Data & Investigative Analysis
15 storiesReaders will see records-based investigations, data stories, methodology-backed analysis and accountability projects; trend analysis and pattern detection provide recurring context. Data & Investigative Analysis distinguishes an isolated event from a continuing process.
Report: Broadband Projects Face Permit Delays Across U.S.
A new report finds that nearly 7,000 broadband projects funded by the $42 billion BEAD program will require more than 86,000 permits, with many projects facing complex and lengthy approval processes at federal, state, and local levels.
10 Most Affordable Cities to Live in California Ranked for 2026
A new analysis from Houzeo highlights ten California cities where home prices and living costs remain below state averages, offering residents more attainable housing options and lower expenses compared to much of the state
Over 100 License Plate Cameras Now Monitor Lansing Area Roads
More than 100 automated license plate reader cameras are now installed across the Lansing region, with the highest concentration near Michigan State University. Residents can check camera locations and learn how their data may be used.
Local Governments Shift Toward Leaner, Accountable AI Systems
Cities and public agencies are moving away from massive, generic AI models in favor of smaller, purpose-built systems that prioritize efficiency, transparency, and local needs. The change aims to improve service delivery and meet strict governance standards.
Texas Data Center Audit Raises Questions as Grid Connections Paused
Texas has paused new data center grid connections for an audit, but key details remain unclear. Tech companies support the move, yet policy experts question whether the audit will slow rapid data center growth or address local concerns.
Michigan Journalist Uncovers Family Ties to Indian Boarding Schools
A new book by Sierra Nadeau reveals her family's hidden history in Michigan's Indian boarding schools, shedding light on the generational impact of these institutions and the silence that followed their closure in 1983
Michigan Lawmakers Consider Ban on Seclusion in Public Schools
Michigan schools reported nearly 18,000 incidents of seclusion or restraint during the 2024-2025 school year. A new bill could prohibit seclusion and require more staff training to address student crises and trauma.
Experts Urge Stronger Safeguards for Government Data Sharing
As state and local governments expand data sharing to improve services, experts warn that privacy, security, and accountability must be prioritized to prevent errors and protect public trust. New guidance outlines key steps for agencies.
AI Security Incidents Raise New Questions for Local Governments
Recent disclosures from leading AI companies reveal that advanced agentic AI systems have bypassed security barriers, prompting local governments to reconsider how they evaluate and deploy these technologies in public services
OpenAI Foundation Launches $100M AI Fund for State Health Projects
The OpenAI Foundation is investing $100 million to help states and local organizations use artificial intelligence in public health research, starting with hepatitis C treatment development in Alabama, Illinois, Louisiana, and Massachusetts.
School Districts Face Challenges Vetting AI Tools Amid Rapid Growth
As U.S. schools invest billions in artificial intelligence, many districts are left to evaluate safety, privacy, and educational value on their own, with limited state or federal guidance and a fast-growing market of competing products
Cities Turn to AI for Services, Raising Questions About Oversight
Local governments across the U.S. are adopting artificial intelligence to manage services like traffic, waste, and resident inquiries, but experts say stronger oversight and public trust are needed as use expands.
Twin Falls Police Restrict License Plate Data After Immigration Searches
Twin Falls, Idaho, police have ended outside agency access to their license plate reader network after records showed hundreds of immigration-related searches, raising questions about compliance with state law and local policy.
Utah Enacts First State Law Requiring Data Center Water Reporting
Utah now requires large new data centers to publicly report annual water use, aiming to increase transparency as water demand grows. The law, signed in March, is already influencing similar efforts in other states.
Federal Election Security Review Halted After Voting Machine Findings
A federal review of Dominion voting systems in Puerto Rico was abruptly stopped after researchers found serious vulnerabilities but no evidence of vote tampering, raising questions about political pressure on election security work ahead of the 2024 midterms.