United States

US Measles Cases Exceed 1,100; Washington Reports 26

The Washington State Department of Health reported 26 measles cases in early 2026, with national cases surpassing 1,100. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with nearly 80% of Washington cases occurring in unvaccinated children. The DOH emphasizes the MMR vaccine as the primary prevention method.

Colorado Bill: Expedited Veterinary Licensing and Drug Donation

Colorado HB26-1198 proposes to expedite veterinary licensing by endorsement and veterinary technician registration by endorsement. It also establishes a program for the donation of unused veterinary drugs. The bill is currently under consideration in the 2026 Regular Session.

Colorado Bill Repeals Biomass Grant Program

Colorado Bill HB26-1213 proposes to repeal the state's Biomass Utilization Grant Program. This action is based on a recommendation from the 2025 sunset report by the department of regulatory agencies. The bill is currently under consideration in the 2026 legislative session.

Colorado State Forest Service Good Neighbor Authority Bill HB26-1205

Colorado Bill HB26-1205 proposes changes to state law to align with the federal expansion of good neighbor authority agreements. The bill specifies that the Colorado State Forest Service may enter into these agreements with federal agencies and requires demonstration projects to improve forest health and resilience.

Colorado Open Records Act Modifications

Colorado's SB26-107 modifies the state's Open Records Act by excluding disability communication records, altering response times, and adding provisions for fee determination and student data protection. The bill also requires public entities to post CORA rules and information on making requests.

Colorado Bill on Colorimetric Drug Tests for Possession

Colorado Bill HB26-1020 modifies procedures for colorimetric drug tests in drug possession cases. It restricts arrests for certain misdemeanor possession charges and requires advisements in felony cases regarding test accuracy and defendant rights.

Colorado Bill Clarifies Firearms Dealer Permit Requirements

Colorado HB26-1126 clarifies existing firearms dealer permit requirements, expands them to 'responsible persons' and employees/contractors, and introduces new security and reporting mandates. The bill also allows for fines up to $100,000 for repeat violations.

Colorado Agricultural Future Loan Program Modifications

Colorado Bill SB26-064 modifies the state's Agricultural Future Loan Program to expand eligibility for funding. The bill allows certain entities, including water districts and ditch companies with support from conservation divisions, to qualify for loans aimed at conserving agricultural land and facilitating ownership transfers to eligible farmers and ranchers.

Bill to Sunset Kidney Disease Prevention Education Task Force

Colorado HB26-1277 proposes to sunset the Kidney Disease Prevention and Education Task Force, implementing a recommendation from the 2025 sunset report by the department of regulatory agencies. The bill is currently under consideration in the 2026 Regular Session.

Colorado Bill Increases Marriage and Family Therapist Licensure Access

Colorado Bill HB26-1228 proposes changes to the licensure requirements for marriage and family therapists. The bill aims to increase access to licensure by allowing individuals whose master's or doctoral programs did not include an internship or practicum to still become licensed, with additional supervised clinical hours required.