A cluster of state bills moved forward this week to hand HCDA new powers over Hilo’s Banyan Drive, fund planning and give the state tools to buy key parcels. Committees advanced measures while demolition and master‑planning work proceed.

Crain's 2026 ranking shows the U.S. government still leads the Chicago-area job list, with CPS and the City close behind while hospitals and firms fill out the top 10.

A UT Austin professor petitioned the Supreme Court to decide whether employer threats that silence faculty count as unconstitutional retaliation. The filing asks the justices to resolve a circuit split.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit St. Kitts for a one‑day CARICOM summit to press security, trade and stability after the U.S. operation in Venezuela. The trip is meant to reassure Caribbean leaders and lock in cooperation on drug interdiction and economic ties.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has endorsed Sen. Ed Markey in the Democratic Senate primary, giving the incumbent a major local boost as he prepares to face Rep. Seth Moulton.

House of Blues Houston has scheduled a conservative comedy stop for June 12 during the state GOP convention — and the venue's announcement drew heavy online criticism.

The UNC Board meets Feb. 25 6 to decide tuition increases and a systemwide academic‑freedom definition that could change teaching and prices across campuses.

Washington University agreed to sever a partnership with a minority-focused mentoring program under a federal resolution. The change follows national Education Department reviews of race-focused campus partnerships.

Most San Antonio school boards are declining to adopt SB 11's optional daily prayer period, citing logistical strain and legal concerns as a March 1 deadline nears.

Councilors heard Hazelwood residents push a 500‑foot buffer for waste transfer sites while tabling a $20M vehicle‑fleet trust and debating snow‑access fixes.

Startup groups and incubators are urging state leaders to free $4.2M in Michigan Innovation Fund grants stalled by a larger $645M budget dispute.

New bills in Tallahassee would send bail refunds back to defendants, critics say, starving nonprofit bail funds and increasing pretrial jail time and taxpayer costs.

A proposed Columbus rental registry prompted a heated City Hall hearing as landlords warned of new costs and legal fights while backers pushed for tougher oversight.