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State Legislature

All articles tagged with #state legislature

politics2 days ago

Longtime New Jersey lawmaker Richard Codey dies at 79

Richard J. Codey, a liberal Democrat who spent 50 years in the New Jersey Legislature—the longest tenure in state history—and served as governor, died at 79 after a brief illness. A champion for vulnerable communities and mental health advocacy, Codey once went undercover at a psychiatric hospital and later experienced life as a homeless man to highlight issues. He retired in 2023 after a redistricting-related primary, leaving a legacy as one of New Jersey’s most influential and enduring public servants.

politics1 year ago

Montana Legislature Defeats Bathroom Ban for Transgender Lawmaker

Montana lawmakers narrowly voted against a proposed rule to ban transgender women from using women's restrooms in the state capitol, with the Joint Rules Committee's House members voting 10-12 against it. The proposal, backed by Republican Jerry Schillinger, was part of ongoing debates over transgender rights, particularly affecting Rep. Zooey Zephyr, Montana's first transgender woman legislator. The decision reflects a split among Republicans, with some viewing the ban as protective and others as a distraction, while Democrats unanimously opposed it.

politics1 year ago

California Launches Special Session to Fortify State Against Trump Policies

California lawmakers are convening a special session to establish a legal fund aimed at challenging the Trump administration through anticipated lawsuits. This session, initiated by Governor Gavin Newsom, coincides with the swearing-in of new state legislature members, marking the beginning of expected prolonged legal conflicts with the federal government.

film-industry1 year ago

Louisiana Targets Digital Services with New Tax Proposals

The Louisiana House of Representatives has voted to eliminate the state's $150 million film and TV production tax credit as part of a broader effort to reduce state income taxes. The bill, which passed with an 87-12 vote, aims to sunset the film incentive by June 30, pending Senate and gubernatorial approval. This move is part of Governor Jeff Landry's initiative to reduce personal and corporate income taxes and eliminate various exemptions. The decision has sparked debate, with proponents arguing it will create tax equity, while opponents warn it could drive film jobs out of the state.

politics1 year ago

Illinois Legislature Approves $53.1B Budget, Awaits Governor's Signature

The Illinois state legislature has passed a $53.1 billion budget, which now awaits Governor JB Pritzker's signature. The budget includes the elimination of the 1% grocery tax, a new child tax credit, increased funding for K-12 education, and funds for migrant services. Republicans criticize the budget as a burden on taxpayers, while Democrats praise it as a step forward. The budget does not include funding for a new stadium for the Chicago Bears.

politics1 year ago

"Arizona Republicans Persist in Blocking Abortion Ban Repeal Efforts"

House Republicans in Arizona blocked an effort to repeal the state's 1864 law banning abortion, despite pressure from prominent Republicans, including former President Donald J. Trump. The law, which allows only an exception to save the life of the mother, was upheld by the Arizona Supreme Court, sparking a political firestorm. Democrats were optimistic about securing enough Republican support for the repeal bill, but the vote was prevented on procedural grounds, leading to a chaotic morning of maneuvering on the House floor.

politics1 year ago

"Arizona Democrat's Perspective on Repealing 1864 Abortion Ban"

Democratic congressman Ruben Gallego believes that repealing Arizona's 1864 near-total abortion ban would have little effect due to the damage already done and the potential for future legislative overturn. He advocates for codifying abortion rights in the state's constitution through a public referendum as the best countermeasure. The recent ruling by Arizona's state supreme court has sparked political maneuvering, with Gallego and Republican candidate Kari Lake positioning themselves on opposite sides of the issue as they vie for the US Senate seat in November. Gallego's campaign is working to collect signatures for a referendum to enshrine abortion rights in the state's constitution, while Lake has distanced herself from the 1864 ban after previously expressing support for it.

politics1 year ago

"Arizona Republicans Face Backlash Over Abortion Ban Repeal Efforts"

Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake, who previously supported the state's 1864 near-total abortion ban, is now lobbying state lawmakers to repeal it following a recent state Supreme Court ruling upholding the ban. Despite her prior endorsement of the law, Lake has distanced herself from it and is among Arizona Republicans seeking its repeal. Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs has also urged the Legislature to repeal the ban, but a special session is deemed unproductive due to insufficient support. With slim Republican majorities in both chambers, the fate of the ban remains uncertain as the state evaluates the court's decision.