August 2020 | Issue 1
Thank You for the Conversations
During our two day meeting, we welcomed participants to 32 policy sessions, 2 general sessions with keynote speakers, 4 social gatherings, and various member hosted chats. Across a diverse range of topics, participants were able to hear from topic experts and ask questions promoting collective information sharing. We hope you found the sessions insightful, providing an opportunity to share ideas and connect with colleagues from across the West. Thank you for joining the conversations!

Registered attendees can access on demand features through the meeting site including recordings of sessions, as well as reference materials.
Member Updates
CSG West Vice Chair Announcement
Congratulations to California Assemblymember Mike Gipson who has been elected as the 2021 CSG West Vice Chair. In January of 2021, Assemblymember Gipson will become a member of the CSG West Officers working with the Executive Committee and CSG West staff to bring valuable programming and services to our members.
In Remembrance
The CSG West family extends our condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Alaska Representative Gary Knopp. His commitment to improving life for his district and state will be missed by many.
Member Resources
Big 7 Statement on U.S. Treasury Report
In response to a recent report by the Department of Treasury about state expenditures from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), the seven bipartisan organizations representing state and local governments have issued a statement addressing concerns of a failure to account for funds and forecasted losses due to the drop in GDP and increased levels of unemployment. Click below to read the full statement.
U.S. Supreme Court Update
A federal district court has ruled that as long as there is a declared national health emergency related to COVID-19, the public charge rule may not go into effect. Click below to read the full update.

Immigrants who are deemed a “public charge” are ineligible to receive green cards/lawful permanent resident status. The most recent definition of public charge, adopted in 1999, included immigrants who demonstrated a need for “institutionalization for long-term care at government expense” or “receipt of public cash assistance for income maintenance.”
COVID-19 State Resources
Be sure to check out the CSG COVID-19 resource site for updated information on initiatives and resources related to state responses to the pandemic. Recent updates include states' reopen plans, impact in corrections facilities, and legislative special sessions.
Please Note: With the ongoing spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), CSG West is closely monitoring the evolving situation and adhering to the guidance of the CDC, state, and local health authorities to ensure the protection of our members and partners. As this situation evolves, we will keep you posted on any developments that may affect our programming. Please visit us online or reach out to csgw@csg.org with questions.
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