Massachusetts
As states hunt for new voters, Massachusetts adds thousands via Medicaid applications
Any eligible voter in the state who applies for Medicaid is automatically added to the rolls, unless they opt out. Other states are exploring similar systems, which experts say could be more effective in increasing voter rolls.
Amid Economic Uncertainty, State Tax Revenues Decline
If there’s good news in April's numbers, though, it might be that most states were already planning for softer revenue growth in fiscal 2024 and many have robust rainy day funds to weather a potential downturn. Plus, more news to use from around the country in this week's State and Local Roundup.
With New Power in 4 States, Democrats Prepare to Push for Previously Blocked Priorities
After key midterm wins, the party will gain additional “trifectas” in 2023, holding both legislative chambers and the governor’s office. The change will unlock new policymaking possibilities.
How One State is Curbing Growth in Health Care Costs
Massachusetts is known for high medical expenses. But a unique initiative there is helping to dramatically slow increases and has other states taking notice. Here’s how it works.
Voters in One State Approve a Tax on Millionaires
And in another they eliminated tax breaks for higher earners. But national trends with ballot initiatives to tax the wealthy are mixed overall this year and hard to interpret.
The Battle Over a 'Millionaires Tax' Heats Up in Massachusetts
Voters will decide this November on a measure that would impose the tax on income over $1 million. Supporters say it would raise needed revenue for roads, transit and schools, while opponents argue it will revive the state's reputation as “Taxachusetts.”
They Call It ‘Tranq’—and It’s Making Street Drugs Even More Dangerous
Xylazine, an animal tranquilizer, is increasingly being found in drug samples.
Got Rats? These Cities Have Taken to Zapping Them
One Northeast city’s success killing 1,000 rodents in less than a year with traps that rely on electric current is leading its neighbors to test the same technology.
State Attorneys General Open Investigation Into TikTok
The bipartisan group of state officials wants to know if the social media platform with more than 1 billion users could be harmful to children and young adults.
One City's Aggressive Move to Restrict Tobacco Sales
Brookline, Massachusetts banned the sale of cigarettes and related products to those born after Jan. 1, 2000. Will the restriction catch on in other places?
The Difficult Push to Build More Housing Near Transit
Some states and cities are adopting policies to promote dense development near bus and rail lines. But it can be a hard sell politically and sometimes has unintended consequences.
The Best and Worst States for Health Care
Massachusetts ranks as the best state for health care while Alabama ranks as the worst, according to a report.
Featured eBooks
