs and to ensure that our energy industry, and the communities that depend on it, are not sidelined by unfounded administrative hurdles."
The petition states IBLA improperly vacated the Environmental Impact Statement's Record of Decision based on Clean Air Act concerns, despite the objections of Wyoming's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), who has primacy over the implementation. The Bureau's earlier decision properly relied on the DEQ's air quality permits.
On Friday, the Secretary of Interior assumed jurisdiction over the case. The Secretary has stayed IBLA's decision until they have completed their review of the decision.
The expansion of this project is expected to create over nine hundred jobs over the life of the project. The State is expected to earn around $2 billion in severance taxes and $611 million in sales tax over the life of the project.
* * *
Original text here: https://governor.wyo.gov/news-releases/governor-gordon-announces-filing-of-petition-regarding-ibla-s-to-block-jonah-gas-field-expansion-and-the-secretary-s-decision-to-review-it
Va. Gov. Spanberger Announces Grants for Eight Virginia Communities to Restore Brownfield Sites
RICHMOND, Virginia, Feb. 17 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Governor Spanberger Announces Grants for Eight Virginia Communities to Restore Brownfield Sites
Awards Total More Than $1.5 Million to Power Economic Development & Restore Damaged Properties
*
Governor Abigail Spanberger today announced that eight Virginia localities received $1.59 million in Site Remediation Grants from the Virginia Brownfields Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance Fund (VBAF).
VBAF awards allow local governments to restore and redevelop
... Show Full Article
RICHMOND, Virginia, Feb. 17 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Governor Spanberger Announces Grants for Eight Virginia Communities to Restore Brownfield Sites
Awards Total More Than $1.5 Million to Power Economic Development & Restore Damaged Properties
*
Governor Abigail Spanberger today announced that eight Virginia localities received $1.59 million in Site Remediation Grants from the Virginia Brownfields Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance Fund (VBAF).
VBAF awards allow local governments to restore and redevelopbrownfield sites -- properties with the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. These Site Remediation Grants for Virginia will cover rehabilitation of contaminated properties to remove hazardous substances and waste, demolition and removal of existing structures, and other site work to bring new economic development to the Commonwealth.
"When the state assists Virginia's localities in restoring existing properties, we can help attract new business, create more housing, and power regional economic development," said Governor Abigail Spanberger. "Investing in the redevelopment of Virginia's brownfield sites is paramount to building stronger communities that can attract top talent and significant economic investment. I look forward to seeing these projects come to life."
"VBAF is a vital tool for both community and economic development," said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery. "For new and expanding businesses, safe and healthy communities are just as important as having shovel-ready sites. By remediating hazardous conditions, we open development opportunities that simply would not be possible under current conditions."
"Providing community development opportunities while addressing environmental threats is exactly the type of innovation we hope to achieve throughout this Administration," said Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources David Bulova. "I am thrilled that these strategic, locally driven investments will help fuel economic growth while improving our environment by reducing hazards and taking advantage of existing infrastructure."
Established in 2011 and administered by the Virginia Resources Authority, VBAF is a partnership between the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) and the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Since its inception, VBAF has awarded more than 300 grants totaling $23 million to Virginia localities.
Below is additional information about the Virginia Brownfield Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance grants awarded:
* Clarke County ($317,298): Remediation of lead-based paint in a former Department of Corrections building to promote development of the site into an industrial park located five miles from the inland port
* Town of Floyd ($262,500): Remediation of asbestos-containing material in a former apparel manufacturing building, enabling redevelopment into mixed-use projects with commercial and residential development
* Town of Waynesboro ($250,000): Remediation of lead-based paint and asbestos-containing material at the former General Wayne Hotel to support redevelopment into 38 workforce housing units
* Mecklenburg County ($240,450): Remediation of the former Park View High School supporting redevelopment into a 90-unit residential complex to support local workforce housing needs
* City of Hampton ($207,000): Asbestos-containing material abatement at the former Pembroke High School, allowing for the expansion of the YMCA, including classrooms for teen and adult learning
* Henrico County ($120,000): Asbestos-containing material abatement at the former Best Products Headquarters building as part of the larger Green City mixed use and entertainment development
* Town of New Market ($99,000): Remediation of asbestos-containing material in the town community center, allowing the center to be redeveloped into a mixed-use project featuring apartments developed to address workforce housing
* Town of Buchanan ($94,500): Remediation of contaminated soil at the former Buchanan Schoolhouse property to enable redevelopment into a mixed-use development featuring 12-14 apartments and several commercial spaces.
In addition to the eight Site Remediation Grants, six additional VBAF applicants each received $50,000 in Assessment and Planning Grants from VEDP and DEQ.
Accomack-Northampton Planning District Commission
* Town of Blackstone
* Town of Clifton Forge
* Town of Hillsville
* City of Lexington
* City of Petersburg
"We are proud to have programs like VBAF that not only prepare sites for development but also help remediate environmental challenges," said VEDP President and CEO Jason El Koubi. "These efforts position the Commonwealth as a leader in competitive, environmentally responsible sites."
"Each year, VBAF grants have advanced Virginia's commitment to environmental restoration by helping communities reduce environmental risks and return Brownfield properties to safe and economically productive uses," said Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Director Michael S. Rolband. "The continued partnership between DEQ and VEDP ensures that VBAF remains an accessible resource to localities working to remediate Brownfield sites, protect natural resources, and revitalize land in ways that support healthier environments and stronger communities across the Commonwealth."
For more information on the Virginia Brownfield Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance Fund, visit vedp.org/brownfields.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2026/february-/name-1112731-en.html
N.J. Acting A.G. Davenport: Middlesex County Man Charged With Weapons Offenses, Sexual Conversations With Minor
TRENTON, New Jersey, Feb. 17 -- New Jersey Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Middlesex County Man Charged with Weapons Offenses, Sexual Conversations with Minor
Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) announced today that a Middlesex County man was charged with weapons offenses and having illicit sexual conversations with someone he believed was a minor.
Oskar Smieszek, 23, of South Amboy, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with manufacturing an unregistered, unlicensed firearm
... Show Full Article
TRENTON, New Jersey, Feb. 17 -- New Jersey Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Middlesex County Man Charged with Weapons Offenses, Sexual Conversations with Minor
Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) announced today that a Middlesex County man was charged with weapons offenses and having illicit sexual conversations with someone he believed was a minor.
Oskar Smieszek, 23, of South Amboy, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with manufacturing an unregistered, unlicensed firearmwith a three-dimensional printer (second degree); possessing an unlicensed, unregistered assault firearm (second degree); possessing large-capacity ammunition magazines (fourth degree); attempted impairing the morals of a child (third degree); and attempting to show obscene material to a child (third degree).
"The charges announced today reflect two major areas of enforcement of our office - protecting children from sexual predators and protecting everyone from gun violence," said Acting Attorney General Davenport. "So-called 'ghost' guns that are made with 3D printers are untraceable, but no less deadly than other weapons. And anyone who tries to use the anonymity of social media sites to prey on children should understand that they will be held accountable."
"We discovered this defendant, and his illegal weapons, as he allegedly attempted to arrange a sexual encounter with someone he believed was a child," said DCJ Director Theresa L. Hilton. "DCJ will always work with our partners to find and stop those who use social media to exploit or abuse children."
"The charges in this case address two grave threats to public safety: illegal firearms and sexual predators," said Lieutenant Colonel David Sierotowicz, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. "These dangers have no place in our communities, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to removing them from our streets. Anyone who engages in inappropriate communication with minors will be investigated and held accountable. Protecting our children is among our highest priorities. Likewise, illegal firearms endanger lives and undermine the safety of our neighborhoods. These charges underscore our dedication to safeguarding our communities."
According to documents filed in this case, in April 2025 a law enforcement officer acting in an undercover capacity as an underage girl on a social media platform received a message from another user later identified as Smieszek. During their conversation, Smieszek discussed meeting the girl he believed to be underage and having sex with her. He also sent sexual images to the child.
A search warrant executed at the Smieszek's residence on February 6, 2026, produced images that were taken at the residence. Law enforcement also found and seized multiple digital devices, two unregistered firearms, one 17-round magazine, three 30-round magazines, and three 20-round magazines.
Acting Attorney General Davenport credited the New Jersey State Police with the investigation of this case. The case is being prosecuted by DCJ Deputy Attorney General John Donovan.
Second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000. Third-degree charges carry a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. Fourth-degree offenses carry a sentence of up to 18 months in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.njoag.gov/middlesex-county-man-charged-with-weapons-offenses-sexual-conversations-with-minor/
Governor Ron DeSantis Unveils Statue of President James Monroe as Florida Celebrates America's 250th Birthday
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Feb. 17 -- Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Florida, issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Governor Ron DeSantis Unveils Statue of President James Monroe as Florida Celebrates America's 250th Birthday
*
MONROE COUNTY, Fla. -Today, Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a new statue of President James Monroe, the namesake of Monroe County, in Monroe County as part of the ongoing statewide commemoration of America's 250th birthday and the state celebration of George Washington's Birthday, which the governor recognized as a state holiday in 2026. America 250 Florida marks
... Show Full Article
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Feb. 17 -- Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Florida, issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Governor Ron DeSantis Unveils Statue of President James Monroe as Florida Celebrates America's 250th Birthday
*
MONROE COUNTY, Fla. -Today, Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a new statue of President James Monroe, the namesake of Monroe County, in Monroe County as part of the ongoing statewide commemoration of America's 250th birthday and the state celebration of George Washington's Birthday, which the governor recognized as a state holiday in 2026. America 250 Florida marksthe state's official observance of America's semiquincentennial and will host and help sponsor special events throughout the year for Floridians from all corners of the state to enjoy.
"In recognition of his contributions to our country, I was proud to unveil the statue of President James Monroe near Bahia Honda State Park in Monroe County today," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "In Florida, we honor our nation's history, celebrate those who made our country great, and strive to pass down their legacy of civic virtue to the next generation."
"Every mile of coastline and acre of our beautiful landscape serves as a monument to President James Monroe who saw the potential of Florida," said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. "And today, just as in President Monroe's era, our state continues to play an important role leading the rest of the nation. We are the free state of Florida."
"Through this statue series and our 'all-in' commitment to America's 250th, Florida is setting a national precedent for reigniting patriotism and civic life," said Bryan Griffin, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. "By bringing these founders back into the public square, we are highlighting their contributions and inviting everyone to come celebrate America in Florida."
The unveiling is part of a broader initiative announced last year to place statues of the Founding Fathers in Florida counties that bear their names, reinforcing civic pride, historical literacy, and respect for the nation's founding principles. President Monroe, the nation's fifth president, played a pivotal role in American history through his service in the Revolutionary War, his decades of diplomatic leadership, and his presidency following the War of 1812. His legacy is deeply tied to Florida through the Adams-Onis Treaty of 1819, which transferred Florida from Spain to the United States, and through the Monroe Doctrine, which established American leadership in the Western Hemisphere.
The Monroe statue also reflects Florida's broader commitment to civic education, historical preservation, and American heritage, as the state continues to lead nationally in civics instruction, education freedom, and higher education excellence.
The monument is part of the newly designated Spottswood Heritage Trail, named in honor of the late Monroe County Sheriff and State Senator John M. Spottswood, a community leader and veteran whose legacy of service and conservation continues through the preservation of surrounding lands and waterways. It is located adjacent to Bahia Honda State Park, the historic Flagler Railroad Bridge, and Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve.
The unveiling ceremony occurred on the final day of George Washington's Birthday Weekend, which provided free entry for all Floridians to state lands, including state parks, as part of the state's ongoing semiquincentennial celebration. Further activities will continue to be announced over the coming months. Floridians can find information on events, exhibits, heritage sites, and participation opportunities at America250FL.com, the state's official hub for the Semiquincentennial celebration.
***
Original text here: https://www.flgov.com/eog/news/press/2026/governor-ron-desantis-unveils-statue-president-james-monroe-florida-celebrates
Del. Justice Dept. Secures Life Sentence in Fatal Shooting of Dmajah Tickles
DOVER, Delaware, Feb. 17 -- The Delaware Department of Justice issued the following news release:
* * *
DOJ secures life sentence in fatal shooting of Dmajah Tickles
A Newark man has been sentenced to life in prison for the 2021 murder of Dmajah Tickles.
Tramont Mitchell, 39, was sentenced on February 13 to life plus 50 years in prison. The sentence follows Mitchell's convictions in 2024 by a Superior Court Jury on charges of First Degree Murder and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony as well as his conviction by a judge on a severed charge of Possession of a Firearm by
... Show Full Article
DOVER, Delaware, Feb. 17 -- The Delaware Department of Justice issued the following news release:
* * *
DOJ secures life sentence in fatal shooting of Dmajah Tickles
A Newark man has been sentenced to life in prison for the 2021 murder of Dmajah Tickles.
Tramont Mitchell, 39, was sentenced on February 13 to life plus 50 years in prison. The sentence follows Mitchell's convictions in 2024 by a Superior Court Jury on charges of First Degree Murder and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony as well as his conviction by a judge on a severed charge of Possession of a Firearm bya Person Prohibited.
"Yet again, another life has needlessly been cut short by gun violence," said Attorney General Kathy Jennings. "The work done here by our trial team and the Wilmington Police Department means justice for the victim and his family and a safer Delaware for all of us."
On May 19, 2021, Tramont Mitchell fatally shot 19-year-old Dmajah Tickles, a New Castle resident, on the 2300 block of Carter Street in Wilmington. Following an investigation by the Wilmington Police Department, Mitchell was arrested at his home in Newark on March 2, 2022.
* * *
Original text here: https://news.delaware.gov/2026/02/16/doj-secures-life-sentence-in-fatal-shooting-of-dmajah-tickles-s/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Launches UK Climate Partnership, Welcomes Nearly $1 Billion Octopus Energy Clean Tech Commitment
SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 17 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Governor Newsom launches UK climate partnership, welcomes nearly $1 billion Octopus Energy clean tech commitment
What you need to know: As long-standing alliances are tested, California and the United Kingdom have expanded cooperation on climate action and innovation. Governor Newsom and UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, signed a Memorandum of Understanding deepening cooperation on climate. Following the signing, the Governor met with
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 17 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Governor Newsom launches UK climate partnership, welcomes nearly $1 billion Octopus Energy clean tech commitment
What you need to know: As long-standing alliances are tested, California and the United Kingdom have expanded cooperation on climate action and innovation. Governor Newsom and UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, signed a Memorandum of Understanding deepening cooperation on climate. Following the signing, the Governor met withUK clean-tech unicorn Octopus Energy and welcomed the company's nearly $1 billion California clean-tech investments--a concrete example of how international collaboration delivers real results for Californians.
*
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - Governor Gavin Newsom today announced an expanded partnership between California and the United Kingdom to tackle climate change and promote sustainable development together. During the visit, the Governor also met with leaders in the UK to advance partnerships in climate, business, and trade.
He concluded the trip at UK clean-tech unicorn Octopus Energy, which is committing nearly $1 billion to California companies and projects focused on clean technologies and nature-based solutions.
* * *
California is the best place in America to invest in a clean economy because we set clear goals and we deliver. Today, we deepened our partnership with the United Kingdom on climate action and welcomed nearly a billion dollars in clean tech investment from Octopus Energy. California will continue showing the world how we can turn innovation and ambition into climate action.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
The UK Government's clean energy mission is about taking back control of our energy to cut bills, create jobs, and tackle the climate crisis. Strong international partnerships like today's announcement with the State of California strengthens opportunities for UK businesses and secures investment for our country.
- UK Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband
* * *
Deepening cooperation with the United Kingdom
The Governor and UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) deepening cooperation on climate. California and the UK share deep historical and cultural ties and a long track record of collaboration. The signing of this memorandum of understanding (MOU) builds on that foundation and builds on an already strong relationship to tackle climate change and promote sustainable development together.
At a time when communities worldwide are experiencing the consequences of climate change--higher costs, extreme weather, and wildfires--this partnership underscores the need to accelerate innovation and invest in solutions that save lives.
The full text of the MOU signed today is available here (https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/California-UK-MOU-2026-02-16.pdf).
Octopus Energy commits nearly $1 billion in California clean economy
The Governor concluded his trip in London with a visit to Octopus Energy headquarters, where the company announced it is investing nearly $1 billion in California companies and projects focused on clean energy, carbon removal, and nature-based solutions. This commitment demonstrates how California is advancing partnerships to build the clean energy economy and win the future.
"Octopus and California are both leading the way in clean energy innovation," said Octopus Energy Generation CEO Zoisa North-Bond. "With supportive policy and world-class entrepreneurship in and around Silicon Valley, it's an ideal place to back long-term investment partnerships that will benefit the UK economy. We're excited to expand Octopus internationally, backing the booming U.S. clean tech sector while bringing innovation, growth and returns to the UK."
This nearly billion-dollar investment reflects California's clear, durable investment signals and stable climate leadership. The Golden State sets clear rules of the road--from clean energy targets in statute to market programs--that give companies the confidence to invest, build, and hire.
California's global climate network
While Washington retreats from global leadership, California is building partnerships that deliver real-world solutions. Recent partnerships advanced during COP30 include:
* Chile: California and Chile signed a memorandum of understanding regarding exchanging information, developing best practices, and cooperating on methane emissions reduction. Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas and the partnership between California and Chile opens up new opportunities for both partners to cooperate on methane reduction in waste, agriculture and energy sectors.
* Colombia: California and Colombia signed a partnership to advance joint efforts on forest conservation, methane reduction, climate resilience, and clean energy development. The memorandum of understanding deepens coordination on protecting the Amazon, strengthening biodiversity, and expanding nature-based climate solutions that support sustainable and equitable economic growth.
* Nigeria: California signed a memorandum of understanding with Nigeria on sustainable urban transportation, green ports, low-carbon transportation fuels, climate adaptation, methane detection and abatement policies, greenhouse gas emissions and air quality, and academic exchange and university partnerships. The partnership will build upon our shared commitment to sustainable growth, accelerate the transition to zero-emission transportation, and expand opportunities for the next generation.
* Brazil: Governor Newsom signed a declaration of intention with the Brazilian federal government on innovation, as well as a partnership with the State of Para to strengthen cooperation on wildfire prevention and response -- enhancing forest monitoring, identifying areas most at risk, and sharing research and expertise to improve firefighting and emergency management. In September 2025, California announced a new partnership with Brazil to advance market-based carbon pricing programs, clean transportation expansion, including zero-emission vehicles and low-carbon fuels, and strengthen air quality management through enhanced monitoring and regulatory controls. The partnership also focuses on the conservation of 30% of lands and coastal waters by 2030, including nature-based solutions and biodiversity protection.
They build on a growing portfolio of international partnerships California has developed in recent years, including but not limited to:
* Noord-Holland (2024): California and Noord-Holland signed a Letter of Intent advancing next-generation air mobility--from drones to zero-emission aircraft. Joint innovation missions are producing pilot projects that inform California's Advanced Air Mobility Implementation Plan and readiness for major global events.
* Australia (2023): California signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Australia that helped inform the country's first-ever vehicle emissions standards through input from the California Air Resources Board. The California Public Utilities Commission and California ISO have also advised Australia on electricity market reform to better align incentives for renewable energy.
* British Columbia (2023): California and British Columbia signed a Memorandum of Understanding on mutual wildfire assistance that is delivering results. British Columbia sent incident management experts to support California's Palisades Fire in 2025, while CAL FIRE deployed personnel during B.C.'s 2025 fire season. These exchanges established a lasting framework for cross-border wildfire support.
* China (2023): California signed five Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with China's National Development and Reform Commission, the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu, and the municipalities of Beijing, and Shanghai to advance cooperation cutting greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning away from fossil fuels, and developing clean energy.
* Denmark (2021): California and Denmark signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on groundwater mapping, leak detection, and water efficiency has modernized California's data systems and informed key state programs, like the Airborne Electromagnetic Survey. Danish technologies and expertise have helped strengthen drought and water-supply resilience statewide.
* Mexico (Baja California & Sonora): California signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Mexican states of Baja California and Sonora advance zero-emission freight corridors, clean ports, and battery manufacturing -- strengthening North American supply chains and workforce readiness. Joint forums have already produced new research collaborations and training programs advancing clean-tech deployment.
California is filling the leadership void
While the Paris Agreement is an international agreement requiring federal action to formally join, California has long demonstrated that states can pursue Paris Agreement-aligned climate goals through domestic policy and subnational partnerships.
When President Trump first withdrew from the agreement in 2017, California responded by co-founding the U.S. Climate Alliance -- a coalition of states, now co-chaired by Governor Newsom, committed to meeting Paris targets regardless of federal participation, now representing 24 governors and 60% of the U.S. economy.
California has helped build the largest domestic and international network of subnational climate cooperation in the world.
International coalitions
* Under2 Coalition: Last year, California and Baden-Wurttemberg, co-founders of the Under2 Coalition, signed a joint statement celebrating ten years of partnership. The coalition now represents more than 270 governments committed to keeping global temperature rise under 2 degrees Celsius.
* Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance: In 2021, Governor Newsom announced that California joined the Beyond Oil & Gas Alliance (BOGA) launched at COP26, bringing together national and subnational governments committed to advancing a just transition away from oil and gas production. California is a member of this international alliance working to phase out oil and gas production and usher in a cleaner and greener future that safeguards our communities, environment, and the economy.
* Subnational Methane Action Coalition: Launched by California at COP28 in Dubai, the Coalition brings together subnational governments from around the world committed to aggressively cutting methane -- a climate super-pollutant that accounts for nearly 30% of current global warming and is roughly 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. Initial signatories span five continents and include California and Colorado (U.S.); Queretaro and Yucatan (Mexico); Gauteng (South Africa); Espirito Santo, Rio Grande do Sul, and Pernambuco (Brazil); Cross River State (Nigeria); Delhi (India); Baden-Wurttemberg (Germany); British Columbia (Canada); Santa Cruz (Bolivia); Andalusia (Spain); and Gyeonggi (South Korea).
Domestic coalitions
* U.S. Climate Alliance: Governor Newsom co-chairs the bipartisan coalition of 24 governors co-founded by California on June 1, 2017, in direct response to Trump's first Paris withdrawal.
* America Is All In: Governor Newsom co-chairs the broadest coalition ever assembled in support of climate action in the United States, including states, cities, tribal nations, businesses, and institutions.
California's climate leadership
Pollution is down and the economy is up. Greenhouse gas emissions in California are down 21% since 2000 -- even as the state's GDP increased 81% in that same time period, all while becoming the world's fourth largest economy.
California also continues to set clean energy records. In 2023, the state was powered by two-thirds clean energy, the largest economy in the world to achieve this level. California has also run on 100% clean electricity for part of the day almost every day last year.
Since the beginning of the Newsom Administration, battery storage has surged to nearly 17,000 megawatts -- a 2,100%+ increase, and over 30,000 megawatts of new resources have been added to the electric grid. California now has 33% of the storage capacity estimated to be needed by 2045 to reach 100% clean electricity.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/02/16/governor-newsom-launches-uk-climate-partnership-welcomes-nearly-1-billion-octopus-energy-clean-tech-commitment/
Attorney General Jackson Announces Judgment in North Carolina's First Discriminatory Towing Case; Clear Precedent Set
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Feb. 17 -- North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Attorney General Jackson Announces Judgment in North Carolina's First Discriminatory Towing Case; Clear Precedent Set
Attorney General Jeff Jackson today announced a judgment against David Jewel Satterfield and his Charlotte-based companies, A1 Towing Solutions and Automobile Recovery and Parking Enforcement, for allegations of racially targeting drivers, illegally booting and towing their vehicles, and price gouging.
This judgment, reached by the North
... Show Full Article
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Feb. 17 -- North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson issued the following news release on Feb. 16, 2026:
* * *
Attorney General Jackson Announces Judgment in North Carolina's First Discriminatory Towing Case; Clear Precedent Set
Attorney General Jeff Jackson today announced a judgment against David Jewel Satterfield and his Charlotte-based companies, A1 Towing Solutions and Automobile Recovery and Parking Enforcement, for allegations of racially targeting drivers, illegally booting and towing their vehicles, and price gouging.
This judgment, reached by the NorthCarolina Department of Justice's Consumer Protection Division and Civil Rights Unit, is North Carolina's first in a discriminatory towing case. It will create a powerful precedent going forward.
"We had evidence that the defendant broke price gouging laws and engaged in racially targeted towing" said Attorney General Jeff Jackson. "This judgment will force him to pay back the victims and it will set a clear precedent: If you run a towing company that breaks that law, we are going to take you to court, and we're going to stop you."
The Department of Justice sued Satterfield in 2020 for unlawfully booting and towing trucks that were delivering food, water, and other medical supplies during the pandemic, and then charging upwards of $4,000 for the release of these vehicles. In some cases, the truck driver presented Satterfield with a written parking permit or parked their truck before he installed signs giving notice that their vehicles would be towed, but the defendant still towed their truck and charged them excessively high fees to release it.
Based on information obtained from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, which maintains records of all tows within the county, the Department of Justice determined that Satterfield towed vehicles owned by African-Americans at an alarmingly high rate and almost exclusively operated in areas of Charlotte that have a majority African-American population. Further, some African American consumers alleged that Satterfield called them racial epithets and assaulted them when attempting to tow their vehicles. Today's judgment prohibits Satterfield from engaging in any business practice that discriminates on the basis of race or color.
As a result of the judgment, Satterfield, and any current or future towing companies he owns or manages, are prohibited from taking several actions. Drivers whose vehicles were unlawfully towed or who were required to pay excessive prices to get their vehicles back will receive restitution totaling a combined $30,000. In addition, the defendants:
* Cannot tow vehicles without first getting permission from the owner of the property that the vehicle is on.
* Cannot charge excessive amounts for towing.
* Cannot put boots on commercial vehicles - like the trucks used to deliver food and water during the pandemic.
* Cannot threaten vehicle owners/drivers.
* Cannot tow vehicles from private lots unless the lots are clearly marked with signs.
* Cannot hold onto commercial cargo obtained through a nonconsensual tow.
* Cannot charge separately for towing and impounding the separate parts of a tractor-trailer.
* Cannot boot a vehicle while the driver is in it without first informing the driver or giving the driver a chance to move the vehicle.
* Cannot charge DMV filing fees when no such fee is required.
* Cannot require consumers to schedule a time to pick up their vehicle and then charge them for a delay in the pickup caused by the defendant.
If Satterfield violates the terms of this judgment, he will be required to pay the state of North Carolina $110,000.
A copy of the consent judgment is available here.
***
Original text here: https://ncdoj.gov/attorney-general-jackson-announces-judgment-in-north-carolinas-first-discriminatory-towing-case-clear-precedent-set/
