NACo Presidency Reflection

In July of 2021 Commissioner Larry Johnson was sworn in as President of the National Association of Counties (NACo) by CEO Michael Thurmond. During the conclusion of NACo’s 87thAnnual Business Meeting; his term concluded and he was sworn in to his new position as Immediate Past President, where he will continue to serve on the Executive Committee and as a liaison to the Defined Contribution and Retirement Advisory Committee.

During his presidency, Commissioner Johnson focused his presidential initiatives on making sure that counties T.H.R.I.V.E. (Technology, Health, Readiness, Infrastructure, Vulnerable populations and Economic opportunities) by uplifting examples of county perseverance and problem-solving through the COVID-19 pandemic, and innovative uses of federal funds and local partnerships to improve outcomes for all residents.

“I am grateful for this experience” said Commissioner Johnson. “I have learned so much from each county. Together we have accomplished so much.”

Below is a brief summary of of NACo’s accomplishments under Commissioner Johnson’s Presidency.

Much-needed flexibility in the implementation of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) was preserved.
Secured additional federal aid for public lands counties in the American Rescue Plan, and the Payments in Lieu of Taxes program is again fully funded.
Worked with our federal partners to pass and shape the implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which includes record investments in county-owned bridges and railway crossings.
With the passing of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there have been investments in connectivity and requiring states to work with counties for greater broadband accessibility.
Helped federal partners support high-speed internet in every corner of the country through NACo’s TestIT app.
Continued to push Congress and the administration to reverse the federal policy that strips Medicaid and veterans benefits from people upon arrest, rather than after conviction.
Launched the Familiar Faces Initiative to empower appropriate sharing of data between health and justice systems. This will help us coordinate care options for individuals with complex behavioral and health conditions who frequently use county crisis services.
Continue to advance diversity, equity and inclusion throughout all our work, including health equity, reducing racial disparities in the justice system, and creating economic opportunities for all our residents to thrive.
Examined policy solutions to expand and improve services for young children and families through the Pre-Natal to Three County Leaders Academy.
Renewing the Counties and Military Network in partnership with the Department of Defense to facilitate communication and coordination between the DOD and counties with military installations.
Expanded our network of county technology leaders, and more than 1,000 county officials participated in our cyber-attack simulations to help prepare for increasing threats.
Launched a special initiative to support the mental health of county employees. Our Mental Health First Aid program with the National Council of Mental Wellbeing helps county employees identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among our peers, friends and colleagues.
Relaunched our Live Healthy Prescription, Health and Dental Discount program for our residents. In the first six months of this year, we have helped save our residents more than $7.2 million on nearly 100,000 prescriptions, a 53 percent increase over the same period last year.

"Significant policy victories were achieved at the federal level" said Commissioner Johnson. "It has been an exceptional honor to serve as your president, and we’re poised to make even greater gains in the months and years ahead."

Congratulations Commissioner Johnson. A Presidency well done!