United States: Government Policy & Public Finance

Stablecoins have evolved from niche cryptocurrency instruments into mainstream financial tools with profound implications for monetary policy, payment infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has proposed sweeping changes to hospital outpatient payment systems that would fundamentally alter how off-campus provider-based departments operate, accelerate recoupment of billions in prior payments, and reinstate controversial 340B drug payment cuts. These proposals, detailed in a 723-page rule, introduce new attestation requirements, site-neutral payment reductions for imaging services, and expanded EMTALA enforcement mechanisms that hospitals must navigate

This monthly cybersecurity update examines critical developments in vulnerability management, government funding initiatives for local cybersecurity infrastructure, and the escalating threat of AI-powered impersonation attacks. The edition also covers major law enforcement actions against phishing networks and explores how federal agencies are reshaping their approach to cyber defense prioritization.

Baker Botts Partner Michael Harrison examines the global drive toward net-zero greenhouse gas emissions through P2N0, a monthly publication tracking policy developments and project advancements. This edition provides concise summaries of major international news items focused on the transition to net-zero emissions.

The SEC's proposed rescission of its 2024 climate disclosure rules marks a pivotal shift in regulatory philosophy, moving away from prescriptive mandates toward principles-based disclosure while acknowledging the growing influence of international frameworks like ISSB Standards. As companies navigate this transition, they face a complex landscape where investor demand for climate information persists despite the regulatory rollback, potentially requiring hybrid disclosure strategies that balance domestic co

Major cities are competing for residents, investment and talent through bold planning and predictable rules. Land use attorney Kyrus Freeman and Washington, D.C., Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Nina Albert explore how the District is working to revitalize downtown, expand housing production and use public-sector tools to attract residents, companies and investors.

This comprehensive update examines recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings on campaign finance and election law, state-level legislative changes to lobbying and contribution limits, and ongoing investigations into alleged campaign finance violations. The digest also covers ballot initiative developments across multiple states and emerging transparency concerns surrounding political spending by nonprofits and dark money organizations.

President Trump has nominated Keith Sonderling to serve as permanent Secretary of Labor, elevating the current Acting Secretary who brings extensive experience from previous DOL leadership roles and his tenure as an EEOC Commissioner. Sonderling's background in wage and hour enforcement, combined with his operational expertise as Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, positions him to shape the department's regulatory approach and compliance initiatives. His confirmation process is expected to move f

The Supreme Court has invalidated long-standing federal limits on coordinated expenditures between political party committees and candidates, fundamentally altering how parties may deploy campaign funds. This landmark decision overturns decades of precedent and removes significant constraints on party-candidate coordination in campaign activities and advertising. What does this ruling mean for the future of political party spending and campaign finance regulation?