Capitol Hill · Federal5 Bills Tracked
Funding deadline, health costs, voting rules and college sports await Congress
What it means for youGovernment funding runs only to December 11, enhanced ACA subsidies remain expired, and other bills touch voting, college athletes and energy projects. Each bill's status is listed below.
Government funding stopgapPassed Congress
Federal services keep running until December 11.
ACA subsidy extensionPassed House
Affects what marketplace health insurance costs millions of households.
SAVE America ActPassed House
Could change what documents you need to register and vote.
Protect College Sports ActPassed Senate
Affects how college athletes earn money and move between schools.
Permitting reform billIn Committee
Would change how fast energy and building projects get federal approval.
Funding deadline, health costs, voting rules and college sports await Congress
- Congress passed a stopgap bill funding the government through December 11; the House vote was 370 to 48.
- Enhanced ACA subsidies expired December 31, 2025; the House passed a three-year extension in January, and sources reviewed show no Senate passage.
- Supporters of the SAVE America Act say it secures elections; critics say it could block eligible voters, and it stalled in the Senate.
- The Senate passed the Protect College Sports Act 77 to 22 on September 28, and the bill now sits in the House.
The bills
- Government funding stopgap (Passed Congress): Keeps federal agencies funded at current levels through December 11, pushing full-year spending fights past the midterms. Bill page
- ACA subsidy extension (Passed House): Would extend enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits three more years; they expired December 31, 2025. Bill page
- SAVE America Act (Passed House): Would require proof of citizenship to register and photo ID to vote in federal elections. Bill page
- Protect College Sports Act (Passed Senate): Would set national rules for college athlete pay, name-image-likeness deals, eligibility and transfers, overriding conflicting state laws. Bill page
- Permitting reform bill (In Committee): Bipartisan Senate package to speed federal environmental reviews and permits for energy and infrastructure projects. Bill page
▶ PBS Chicago Tonight: ACA subsidies explained (Dec. 2025)Source: CBS News
National · United KingdomUpcoming
UK Budget on 28 October: what Chancellor Healey has signalled
What it means for youDecisions on tax, savings and small-business costs arrive on 28 October. Nothing is final until the Chancellor speaks.
From WashingtonMost UK goods face a 10% U.S. tariff, and UK steel and aluminium face 25% rather than 50% under the US-UK economic prosperity deal, according to the House of Commons Library and Congress.gov.
UK Budget on 28 October: what Chancellor Healey has signalled
- Chancellor John Healey delivers his first Budget on 28 October, the first since Andy Burnham became Prime Minister in July.
- He has pledged to cut business rates for small high street firms and to stay within the government's fiscal rules.
- Labour's pledge not to raise income tax, employee National Insurance or VAT rates still stands, but higher borrowing costs leave less room.
- Analysts at AJ Bell say he could still revisit the planned cash ISA limit cut and pensions entering inheritance tax from April 2027.
Source: LBC
National · CanadaUpcoming
Canada's federal budget lands Nov. 5 amid trade war and slower growth
What it means for youThe Nov. 5 budget will set federal spending and borrowing as trade tensions with the U.S. slow growth. Details of what it means for your taxes and services aren't out yet.
From WashingtonOngoing U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods are why Ottawa announced nearly $9 billion on 21 October for Ontario industries affected by the trade war.
Canada's federal budget lands Nov. 5 amid trade war and slower growth
- Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne will table the federal budget on 5 November, two days after the U.S. midterm elections.
- The Parliamentary Budget Officer projects growth of 0.9 percent this year and a $63.3 billion deficit for 2026-27.
- The PBO also says new spending announcements have already used up the extra room that higher oil prices created.
- Last year, Prime Minister Mark Carney called his budget essential against U.S. tariffs, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre called it a credit card budget.
Source: CBC News
National · NigeriaIn Effect
Nigeria's new tax laws are in force, with an ₦800,000 tax-free band
What it means for youIf you earn ₦800,000 a year or less, you pay no personal income tax before other reliefs. Higher earners pay progressive rates, and VAT stays at 7.5%.
From WashingtonSince 1 January 2026, a U.S. proclamation partially suspends visas for Nigerians, including visitor, student and exchange categories, with limited exceptions, though the U.S. Mission says the restrictions are under review.
Nigeria's new tax laws are in force, with an ₦800,000 tax-free band
- Four tax laws took effect, most on 1 January 2026, and a new Nigeria Revenue Service replaced the Federal Inland Revenue Service.
- Personal income up to ₦800,000 a year is taxed at 0% before other reliefs, and VAT stays at 7.5%.
- Supporters, including tax reform committee chair Taiwo Oyedele, say about 98 percent of workers will pay no PAYE tax or pay less.
- Critics say earlier reforms already squeezed households, and the PDP alleged illegal changes to the laws; the presidency says no substantial issue was established.
Source: The Africa Report
National · JamaicaIn Effect
Jamaica pauses official overseas travel as Melissa recovery continues
What it means for youThe government says the pause contains spending and puts resources toward Hurricane Melissa rebuilding. The opposition wants to know how much will actually be saved.
From WashingtonUnder a June agreement with Washington, Jamaica became a transit point for third-country deportees from the U.S., and the first 22 arrived on 13 October, with arrivals capped at 25 per fortnight.
Jamaica pauses official overseas travel as Melissa recovery continues
- A 21 October memo from Cabinet Secretary Audrey Sewell halts official overseas travel across the public sector, from ministers to public body staff.
- It runs until 31 March 2027, and prior approval does not automatically exempt anyone.
- The government says the move contains spending and redirects money to rebuilding after Hurricane Melissa, as part of an efficiency drive.
- The opposition PNP's Julian Robinson says the government has not disclosed expected savings and questions whether it will cut costs effectively.
Source: The Gleaner
National · Washington & YouIn Effect
US remittance tax and visa bonds change costs for families abroad
What it means for youSending cash from the US now carries a 1% tax paid by the sender, and 38 countries faced visa bonds up to $15,000. Receivers abroad get the full amount sent.
US remittance tax and visa bonds change costs for families abroad
- A 1% US remittance tax began January 1, 2026, for transfers paid with cash, money orders or cashier's checks.
- Supporters say it raises revenue for border enforcement; critics say it can push families toward informal channels, according to ORF America.
- The sender pays the tax, so the amount the receiver gets does not change, Western Union says.
- Separately, the State Department announced visa bonds of up to $15,000 for nationals of 38 countries, mostly in Africa, Prothom Alo reports.
Source: U.S. News & World Report
State House · AlabamaSigned
Alabama makes nursing home and hospital Medicaid taxes permanent
What it means for youTwo 2026 laws keep Alabama's nursing home and hospital provider taxes in place for good, which helps pay for Medicaid. Alabama still has not expanded Medicaid to low-income adults.
Alabama makes nursing home and hospital Medicaid taxes permanent
- SB 143 removes the expiration date on fees tied to nursing facility beds.
- SB 145 does the same for a tax that private hospitals pay to the Alabama Medicaid Agency.
- Both bills were sponsored by Sen. Greg Albritton, R-Atmore. Alabama Arise, an advocacy group, says the laws protect Medicaid funding.
- Alabama Arise also notes that the governor and Legislature have not expanded Medicaid to cover adults with low incomes.
Source: Alabama Arise
State House · AlaskaIn Effect
Alaska sets 2026 dividend at $1,000 plus $200 energy payment
What it means for youEligible Alaskans are getting $1,200 total starting October 1: a $1,000 dividend plus a $200 energy relief payment, with the amount set in budget bill HB 263.
Alaska sets 2026 dividend at $1,000 plus $200 energy payment
- Nearly 600,000 Alaskans began receiving payments October 1. Another round is scheduled for October 22.
- Applicants generally must have been Alaska residents for all of 2025. Some people sentenced or incarcerated for a felony that year may be ineligible.
- The House minority caucus argued for the statutory dividend formula, which estimates put near $3,800 per person.
- The multipartisan House majority coalition favored putting more money toward state services, such as schools, Medicaid rates and heating assistance.
Source: Alaska Department of Revenue
State House · ArizonaSigned
Arizona budget adds $6,000 senior deduction and tighter Medicaid checks
What it means for youGov. Hobbs signed an $18.3 billion budget, SB 1847, with $1.4 billion in tax cuts. Seniors get a new $6,000 deduction, and Medicaid and SNAP eligibility checks are stronger.
Arizona budget adds $6,000 senior deduction and tighter Medicaid checks
- The tax package ends taxes on tips and overtime, raises the standard deduction and adds the new senior deduction.
- It also adds a child care expense deduction, a larger child tax credit and property tax exemptions for disabled veterans.
- Senate Republicans say stronger Medicaid and SNAP verification reduces waste and protects taxpayer money.
- Democrats pushed back on the checks. The budget funds extra staff so about 40,000 Arizonans can remain on the state Medicaid plan.
Source: Arizona Capitol Times
State House · ArkansasSigned
Arkansas raises homestead property tax credit to $675
What it means for youHB 1103 lifts the credit that lowers property taxes on your main home from $600 to $675 per parcel. It applies to assessment year 2026, with taxes due in 2027.
Arkansas raises homestead property tax credit to $675
- Rep. Bart Schulz, R-Cave City, sponsored HB 1103. It passed both chambers with no votes against, and the governor's office announced the signing May 1.
- Homeowners must register with their county assessor and show proof of eligibility. Each homeowner gets one credit per year.
- A statewide half-cent sales tax pays counties back for the credits. The state estimates $39.8 million in added credits in 2027.
- Gov. Sanders says the state's tax cuts deliver savings to Arkansans. Sen. Fred Love, D-Little Rock, said a separate income tax cut gives the average person about $50.
Source: Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
State House · CaliforniaUpcoming
California minimum wage rises to $17.40 on January 1, 2027
What it means for youThe statewide minimum wage goes from $16.90 to $17.40 an hour in January. A new law also sets a $19.75 hourly floor for certain farmworkers starting in 2027.
California minimum wage rises to $17.40 on January 1, 2027
- Gov. Newsom announced July 31, 2026, that the statewide minimum wage will increase to $17.40 an hour on January 1, 2027.
- The current statewide minimum is $16.90. The governor's office also cites $20 an hour for fast-food workers and $25 for health care workers.
- AB 2646, signed September 30, sets a $19.75 hourly floor for some farmworkers hired through programs like H-2A starting in 2027.
- California residents doing the same or similar work for the same employer, in the same county and period, also qualify.
Source: Office of Governor Gavin Newsom
State House · ColoradoIn Effect
Colorado funds senior property tax break for 2026 tax year
What it means for youIf you are 65 or older and have owned and lived in your home for 10 years, the state can exempt up to half of the first $200,000 of its value.
State House · ConnecticutSigned
Connecticut's housing law H.B. 8002 requires towns to plan for growth
What it means for youTowns must now plan for more housing, small projects face fewer parking rules, and fair rent commissions expand. That can affect rent disputes and housing choices near you.
Connecticut's housing law H.B. 8002 requires towns to plan for growth
Source: CT Mirror
State House · DelawareSigned
Delaware's Housing for Every Delawarean Act sets affordable housing goals
What it means for youLarger towns and counties must plan for affordable homes, with a goal of making 20% of homes affordable, and zoning-compliant residential projects get by-right review.
State House · District of ColumbiaApproved
DC budget restores Healthcare Alliance coverage and protects housing vouchers
What it means for youFor one year starting Oct. 1, the DC Healthcare Alliance again covers full medical services, including dental and vision, for adults 21 and older not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare.
DC budget restores Healthcare Alliance coverage and protects housing vouchers
Source: Arent Fox Schiff
State House · FloridaUpcoming
Florida voters decide Amendment 3 on homestead property tax exemption
What it means for youOn Nov. 3, voters decide whether to raise the homestead exemption on non-school property taxes to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028. It needs 60% to pass.
Florida voters decide Amendment 3 on homestead property tax exemption
Source: Florida TaxWatch
State House · GeorgiaSigned
Georgia gives homestead owners a one-time $18,000 assessed-value cut
What it means for youIf you filed a homestead exemption by April 1 and owe property tax, your 2026 bill drops. It is a bill reduction, not a check.
State House · HawaiiSigned
Hawaii sets up program to buy and erase residents' medical debt
What it means for youQualifying residents may have medical debt wiped out without applying. They will get a notice if their debt is bought and canceled.
State House · IdahoSigned
Idaho drops proration of its homeowner's property tax exemption
What it means for youIdaho homeowners get the full homestead exemption regardless of when in the year they apply, as long as they file by the deadline.
Idaho drops proration of its homeowner's property tax exemption
Source: Idaho Legislature
State House · IllinoisSigned
Illinois homeowners keep leftover equity when homes sold for tax debt
What it means for youIf your home is sold over unpaid property taxes, you now keep the money left after the debt is paid. Owners also get more time to pay.
State House · IndianaSigned
Indiana's SB 1 adds homestead credits, with extra $150 for seniors
What it means for youHomeowners get a credit of 10% off their property tax bill, up to $300. Eligible owners 65 and older get $150 more.
State House · IowaSigned
Iowa's new property tax law caps city and county revenue growth
What it means for youHomeowners get a larger exemption on part of their home's value. Cities and counties face a 2% revenue cap, and existing senior and veteran exemptions stay.
Iowa's new property tax law caps city and county revenue growth
- Senate File 2472 gives homeowners an exemption equal to 10% of home value, at least $5,500 and at most $20,000.
- It caps most city and county revenue growth at 2% a year, with exceptions, and keeps existing senior and veteran exemptions.
- Supporters, including Gov. Kim Reynolds, say it will save homeowners $4.2 billion over six years.
- Critics, including city officials, say residents may see only small bill changes and could see reduced city services.
▶ Iowa PBS Iowa Press: House Speaker Pat Grassley on the property tax dealSource: Iowa Public Radio
State House · KansasVetoed
Kansas governor vetoes property tax cap on cities and counties
What it means for youNo major property tax relief became law this session. The vetoed bill would have let voters block local spending increases above a set cap.
Kansas governor vetoes property tax cap on cities and counties
- House Bill 2043 would have limited city and county spending increases to 3% or the rate of inflation, whichever was smaller.
- Voters could have blocked a local decision to exceed the limit with a petition signed by 10% of voters from a past election.
- Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed it in April, calling it a 'false promise,' and lawmakers had already adjourned, so no override was possible.
- Supporters say the cap would slow rising local tax bills. Critics, including some in both parties, warned local governments could struggle to operate.
Source: Kansas Reflector
State House · KentuckyIn Effect
Kentucky law lets churches build small affordable housing projects
What it means for youFaith groups can build up to 24 affordable homes on land they own with less local zoning review. Units must stay affordable for 15 years.
Kentucky law lets churches build small affordable housing projects
- House Bill 333 was signed by Gov. Andy Beshear on April 7 and took effect July 15, 2026.
- Qualifying religious institutions, or developers working for them, can skip much of the local zoning review if they meet requirements.
- Housing must be reserved for households earning 80% or less of area median income, capped at 24 units, and stay affordable 15 years.
- Supporters say it cuts red tape in a housing shortage, and projects must still pass safety inspections.
Source: Spectrum News 1
State House · LouisianaSigned
Louisiana Medicaid must cover dental work needed before surgery
What it means for youMedicaid will pay for dental procedures a patient needs to be cleared for another covered treatment, such as surgery. The law's effective date was August 1, 2026.
Louisiana Medicaid must cover dental work needed before surgery
- House Bill 222, by Rep. Stephanie Berault, became Act 629 when the governor signed it on June 2, 2026.
- It requires Medicaid to cover a dental procedure when it is medically necessary to clear a patient for another Medicaid-covered procedure.
- Louisiana Medicaid adult dental coverage has mainly included exams, cleanings, dentures, and up to $200 for extractions.
- The health department must seek federal plan approval and write rules. The fiscal note lists about $784,370 in state costs.
Source: Louisiana Legislature
State House · MaineSigned
Maine creates first dedicated funding source for affordable housing
What it means for youA new Housing Production Fund at MaineHousing, paid for through real estate transfer tax changes, will help build affordable homes. First-time buyers in MaineHousing's program skip that tax.
Maine creates first dedicated funding source for affordable housing
- LD 2212 puts $37.5 million in new funding toward building affordable homes to buy or rent across Maine.
- It sets up a Housing Production Fund at MaineHousing, financed through changes to the real estate transfer tax.
- The state estimates $17 million in the first year, with the amount expected to grow with the real estate market.
- LD 210 also exempts participants in MaineHousing's First Time Homebuyer Program from the real estate transfer tax.
Source: Maine Governor's Office of Policy Innovation and the Future
State House · MarylandIn Effect
Maryland Medicaid work-rule changes start Jan. 1, with new state job database
What it means for youIf you're 19 to 64 on expanded Medicaid, you'll need 80 work, training or volunteer hours monthly from Jan. 1, 2027. A new state database lists job-training options.
Maryland Medicaid work-rule changes start Jan. 1, with new state job database
Source: WYPR
State House · MassachusettsPassed Senate
Massachusetts Senate passes optional senior property tax exemption bill, S.2902
What it means for youIf your town opts in, income-eligible longtime senior homeowners could get a property tax exemption. The bill passed the Senate in January; House action was not confirmed.
State House · MichiganUpcoming
Michigan minimum wage rises to $15 an hour on Jan. 1, 2027
What it means for youWorkers now at $13.73 an hour are scheduled to move to $15.00 on Jan. 1, 2027. The tipped cash wage rises to $6.30.
State House · MinnesotaSigned
Minnesota boosts 2025 homestead credit refunds by 14.88 percent, one time
What it means for youHomeowners who qualify for the 2025 Homestead Credit Refund get a refund nearly 15% larger. If you already filed, the state adjusts it for you.
State House · MississippiSigned
Mississippi's HB 1 phases income tax down to 3% by 2030
What it means for youThe state income tax rate is set to fall to 3% by 2030, with later cuts possible. The law also cuts the grocery sales tax to 5% and raises the gas tax.
State House · MissouriSigned
Missouri law will automatically clear some criminal records
What it means for youEligible misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies will be cleared automatically, without you filing anything, after set waiting periods. Violent crimes and offenses against children are excluded.
State House · MontanaIn Effect
Montana's homestead rate lowers property taxes on primary homes
What it means for youIf you own and live in your Montana home at least seven months a year, you can get a lower property tax rate. Second homes generally pay more.
State House · NebraskaSigned
Nebraska locks in retroactive Medicaid coverage under LB958
What it means for youIf you get care before applying for Medicaid, Nebraska must cover those bills up to the federal limit: two months, or one month for expansion enrollees.
State House · NevadaProposed
Nevada lawmakers plan to bring back a senior rent cap in 2027
What it means for youNevada lawmakers plan to reintroduce a 10% cap on rent increases for seniors in 2027. Gov. Joe Lombardo has vetoed earlier versions twice.
Nevada lawmakers plan to bring back a senior rent cap in 2027
Source: Nevada Current
State House · New HampshireSigned
New Hampshire sets Medicaid work rules starting January 2027
What it means for youAdults on Granite Advantage, the state's Medicaid expansion, must show proof of 80 hours a month of work or other approved activity, unless exempt.
New Hampshire sets Medicaid work rules starting January 2027
Source: InDepthNH.org
State House · New JerseySigned
NJ budget keeps Stay NJ senior tax relief, with income tiers
What it means for youHomeowners 65 and older earning $100,000 or less can still get up to $6,500 in property tax relief. Incomes above $200,000 no longer qualify.
NJ budget keeps Stay NJ senior tax relief, with income tiers
Source: Jersey Vindicator
State House · New MexicoSigned
New Mexico law boosts fund that lowers health insurance premiums
What it means for youHouse Bill 4 sends more health insurance surtax money to the Health Care Affordability Fund, which helps lower premiums on BeWell plans. The governor signed it March 6, 2026.
State House · New YorkIn Effect
New York's Clean Slate Act: record sealing rolls out through 2027
What it means for youEligible misdemeanor convictions are sealed 3 years after release or sentencing, and felonies after 8, for many civil background checks. Courts have until November 16, 2027 to set up the system.
State House · North CarolinaSigned
NC signs first full budget since 2023, with Medicaid funded
What it means for youGov. Stein signed the 2026-27 budget July 7. It fully funds Medicaid, though federal changes will shift more Medicaid and SNAP costs to the state in coming years.
State House · North DakotaIn Effect
North Dakota's $1,600 homeowner credit and 3% levy cap
What it means for youMost North Dakota homeowners can get a $1,600 yearly credit on their primary home's property tax. Local governments' yearly property tax increases are capped at 3 percent.
State House · OhioSigned
Ohio House Bill 479 gives homestead seniors a one-time tax credit
What it means for youIf you get Ohio's homestead exemption, you should see an extra one-time credit of about $450 to $475 on a property tax bill, with no new application.
State House · OklahomaUpcoming
Oklahoma State Question 847 would lower property assessment caps
What it means for youVoters decide Nov. 3 whether to limit how fast a home's assessed value can rise each year. Supporters say it eases costs; critics worry about local budgets.
Oklahoma State Question 847 would lower property assessment caps
Source: Oklahoma Watch
State House · OregonDeveloping
Oregon weighs $421 million in Oregon Health Plan cuts
What it means for youOregon's Medicaid program covers about 1.4 million people. State leaders must close a $421 million budget gap, and federal changes could cost up to 200,000 adults their coverage.
State House · PennsylvaniaPassed House
Pennsylvania House passes $15 minimum wage bill; Senate has not voted
What it means for youPennsylvania's minimum wage is still $7.25. A House-passed bill would raise it to $15 by 2029, but it is not law unless the Senate passes it and the governor signs it.
Pennsylvania House passes $15 minimum wage bill; Senate has not voted
Source: CBS Pittsburgh
State House · Rhode IslandSigned
Rhode Island lets people clear up to four nonviolent felonies
What it means for youIf you have up to four nonviolent felony convictions, you can ask a judge to expunge them 15 years after finishing your last sentence.
State House · South CarolinaApproved
South Carolina raises senior homestead exemption to $75,000
What it means for youIf you are 65 or older, totally and permanently disabled, or legally blind, the first $75,000 of your home's value is now exempt from property tax, up from $50,000.
South Carolina raises senior homestead exemption to $75,000
- The 2026-27 state budget raises the Homestead Exemption from $50,000 to $75,000 for homeowners 65 or older, disabled, or legally blind.
- Gov. Henry McMaster issued line-item vetoes on August 17, 2026, and his statement lists the higher exemption among the budget's provisions.
- Senate Finance Chairman Harvey Peeler said he was pleased with the expansion, though senators had sought breaks up to $150,000 based on residency.
- The change costs the state more than $80 million, which reimburses counties for lost revenue, since property taxes fund local services.
Source: South Carolina Governor's Office
State House · South DakotaSigned
South Dakota signs two property tax relief laws for homeowners
What it means for youOwner-occupied homeowners could see lower property tax bills through a state fund and an optional county sales tax. The state sales tax rate returns to 4.5% in July 2027.
South Dakota signs two property tax relief laws for homeowners
- Gov. Larry Rhoden signed Senate Bill 96 and Senate Bill 245 on March 12, 2026.
- SB 96 lets counties adopt a sales tax of up to half a percent to offset property taxes on owner-occupied homes.
- SB 245 creates a homeowner property tax reduction fund, using the 0.3% sales tax rate that returns in July 2027.
- Rhoden calls it the largest property tax cut in state history. Critics, mostly Democrats, call it regressive and say the money could have gone to Medicaid, state employees and education.
▶ SDPB podcast: how SB 96 and SB 245 workSource: Dakota News Now (KOTA)
State House · TennesseeUpcoming
Tennessee voters decide Nov. 3 on banning a state property tax
What it means for youTennessee has no state property tax today. A yes vote would write that ban into the constitution. Local governments could still levy their own property taxes.
Tennessee voters decide Nov. 3 on banning a state property tax
- A constitutional amendment on the November 3, 2026 ballot would bar the legislature from creating a state property tax.
- The state property tax rate is currently set at zero, and the legislature could change that by a simple majority.
- Supporters, including sponsor Rep. Tandy Darby, say it puts taxpayers first and reinforces local control.
- Critics, including Sen. Heidi Campbell, say the ban belongs in state law, not the constitution, and could cause unexpected revenue and bond-rating problems.
Source: Ballotpedia
State House · TexasApproved
Texas seniors' school tax exemption rose to $60,000 after Prop 11
What it means for youTexas homeowners 65 or older, or with a qualifying disability, get a $60,000 school tax exemption, up from $10,000. It stacks on the $140,000 exemption for all homeowners.
Texas seniors' school tax exemption rose to $60,000 after Prop 11
- Voters approved Proposition 11 (SJR 85) on November 4, 2025, raising the exemption for owners 65 or older or disabled from $10,000 to $60,000.
- Stacked with Proposition 13's $140,000 exemption, eligible owners can shield $200,000 of home value from school property taxes.
- Sen. Paul Bettencourt's office estimated savings of about $907 a year for more than 2 million seniors.
- The Texas Tribune reports hundreds of thousands of eligible homeowners have not claimed an exemption. Ask your county appraisal district how to apply.
Source: Ballotpedia
State House · UtahSigned
Utah's H.B. 15 sets plan if federal Medicaid funds drop
What it means for youUtah's Medicaid expansion covers low-income adults. H.B. 15 sets steps for the state if federal matching funds are reduced.
Utah's H.B. 15 sets plan if federal Medicaid funds drop
- H.B. 15, Medicaid Amendments, sponsored by Rep. Steve Eliason and Sen. Keith Grover, was among the bills Gov. Spencer Cox signed in 2026.
- It changes the date Medicaid expansion will end if federal matching funds are reduced.
- It requires the Department of Health and Human Services to prepare a proposal if matching funds fall, and it creates a reporting requirement.
- Rep. Eliason described the bill as a precaution after the U.S. House proposed changes that would have reduced the federal match.
Source: Utah State Legislature
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City Hall · AtlantaApproved
Atlanta council votes 8-7 to sell city jail to Fulton County
What it means for youAtlanta would sell its detention center for up to $68 million to ease overcrowding at the county jail. Final lease and staffing details still need to be worked out.
Atlanta council votes 8-7 to sell city jail to Fulton County
- On October 19, 2026, the council voted 8-7 to let Mayor Andre Dickens sell the Atlanta City Detention Center for up to $68 million.
- The deal would give Fulton County more than 1,300 beds, and Atlanta would keep space for up to 100 municipal detainees.
- Supporters say the sale saves an estimated $20 million a year and lets the city spend more on keeping people out of jail.
- Critics, including Council Members Kelsea Bond and Eshé Collins, say it does not fix conditions at the Fulton County Jail or answer questions about diversion.
▶ Video: Atlanta council approves jail saleSource: WSB-TV
City Hall · New York CityApproved
NYC Council raises rent-freeze income limit for seniors to $75,000
What it means for youSeniors and people with disabilities in rent-regulated apartments can qualify for a rent freeze with household income up to $75,000, up from $50,000, applied from July 1, 2026.
NYC Council raises rent-freeze income limit for seniors to $75,000
- On October 22, 2026, the Council passed Intro 978-B by Council Member Farah Louis, raising the SCRIE and DRIE income cap from $50,000 to $75,000.
- It applies from July 1, 2026, and uses the state law's definition of income to decide eligibility.
- SCRIE and DRIE freeze rent for eligible seniors and tenants with disabilities, and landlords get a property tax credit for the difference.
- About 57% of eligible New Yorkers are not enrolled, and a council member estimated the change costs $44 million.
Source: New York City Council
City Hall · Los AngelesUpcoming
LA voters decide on half-cent sales tax for fire department
What it means for youOn Nov. 3, LA voters decide whether to add a half-cent to the city sales tax for the fire department, raising about $345 million a year.
City Hall · ChicagoProposed
Chicago mayor's 2027 budget meets council tax opposition
What it means for youChicago faces roughly an $880 million budget gap. The mayor is expected to propose business taxes, while 29 aldermen say they oppose a head tax or property tax increase.
Chicago mayor's 2027 budget meets council tax opposition
Source: NBC Chicago
City Hall · HoustonApproved
Houston keeps its city property tax rate flat for 2026
What it means for youThe city rate stays at $0.519190 per $100 of taxable value, so a home with $340,000 in taxable value owes about $1,765 in city tax.
City Hall · PhiladelphiaUnder Review
Philadelphia Council votes to make City Hall bike lane permanent
What it means for youCouncil unanimously voted to make the Penn Square bike lane permanent. It replaced a car lane and now needs the mayor's signature.
Philadelphia Council votes to make City Hall bike lane permanent
Source: Hoodline
City Hall · DetroitUnder Review
Detroit Council still weighing 'Let's Build More Housing' zoning ordinance
What it means for youA zoning proposal would let more triplexes, fourplexes and backyard units be built. Latest reporting found, from spring 2026, shows Council had not yet voted.
Detroit Council still weighing 'Let's Build More Housing' zoning ordinance
Source: City of Detroit
City Hall · Washington, DCDeveloping
DC Council advances auto-enrollment in utility discount programs
What it means for youBill 26-0243 would automatically enroll eligible households, such as people on SNAP or Medicaid, in Pepco, Washington Gas and DC Water discount programs. It passed a first vote.
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Your city hall, your vote
What it means for youCouncil meetings are public, and most post agendas online a few days before each vote.
Your city hall, your vote
- Find your council's agenda page to see upcoming votes.
- Most councils allow public comment in person or online.
City HallComing Soon
Coverage for this city is on the way
What it means for youWe refresh two cities each morning. Check back soon.
Coverage for this city is on the way
- New city coverage is added every morning.
