Minimum wage increases for 18 U.S. states in 2018
Minimum wage workers in 18 states will get a pay hike next week when higher wage floors go into effect around the country for 2018.
States & provinces
This archive collects milestones and progress stories involving U.S. states, Canadian provinces, and subnational governments around the world. From landmark legislation to public health wins and environmental gains, these stories highlight the real-world impact of regional policy and governance.
Washington voters pass landmark gun safety law by wide margin
Initiative 1639 passed in Washington state on November 6, 2018, with nearly 60 percent of voters saying yes across seven of ten congressional districts. The measure raised the minimum age for semiautomatic rifle purchases to 21, added a waiting period, and required safe home storage. A reminder that ballot initiatives can move quickly on contested ground.
Nevada passes measure to expand background checks for gun sales
The Yes vote on Question 1, which would require in-person background checks for all guns sold among friends, online and at gun shows, was approved by a 50.45 percent to 49.55 percent margin.
Massachusetts passes Question 3, banning small cages for farm animals
Question 3, the Massachusetts ballot question that would have banned the sale of foods derived from animals raised in cruel conditions, has passed handily, setting new rules on the size of cages in which farmers can raise chickens, cows, and pigs.
Offshore wind power is taking off in the Northeastern United States
The first wave of six projects in the Northeast are expected to total more than 1,700 MW and cost nearly $9 billion in capital expenditures.
Australian state of Victoria to ban single use plastic bags
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has announced the government will ban single use plastic bags “as quickly as we can”.
California becomes first state to legally recognize a third gender
SB 179 helps people of all gender identities be their authentic selves.
California passes first cleaning product chemical disclosure law in U.S.
On Sunday, Governor Jerry Brown signed into law Senate Bill No. 258, otherwise known as the Cleaning Products Right to Know Act.
California DISCLOSE Act signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown to combat dark money
Today, Governor Jerry Brown signed into law the landmark California DISCLOSE Act (AB 249), the nation’s most comprehensive election disclosure law.
Oregon’s new motor voter law is registering more young people
Since registered voters skew older, Oregon’s automatic voter registration law is correcting the age bias and giving people of all ages access to the ballot.