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.
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.
Companies Now Offering Time to Vote
Businesses large (Walmart) and small (Asheville Botanicals) have joined Time to Vote, a national movement within the business community that pledges to give employees time off to vote in elections.
Kentucky’s Voter ID Bill Threatens Progress on Voting Rights
Passage of a voter ID bill in Kentucky was a step backward in a state that, five months earlier, had restored voting rights to ex-felons who had served their sentences for non-violent crimes.
Virginia Legislature Moves Anti-Gerrymandering Amendment to Voters
The Virginia House of Delegates recently passed a redistricting amendment that would rescind the state legislature’s sole jurisdiction over redistricting actions.
Voting Rights for Ex-Felons Advance in Florida
Appeals court rules in favor of restoring voting rights to ex-felons, stating that new legislation is a form of wealth discrimination.
