The County Countdown – July 10, 2023
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Key Takeaways
Every other week, NACo’s County Countdown reviews federal advocacy updates on topics related to counties and the intergovernmental partnership.
Watch the video above for your intergovernmental policy bulletin, and explore below for NACo's resources on the key issues we covered this week.
1. Supreme Court Decisions Impacting Counties
The Supreme Court recently issued decisions on a number of cases with direct implications for county governments, covering topics like the Independent State Legislature Theory and employment law.
- Why it matters: These outcomes significantly shape the operational and legal landscape for counties nationwide.
- Looking ahead: The Local Government Legal Center – which was co-founded by NACo – will host a briefing to provide an in-depth analysis of these decisions tomorrow, July 11 at 1 p.m. ET.
2. Broadband Funding
The National Telecommunications & Information Administration (NTIA) has announced state funding allocations for the $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
- Why it's important: This initiative is set to bring high-speed, affordable internet access to county residents in unserved and underserved areas, bridging the digital divide.
- Getting it right: Accurate data and advocacy for responsible broadband development are pivotal to the successful implementation of this program.
3. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
A bipartisan, bicameral group of congressional leaders have introduced the NFIP Reauthorization Act, aiming to renew the program for five years with significant changes.
- Why it matters: This legislation proposes measures such as capping annual policy premium increases and providing vouchers for low- and middle-income homeowners and renters, which would directly benefit counties and our constituents.
- What's next: NACo is tracking this legislation and will share updates as it moves forward.
4. Recompete Pilot Program
The Economic Development Administration (EDA) has announced a $200 million pilot for the Recompete Program, with at least 20 plans receiving grants of $6-12 million.
- Why it matters: This investment is intended to catalyze economic recovery and growth, targeting economically distressed communities with high unemployment.
- Applications: Applications for the pilot are due October 5.
Attachments
Related News
U.S. Department of Energy announces cancellation of National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors
On August 12, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced it would not continue the designation process for three proposed National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors (NIETCs). The cancellation means that DOE is not actively considering any NIETCs, which preempt state and county siting authority for energy infrastructure.
U.S. EPA releases guidance for compliance with lead pipe removal requirements
On August 21, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released additional guidance for water systems to comply with the 2024 Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LRCI). The guidance comes as water systems face a November 1, 2027, deadline to complete a baseline inventory of water service line materials and begin replacing service lines. The guidance provides further directions on how to assess, identify and access service lines to comply with the rule.
USPS rule to restrict mail-in ballots makes its way through federal courts after ruling by Supreme Court
The Supreme Court ruled in a 6-3 decision to allow the Trump administration to move forward with its Executive Order 14399 directing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to compile official U.S. citizenship lists to be used in voter citizenship verification and the U.S. Postal Service to impose new mail-in ballot restrictions.