Every Wednesday, The Ferguson Group blog will be posting a series of articles published over the previous week that discuss topics of interest to local governments. Learn about emerging trends and keep up on key policy issues by browsing the TFG Wednesday News Roundup!
Sales Tax Fairness
In recent Senate votes, there is strong bipartisan majority who support changes to existing law that require online retailers to collect sales tax only if they have a physical presence in the customer’s state, whereas physical establishments must pay. This “unfair advantage” deprives states of an estimated $11 billion in annual sales-tax revenue. Read More…
Energy Revenue For Infrastructure: A ‘natural link’
As Congress looks to energy revenues to fund the rebuilding of America’s infrastructure, Speaker John Boehner suggests that revenues from oil and gas drilling should be included. With the 2014 transportation bill deadline looming, the avenues for stabilizing the Highway Trust Fund will be central to the energy revenue debate. Read More…
Record Build America Bonds Rally Defies Subsidy Cut: Muni Credit
Even with significant cuts due to sequestration, the Build America Bond market is rallying. Investors believe municipalities can withstand the reduced subsidies because of improving revenue and the current housing rebound. Read More…
EPA Warns of Poor US Water Quality
According to a comprehensive examination of water quality by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), they determine that 55% of U.S. rivers and streams are in poor condition for aquatic life, noting that only 21% of waters were in “good” condition. Read More…
Department of Energy Launches New Clean Energy Manufacturing Initiative
The new Clean Energy Manufacturing Initiative created by the Department of Energy (DOE) aims to strengthen American competitiveness in clean energy manufacturing. The Department aims to support innovations that will lead clean energy technologies towards subsidy independence. Read More…
Industry Perspective: 7 Steps for Staying Safe in the Super-storm Era
Mass communication tools have proven to be effective in the event of severe weather and other safety and security scenarios. These tips can help ensure the effectiveness of current emergency notification systems to keep your communities safe. Read More…
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