Policy & Government Affairs

Nominations and Withdrawals Sent to the Senate

The White House announced nominations and withdrawals sent to the Senate on March 12, 2026. Key nominations include Sarah B. Rogers for CEO of the US Agency for Global Media, and withdrawals include William Hewes III for CPSC Commissioner and Jeremy Carl for Assistant Secretary of State.

NSLDS User Guide and Record Layouts Updated

The U.S. Department of Education has updated the NSLDS Transfer Student Monitoring & Financial Aid History User Guide and Record Layouts, effective March 12, 2026. These updates, which will be implemented in late April 2026, include changes to file layouts and a new alert for loan limit exceptions, supporting the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

First Lady Melania Trump's Remarks on Women's Courage and Risk-Taking

First Lady Melania Trump delivered remarks recognizing Women's History Month, encouraging women to be courageous, take risks, and pursue their ambitions. The event hosted accomplished women leaders in various fields at the White House.

HHS Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing Programs

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has published updated guidelines for federal workplace drug testing programs. The rule confirms that current authorized drug testing panels and required report nomenclature remain in effect.

Motor Vehicle Taxes for Armed Forces Members

Colorado Bill HB26-1200 proposes to amend motor vehicle tax and fee requirements for members of the United States armed forces serving outside the state. The bill aims to simplify the process by removing the requirement for military members to sign an affidavit to qualify for certain tax exemptions and late fee exceptions.

Colorado Bill Requires Key Boxes at Schools

Colorado Senate Bill 26-104 requires school districts and charter/nonpublic schools to install exterior key boxes containing necessary keys and access control devices. This measure aims to facilitate law enforcement access to school buildings and rooms during emergencies. The bill permits the use of school security disbursement program funds for installation.

Colorado Bill Supports Human-Animal Bond as Social Determinant of Health

Colorado Bill HB26-1229 proposes to amend the definition of 'social determinants of health' to include the human-animal bond. This change would authorize the health disparities and community grant program to fund initiatives supporting this bond, impacting public health and human services.

Colorado Bill SB26-135: K-12 Funding and Excess Revenue Retention

Colorado bill SB26-135 proposes to increase state public K-12 education funding by up to 2% for ten years, contingent on voter approval in November 2026. The bill would allow the state to retain excess revenues above the fiscal year spending limitation to fund this increase and other educational initiatives.

Colorado Bill Changes Nursing Home Penalty Fund Distribution

Colorado Bill HB26-1244 amends the criteria for distributing funds from the nursing home penalty cash fund. The bill shifts distribution priorities to align with CMS guidelines and changes the annual reporting deadline. It also expands the definition of 'benefit residents' to include training and removes restrictions on governmental entities applying for grants.

Colorado Bill Modifies County Enforcement Authority for Property Issues

Colorado Bill HB26-1239 proposes modifications to county enforcement authority regarding property issues, including the removal of rubbish, weeds, brush, and the securing or removal of hazardous buildings. The bill also addresses violations of zoning resolutions or ordinances. It is currently under consideration in the 2026 Regular Session.