WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CSG

CSG Publishes Report of Fiscal Impact of COVID-19 and Recovery Strategies for States

The Council of State Governments (CSG), with research and analysis support from accounting firm KPMG LLP and based on research and surveys of fiscal leaders, released a new report, “COVID-19: Fiscal Impact to States and Strategies for Recovery.” Based on the latest state-by-state estimates, states face an estimated $169-253 billion shortfall in declining general fund revenue receipts and increased Medicaid expenditures for fiscal years ending in 2020 and 2021. Through this report, CSG aims to help states understand the continuing economic risk associated with managing COVID-19, analyze resiliency factors that can help states better prepare to weather this and future shocks and explore strategies to recover and manage the unique challenges from this pandemic. Read the full report at: web.csg.org/covid19/fiscalimpact.

COVID-19 Occupational Licensure Policy Responses

While occupational licensing regulations provide certain public health and safety safeguards, the increased health care demands imposed by COVID-19 have compelled states to evaluate which regulations may impede response efforts. In response, states have implemented executive orders/proclamations, legislation and administrative rulings that temporarily amend certain regulations to increase the supply of health care workers, lessen administrative burdens and comply with social distancing measures. CSG worked to compile a collection of state actions, categorized by policy themes and types, to assist states with developing response plans. This resource is available at: licensing.csg.org/covid-policy-responses

SSL Committee Now Accepting Legislation for Consideration

The CSG Shared State Legislation (SSL) Committee is currently accepting submissions for the 2021 docket cycle. The SSL Committee accepts legislation submissions from state officials and their staff, CSG Associates (private sector members) and CSG staff. It will consider legislation from other sources, but only when that legislation is submitted through a state official. To learn more about SSL or to submit a bill, email ssl@csg.org.

Apply Today for the Inaugural 20 Under 40 Leadership Program

In 2018, 700 millennial candidates ran in the approximately 6,000 state legislative races. Younger leaders increasingly play a major role in state capitols. In an effort to recognize their notable accomplishments and achievements, CSG launched its 20 Under 40 recognition program. The award recipients will be up-and-coming elected and appointed officials from across the country who demonstrate the ability to work across the aisle in meaningful ways to advance the common good and have shown a true commitment to serving the citizens of their state/territory. All 20 recognized leaders will be 40 years old or younger. To apply or to nominate someone for the 20 Under 40 recognition, visit web.csg.org/20-40. Applications are due Sept. 7, 2020.

CSG Offers New Grant to Utilize USDA Women, Infants and Children Program Funds

CSG announces a grant opportunity for state and local agencies to optimize program delivery for the United States Department of Agriculture Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). WIC protects and improves the health and nutritional status of low-income women, infants and children. However, the WIC certification process may present challenges to applicants who are interested in enrolling in the program. Through a new partnership with the Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, CSG will work with USDA Food and Nutrition Service to support innovative project development and evaluation strategies to improve the WIC certification experience. To learn more and to apply for a grant, visit web.csg.org/wic/funding-opportunity.