Capitol Hill · Federal4 Bills Tracked
Capitol Hill tracker: funding deadline, retirement plans, power bills, health care
What it means for youGovernment funding runs out December 11 unless Congress acts, and lawmakers are on recess until after the midterm elections. Other bills here touch retirement plans, electric bills and health coverage.
Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027Signed
Shutdown risk returns December 12 unless Congress acts.
Retire through Ownership Act (S. 2403)Signed
Affects retirement savings for workers at employee-owned companies.
Ratepayer Protection Act (H.R. 9340)Passed House
Aims to keep data center grid costs off home electric bills.
Warner ACA and Medicaid billIntroduced
Would change ACA premiums and Medicaid rules if passed.
Capitol Hill tracker: funding deadline, retirement plans, power bills, health care
The bills
- Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027 (Signed): Funds agencies through December 11, 2026; the same law extended the AGOA trade program to 2028. Bill page
- Retire through Ownership Act (S. 2403) (Signed): Lets employee stock plan managers rely on an IRS valuation method when pricing private company stock. Bill page
- Ratepayer Protection Act (H.R. 9340) (Passed House): Asks state regulators to consider making large data centers pay the full grid-upgrade costs they cause. Bill page
- Warner ACA and Medicaid bill (Introduced): Would make enhanced ACA credits permanent from 2027, add a public option and repeal Medicaid work requirements. Bill page
Source: Congress.gov (Congressional Research Service)
National · United KingdomUpcoming
UK Budget arrives 28 October under new Chancellor John Healey
What it means for youThe Budget can change tax, pensions, benefits and savings. Income tax rates, employee National Insurance and VAT rises are ruled out under Labour's pledge.
From WashingtonSince 24 July 2026, most UK goods entering the US pay an extra 10% Section 301 duty, with whisky and many medical devices exempt.
UK Budget arrives 28 October under new Chancellor John Healey
- Chancellor John Healey presents his first Budget on Wednesday 28 October. It is the first Budget under Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
- The Office for Budget Responsibility, the independent forecaster, publishes its economy and public finances forecast on the same day.
- Some changes are already set. VAT on household electricity fell from 5% to 0% on 1 October, and tax on savings and property income rises 2 points in April 2027.
- Healey says fiscal credibility goes hand in hand with growth. Some allies of the former prime minister warn tax rises could slow growth, the Financial Times reports.
Source: House of Commons Library
National · CanadaUpcoming
Canada's federal budget lands November 5 amid U.S. tariff pressure
What it means for youOttawa will set spending on affordability, major projects and economic security. Final deficit figures and any tax changes have not been confirmed yet.
From WashingtonA 50% U.S. tariff on a broad range of Canadian goods took effect August 22, and more Canadian products are added to that list on October 30.
Canada's federal budget lands November 5 amid U.S. tariff pressure
- Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced that the second budget under Prime Minister Mark Carney will be tabled on November 5.
- The Parliamentary Budget Officer projects a $63.3 billion deficit for 2026-27, peaking at $70.2 billion in 2027-28.
- The PBO also lowered its 2026 growth outlook to 0.9%, citing additional trade measures and ongoing uncertainty.
- Carney has promised to balance the day-to-day operating budget. The PBO's latest numbers show no path to balancing the overall budget, and it has raised concerns about debt levels.
Source: CBC News
National · NigeriaUpcoming
Nigeria's presidential vote moved up to January 16, 2027
What it means for youYou vote for president and National Assembly on 16 January 2027, then governors and state assemblies on 6 February. Campaigns are already running.
From WashingtonA US proclamation in force since 1 January 2026 partly suspends Nigerian entry on B-1/B-2, F, M and J visas, with exceptions, and eligible visitor-visa applicants must post a refundable bond of $10,000 to $20,000.
Nigeria's presidential vote moved up to January 16, 2027
- INEC first set 20 February 2027 for the presidential vote and 6 March for governors.
- After the Electoral Act 2026 was signed on 18 February 2026, INEC moved the dates to 16 January and 6 February.
- Presidential and National Assembly campaigns began 19 August 2026 and end 14 January 2027. Governorship campaigns run until 4 February 2027.
- Some Muslim stakeholders had criticised the earlier dates for coinciding with Ramadan. INEC said the change followed the new law's timelines.
Source: Voice of Nigeria
National · JamaicaIn Effect
Jamaica tightens spending and promises faster Hurricane Melissa recovery
What it means for youThe government is cutting official travel and promises measures to speed hurricane recovery. Some families still lack secure homes, and imported modular houses have been slow to roll out.
From WashingtonSince 1 January 2026, a 1% US tax applies to remittances sent with cash, a money order or a cashier's check, while bank, card and digital wallet transfers are exempt.
Jamaica tightens spending and promises faster Hurricane Melissa recovery
- A memo dated 21 October from Prime Minister Andrew Holness bans non-essential official overseas travel in the public sector until 31 March 2027.
- The government says Hurricane Melissa strained public finances, and the ban is among the first spending discipline steps.
- Holness says more measures to cut red tape are coming, with a press briefing on Tuesday, the eve of the hurricane's first anniversary.
- The opposition PNP asks whether the ban is real cost-cutting or a public relations exercise. The government has rejected that criticism.
Source: Jamaica Observer
National · Washington & YouIn Effect
What Washington's visa, tariff and remittance rules mean abroad
What it means for youSending cash abroad now carries a 1% U.S. tax. Visitors from 50 countries may need visa bonds up to $20,000. AGOA duty-free trade for African exporters runs through 2028.
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
State House · VermontSigned
Vermont signs 2027 school property tax rates with $100 million buy-down
What it means for youEducation property tax rates in Vermont are still set to rise on average next year, but one-time state surplus money cuts the projected increase roughly in half.
State House · VirginiaSigned
Virginia law raises minimum wage to $15 by 2028
What it means for youVirginia's minimum wage rises from $12.77 to $13.75 on January 1, 2027, then to $15.00 on January 1, 2028. A related law extends coverage to farmworkers.
State House · WashingtonSigned
Washington expands senior property tax exemption starting 2027
What it means for youStarting with 2027 taxes, more Washingtonians 61 and older can qualify for property tax relief. Income limits vary by county.
Washington expands senior property tax exemption starting 2027
Source: KHQ
State House · West VirginiaUpcoming
West Virginia readies Medicaid work rules starting January 1, 2027
What it means for youMany adults 19 to 64 on expanded Medicaid must show 80 hours a month of work, school or volunteering to keep coverage. About 33,000 people could be affected.
State House · WisconsinFailed
Wisconsin Senate rejects $1.8 billion surplus, tax relief deal
What it means for youA plan for $300 or $600 rebate checks and school aid meant to ease property taxes failed in the state Senate in May. The Senate majority leader has said he wants to try again.
Wisconsin Senate rejects $1.8 billion surplus, tax relief deal
Source: WXPR
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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 AngelesUnder Review
LA Council shelves mansion tax ballot change, studies narrower tax credit
What it means for youMeasure ULA, the tax on property sales above about $5.3 million, stays in place, with narrower changes under review. Its revenue funds affordable housing and renter help.
LA Council shelves mansion tax ballot change, studies narrower tax credit
Source: LAist
City Hall · ChicagoProposed
Chicago mayor proposes $17.6 billion 2027 budget with head tax
What it means for youMayor Johnson wants a per-employee tax on larger employers and new fees to close an $882 million gap. A bloc of 29 aldermen opposes the head tax.
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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