The MTA has revised its proposed fare increases for January, reducing some hikes like the seven-day cap and extending ticket usability, after receiving significant public feedback, while maintaining other increases such as the single ride fare and canceling a proposed Metro-North service increase.
The U.S. Department of the Interior is requiring the National Park Service to post signs at all sites encouraging visitors to provide feedback on content they feel portrays American history negatively, in response to an executive order aimed at emphasizing American achievements and reducing negative portrayals. The initiative includes reviewing and possibly modifying existing content to focus on positive aspects of American history and landscapes, sparking concerns about the potential rewriting of history.
After facing widespread criticism, the state of Kansas has offered five new license plate designs for public voting. The original design, resembling old New York plates with a University of Missouri color scheme, was quickly withdrawn by Governor Laura Kelly due to public outcry. The new designs prioritize clear and simple tags for easy identification, incorporating feedback on colors and images. Residents can vote for their favorite design on a government website until Friday, with the winner announced on December 18. The distribution of the new plates will be delayed, but the state will not incur additional costs for the extra designs or the voting website.
The United Nations Office in Geneva is hosting a session called "You Have the Floor" to allow the public to provide feedback on human rights issues, in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The State Emblems Redesign Commission in Minnesota has voted to adopt a new state seal design featuring a loon taking flight from a Minnesota lake. The design also includes representations of wild rice, forests, and a star. Some modifications may still be made, but the core design has received commission backing. Public comments on the seal design were largely positive, although there is ongoing debate about adding the state's motto and founding year. The commission is also considering new flag designs, with a deadline to select a winner by the end of the year.
The State Emblems Redesign Commission in Minnesota has unveiled the finalists for the state flag and seal designs after narrowing down over 2,600 submissions from the public. The flag finalists all incorporate a star and shades of blue, representing the state's motto and its numerous lakes. The seal finalists feature the North Star, with the design featuring a loon receiving the most votes. Minnesotans will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the designs before a final decision is made.