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Blaire Bryant

Legislative Director, Health | Large Urban County Caucus
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Julia Cortina

Associate Legislative Director, Human Services & Education | Immigration Advisory Council

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Advocacy

HALT Fentanyl Act signed into law

Among our numerous responsibilities, serving as the front line of the social safety net is a primary function of county governments to ensure healthy, safe and vibrant communities for our residents. County governments are steadfastly committed to protecting our residents’ quality of life, including by ensuring they can access the nutritious food they need to thrive. 

Food insecurity often corresponds with poor nutrition, which can negatively impact health, educational outcomes and productivity in all individuals, but especially in children. Meanwhile, diet-related diseases are some of the leading causes of death and disability in the U.S.

Counties are key partners with the federal government in developing, implementing and administering food and nutrition programs at the local level. Across the nation, county governments are leading efforts to combat hunger by transforming local food systems and often serve as conveners and/or key partners for local food councils. Counties sponsor programs in partnership with community organizations to increase access to fresh fruit and vegetables at farmers markets, organize food drives and support local food production. We are also investing significant portions of our American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) allocations to combat food insecurity.

However, the county role in supporting food security and nutrition extends far beyond the administration of federal nutrition programs. Counties are owners and operators of the services, resources and systems that shape the way our nation produces, delivers and provides access to healthy, nutritious food to all the nation’s residents. This includes building and maintaining critical infrastructure that supports transportation routes from food producers to providers, and investing in facilities that provide food to low-income and vulnerable populations such as schools and public libraries. Counties are also responsible for consumer protection, economic development, employment and workforce training, emergency management, land use planning and zoning, which all support the social, environmental and economic conditions that keep our nation’s food system running. 

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Fentanyl
Advocacy

HALT Fentanyl Act signed into law

On July 16, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act (HALT Fentanyl Act) (P.L. 119-26) was signed into law, marking a major turning point in the nation’s response to the opioid epidemic. The bipartisan legislation permanently classifies fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act, granting law enforcement the authority to combat the growing threat posed by synthetic opioids. The law’s enactment follows years of temporary extensions that placed these substances under federal control on a provisional basis.  

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

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.

Leslie Boissiere, of the Annie E. Casey Foundation, talks about her organization’s support of youth-centered services with Second Vice President George Dunlap during the Closing General Session July 13. Photo by Denny Henry
County News

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.

Upcoming Events

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Webinar

Understanding the Homelessness Executive Order: Federal Shifts, County Impacts and Next Steps

Join NACo on Tuesday, August 26 at 3:00 p.m. ET for a timely webinar outlining major changes to federal funding, grant conditions, and policy priorities that directly affect county homelessness programs, behavioral health systems and enforcement strategies.

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Webinar

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.

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Webinar

Innovative Health Plan Strategies for County Governments

Hosted by UnitedHealthcare, this session will explore alternative health plan approaches that prioritize price transparency and promote the use of high-value providers, including models like the Surest Health Plan.