Oregon has taken a bold stand against President Trump’s tariffs, joining a coalition of eleven other states in a lawsuit aimed at curtailing what many view as an overreach of executive power. Led by Attorney General Dan Rayfield, the lawsuit, formally titled *State of Oregon, et al, v. Trump, et al*, demands judicial scrutiny of
Politics
The Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) recently convened for its quarterly meeting, and while some commendable discussions were held, the overarching sentiments stemming from these dialogues suggest a pressing need for deeper introspection and bold action. Often, regulatory entities are perceived as monolithic bodies, seemingly impervious to the subtle yet clamorous demands of the evolving
Municipal bonds hold a revered place in the American financial landscape, a time-honored practice that provides essential funding for infrastructure and public services. Rooted in fiscal federalism, these bonds afford local and state governments a means to raise funds without directly draining their taxpayer base. Essentially, they tap into the capital of investors who, attracted
The political feud erupting between Oklahoma’s Republican state treasurer and attorney general highlights a grave issue of governance. The escalating tension, grounded in accusations and counter-accusations, underscores the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between the roles of state officials. Treasurer Todd Russ has accused Attorney General Gentner Drummond of “crossing constitutional lanes,” suggesting that
As we navigate the complexities of modern infrastructure, it’s abundantly clear that our traditional means of funding transportation—primarily through gas taxes—are failing to meet rising demands. Recent data reveals that two-thirds of U.S. states are actively pursuing alternative funding mechanisms for their transportation needs. The American Road and Transportation Builders Association has reported a significant
In a surprising turn of events, the Trump administration has seized control of the $7 billion renovation of Pennsylvania Station, ousting the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) from its leading role. This decision, announced by U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, marks a major shift in oversight and raises numerous concerns regarding the groundwork laid
We’ve all heard the phrase, “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch,” and it couldn’t be more fitting when discussing the so-called 90-day pause in U.S.-China trade relations. While the markets and political analysts might view this hiatus as a glimmer of hope, the reality is anything but optimistic. A staggering 145% tariff on steel,
In Ohio, a contentious budget provision has set the stage for an intense debate over the future of school funding and property taxes. The state legislature’s recent move to limit school districts’ carryover balances to 30% of their operating expenditures raises concerns that cannot be ignored. Critics, including representatives from educational organizations, are vocally opposing
The city of Houston, despite its vibrant growth and economic opportunities, finds itself entangled in a costly battle over infrastructure funding that exposes a looming financial crisis. Mayor John Whitmire’s recent announcement regarding an agreement to redirect at least $100 million in property tax revenue annually is a desperate attempt to mend the cracks in
The refusal of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide disaster recovery funding to states like Washington and North Carolina reveals much more than its bureaucratic inefficiency; it uncovers a systemic failure that endangers the very lives and livelihoods of citizens in crisis-ridden areas. Faced with catastrophic weather events, both states sought federal assistance,