N.J. governor signs law requiring paid employee sick leave
New Jersey becomes the 10th state to enact sick-leave legislation. Under the law, employers are required to provide one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked.
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.
South Australia to get world’s largest solar and wind powered hydrogen “superhub”
“The Superhub will enable Neoen to produce renewable hydrogen for overseas export markets, and create 300 construction and ongoing jobs for South Australia”
Washington becomes first state in the nation to pass net neutrality regulations in defiance of FCC
A bill that reinstates protections repealed by the Federal Communications Commission in December passed both houses of Washington state’s legislature Tuesday afternoon. It now heads to the governor’s desk to be signed.
Oregon lawmakers pass gun-control bill; first since Florida shooting
Fueled by anguished voices in the aftermath of the Florida high school shooting, Oregon's Legislature on Thursday banned people convicted of stalking and domestic violence or under restraining orders from buying or owning firearms and ammunition.
Families of those killed by police to get attorneys in King County inquests regardless of financial status
Legislation passed by the Metropolitan King County Council on Monday calls for the county’s Department of Public Defense to provide attorneys to families participating in inquests no matter their financial status.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.