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Can Cities Make Water Affordable? Detroit Offers Hope, and Disappointment

Since the UN got involved, the city has taken steps to make utility bills more affordable. But 17,000 customers still could lose their service next month.

Supreme Court Could Reshape Texas Political Districts for Midterms

The justices will hear oral arguments on Tuesday in a case over the state's legislative and congressional maps, which have been accused of discriminating against black and Latino voters.

A Whopper of a Court Case: Can Citizens Sue States?

In a handful of states, they can't. A lawsuit involving Burger King was supposed to settle the debate in Arkansas.

Washington Governor: 'We Got the Best Weed in the United States'

Appearing on "Real Time with Bill Maher," Jay Inslee gave one of the most glowing reviews from a governor of the marijuana industry.

'Pedal Pubs' Gain Popularity, Putting Cities on the Spot

Bar-hopping party bikes, which let a dozen or more people pedal through popular destinations, don’t fit neatly under traffic laws.

She's a Social Worker First, Mayor Second

Rosalynn Bliss says social work keeps her grounded as a politician. That, and meditation.

More States Forcing Prosecutors to Hand Over Evidence -- Even When It Hurts Their Case

The Supreme Court required prosecutors to do this decades ago, but they don't always follow the rules. New York is the latest state to strengthen them.

Are Small Businesses Really the Backbone of the Economy?

Two economists argue that they aren't. Instead, they say, policymakers should focus on larger employers.

Would Changing the Rules for Police Change the Outcomes?

In the wake of Stephon Clark's death, California is considering the strictest rules in the country about when deadly force can be used. But they may not impact criminal cases against cops.

Don't Get Mad, Get Elected: The Rise of the Revenge Candidate

Political novices are running for office at all levels of government -- many driven by anger over their current representatives' policies and behavior.

Supreme Court Not Sold on Ending Online Sales Tax Ban

The justices pressed attorneys on Tuesday about the potential consequences of overturning the court’s 26-year-old ruling.

Managing Citizen Engagement Overload

When government gets too much of a good thing, can open-source technology help?

WHO SAID THAT?

“We have so many lawsuits now [against the Trump administration] that a few more doesn't make any difference.”

MORE QUOTES
People in line.

Automatic Voter Registration Goes Beyond the DMV

The most recent states to adopt the practice are expanding it to agencies that serve disenfranchised populations, including the poor and disabled.

MOST READ

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    With Fewer Police Applicants, Departments Engage in Bidding Wars
  2. 2

    Missouri Governor Charged With Another Felony
  3. 3

    How 4/20 Actually Helps Police
  4. 4

    Supreme Court Not Sold on Ending Online Sales Tax Ban
  5. 5

    The Biggest Issues for States to Watch in 2018
  6. 6

    Trump Leaves Obama's Last-Minute Child Support Rule Alone
  7. 7

    Are Small Businesses Really the Backbone of the Economy?

In Terms of Food Stamps, the Farm Bill Has Something for Everyone

The legislation released on Thursday includes changes that could satisfy conservatives and liberals. It does not include most of the changes President Trump proposed, such as drug testing and a Blue Apron-style delivery service.

• The Bipartisan Food Stamp Reforms Congress Won't Talk About

NEWS IN NUMBERS

$100

One-time tax credit parents in Wisconsin will get under a new state law.

MORE DIGITS

As Fair Housing Act Turns 50, Landmark Law Faces Uncertain Future

Under the Trump administration, and most Republican White Houses, enforcement of the 1968 anti-discrimination law has weakened. Housing advocates say the constantly changing federal approach has held back progress.

Judges Face Growing Threats From Unhappy Politicians

While they're rarely successful, efforts to remove state Supreme Court justices over policy disagreements are becoming more common.

With Fewer Police Applicants, Departments Engage in Bidding Wars

Hiring police officers is much harder than it used to be. To stay competitive, some are offering generous pay increases and bonuses.

A Major City's Solution to Teachers' Money Problems: Let Them Live at School

Miami is taking the trend of teacher housing one step further than other places. But do teachers want to live where they work -- even if it means cheaper rent?

How China's Proposed Tariffs Could Impact States' Economies

China is one of our largest trading partners. U.S. exports to the country totaled $130 billion last year.

• Trump's Tariffs Could Hurt More Local Economies Than They Help
COMMENTARY

Why Every Local Government Needs a New Operating System

Technological innovation on a piece-by-piece basis isn't enough. More fundamental change is needed.

COMMENTARY

The Bipartisanship at the Core of the Trump Infrastructure Plan

Many of its ideas reflect a growing Washington consensus that more private investment is needed.

COMMENTARY

The Broadband Boost Small-Town America Needs

Publicly owned internet networks are giving some rural regions an advantage over even the techiest big cities.

Why There Are So Many Bad Sheriffs

In a job with tons of power and practically no oversight from voters, law enforcement or politicians, corruption can be easy to get away with.