2023 Western Interstate Region Conference
About the Conference
The NACo Western Interstate Region (WIR) Conference brings together county officials from across the nation to focus on pressing issues facing counties and our residents. Each year the conference is hosted by a county within the fifteen Western states – Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawai'i, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming – and provides attendees with the opportunity to interact with federal, state and regional policymakers, participate in educational sessions and take home tools to address challenges.
County News
WIR showcases Utah counties
U.S. House passes bipartisan legislation encouraging active forest management
On January 23, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fix Our Forests Act (H.R. 471), also known as FOFA. Initially introduced by Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Scott Peters (D-Calif.), this bipartisan legislation will promote active forest management to curtail the wildfire crisis and protect rural communities, infrastructure and natural resources.
County Countdown – January 28, 2025
The first 100 days, Intergovernmental Disaster Reform Task Force fly-in, SALT deduction profiles released, reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools, and Medicaid and counties.
Congress Passes Landmark Outdoor Recreation Package
Lawmakers passed the bipartisan EXPLORE Act (H.R.6492) on December 19 to boost outdoor recreation opportunities on public lands for county residents and visitors and aid gateway communities
County Countdown – December 16, 2024
Every other week, NACo's County Countdown reviews top federal policy advocacy items with an eye towards counties and the intergovernmental partnership.
County Countdown – December 2, 2024
Every other week, NACo's County Countdown reviews top federal policy advocacy items with an eye towards counties and the intergovernmental partnership.
Gateway counties remain wary of National Park Service crowd control plans
Wary of the effects on their limited commercial base, gateway counties ask for more nuanced approaches to reducing overcrowding in national parks.