Federal

Mathematica recently released a report investigating the connection between strong city data foundations and successful ARPA investments. It spotlights cities that received What Works Cities Certification, which has recognized 57 U.S. cities for robust data practices that make resident lives better. Established as a benchmark for well-managed, data-driven local government, the What Works Cities (WWC) Certification provides insights into how such practices may influence the effectiveness of ARPA investments....

The National Council on Disability released a new report on implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and disabilities. This is the first of three reports on the subject. While the Affordable Care Act is a significant piece of legislation, people with disabilities were largely left outside of the policy conversation. This report is meant to serve as a "roadmap" for people with disabilities and how it will affect them depending on how it is implemented.

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and National Academy for State Health Policy created a resource that explains the funding sources available to states for meeting the health-related social needs of low-income persons. The publication specifically brings attention to funding sources that states can use to help adult high-cost/high-need residents live.

The United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report on July 30, 2015, addressing key issues in Medicaid and the compilation of previous recommendations the office has made to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The recommendations fall within four overarching areas of access to care, transparency and oversight, program integrity, and federal financing approach.

In honor of the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), this annual report focuses on how the ADA and other federal legislation has been implemented by five different state and local agencies. The report examines employment, education, health care, transportation, and housing to demonstrate the importance of the federal legislation and disability advocates. The report also offers recommendations to inform policymakers on changes to be made in the future legislation.