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!
Bridge Data: Inspections, Ratings Statistics
Governing has created an interactive map of the United States that gives a state by state analysis of 2012 bridge data. The map allows you to view data on the structural integrity of state and local bridges. Just click on your state and see how it stacks up. Read More…
Does Energy Benchmarking Actually Lead to More Efficient Buildings?
Every year, building owners are required to collect and report data on their energy and water use in a national effort to make energy efficient upgrades that will reduce green house gas emissions. Not only do these benchmarks put data-collection costs on building owners, but Harvard environmental economists believe these programs are both not effective and have negative externalities to owners. Read More…
Farm Bill Vote May Be Delayed
As debate begins on the farm bill in the House, Congressional aides are warning that the vote could be delayed until next week. With over 200 amendments filed and a questionable number of votes, the debate on this bill could take a few more days than originally planned. Read More...
Fracking Fuels Water Battles
The growing hydraulic fracturing industry is making its way toward the vast reserves west of the Mississippi, to the same lands that have been dried up due to severe drought. Farmers and city leaders in these areas worry that the fracking boom will drive up water prices and burden already depleted aquifers and rivers. Read More…
Biden Says White House Hasn’t Given Up on Gun Legislation
On Tuesday, Vice President Joe Biden declared that the Obama Administration has not given up on passing gun control legislation. Since the President initiated 23 executive orders to prevent gun violence in January, Biden was pleased to announce that the administration has completed or made significant progress on 21 of the 23 actions. Although pleased, the Vice President said that the “fight isn’t over” until legislation is reconsidered in Congress. Read More…
Internet Sales Tax Bill Finds Few Friends in the House
With a relatively easy passage in the Senate, the Marketplace Fairness Act is facing resistance in the House. The House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va) said he doesn’t see the bill passing through committee without substantial changes. With a strong Republican coalition brewing against the bill, various organizations and online retail giants continue to strongly voice their support. Read More…
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