Iowa once had twice as much forest as it does today. Back in 1906, lawmakers created the Forest Reserve Program to stop landowners from clearing poor soil land. The idea was simple: leave trees standing to prevent erosion, protect clean water, and support wildlife. Instead of paying taxes on low-val
The Idaho Legislature, led by Republicans, opened its session with a modest agenda. Yet, the state’s recent $453 million tax cut—four times larger than what Governor Brad Little claimed was affordable—had already strained finances. Lawmakers had options to cushion the blow: pause certain cuts, tap o
Idaho recently adjusted rules about using gadgets for hunting after a quick political detour. The state wrote new tech restrictions last year, banning drones, heat sensors, night vision, and live-streaming trail cameras during fall and early winter. These rules were meant to protect fair chase princ
Utah's lawmakers are cooking up some controversial ideas that could shake up the state's courts. They're thinking about letting the governor pick judges without going through the usual process. Right now, a panel of experts suggests names, and the governor picks from that list. But this new plan cou
Jim Harrison, a well-known figure in Vermont politics, has decided to step down from his role as a House representative. He's been in this position for over eight years, showing dedication to his community and state. Harrison, who represents part of Rutland County, is leaving due to personal and fam
Idaho's DOGE Task Force is making waves, and not in a good way. This group, inspired by Elon Musk's government efficiency department, is aiming to repeal Medicaid expansion in the state. If they succeed, it could lead to higher taxes, a weaker economy, and worse health outcomes for many Idahoans. T
The state of Colorado wrapped up its 2025 legislative session after 120 days of intense lawmaking. This session saw the passing of hundreds of bills, touching on some of the most contentious political topics around. Many of these bills are now waiting for Governor Jared Polis's final approval to bec
A political storm brewed over a portrait. The legislature's Executive Committee, a bipartisan group, decided to take action. They ordered the removal of President Donald Trump's portrait from the Capitol gallery. The decision was made after Trump himself criticized the artwork on social media. He ca
In Idaho, a significant decision was made regarding Medicaid funding. The state's budget committee, known as the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee, or JFAC, approved a budget for Medicaid that is close to what the governor proposed. This budget is crucial because Medicaid is Idaho's largest sta
Olena Nicks, a seasoned volunteer firefighter and financial analyst, has just been sworn in as a Nassau County legislator. She won her seat in a landslide victory. She is ready to tackle the issues that matter most to her constituents. She is not interested in playing politics. She is focused on
