This webinar is available on-demand. If you have issues accessing the recording, please email nacomeetings@naco.org.

Join NACo’s Government Affairs team for week six of a biweekly series on key developments from the White House and Congress. Discussions will focus on policies and actions that directly impact counties — from federal funding and regulatory changes to intergovernmental partnerships. Tune in for an inside look at how these evolving federal dynamics may shape county priorities, responsibilities and operations.

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Speakers

Eryn Hurley

Eryn Hurley

Managing Director, Government Affairs & NACo Federal Fellowship Initiative
Mark Ritacco

Mark Ritacco

Chief Government Affairs Officer

Featured Resources

US Capitol
Advocacy

U.S. Congress passes reconciliation bill: What it means for counties

On July 3, the U.S. Congress passed sweeping budget reconciliation legislation. 

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2026 Appropriations Tracker

The annual appropriations process begins each year with the president submitting a budget request to Congress, outlining the administration's priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. The NACo 2026 Appropriations Tracker provides counties with a comprehensive overview of the federal appropriations process, tracking the progress of key spending bills and offering insights on how these will impact county funding and services.

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Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act: A County-Level Analysis

On July 24, the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee Chair Sam Graves (R-Mo.) and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) released the bipartisan Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act (H.R.4669), to dramatically overhaul the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This analysis outlines the bill’s key provisions and is designed to help county leaders understand the proposed reforms amid a shifting federal disaster framework.

USDA Building
Advocacy

U.S. Department of Agriculture announces reorganization

On July 24, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced a major reorganization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that will relocate thousands of federal employees, restructure regional offices and consolidate administrative services and operations. The changes are expected to reduce USDA’s footprint in Washington, D.C. and shift more personnel to regional hubs across the country. 

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Advocacy

White House Executive Order shifts federal approach to homelessness, mental illness and public safety

On July 29, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) sent a letter to states clarifying implementation of the White House Executive Order on Ending Crime and Disorder by outlining how federal funds for substance use programs may be used.

White House
Advocacy

White House issues Executive Order to change federal grantmaking process

On August 7, President Trump issued an Executive Order (EO) titled “Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking,” aiming to strengthen accountability, coordination and oversight in the federal grantmaking process.

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2025 Federal Funds Tracker

In recent months, federal agencies have encountered disruptions in program funding, affecting the delivery of various services. These interruptions have created challenges for counties working to maintain essential services for our communities. NACo's analysis outlines the recent funding disruptions and their impact on key programs that support county operations.