#LocalGovernments

[usnewsper-politics]

Homeless Crisis in Blue States: Urgent Action Needed for Affordable Housing and Support Services #affordablehousing #bluestates #COVID19pandemic #fundingforaffordablehousingprograms #homelesscrisis #localgovernments #losangeles #migrants #newshelters #publichealthemergency #risingrents #SanFrancisco #Seattle #socialservices #stagnantwages #supportservices #underlyingcausesofhomelessness

[nbmsports]

These are America’s 10 best states to live and work in

Good help is hard to find. In fact, these days almost any help is hard to find."You're seeing a confluence of factors that make this a unique point in history," said Josh Wright, an executive vice president at labor market data firm Lightcast.Older workers are retiring with fewer younger people in the population to replace them. The U.S. has roughly twice as many job openings as there are workers to fill them. And because this is as much a demographic phenomenon as an economic one, Wright said workers shortages are now here to stay."I think it's only going to become worse over time in certain regions," he said.But an increasing number of states see this as an opening. They are pitching their quality of life as a reason companies should locate there."(A) quality of life that inspires people to build their business, families and lives here," one state economic development website promises."Meet our people. See our work ethic. Experience our good life," says another.But only a handful of states are truly delivering on their promises.Life, Health and Inclusion is among the ten categories of competitiveness in CNBC's annual America's Top States for Business study, and under this year's methodology, it is increasingly important in a state's overall ranking.We use hard data to measure factors including crime, environmental quality, health care and childcare in every state. We consider anti-discrimination laws and worker protections. And with surveys showing a significant percentage of women factoring reproductive rights into where they are willing to live, state abortion laws are a new metric in 2023.The study shows that some states are falling short — America's Worst States to Live and Work in. But these ten states are America's best places to live and work in 2023.

10. Connecticut

A runner crosses a bridge amidst autumn colors in the woods.Colin Keaveney | Cavan | Getty ImagesConnecticut residents enjoy some of the best health care in the nation, and it shows. Frequent physical distress is among the lowest of any state, according to the United Health Foundation. Access to care is among the best anywhere, with one primary care physician for every three residents. Crime is low, and worker protections are robust.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion score: 233 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: B)Strengths: Health Care, Low Crime, Worker ProtectionsWeaknesses: Air Quality, Voting Rights

8. (tie) Massachusetts

Huntstock | Disabilityimages | Getty ImagesThe Bay State is another health-care powerhouse, with the nation's lowest percentage of people without health insurance. It is a legacy of Romneycare — the health-care reform signed into law by then-Governor Mitt Romney in 2006, which became a template for the Affordable Care Act. Worker protections are robust in Massachusetts, and so are reproductive rights.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 240 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: B)Strengths: Health Care, Worker Protection, Reproductive RightsWeaknesses: Air Quality, Childcare

8. (tie) Colorado

A family of bikers, riding on bicycles in Crested Butte, Colorado.Michaelsvoboda | E+ | Getty ImagesChildcare is abundant in the Centennial State, with 55 licensed facilities for every 100,000 residents, according to the advocacy group Child Care Aware. That is the fourth-best in the nation. Colorado is positioning itself as a haven for reproductive rights and gender-affirming care, with a set of laws signed by Gov. Jared Polis in April.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 240 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: B)Strengths: Childcare, Inclusiveness, Voting RightsWeaknesses: Air Quality, Crime

7. Washington

People march in the middle of Broadway during the "Fight Starbucks' Union Busting" rally and march in Seattle, Washington on April 23, 2022.Jason Redmond | Afp | Getty ImagesThe Evergreen State has the most worker-friendly wage policies in the nation, according to Oxfam America, which measures wages relative to the cost of living. Protections against discrimination in Washington are among the strongest of any state, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 242 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: B)Strengths: Worker Protections, Inclusiveness, Reproductive RightsWeaknesses: Crime, Childcare

6. Oregon

Mount Hood is seen in the background as a sign reads "Resist Gilead," a reference to The Handmaid's Tale, during a protest by abortion rights activists after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Roe Vs. Wade, overturning abortion rights, in Portland, Oregon, June 24, 2022.John Rudoff | AFP | Getty ImagesNo state protects its workers the way the Beaver State does. Oxfam points to laws giving workers' broad rights to organize. Reproductive rights protections are among the nation's strongest as well. In 2000, Oregon became the first state to require all elections to be conducted by mail, making voting easy and secure.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 248 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: B+)Strengths: Worker Protections, Reproductive Rights, Voting RightsWeaknesses: Crime, Childcare, Health Care

5. Hawaii

Colin Anderson Productions Pty Ltd | Digitalvision | Getty ImagesWho wouldn't want to live in Hawaii? The air is pure, according to American Lung Association data, health care is plentiful, and crime is generally low. And it's Hawaii! But once you have gotten used to living in paradise, you will find that childcare options are limited. And reproductive rights and voting rights, while protected, could be better.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 263 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: B+)Strengths: Air Quality, Health Care, Low crimeWeaknesses: Reproductive Rights, Voting Rights, Childcare

4. Minnesota

Woman and her dog Skijoring.Jmichl | Istock | Getty ImagesPeople in the North Star State pride themselves on being "Minnesota Nice." It's more than just a feeling. The Minnesota numbers back them up. The home of the famed Mayo Clinic is fourth in the nation for access to health care, according to the United Health Foundation. In 2023, the state codified reproductive rights and expanded voting rights.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 269 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: B+)Strengths: Health Care, Reproductive Rights, Voting RightsWeakness: Crime

3. New Jersey

The Ocean City Police Department leads the 111th Annual Ocean City Baby Parade in Ocean City, New Jersey.Donald Kravitz | Getty ImagesIt's no joke. The Garden State is one of America's most inclusive, with broad protections against discrimination, and among the nation's strongest guarantees of reproductive freedom. New Jersey is one of America's safest states, according to FBI crime data. Its violent crime rate is among the lowest in the nation.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 282 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: A-)Strengths: Reproductive Rights, Inclusiveness, Low Crime RateWeakness: Air Quality

2. Maine

Mother and daughter running on the beach at sunset. Mom is in her forties, and girl is 6 years old. Both are wearing wetsuits. Horizontal full length outdoors shot with copy space.Martinedoucet | E+ | Getty ImagesThe Pine Tree State's serene reputation is well-deserved. The crime rate is the lowest in the country. Childcare and health care are both readily available. Maine is also a welcoming state, with broad protections against discrimination.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 288 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: A-)Strengths: Low Crime Rate, Childcare, Healthcare, InclusivenessWeakness: Air Quality

1. Vermont

Mike Brinson | The Image Bank | Getty ImagesBy the numbers, living in the Green Mountain State is stress-free, easy and healthy. Vermont offers America's best air quality with zero high ozone days per year, and the nation's most accessible childcare. Vermonters enjoy broad protections against discrimination, and it is one of the nation's easiest states to vote in. Life in Vermont is good.2023 Life, Health and Inclusion Score: 327 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: A+)Strengths: Air Quality, Health Care, Childcare, Voting RightsWeaknesses: Worker Protections (strong, but not as strong as the rest) Source link Read the full article

[thxnews]

UCLG Africa to Play Key Role at MEDCOP Conference, Tangiers: Promoting Climate Action

  RABAT, Morocco, June 20, 2023/APO Group/ -- The MEDCOP Conference, also known as the "Mediterranean Sustainable Development Cooperation Conference," will take place in Tangiers on June 22 and 23, 2023. As a major gathering of climate-focused actors from the Mediterranean region, the conference aims to discuss challenges and solutions in sustainable development. UCLG Africa, an organization committed to promoting climate resilience and equitable participation, will be actively involved in the conference.  

UCLG Africa's Mission for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development

At the Heart of UCLG Africa's Vision UCLG Africa is dedicated to addressing climate change challenges by promoting resilience and integrating social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. The organization actively participates in international initiatives to promote climate justice and plays a crucial role in advocating ambitious climate policies and solutions at the local government level in Africa.   Strategic Meeting for Climate Action Prior to the conference, on June 21, UCLG Africa will convene its Climate Task Force meeting. The strategic gathering will bring together representatives from the European Union, UCLG World, the African Development Bank (AfDB), the West African Development Bank (BOAD), and other key stakeholders. The objective is to create a roadmap that strengthens climate action at the local and regional levels, identifying concrete measures and promoting collaboration among key actors.  

Concrete Measures and Collaboration for Sustainable Development

The signing of Agreements and Conventions During the official opening ceremony of the MEDCOP Conference, significant agreements and conventions will be signed. One of these agreements, in particular, will focus on the decarbonization of industrial areas in the Tangiers-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Region. UCLG Africa, along with the Moroccan Ministries of Energy and Interior, Moroccan employers, the region of Tangiers-Tetouan-Al Hoceima, and the Mediterranean House of Climate, will collaborate to support the transition to low-carbon industrial zones in Morocco.   Cooperation Agreements for Integration of Climate Action UCLG Africa will also enter into cooperation agreements with key partners, including ministries, regions, and civil society coalitions. These agreements will enhance collaboration and promote the integration of climate action at the territorial level, ensuring a comprehensive approach to sustainable development.   Gender and Climate Justice UCLG Africa recognizes the importance of gender equality as a catalyst for climate resilience. A special session of the MEDCOP on June 23 will focus on integrating a gender and climate approach in the implementation of the Paris Agreement. Renowned speakers, including representatives from various organizations and government officials, will discuss the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, especially women. UCLG Africa aims to highlight the significance of gender-responsive policies and empower women as agents of change.  

UCLG Africa's Active Participation and Expertise

Engagement in Key Sessions and Roundtables Throughout the MEDCOP Conference, UCLG Africa will actively participate in various sessions and roundtables. The topics covered will include the Blue Economy, emphasizing sustainability in the maritime and coastal sectors. UCLG Africa will also share its expertise in innovative financing mechanisms and access to financial resources, supporting local climate initiatives at the subnational government level.   Building a Sustainable and Resilient Future UCLG Africa's presence and engagement at the MEDCOP Conference underscore its central role in promoting climate action at the local and regional levels. The organization's commitment to gender equality and climate justice further demonstrates its dedication to a sustainable and resilient future for African local and regional governments. By collaborating closely with stakeholders and sharing expertise, UCLG Africa actively contributes to building a more sustainable world.   Program of UCLG Africa's Participation in MEDCOP 2023 Here is the program of key events in which UCLG Africa will actively participate: - June 21: Meeting of the Climate Task Force - Hotel Hilton Tanger Al Houara - June 22: Official opening of the MedCop and signing of agreements - Hotel Hilton Tanger Al Houara, Kasbah room - June 22: Session on the Blue Economy - Hotel Hilton Tanger Al Houara, Chefchaouen room - June 23: Session on "Empowering Women to Overcome Climate-Enhanced Threats and Vulnerabilities" - Hotel Hilton Tanger Al Houara, Medina room - June 23: Roundtable on "Access to financial resources to support local climate initiatives at the local government level" - Hotel Hilton Tanger Al Houara - June 23: Migration: Impact and Opportunities - Hotel Hilton Tanger Al Houara, Medina room - June 23: Press briefing (exact time to be confirmed) - Hotel Hilton Tanger Al Houara  

Contact Information

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact: Wafae Boumaaz Phone: +212 660128943 E-mail: wboumaaz@uclga.org  

About United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa)

UCLG Africa, founded in 2005, is the umbrella organization of local and regional governments in Africa. It represents 51 national associations of local and regional governments and over 2,000 cities and territories with more than 100,000 inhabitants. UCLG Africa aims to promote sustainable policies, strengthen local capacities, and facilitate access to climate finance. Headquartered in Rabat, Morocco, UCLG Africa has regional offices in Cairo, Accra, Libreville, Nairobi, and Pretoria. It is the regional chapter of UCLG for Africa and holds diplomatic status as an International Pan-African Organization.  

About the UCLG Africa Climate Task Force

The UCLG Africa Climate Task Force serves as a coordination and collaboration mechanism for climate-related initiatives in Africa. Comprising representatives from UCLG Africa, partner organizations, climate experts, and local governments, the Task Force focuses on strengthening climate action, integrating policies, and facilitating access to climate finance. It organizes regular meetings, workshops, and trainings to exchange knowledge and share experiences, contributing to the resilience of local governments and sustainable development in Africa.   Sources: THX News & United Cities and Local Governments of Africa. Read the full article

[chantalvdreijden]

I think this is what Holland thought of our current goverment, when they voted today... #opinion #mening #voting #localgovernment #politiek #verkiezingen #gnome #gnomes #dwarf #kabouter #blackandwhite #blacknwhite #bnw #bw #bws #noir #zwartwit #monochrome #lovephotography #photographer #photography #fotografie #fotograferen https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp0vI7cDkRQ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[metropolitanglobal]

Maximizing Impact: How the Citizens Jury Forum Enhances Community Decision-Making

Maximizing Impact: How the Citizens Jury Forum Enhances Community Decision-Making in Washington, DC

In the heart of Washington, DC, a unique initiative known as the Citizens Jury Forum is making waves in how communities address and solve local issues. This innovative approach is transforming traditional decision-making processes by involving everyday citizens in a more structured and impactful way.

The Citizens Jury Forum brings together a diverse group of community members who are selected to deliberate on important issues facing their city. These juries are not like the typical legal juries we're used to; instead, they are designed to provide a voice to the community in a structured, democratic manner. The goal is to ensure that decision-making reflects the will of the people, rather than being dictated solely by elected officials or special interest groups.

One of the most significant recent successes of the Citizens Jury Forum in Washington, DC, was its involvement in discussions about affordable housing. With the city grappling with rising housing costs and a growing disparity between income levels and housing affordability, the forum provided a platform for residents to voice their concerns and propose viable solutions. The jurors engaged in comprehensive discussions, reviewed data, and listened to experts before coming to a consensus on recommendations for the city council.

The impact of these forums is noteworthy. By integrating a diverse array of perspectives, the Citizens Jury Forum helps to bridge gaps between policymakers and the public. This inclusive approach not only fosters greater trust in the decision-making process but also ensures that policies are more reflective of the community’s needs and values. For Washington, DC, a city known for its political complexity and diverse population, this method has proven to be a vital tool in creating more equitable and effective solutions.

Furthermore, the forum has addressed various other issues, including environmental sustainability and public safety. In each case, the structured yet open format of the forum has allowed for thorough exploration of the issues, resulting in well-rounded and actionable recommendations.

As Washington, DC continues to face challenges related to growth and development, the Citizens Jury Forum stands out as a model for other cities looking to enhance their community decision-making processes. By emphasizing the value of citizen input and collaboration, this forum is setting a precedent for more participatory governance.

For more information about the Citizens Jury Forum and how it is making a difference in Washington, DC, visit Metropolitan Global.

[inexable]

Two Sides of Prop 36: Where Do You Stand?

California's political landscape is heating up over the tough-on-crime Proposition 36. On one side, Capitol heavyweights like Gov. Gavin Newsom argue against it, pointing to the risk of returning to mass incarceration and hefty taxpayer costs. On the other, big-city mayors and local officials see it as a crucial step to addressing skyrocketing public safety concerns and rampant retail theft.

As leaders like San Francisco’s Mayor London Breed and San Diego’s Mayor Todd Gloria advocate for stricter penalties, they’re finding strong support from local-level politicians who feel the direct impacts more acutely than those in Sacramento.

San Jose's Mayor Matt Mahan puts it bluntly: "We see the consequences on the ground every day." With factions on both sides staunchly defending their stance, Prop 36 has sparked a heated debate around crime, homelessness, and community safety.

But what do you think? Is Prop 36 a step towards necessary accountability, or are we risking a backwards slide into mass incarceration?

[brainboxschool]

🎉 Happy National Panchayati Raj Day! 🎊

Today, we celebrate the essence of grassroots democracy and community empowerment. National Panchayati Raj Day commemorates the historic moment when the Constitution Amendment Act of 1992 came into effect, paving the way for decentralized governance through Panchayati Raj Institutions.

This day is a tribute to the tireless efforts of our rural communities, who actively participate in decision-making processes, ensuring inclusive development and social justice at the grassroots level.

Let's take a moment to acknowledge the pivotal role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in shaping the socio-economic landscape of our nation, promoting local self-governance, and fostering sustainable development.

[hargo-news]

Auditorium Bone Coastal Area Begins Operation, Can Handle Licensing and Civil Registration Documents

Auditorium Bone Coastal Area Begins Operation, Can Handle Licensing and Civil Registration Documents #AuditoriumOperation #PublicServiceMall

Hargo.co.id, GORONTALO – The promises made by the Regent of Bone Bolango, Merlan S. Uloli, to the coastal residents are beginning to be consistently realized. In addition to providing specialist doctors for free healthcare services, Merlan also fulfills the promise of operating the auditorium as a Public Service Mall (MPP). In the building located in Tihu Village, Bonepantai District, residents…

[usnewsper-politics]

Homeless Crisis in Blue States: Urgent Action Needed for Affordable Housing and Support Services #affordablehousing #bluestates #COVID19pandemic #fundingforaffordablehousingprograms #homelesscrisis #localgovernments #losangeles #migrants #newshelters #publichealthemergency #risingrents #SanFrancisco #Seattle #socialservices #stagnantwages #supportservices #underlyingcausesofhomelessness

[nbmsports]

These are America’s 10 worst states to live and work in

With nearly twice as many job openings nationwide as there are workers available to fill them, companies are setting up shop where the workers are.Each year, as part of our overall assessment of state business climates, CNBC's America's Top States for Business study considers how welcoming each state is to workers and their families.Life, Health and Inclusion is one of the study's ten categories of competitiveness. And this year, with the nationwide worker shortage so severe, the category is taking on increased importance in our methodology.We consider multiple quality of life factors, including crime rates, environmental quality, and health care. We also look at the quality and availability of childcare, which is one of the most important factors in getting parents back into the workforce.Casting the widest possible net for workers means not turning anyone away. So we consider inclusiveness in state laws by measuring protections against discrimination, as well as voting rights. And with surveys showing a substantial percentage of women considering abortion restrictions when making a choice of where to live in the wake of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights are part of this year's equation as well.As North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, a Democrat, told CNBC after being named the No. 1 State for 2023, he is worried about gains that southern states have made to become economic powerhouses in recent decades. "You still see people going to Florida and Texas, but you begin to see deterioration over time. Site selectors will tell you these issues matter when it comes time for businesses to make tough decisions."Some states are putting out the welcome mat to attract the biggest, happiest, and most diverse workforce — America's Best States to Live and Work In. These are not those states. By the numbers, these are America's worst states to live and work in for 2023.

10. Florida

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis reacts after signing HB 7, the Individual Freedom bill, also dubbed the "Stop Woke Act," at Mater Academy Charter Middle/High School in Hialeah Gardens, Florida, on April 22, 2022.Daniel A. Varela | Miami Herald | Getty ImagesFlorida Gov. Ron DeSantis hopes to ride his "War on Woke" to the White House, but it is not winning his state points for quality of life. Supporters of the state's "Stop WOKE Act", which DeSantis signed into law in 2022, say it protects employees from diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that DeSantis says are toxic. But many companies consider DEI an economic imperative, and courts have struck down parts of the law. The recent Supreme Court decision on affirmative action in higher education, however, is expected to lead to new legal challenges related to DEI programs in the corporate world.Florida is also one of the most difficult states to vote in, according to researchers at Northern Illinois University. DeSantis argues that none of this is stopping huge numbers of people from moving to Florida, and he has a point. The state leads the nation in just about every measure of migration. But rated strictly on Life, Health and Inclusion, the Sunshine State can be a dreary place.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 129 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: D)Strengths: Air Quality, Childcare, Worker ProtectionsWeaknesses: Inclusiveness, Reproductive Rights

9. Arkansas

Little Rock Police Department detectives and crime scene personnel collect evidence at the in Little Rock, Arkansas following a shooting.Benjamin Krain | | Getty ImagesFew states have suffered as badly from the scourge of illegal drugs as Arkansas, which has one of the highest violent crime rates in the country, according to FBI statistics. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders blamed the crime problem on lax penalties, as well as prison overcrowding that is forcing the state's prison system to release some violent offenders before they complete their entire sentences. In April, she signed legislation to stiffen penalties, curtail early releases, and fund new prison space. But crime is just one of the Natural State's problems. Another is health care, with, for example, just 42 dentists for every 100,000 residents, according to the United Health Foundation.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 118 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: D-)Strengths: Childcare, Air QualityWeaknesses: Crime, Inclusiveness, Reproductive Rights, Health Care

8. Tennessee

The Pride Parade at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival on June 15, 2023 in Manchester, Tennessee.Douglas Mason | Getty Images Entertainment | Getty ImagesTennessee has enthusiastically passed laws targeting LGBTQ+ rights, even if it has meant crossing the bounds of constitutionality — like a ban on drag shows where children are present, which a federal judge struck down in June. Or another law struck down by a federal judge in 2021 that would have required businesses to post a warning sign on restrooms where transgender people are allowed. But plenty of other laws have survived, like a transgender youth sports ban, and laws that provide religious exemptions allowing health care and child welfare professionals to deny service to transgender people.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 115 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: D-)Strengths: Childcare, Air QualityWeaknesses: Inclusiveness, Crime, Voting Rights

7. Indiana

Matt Carr | Stone | Getty ImagesWith fewer than 10 licensed childcare facilities per 100,000 residents, the Hoosier State is making it hard for some families to fully participate in the workforce. It is the second-worst figure in the nation (behind Louisiana), according to the advocacy group Child Care Aware. Protections against discrimination under state law are limited as well.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 113 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: D-)Strength: Crime RateWeaknesses: Childcare, Inclusiveness

6. Missouri

Giuliana Cangelosi, 11, left, and her mother Nichole Cangelosi share a moment together while attending a protest opposing the Supreme Court's ruling overturning federal protections for abortion rights Friday, June 24, 2022., in Mill Creek Park at Country Club Plaza. (Emily Curiel/The Kansas City Star/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)Emily Curiel | Kansas City Star | Getty ImagesThe Show Me State is showing abortion opponents the way. In 2019, the state became the first to enact a so-called "trigger law," which went into effect moments after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. The law, one of the strictest in the nation, bans all abortions except in the case of a medical emergency, which the abortion provider must prove. Also, Missouri's violent crime rate is among the nation's highest.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 98 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: F)Strength: Air QualityWeaknesses: Voting Rights, Reproductive Rights, Crime

4. (tie) Alabama

Voters stand in a long line that leads out the door to vote at Beulah Baptist Church polling station in Montgomery, Alabama.Jim Watson | AFP | Getty ImagesAlabama is one of America's unhealthiest states, with the fourth-highest rate of premature deaths. It is also one of the most difficult states to vote in, with no in-person early voting and restrictions on voting by mail, according to the Center for Election Innovation and Research. Worker protections are limited, as are protections against discrimination.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 86 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: F)Strength: Air QualityWeaknesses: Voting Rights, Worker Protections, Inclusiveness, Health

4. (tie) South Carolina

Senior woman checking blood sugar levels with a diabetes home test kit. Black middle class America family.Willie B. Thomas | Digitalvision | Getty ImagesSouth Carolina is an unhealthy state, both at home and on the job. The state has the nation's fifth-highest rate of occupational deaths, and it finishes in the top ten for frequent physical and mental distress overall. Legal protections for workers are limited, and the state's violent crime rate also finishes in the top ten.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 86 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: F)Strength: Air QualityWeaknesses: Health, Worker Protections, Inclusiveness, Crime, Voting Rights

3. Louisiana

Film image.Scott Zdon | Moment | Getty ImagesWith just 76 licensed childcare facilities in a state of 4.6 million people, no state does worse than Louisiana in this increasingly important quality of life metric. State lawmakers have begun trying to remedy that, approving $44 million in new funding in the final hours of the 2023 legislative session, quickly signed into law by Gov. John Bel Edwards. Louisiana won't solve its childcare problem overnight, but the new funding is a down payment on an improvement in the Pelican State's poor quality of life.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 76 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: F)Strengths: No metrics in the top 25Weaknesses: Child Care, Crime, Reproductive Rights

2. Oklahoma

Dr. Franz Theard consults a woman seeking abortion from Oklahoma in his clinic, Womens Reproductive Clinic, a provider of abortions in Santa Teresa, New Mexico on May 7, 2022. Paul Ratje/The Washington Post via Getty ImagesPaul Ratje | The Washington Post | Getty ImagesOverall health in Oklahoma is not okay, with one of the nation's highest rates of drug abuse, and the second-highest rate of people without health insurance. The Sooner State's 1910 abortion ban remains among the strictest in the nation, even after its state supreme court struck down some parts of it, like the provision that required a medical emergency to justify an abortion. The law makes performing an abortion a felony punishable by up to five years in prison, unless the procedure is necessary to preserve the mother's life.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 75 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: F)Strength: Air QualityWeaknesses: Reproductive Rights, Health, Voting Rights

1. Texas

A Pride flag is seen held up in a crowd during preparation for a Queer March to the Texas State Capitol on April 15, 2023 in Austin, Texas. People from across Texas rallied together in protest against a slew of anti-LGBTQIA+ and drag bills being proposed among legislators.Brandon Bell | Getty ImagesHow could 200,000 college educated workers moving to Texas each year possibly be wrong? It depends on how you look at it. With the nation's highest percentage of people without health insurance and the second lowest number of primary care physicians per capita, all those new Texans are arriving to find a dismal health care system. Texas has the nation's thirteenth-highest violent crime rate, and it ranks thirty seventh for licensed childcare facilities per capita.The Lone Star State keeps hacking away at inclusiveness, with laws targeting the LGBTQ+ population, voting rights, and the nation's strictest abortion ban. Yes, there are enormous economic opportunities in Texas, and it is attracting people from far and wide. But this state also has some Texas-sized issues when it comes to life, health and inclusion. And it is one of the reasons that the state fell out of the overall top five for the first time in the 16-year history of CNBC's rankings.2023 Life, Health & Inclusion Score: 53 out of 350 points (Top States Grade: F)Strengths: No metrics in the top 25Weaknesses: Reproductive Rights, Health, Voting Rights, Worker Protections, Inclusiveness Source link Read the full article

[bigvolcano]

Lismore Summer Biodiversity News 2023

The Lismore City Council Environmental Strategies Team had a great year kick-starting the events programme once again after an extended hiatus.

The Lismore City Council Environmental Strategies Team had a great year kick-starting the events programme once again after an extended hiatus. Delivering events is one of the highlights of the Environmental Strategies Team as they met landholders, engaged with experts in the field and got out on Country. Come January 2024, they’re gearing up to return to work, continuing their commitment to…

[jeremy135]

Strategies To Overcome Challenges Of Government Asset Management

Effective solutions to the Challenges of Government Asset Management with expert strategies. Optimize efficiency & accountability for streamlined governance.

[thxnews]

From Floods to Farms: How $100 Million is Changing NZ Agriculture

  - Initial $100 million flood protection funding - More on-farm support for the safety and well-being of people and stock - Employment schemes to retrain workers facing volatile jobs market - More support for food banks and ongoing clean-up effort The Budget 2023 Flood and Cyclone recovery package will boost resilience against future extreme weather events with an investment of $100 million in flood protection.  

Flood protection

Regions affected by the recent North Island extreme weather events will be able to apply for funding from an initial $100 million in Budget 2023 for local solutions to keep them safe from future floods. “Flooding and debris has destroyed homes and businesses, cut off communities, and caused widespread damage, particularly to industries like horticulture,” Kieran McAnulty said. “We’ve also seen flood banks protect communities from devastation. For example, the Taradale stopbank, which was strengthened ahead of Gabrielle through the Government’s infrastructure program, was held during the Cyclone. “The $100 million protection fund announced today will go towards practical flood protection infrastructure like stopbanks as well as other local measures that can protect communities from flooding. “The Government will work closely with impacted councils from the Far North through to the Wairarapa on interventions tailored to each region and their vulnerability to future flooding. Decisions on the funding will also be tied to work on the future of land use to ensure streamlined decisions are made.   “This $100 million is on top of the standard support the Government provides to councils to repair and rebuild following a disaster – this includes covering 60 percent of costs of damaged essential infrastructure owned by councils,” Kieran McAnulty said.   Kiri Allan said. “The Government’s previous investment into flood protection measures such as stopbanks saved lives, homes, businesses, and communities during Cyclone Gabrielle. This included the Waipaoa Stopbank in Gisborne.” “Without this previous investment, the level of flooding and destruction would have been significantly higher. The Government will continue to build even greater resilience in our regions to provide better protection for local communities and economies.”  

More support for rural communities

Kieran McAnulty said that it has been a tough start to the year for parts of the primary sector, with rural communities hit hard by the extreme weather events in the North Island.   Kieran McAnulty said, “Our rural communities are not only the backbone of our economy, but they’re also a support network in times of crisis.” “We saw the strength of our rural communities during the response to Cyclone Gabrielle with people going above and beyond to check on their neighbors, using whatever they could to keep each other safe."   The Government is investing $35.4 million to support the safety and wellbeing of farmers and growers, and stock in cyclone-damaged areas by scaling up on-farm technical, scientific, and financial advice. This funding will support: - access to expert advice where it is needed to inform and address urgent health and safety, and animal welfare needs, and to ensure the safety of ongoing operations; - urgent maintenance where this is critical to the health and safety of stock and staff; and - critical transport of essential supplies, people, and stock related to animal health and welfare needs and health and safety.   “Of this, $5.4 million will be targeted to help operate rural community hubs, and ensure ongoing access to reliable telecommunications including satellite connectivity,” Kieran McAnulty said.  

Supporting businesses to retain and retrain workers

Businesses and workers in affected regions will also receive a boost in employment and social support to help them through the recovery. Carmel Sepuloni said, “The labor markets in Hawkes Bay and on the East Coast have changed. They usually have a regular and predictable seasonal jobs market, but the weather events have affected this and we are seeing the number of people on Jobseeker begin to slowly rise.” “The package we are announcing today will help people retrain and prepare for the jobs that will be required during the recovery and rebuild." “As well as retraining, we will also focus on ‘retaining’." “To achieve this we’re increasing investment in successful schemes to keep people in the workforce including the Transition to Work grant, the $5K to Work scheme, Mana in Mahi, and industry partnerships." “There will be an additional $6 million for the Food Secure Communities program to support community food providers, such as food banks and food rescue organizations, to meet the increased demand for their services.”   The recovery package also includes $5 million for Extending Community Support Funds, establishes a new Jobs and Skills Hub in Gisborne, and provides a further $1 million towards Enhanced Taskforce Green, which is still supporting Councils with clean-up work.   Sources: THX News & Hon Carmel Sepuloni, Hon Kiritapu Allan & Hon Kieran Mcanulty. Read the full article

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BA in Public Administration – (Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration)

Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration (BA in Public Administration) is an undergraduate program that focuses on providing knowledge and skills related to public administration and management. The course lasts three years on average, while certain universities could offer a four-year degree. It is intended to prepare students for professions in government, non-profit, and for-profit businesses…

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A 30-year veteran of law enforcement, former Eden Police Chief, Athletic Director at Community Baptist Church, and newest memberf of Eden City Council. www.EdenNC.us