Author Archive

Daniela Altimari

Staff Reporter, Route Fifty

Daniela Altimari covers state and local trends for Route Fifty. She previously worked as a statehouse reporter at The Hartford Courant in Connecticut. A native of Massachusetts, Daniela holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and a master's degree from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.
Public Safety

States take new steps to stop election mistruths from going viral

To combat the rising misinformation threat, some states are bringing on cybersecurity specialists to comb social media and flag posts that spread falsehoods about the voting process.

Data & Analytics

Detroit sues the U.S. Census Bureau over alleged undercounts

The Census Bureau contends that Detroit lost 7,100 residents from 2020 to 2021, but Mayor Mike Duggan said that number is inaccurate.

Emerging Tech

Cities and towns embrace 'summer Fridays' for their workers

The trend towards more flexible and shorter work weeks in the summer months comes amid tight competition for public sector talent. "We’re seeing a strong push for quality-of-life enhancements," says one town administrator.

Cybersecurity

Election laws in red and blue states are changing. Here's how

With primaries underway and this year's November elections approaching, lawmakers in Republican and Democratic states have overhauled laws to both increase and tighten ballot access.

Data & Analytics

How cities and states track pandemic relief spending

Despite its challenges, data tracking has helped jurisdictions encourage transparency, uncover fraud and abuse, launch new initiatives and share ideas and best practices.

Emerging Tech

States and cities are moving to make virtual hearings permanent

In the nation's statehouses and city halls, officials want remote meetings to outlast the Covid-19 crisis. Disability advocates are among those who support the idea. Others worry about the loss of in-person interactions and diminished oversight.

State & Local

How cities are tapping federal aid to make major tech upgrades

Some local officials say setting aside ARPA funds for computers, software and other equipment to make government more efficient and accessible is one of the best ways to use the historic infusion of federal money.