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The CitiesSpeak blog roundup of 2025’s most popular posts included topics such as the impact of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act on local governments, compliance with the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds program, and the implications of data centers on local environments. Other notable subjects were the Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act, the Mayor’s Pledge to house homeless veterans, and responses to the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history. The list also brought attention to the ongoing opioid crisis, drone policy, managing PFAS waste, and updates on the Elective Pay Tax Credit program.
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Before we draw the curtains on the year, let’s revisit the most engaging CitiesSpeak blog posts from 2025. These are your favorite pieces, discussing everything from federal legislation impacts to practical resources.
A Review of Congress’ One, Big, Beautiful Bill and Its Local Impacts
July 4, 2025, marked a significant day when the House passed the Senate’s version of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1), and President Trump sanctioned it into law.
The highest-read CitiesSpeak blog post of 2025 delved into the crucial aspects of the ratified bill and how it impacted local governments. It looked at the support, areas of concern, and topics of interest from the new law.
Understanding ARPA SLFRF Non-Compliance Issues
The American Rescue Plan Act’s (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) program emerged as a unique direct investment in cities, towns, and villages of all sizes. It was designed to help communities rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic. For many local governments, this was their first direct federal grant, making the process of understanding the reporting requirements and compliance obligations a winding journey.
Our detailed blog post addressed common questions from cities to help them stay in line with SLFRF.
Local Environmental Implications of Data Centers
Data centers, which host hardware like computer servers and telecommunications equipment for on-site or cloud data storage and artificial intelligence computing, have significant local environmental implications.
Our blog post, explored the local impacts of AI and data centers, including insights from NLC’s Energy Environment and Natural Resources (EENR) and Information Technology and Communications (ITC) Federal Advocacy committees session at the 2025 Congressional City Conference.
What You Should Know About FEMA Act of 2025
The FEMA Act of 2025 (H.R. 4669), a significant update to federal disaster management law, restructures the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), modernizes disaster aid programs, and modifies aid delivery to communities.
Our blog post explained the crucial aspects of FEMA which local leaders should know, especially regarding how funding reaches them, rules application, and residents’ access to support.
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