Our progress updates bring you the news filtered through the lens of outcomes. We ask: Has the event, action, or utterance changed anything? In particular, has it contributed tangibly to resolving any of the problems that we focus on here? Our reports demonstrate progress towards a solution – or regrettably, a regression from possible resolution. If our editors do not agree that the event, action, or utterance has moved the needle of progress one way or the other, then it won’t be reported here.
Florida, Texas Latest to Propose Anti-Protest Legislation
Florida and Texas governors magnify disturbances at mostly peaceful protests to propose harsh anti-protest legislation that could strip protesters of their right to vote.
Tennessee Law Could Disenfranchise Protestors
A new Tennessee law makes camping on state property, among other protest-related offenses, a felony. In Tennessee, people convicted of felonies lose the right to vote.
Online Services Increase Access to Contraception
It can be hard to get birth control, particularly for women in rural settings. A new wave of companies makes it easier.
Voters Should Expect Shorter Lines, Faster Vote Counting for November Election
Voters should expect more to go right on Election Day as election officials learn from mistakes made in the primaries.
To Estimate COVID-19 Cases, Chattanooga Tests Its Wastewater
Wastewater testing for Covid-19 shows greater numbers than reported cases. That could affect decisions to reopen schools and businesses.
Basketball, COVID Money Tracker Put Eyes on National Debt
The national debt has returned to the spotlight thanks to rising NBA star Spencer Dinwiddie and the COVID Money Tracker, an accountability tool from the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.
Carbon Emissions Drop In Chattanooga, TN
Greenhouse gas emissions in Chattanooga dropped 25% in 10 years. New plans aim to reduce them further as local temperatures rise.
Court Ruling Fails to Prioritize Voting Rights
The US Court of Appeals has temporarily allowed the State of Florida to resume enforcement of a law that inhibits ex-felons from registering to vote.
Iowa Bank Goes Carbon Neutral
The Decorah Bank and Trust Company in Decorah, IA has reached a major milestone that few businesses can claim: its operations are officially carbon neutral.
Effort to Undo Anti-Gerrymandering Initiative in Missouri
Missouri Republicans are trying to undo an anti-gerrymandering initiative passed by 62% of voters in 2018
Postal Service At Risk, Texans Seek More Vote By Mail Participation
The US Postal Service is needed more than ever as states expand options for voting by mail during the coronavirus pandemic; Texas is one of several states trying to change laws governing who can vote by mail.
Vote By Mail Makes Gains in 3 States
A push to prioritize voting rights in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has expanded options for voting by mail in Maryland, Virginia, and Kentucky.
