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.
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.
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 workers in 18 states will get a pay hike next week when higher wage floors go into effect around the country for 2018.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has announced the government will ban single use plastic bags “as quickly as we can”.
SB 179 helps people of all gender identities be their authentic selves.
On Sunday, Governor Jerry Brown signed into law Senate Bill No. 258, otherwise known as the Cleaning Products Right to Know Act.
