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Spotlight:
Chair’s Forum on the Future of Nuclear Energy in the West
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Each year, the CSG West Chair selects timely and pressing topics to explore during the CSG West Annual Meeting. These forums explore emerging issues, engage policymakers on state-specific approaches, and highlight innovative strategies that enhance legislation and drive regional outcomes.
Under the leadership of the 2025 CSG West Chair, Wyoming Representative Mike Yin, we’re excited to announce the first Chair’s Forum of the 78th CSG West Annual Meeting, taking place in Jackson, Wyoming:
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The Future of Nuclear Energy in the West
Wednesday, September 17
8:30 AM—10:00 AM
| As Western states work to meet growing energy demands and climate goals, nuclear energy is gaining renewed attention from policymakers. This session will explore recent legislative and federal actions supporting nuclear power, including lifting moratoriums, introducing incentives, and setting emission targets. It will also examine the role of nuclear energy in the regional grid and address public concerns around plant safety and nuclear waste storage. | | | | | ALTA Session Announced: Coalition Building in Alaska | We are excited to announce this year’s Annual Legislative Training Assembly (ALTA) session at the 2025 CSG West Annual Meeting. In Alaska, an uncommon model prevails, with tri-partisan coalitions holding majorities in both legislative chambers. This session will offer a behind-the-scenes insights at how policymakers in the Last Frontier navigate consensus-building and foster collaboration to advance to common good. | | |
The Impact of Federal Spending on the States
National Policy Leaders Join CSG Webinar to Discuss State Challenges, Opportunities Amid Federal Budget Changes
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Federal dollars play a critical role in shaping state economies, supporting everything from infrastructure and innovation to public services and local budgets. With recent federal actions and legislative developments, it is essential for states to understand the shifting landscape of federal fiscal policy and its implications for their financial management.
To support state leaders, CSG recently hosted a webinar titled “The Impact of Federal Spending on the States.” The session provided a deep dive into how current federal fiscal policies are impacting state economies, budgets and long-term planning.
The full webinar recording is now available, offering actionable insights from national thought leaders on state policy and fiscal strategy. Experts explore key questions like:
- How does federal spending impact a state’s economy?
- Where do states currently stand on intergovernmental transfers?
- How would recent federal DOGE actions and congressional approved budget resolutions (if enacted through appropriations) impact the states?
- What is the status of funds previously approved under the CHIPs Act, Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law?
| Presentations shared by the panelists are available for download below. Explore insights from Justin Theal of The Pew Charitable Trusts on weakening tax collections, rising spending pressures, potential structural budget risks, reserves and grants. Additionally, Marcia Howard of the Federal Funds Information for States (FFIS) provides an overview of fiscal year 2025 appropriations, reconciliation dynamics and the debt limit. |
| | | CSG National Statement on Proposed Federal Moratorium on State AI Legislation | The CSG National office recently expressed concern regarding the proposed 10-year moratorium on state artificial intelligence (AI) legislation, as outlined in the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee’s reconciliation measure. The statement aligns with the principles of federalism previously approved by the CSG National Executive Committee. Under those principles, CSG opposes unfunded mandates and federal preemption, and supports cooperation, consultation, and collaboration by the federal government when considering legislation and administrative regulations. According to the statement, a ten-year moratorium on state regulation would constitute preemption and a usurpation of state government prerogatives. | | |
CSG West 78th Annual Meeting
September 16-19, 2025
Jackson, Wyoming
| Registration is open for the 78th CSG West Annual Meeting in Jackson, Wyoming. Secure your spot today! | | |
Colorado River Forum
November 12-14, 2025
Santa Fe, New Mexico
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Hosted by New Mexico Senate President Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart, Colorado River Forum Co-Chair, this year's forum will take place November 12–14 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Lodging will be available at La Fonda on the Plaza.
Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details!
If you have any questions, please contact Jackie Tinetti, Senior Policy Analyst, at jtinetti@csg.org.
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| Reminder: Now Accepting Applications for the 2026 CSG West Vice Chair Position | The CSG West Nominating Committee is currently accepting applications from Western legislators interested in serving as an officer of CSG West. The position of 2026 Vice Chair is open. The legislator elected by the Executive Committee will advance to serve as Chair in 2028. | | |
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THE COUNCIL OF STATE GOVERNMENTS WEST
www.csgwest.org
| | CSG West is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving western state legislatures. All active legislators are considered members of our organization and included in organizational correspondence regarding news and events. While we hope you find this information of use, we also understand the need for a tidy inbox. If you do not wish to receive email updates from us, please unsubscribe below to be removed from our email list. | | | | |
