Kentucky

How do you vote amid the hurricane damage? States are learning as they go.

North Carolina’s Board of Elections has made it easier for for residents in counties affected by Hurricane Helene to vote by maiI. In Florida, a federal judge declined to extend the voter registration deadline.

Eight states to vote on amendments to ban noncitizen voting

It is already illegal under state laws and rare, but Republicans in some states say the language needs to be clearer in their constitutions.

Trees aren't just pretty to look at. They're also good for yew.

More U.S. cities are planting trees as a way to improve public health and reduce climate threats. New data shows they might be on the right track.

The rural Americans too poor for federal flood protections

A data-driven disaster tool shows “bias” against rural communities.

Beyond the books: Teens check out mental health resources at libraries

In Hartford, Kentucky, the public library invites teens to weekly sessions to foster positive thinking amid a growing youth mental health crisis.

What to watch for in Tuesday’s high-stakes elections

Abortion rights are playing a pivotal role in elections in Ohio, Kentucky and Virginia. Plus, more news to use from around the country in this week's State and Local Roundup.

As Kentucky’s Largest Coal Producer Mines Bitcoin, Its Power Discounts Draw Scrutiny

State utility regulator launches investigations into cryptocurrency industry’s impacts.

Five Takeaways from Tuesday’s Elections

Women make history, Republicans lose ground and crime concerns take center stage. Here's what you might've missed in the dozens of city and statewide races Tuesday night.

Kentucky Becomes Second Conservative State to Reject Anti-abortion Amendment This Year

Following this summer’s vote in Kansas, the race could strengthen an argument that abortion restrictions are a losing issue, even in conservative states.

Ford to Invest Billions in Electric Vehicle Production in Two States

One governor is describing a planned facility as the largest economic development project his state has ever seen.

Four-State Economic Renewal Plan Gets Fresh Attention

Local officials and others launched discussions this week about a broad revitalization proposal for Appalachia. Talks come as federal legislation could unlock money to help make it feasible.

Supply of Antibody Drugs Could Drop in Some States as Feds Take Over Distribution

The Biden administration announced the new policy after a handful of states, most of them with low vaccination rates, accounted for nearly three-fourths of orders for the Covid-19 monoclonal antibody treatment.

Cities, States Providing Legal Aid to Stave off Post-Covid Evictions

Louisville, Kentucky became the latest city to pass a right to counsel law that will guarantee legal representation for low-income renters. At least 11 states are considering similar measures.

Cash for Jabs? Officials Look to Cash Perks to Boost Vaccine Uptake

West Virginia's governor announced a $100 incentive program this week. In Detroit, people can get a $50 debit card for driving someone to a vaccination site.

The States that Make it Most Difficult to Vote

A report by the Center for Election Innovation and Research compares which states allow voters to cast absentee ballots by mail without an excuse and offer early in-person voting.

This Time, Lawmakers Want Control Over Covid-19 Aid

In Kentucky and at least three other states, lawmakers are trying to gain control over funds allocated under the latest federal Covid-19 relief package.

States Consider 'Do-Over Years' for Students Affected by the Pandemic

Some policies allow students an extra year to participate in both academics and athletics, other measures focus entirely on sports.

How the Pandemic Economy Could Wipe Out a Generation of Black-Owned Businesses

Danette Wilder spent years building up her company. Now it has to survive an existential threat to Black entrepreneurs.

‘Vaccine Tourism’ Leads to Tighter Eligibility Checks

States’ rollout of the coronavirus vaccine has been uneven, and left some people searching for appointments across state lines. Health officials say it’s a problem given scarce resources.