Dec 19, 2024

EIW Today - December 19th, 2024

Prism Group's Daily Summary

STATUS OF GOVERNMENT FUNDING BILL IN FLUX... House Republicans came out in full force yesterday against the CR deal unveiled by House Speaker Mike Johnson, objecting to billions of dollars in spending added to the bill while casting doubt on its future prospects. It remains unclear whether Johnson will seek to save the bill in its current form, or significantly pare back its scope to win back members of his caucus. As a reminder, Congress has just two days to pass a stopgap funding bill in order to avert a government shutdown.

IN SALT LAKE CITY, WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS ARE PUSHING BOUNDARIES AND BREAKING BARRIERS... Fewer than 15% of businesses in Salt Lake City, Utah, are owned by women, one of the lowest proportions in the United States, according to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Although there are growing efforts to encourage and support women in starting their own companies, access to funding continues to be a significant challenge. In response to these barriers, new initiatives have emerged in the region, aiming to provide resources and opportunities for underrepresented startup founders, including women entrepreneurs.

THE STATE OF THE STATES

SESSIONS BY THE NUMBERS:

Six states are in regular session.

WHAT WE'RE WATCHING:

Maine Governor Janet Mills (D) announced the appointment of Tarlan Ahmadov as the first director of Maine’s Office of New Americans, a role focused on fostering workforce integration, supporting immigrant entrepreneurs, and building inclusive communities statewide. Ahmadov has over 20 years of experience in employment and refugee services, and will begin leading efforts to coordinate immigrant support organizations.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp (R) announced Georgia’s High Demand Career List, a workforce development tool designed to align education and training programs with employer needs as part of the Top State for Talent initiative. The list will identify high-demand, high-wage careers, guide educational pathways, and promote sustainable economic growth across the state.

LAWMAKERS... IN OR OUT?

The House... convenes today at 9:00 AM. The full schedule may be found here.

The Senate... convenes today at 10:00 AM. The full schedule may be found here.

HAPPENING ON THE HILL

The House...