July 2021 | Issue 2
CSG West Vice Chair Applications Open
Through collective leadership, the CSG West Officers lead the organization's efforts to support regional collaboration, information sharing, and professional development. For those interested in applying their skills as an officer, we encourage you to submit an application by the September 14 deadline! Click below to learn more about the position and selection process.
Regional Policy
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New Tools Aid in Effort to Expand Broadband Access
Prior to the pandemic, equitable broadband access was a topic of conversation among western legislators. During the pandemic the issue was magnified as the importance of reliable internet in our modern lives was brought to the forefront.

Methods for addressing broadband access differ regionally, as well as by state. Some states have opted to create centralized offices while others have developed task forces. A recent Pew article offers a quick reference to how states across the U.S. have tackled this challenge.

Recently released by the National Telecommunications and Information Agency (NTIA), an interactive digital map allows users quick access to data sets reflecting broadband access throughout the U.S. Drawing from both public and private data sources, the map offers the ability to compare information using a variety of data sets.

Interested in securing funding for projects in your state? NTIA's Broadband Infrastructure Program is accepting applications through August 17, 2021.
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Counties Receive PILT Payments to Assist with Vital Community Services
The western region of the United States is home to a significant portion of federal lands. Federal ownership of the land prohibits the ability of states to collect property taxes and can create unique challenges in resource management for surrounding state land. To offset the revenue loss, the federal government makes Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) to local governments. While the formulation of such payments has been a topic of conversation among CSG West members, a recent announcement of $529.3 million in payments from the Department of Interior is hoping to assist counties in maintaining vital services. To learn more about the program, its history, and recent announcements, click below.
Upcoming Events
Cultural Orientation in the Refugee Resettlement Process
Register to join the conversation on refugee resettlement and the role of cultural orientation in the process. Facilitated by the Cultural Orientation Resource Exchange (CORE), the discussion will share details of the process, including content covered and roles that volunteers and community partners play.

The session will be hosted July 30 at 11am (PDT).
Register to join us through the link below.
Early Registration Rates Still Available
Discounted rates for registration and housing are available through August 21 - be sure to claim your spot! Through committee sessions, learning labs, professional development training, and networking events, participants enjoy plentiful opportunities to connect and learn together. Topics and speakers are being confirmed, so be sure to check out the schedule page and start making your plans to join us.
CSG West is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving western state legislatures. All active legislators are considered members of our organization and included in organizational correspondence regarding news and events. While we hope you find this information of use, we also understand the need for a tidy inbox. If you do not wish to receive email updates from us, please unsubscribe below to be removed from our email list.