Budget

Buffalo Court Battle: Acting Mayor and Comptroller Face Off Over Bond Authority in $110 Million Budget Dispute

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Buffalo, N.Y. — A court hearing on Monday brought to light a contentious legal battle between Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon and Comptroller Barbara Miller-Williams over fiscal authority within the city. The lawsuit, spearheaded by Scanlon and Common Councilmember Mitch Nowakowski, challenges Miller-Williams’ refusal to issue bond anticipation notes tied to a significant $110 million capital budget. No ruling was immediately forthcoming from Judge Emilio Colaiacovo, who indicated that he would provide a written decision by the end of the week. This ongoing dispute centers around claims that the comptroller lacks the jurisdiction to block the … Read more

Spanish Government Faces Legislative Gridlock with 44 Bills at Stake Amid Budget Uncertainty

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Madrid, Spain — As Spain’s Congress prepares for a critical new legislative session, the government is faced with a daunting agenda. Lawmakers are set to deliberate over more than 40 significant bills, which encompass key issues such as reducing the workweek, addressing tariffs, and protections for vulnerable families facing eviction. Meanwhile, the country continues to operate under the 2023 General State Budget, leaving the 2026 budget proposal in limbo. The executive branch’s ability to pass these bills is fraught with uncertainty, as support in Congress appears tenuous. Politically, the administration may encounter multiple challenges, especially … Read more

Minnesota Legislatures Forge Ahead: New Laws Emerge Amid Federal Budget Cuts

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St. Paul, Minnesota – Although the legislative session may be on break, significant progress continues behind the scenes as lawmakers engage in critical discussions and community outreach to craft impactful legislation. This interim period serves as a pivotal time for shaping the state’s policy direction. As of July 1, Minnesota’s new budget has taken effect, instituting a range of policies passed during the last legislative session. Many of these new laws represent a collaborative effort across party lines, showcasing a commitment to governance that balances different viewpoints. Despite some areas of the budget that could … Read more

Harris County Judge Proposes Controversial Penny Tax to Fund Child Care Program Amid Budget Concerns

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HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is set to present a proposal for a tax increase to the county commissioners during Thursday’s meeting at Commissioners Court. The plan, referred to as a penny tax, would impose an additional charge of $10 annually for every $100,000 of residential property value. Hidalgo noted that this increase aims to secure ongoing funding for the Early REACH program, which provides free child care for eligible children aged four and under, previously supported by federal COVID-19 relief funds. With those resources dwindling, Hidalgo indicated that alternative funding … Read more