As states continue to address pressing issues, legislatures have made significant strides this week on a variety of topics. From Alabama’s renewed efforts to regulate library content to California’s push for undocumented immigrant homeownership, state lawmakers are tackling both controversial and essential matters. Significant actions include Alaska’s focus on veteran support, mental health funding initiatives in Arkansas, and new broadband expansion projects in Mississippi. Meanwhile, debates continue over housing, tax relief, and educational policies in several other states. This week’s updates reflect the ongoing dynamic of state-level governance, highlighting both regional priorities and broader national trends.

Alabama

An Alabama lawmaker has reintroduced a bill that would criminalize librarians for providing access to books deemed inappropriate for minors. The bill is part of ongoing debates over content in libraries, particularly books related to LGBTQ+ themes and other sensitive topics. 

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Alaska

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy (R) signed three new bills into law at the Alaska State Fair, including measures to support veterans, promote food security, and strengthen energy infrastructure in the state. 

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Arkansas

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) and the Department of Human Services announced a $15 million initiative to support Arkansans struggling with substance use disorders, mental illness, and intellectual disabilities. The funding will go towards expanding access to treatment and resources, aiming to improve health outcomes for affected individuals across the state.

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California 

The California Senate passed a bill that allows undocumented immigrants to obtain home buying loans.  If signed into law, it would enable a significant portion of California’s population to pursue homeownership.

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Colorado

A bill in the Colorado Legislature that aimed to increase taxes on second homeowners failed to pass during the special session. The proposed legislation sought to address housing affordability by imposing higher taxes on properties not used as primary residences. Despite support from some lawmakers, the bill did not garner enough votes to advance, ending efforts to put the measure on the ballot.

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Connecticut 

Connecticut Republicans are calling for a special legislative session to address rising electricity bills and to scrutinize the state’s regulatory agency overseeing utilities. They argue that recent rate hikes are burdening residents and want to explore options to reduce costs and improve regulatory oversight. 

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Delaware 

Governor John Carney (D) signed several bills aimed at enhancing public safety across the state. The legislation focuses on a range of issues, including improving gun safety, expanding resources for mental health crises, and strengthening protections against domestic violence. 

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Georgia 

Governor Brian Kemp (R) announced the appointment of 26 individuals to various state boards, commissions, and authorities. These appointments include positions in areas such as education, public health, and economic development. 

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Idaho

Governor Brad Little (R) signed an executive order that restricts transgender athletes from participating in sports that align with their gender identity.

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Illinois

Governor JB Pritzker (D) announced $1.5 million in grants through the Job Training and Economic Development (JTED) Teacher Apprenticeship Program to three Illinois universities. This initiative aims to help paraprofessional educators overcome employment barriers and transition into teaching roles. The program supports under-employed individuals, particularly those reflective of the student population, by offering paid apprenticeship opportunities. 

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Louisiana

Governor Jeff Landry (R) issued an executive order prohibiting the teaching of Critical Race Theory (CRT) in K-12 public schools. The order instructs the state Department of Education to review and eliminate any policies endorsing concepts related to inherent racism, sexism, or oppression based on race or sex. 

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Maine

Maine lawmakers are set to discuss revising the rules surrounding “vague placeholder bills,” which are bills introduced with minimal detail and later filled in with specific language. These placeholder bills have raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the legislative process. 

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Massachusetts 

A long-term care bill is expected to be sent to Governor Maura Healey’s (D) desk. The legislation, once approved, will bring significant changes to the state’s long-term care system, likely impacting services, funding, and regulations for elderly and disabled residents who require extended care. 

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Mississippi 

Governor Tate Reeves (R) announced the approval of new broadband expansion projects totaling $21.6 million. These projects are aimed at improving internet access across the state, particularly in underserved rural areas.

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Missouri 

Five new laws in Missouri took effect on Wednesday, covering a range of issues. These include changes to gun regulations, new penalties for catalytic converter thefts, updates to vehicle license plate requirements, adjustments to tax rules, and revisions to health care-related laws. These laws are part of ongoing efforts by the state to address public safety, crime prevention, and administrative updates.

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Nevada 

Nevada lawmakers are considering updates to wildfire risk disclosure requirements and worker heat protection rules. The proposed changes would require better communication about wildfire risks to property buyers and strengthen regulations to protect workers from extreme heat, particularly in outdoor settings.

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New Jersey 

Governor Phil Murphy (D) signed Executive Order No. 366, ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff from August 27 to August 28 to honor the life of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr., who passed away on August 21, 2024. 

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New York 

On Women’s Equality Day, New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D) signed legislation to expand women’s health resources across the state. The new laws aim to improve access to reproductive healthcare, strengthen protections for patients and providers, and address maternal health disparities

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Ohio 

Ohio lawmakers have introduced new bills aimed at providing property tax relief for homeowners and renters. The proposed legislation seeks to reduce the financial burden on Ohio residents by offering tax credits and other forms of relief.

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Oregon 

An Oregon lawmaker has introduced a proposal for the 2025 legislative session that would exempt tips from state income taxes. The measure aims to provide financial relief for service industry workers by ensuring that their tips are not taxed as income. If passed, Oregon would join several other states that already have similar tax exemptions in place.

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Pennsylvania 

State Senator Gene Yaw (R)  soon plans to introduce a bill to establish a loan fund for power plant construction, including nuclear and natural gas facilities. 

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Rhode Island 

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee (D)  is set to sign new housing bills on August 29, 2024, aimed at addressing the state’s housing crisis. These bills are designed to increase affordable housing options and streamline processes for housing development.

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Tennessee

Tennessee lawmakers are considering a ban on cellphones during class time. Many schools across several states have already implemented similar bans, recognizing the potential for cellphones to disrupt the learning environment.

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