Illinois governor clears thousands of marijuana convictions
Illinois’ governor granted more than 11,000 pardons for low-level marijuana convictions, describing the step as a first wave of thousands of such expungements.
United States
This archive collects solutions-journalism stories and milestones from the United States — covering policy wins, community-led efforts, scientific advances, and social progress happening across the country. Each entry highlights what’s working and why it matters.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy restores voting rights for 80,000 on probation or parole
“I am proud to sign one of the most progressive expungement laws in the nation, which will allow more New Jerseyans the opportunity to fully engage in our society,” Murphy said.
Hawaii’s state bird, the nene, is no longer an endangered species
Thanks to recovery efforts—including native captive breeding, rigorous habitat restoration and active management strategies—population numbers rose from 30 in 1960 to about 2,800 today.
Sprint to go 100% carbon neutral and 100% renewable electricity by 2025
The company has committed to source 100% renewable electricity across the company’s entire operations — all retail stores, offices, call centers, and network sites.
Goldman Sachs will end funding for Arctic drilling
The multinational investment bank has updated their energy policy for the first time since 2015, stating that they will end financing for new drilling or exploration in the Arctic.
The state of New York sees first drop in opioid deaths since 2009
After years of rising opioid-related overdoses deaths among state residents, 2018 finally saw a drop, from 2,170 deaths in 2017, to 1,824 deaths – a 15.9 percent decrease.
Kansas City becomes first major American city with universal fare-free public transit
Free bus service, which is expected to cost about $8 million, has been pitched as a major help to low-income residents who rely on transit to commute to work.
United States enacts animal cruelty bill into law, making it a federal felony
Animal cruelty has officially become a federal felony after President Donald Trump signed the bipartisan bill, Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act, into law.
Researchers create AI system that predicts epileptic seizures with 99.6% accuracy
The system will give people suffering from epilepsy warning that a seizure is imminent, enabling them to take medication—or alert a friend, relative or medical professional.
Kansas City bans gay conversion therapy
The city council on Thursday approved an ordinance banning the therapy, which tries to change a gay or transgender person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.