Welcome to the latest edition of the DMGS Weekly State of the States, where we dive into the whirlwind of legislative activities sweeping across the nation. This week’s roundup highlights significant state-level actions, from Alabama’s new law targeting illegal squatting to Arizona’s repeal of an outdated 1864 abortion ban. Join us as we explore these and other developments and their implications for residents and policymakers alike.
Alabama
Governor Kay Ivey (R) signed a bill to combat illegal squatting. The legislation aims to protect property owners by providing them with legal tools to remove squatters from their property. The bill defines squatting as residing on someone else’s property without permission and establishes a process for property owners to remove squatters through court action. The law also criminalizes squatting in certain circumstances, such as when it involves causing damage to the property or refusing to leave after being ordered to do so by law enforcement.
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Arizona
Governor Katie Hobbs (D) signed a bill repealing a law from 1864 that banned abortion. The old law, which was not enforceable due to the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision, made it a felony to perform an abortion. The new legislation removes this outdated ban from the state’s criminal code.
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California
Governor Gavin Newsom (D) is sponsoring legislation in California to expand local governments’ responsibility in planning for the housing needs of people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. The proposed law would require local governments to assess their housing needs, including those of homeless individuals, and develop plans to address these needs. The goal is to ensure that localities have adequate housing options and support services for homeless populations.
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Colorado
Several bills are under consideration in the Colorado legislature. One bill proposes changes to property taxes, including potentially lowering the assessment rate for residential properties under the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR). Another bill aims to address affordable housing by allowing local governments to implement rent control measures. Another piece of legislation focuses on land use planning, specifically regarding wetlands.
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Connecticut
Connecticut’s legislative session has concluded, highlighting several key developments. The state budget includes modest increases in education funding and changes to the state’s education cost-sharing formula.
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Delaware
A bill is heading to the House floor that aims to protect fertility treatment providers from lawsuits regarding treatment outcomes, such as the birth of a child with a disability. Supporters say it clarifies legal uncertainties and prevents frivolous lawsuits, but opponents, including disability rights advocates, argue it could limit legal recourse for individuals harmed by fertility treatments.
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Florida
Governor Ron Desantis (R) announced over $1 billion in tax relief for Florida residents. This relief includes reductions in property taxes, flood insurance premiums, and homeowner insurance costs. The tax relief is part of a broader budget plan aimed at providing financial relief to Florida residents.
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Georgia
Governor Brian Kemp (R) signed election legislation, SB189. The bill introduces several changes to the state’s election laws, including adjustments to the absentee ballot process and modifications to early voting procedures. Proponents argue that the bill enhances election security and integrity, while critics claim it imposes unnecessary restrictions that could disenfranchise voters.
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Kansas
Severe storms in Kansas prompted Governor Laura Kelly (D) to declare a state of disaster emergency. The declaration allows state resources to be mobilized to assist local communities affected by the storms. The severe weather included tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail, resulting in significant property damage and power outages.
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Maine
Maine lawmakers concluded the 131st legislative session by passing funding bills for education, transportation, public safety, and various state agencies and programs, ensuring continuity of essential services.
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Maryland
Governor Wes Moore (D) is set to sign the “Maryland Kids Code Internet Safety Bill,” which is aimed at enhancing internet safety for children in Maryland.
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Mississippi
Legislation to legalize mobile sports betting has failed to pass, leaving mobile sports betting illegal in the state. The bill, which passed the Senate, did not advance out of a House committee before the end of the legislative session. Mississippi will continue to restrict sports betting to in-person wagers at licensed casinos, remaining out of step with states that have legalized mobile sports betting.
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Missouri
Governor Mike Parson (R) signed a $468 million education bill in Missouri, which includes provisions to increase teacher pay and expand charter schools. The bill aims to improve education quality and opportunities for students across the state.
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New Jersey
A hearing is planned for an amended bill in New Jersey that would restrict access to public records. S2930 includes provisions that could limit the public’s ability to obtain certain government records, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
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New York
With a month left in New York’s legislative session, lawmakers are facing a busy agenda. Key issues on the docket include social media regulation, wrongful death cases, and environmental measures. The outcome of these debates will shape the state’s policies and priorities for the coming years.
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Ohio
Governor Mike DeWine (R) announced $3.1 million in grants to support energy efficiency projects across Ohio. The grants are part of the state’s efforts to promote sustainability and reduce energy consumption. The funding will help organizations implement energy-efficient technologies and practices, ultimately leading to cost savings and environmental benefits.
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Pennsylvania
Governor Josh Shapiro (D) is expected to sign a bill that would ban the use of hand-held devices while driving. The legislation aims to reduce distracted driving and improve road safety. If passed, drivers would be required to use hands-free devices or pull over to a safe location to use their phones.
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South Carolina
The state Senate has transformed a wide-ranging energy bill into a resolution supporting a plan for the state to acquire more power. This resolution comes amid concerns about the state’s energy future and aims to address issues related to power generation and distribution in South Carolina.
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Vermont
Governor Phil Scott (R) signed a bill designating the “Chaga mushroom” as Vermont’s official state mushroom. This designation recognizes the cultural and ecological significance of the Chaga mushroom in Vermont.
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