County Countdown – June 3, 2025
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Every other week, NACo's County Countdown reviews top federal policy advocacy items with an eye towards counties and the intergovernmental partnership.
DHS releases list identifying 'sanctuary jurisdictions'
On May 30, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a list of "sanctuary jurisdictions," including nearly 400 counties. The list is part of the implementation of the Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens Executive Order.
- What it means: DHS will send formal notification to designated sanctuary jurisdictions and urge them to review and revise their policies to align with the administration’s immigration enforcement priorities.
- Evolving situation: The list published on Friday has since been taken down. NACo is monitoring the situation and will update this blog post as we learn more.
- How to take action: Counties can reach out to sanctuaryjurisdictions@hq.dhs.gov with any questions about the sanctuary jurisdiction designation. NACo also recommends that counties consult with legal counsel to ensure immigration-related policies are consistent with state and federal laws.
TAKE IT DOWN Act signed into law
NACo attended a bill signing ceremony on May 20 for the TAKE IT DOWN Act. The bipartisan legislation supports counties working to combat digital abuse and deepfake crimes.
- New protections: The new legislation criminalizes nonconsensual sharing of intimate images, including explicit deepfakes.
- Support for counties: The law includes provisions supporting local law enforcement’s role in protecting victims and pursuing offenders.
- AI safeguards: It also addresses emerging threats made worse by generative AI tools misused by bad actors.
Counties gear up to support the Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill
With the $1.2 trillion Surface Transportation Reauthorization set to expire in 2026, counties are preparing for advocacy efforts around the bill, which supports roads, bridges, transit and more.
- County investment: Counties contribute over $146 billion annually to infrastructure projects.
- Federal partnership: NACo emphasizes the need for direct investment and flexibility in transportation funding.
- New toolkit: NACo launched a resource hub to help counties advocate for priorities during congressional negotiations.
Budget reconciliation bill moves to the Senate
The House-passed budget reconciliation bill — called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — heads to the Senate, offering counties an opportunity to advocate for critical changes.
- Positive provisions: The bill preserves municipal bond tax exemption, reauthorizes the Secure Rural Schools program and delays Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) cuts.
- Funding support: The bill also includes $1.6 billion for major event preparedness.
- Ongoing concerns: The budget would raise administrative cost-sharing under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, impose new Medicaid burdens and limit local control over AI regulation.
- Call to action: The Senate phase is a pivotal moment for counties to shape the final legislation and protect essential services. Counties are encouraged to reach out to Senators to discuss county priorities.
Remembering Congressman Gerry Connolly
Counties across the nation mourn the passing of Rep. Gerry Connolly, a lifelong advocate for local government with deep roots in public service.
- Local legacy: Rep. Connolly served 15 years on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, including two as chair.
- Congressional leadership: He co-chaired the bipartisan Former Local Elected Officials Caucus, amplifying local perspectives on Capitol Hill.
- Enduring impact: Rep. Connolly championed civil discourse, intergovernmental cooperation and county-level priorities in Congress.
DHS releases list identifying sanctuary jurisdictions; includes nearly 400 counties
NACo, along with the National League of Cities, and the International Municipal Lawyers Association, requested additional clarification on the methodology used to create the list, and noted concerns around the legal challenges that localities face when complying with ICE detainers. As of this time, NACo has yet to hear of a county receiving a formal notification that they were included on the list.
TAKE IT DOWN Act signed into law
The TAKE IT DOWN Act establishes federal authorities at the Federal Trade Commission to remove non-consensual intimate images from digital platforms
Surface Transportation Reauthorization Resource Hub
The Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill is a crucial legislative framework that empowers counties to enhance and sustain the nation’s infrastructure and transportation networks.
U.S. House passes reconciliation bill: What it means for counties
Counties should continue to advocate for county priorities to be included in the final budget reconciliation bill.
Local Leaders Mourn the Passing of Representative Gerry Connolly
On behalf of the nation’s counties, cities, towns and villages, the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National League of Cities (NLC) today issued the following statement on the passing of Congressman Gerald E. “Gerry” Connolly.
Related News
HHS relaunches applications for TANF Pilot Program
This month, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services relaunched applications for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Pilot Program, authorized by the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023.
Casey Foundation leader emphasizes support for youth
“When youth are asked what helped them the most, they might name a program, but they will absolutely name a person that believed in them,” Leslie Boissiere told the General Session audience.
Maryland county invests in community ‘villages’
Baltimore County, Md. created a volunteer network or “village” to help with everything from groceries to doctor’s appointment to fighting isolation.
Upcoming Events
Exploring the Art of the Possible with AI for Countywide Services
Join the National Association of Counties (NACo) and C3 AI for a webinar on how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming county-level government services. Building on NACo’s successful Technology Information Forum, this session brings together AI experts and county leaders to explore real-world use cases, opportunities for pilots and proofs of concept, and practical tips to launch AI initiatives.
From automating property assessments to enhancing public safety investigations and improving constituent engagement, counties are already leveraging AI to modernize services, reduce costs, and deliver better outcomes for residents. This webinar will showcase how counties can responsibly implement AI to meet their missions faster, smarter, and more equitably.
NACo AI Central Regional Forum
The NACo AI Regional Forum series is convening local government elected officials, appointed officers, department heads, and staff across different geographical regions to provide an educational, hands-on symposium on the landscape of artificial intelligence.
Enhancing Child Welfare: Best Practices for Measuring and Improving Outcomes
Join us for an insightful webinar focusing on child welfare specifically designed for county governments. We will delve into evidence-based practices, informed funding decisions, cost efficiencies, and effective program management. Key areas of discussion will include out-of-home placements, prevention services, and reunification services.