DOJ opens investigation after Chicago mayor touts Black hires

The department took issue with comments the mayor made at a public event Sunday, in which he identified six high-level positions held by Black workers.

By Emilie Shumway • May 21, 2025

Judge stops DOT action against New York congestion pricing

A federal court judge issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting the Department of Transportation from imposing punitive actions as a deadline passed for New York to end its tolling program.

By Dan Zukowski • Updated May 28, 2025

The 6 fastest-warming U.S. cities

Since the first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, 240 of 242 U.S. cities have warmed by 2.9 degrees on average, according to a recent analysis.

By Ryan Kushner • May 20, 2025

Washington governor signs laws regulating landfills, expanding organics service and more

Gov. Bob Ferguson signed five laws, including ones that affected renewable natural gas, PFAS in biosolids and plastic bags.

By Cole Rosengren , Jacob Wallace • May 20, 2025

Republican budget squeezes out of House committee, but deeper IRA cuts could come

Deficit hawks voted to advance the legislation for now but said they negotiated for more cuts to clean energy incentives.

By Diana DiGangi • May 20, 2025

Tomorrow’s government worker will have a passion for public service and excellent technical skills

Agencies are looking to increase efficiency and are seeking talent to revitalize processes and streamline workflows to improve citizen services. Organizations require talent with business process innovation skill sets. This can include general practitioners with strong analytical thinking skills who can bring innovative ideas to government.

By Michael Keating • May 19, 2025

How states are thinking about organic waste policy

Panelists from Divert, CalRecycle and NRDC discussed lessons that can be learned from a rising number of state organic waste policies in California and elsewhere.

By Jacob Wallace • May 19, 2025

Supreme Court narrows police immunity in use-of-force cases

In rejecting the “moment of threat” defense, the court opens the door to greater officer accountability — though how the ruling will shape policing on the ground is still uncertain.

By Robyn Griggs Lawrence • May 19, 2025

NLC selects 20 Southern cities for economic initiative

The grants aim to boost economic growth in the selected cities by empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs.

By Michelle Havich • May 16, 2025

EPA rolls back part of PFAS drinking water standards

The agency will continue regulating PFOA and PFOS in drinking water, but will extend compliance timelines. It has rescinded rules for four other PFAS chemicals.

By Megan Quinn • May 15, 2025

NYC launches ‘microhub’ pilot to reduce truck delivery congestion, pollution

Dedicated spaces for delivery trucks allow last-mile deliveries to be made by cargo bikes, pushcarts and zero-emission vehicles.

By Danielle McLean • May 15, 2025

Federal safety agency asks Tesla for details of its planned robotaxis

Tesla CEO Elon Musk previously announced plans to launch driverless ride-hailing services in Austin, Texas, and the San Francisco Bay Area this year.

By Dan Zukowski • May 15, 2025

Congress could soon revoke California’s vehicle emissions standards

State and local authority over air quality will be jeopardized if Congress revokes California’s auto emissions limits, experts say.

By Dan Zukowski • May 14, 2025

Washington governor signs rent control into law

The new measure sets a 7% plus interest limit on rent increases, capped at 10%.

By Mary Salmonsen • May 14, 2025

Revised hiring standards and increased public support could aid in recruiting more police officers

Police departments are facing a shortage of officers. Law enforcement agencies may improve their recruiting efforts if they develop a clear, concise list of hiring standards.

By Michael Keating • May 13, 2025

Mayors flag Medicaid cuts as a public safety issue

The U.S. Conference of Mayors warns Congress that benefit cuts can increase mental health crises and substance abuse, diverting police from violent crime.

By Robyn Griggs Lawrence • May 13, 2025

Tech hubs: these 10 cities are ‘best prepared’ for a smart city future

The annual ranking is based on metrics related to tech infrastructure and connectivity, sustainability and each city’s tech job market. 

By Ryan Kushner • May 12, 2025

Mayors call arrest of Newark, N.J., mayor ‘deeply troubling’

Newark, New Jersey, Mayor Ras Baraka’s arrest during his attempt to inspect a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility raised concerns about federal overreach.

By Robyn Griggs Lawrence • May 12, 2025

How training and a broader talent pool can help local governments combat escalating cyber threats

By building a strong culture and commitment to cybersecurity through training and engaging a robust talent pipeline, state and local governments can create a foundation for the future now.

By Max Shuftan • May 9, 2025

How LA hoteliers can prepare for Olympics, World Cup amid a complex operating environment

Hotel employers, labor unions, city officials and industry associations will need to work together to ensure Los Angeles offers a world-class experience to visitors, writes attorney Lara Shortz.

By Lara Shortz • May 9, 2025

Trump’s second 50 days: The impact on local governments

President Donald Trump, his cabinet and the Department of Government Efficiency are changing federal policy and funding streams, creating wide-ranging implications for local governments.

By Smart Cities Dive Staff • May 9, 2025

NOAA stops tracking cost of extreme weather and climate disasters

The data can't be replicated by city and state governments, scientists say.

By Robyn Griggs Lawrence • May 9, 2025

Enhanced tech helps government fleets run at peak performance, but fleet managers must evolve

From supply chain disruptions to technological advancements including telematics, AI and driver-assistance, the role of the fleet professional is evolving faster than ever before.

By Michael Keating • May 8, 2025

Report ranks states’ efforts to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

UL Standards & Engagement officials recommend cities and states mandate indoor carbon monoxide alarms, conduct public awareness campaigns and train first responders.

By Robyn Griggs Lawrence • May 8, 2025

Trump budget looks to slash rental assistance, affordable housing programs

HUD Secretary Scott Turner said the proposed cuts require local governments to “have more skin in the game.”

By Ryan Kushner • May 7, 2025