Author Archive

Alex Brown

Finance

Facing natural disasters, more lawmakers look to make oil companies pay for the damage

The oil industry rejects the idea that as contributors to climate change, they are legally liable for disaster damages.

Management

In long-sought change, states must consider tribal rights when crafting water rules

A revision to the federal Clean Water Act could help protect resources tribal communities depend on like wild rice, sturgeon, salmon and shellfish.

Finance

Gas taxes can’t pay for roads much longer, but Amazon deliveries might

More states could follow Colorado and Minnesota in putting a fee on retail deliveries.

Infrastructure

One state is pioneering paying for roof upgrades as storms boost insurance costs

The approach aims to make Alabama a more attractive place to do business. At least five other states are trying to duplicate its roof program.

Management

As millions wait on food stamp approvals, feds tell states to speed it up

To adequately staff safety net programs, some states are boosting workforce funding, and others are investing in new computer systems to speed up claims processing. But food security advocates say recent backlogs are a symptom of long-term disinvestment.

Infrastructure

Federal money could supercharge state efforts to preserve nuclear power

A plant in Michigan might become the first in the nation to reopen after closing.

Management

No more prizes for killing ‘nuisance’ animals under these hunting contest bans

Such contests kill tens of thousands of coyotes, foxes, squirrels and other animals each year.

Infrastructure

Despite setbacks, states are still counting on offshore wind

Canceled projects threaten more than half the offshore wind capacity under contract with states.

Management

Western states look to these lands for new affordable housing

State-owned trust lands were created to support schools and other community benefits.

Infrastructure

Offshore Wind in the Midwest? Some Great Lakes Leaders Think So.

The lakes have massive energy potential, but harnessing it will be a big challenge.

Emerging Tech

States debate whether to restrict—or invite—crypto mining

Cryptocurrency mining is coming under fire as some officials raise concerns over its effect on climate goals. But others argue cryptocurrency's potential for economic development should not be overlooked.

Finance

'Green Banks,' Poised for Billions in Climate Funds, Draw States' Attention

These banks provide financing for projects from efficient appliances to solar panels.

Digital Government

These hyperlocal weather networks can help states face climate threats

Thirty-eight states are building weather monitoring networks to collect localized data that helps identify weather extremes, preparing local leaders' responses to such events.

Emerging Tech

E-bikes gain momentum as a climate, traffic solution

Electric bike adoption is rising as a cheaper, easier-to-implement alternative to electric vehicles in states like Colorado and Hawaii.

Management

States Take on PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ With Bans, Lawsuits

Rising awareness has prompted action in more than two dozen states.

Management

Public Health Agencies Lack Money to Combat Climate Threats

A study says climate change has worsened 58% of known infectious diseases.