Far West

California has enhanced its ability to borrow money cheaply and nudged its credit rating into high-grade territory amid a period of rising investor clamor for its bonds, according to the annual Debt Affordability Report from State Treasurer John Chiang.

Vallejo, Calif. received a ratings boost from S&P Global Ratings partly based on anticipation that a temporary sales tax measure could be made permanent in November.

Securities and Exchange Commission examinations of municipal advisors over the past two years found fiduciary duty and fair dealing violations, said SEC officials who cautioned the number of MA exams will increase in 2017.

Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval has called a special legislative session to consider financing for a National Football League stadium in Las Vegas.

A measure to legalize recreational marijuana in California has economists and municipal bond participants contemplating the economic impact.

The District of Columbia has paved the way for construction of a $300 million stadium for Major League Soccer's D.C. United by handing over land in Buzzard Point to the team.

Dealer groups are warning that a Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board proposal to require dealers to disclose their markups and markdowns in certain transactions would be overly complex and hurt liquidity.

Fieldman, Rolapp & Associates principals reflect back on changes wrought for municipal advisors during their 50 years in business.

The Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board is proposing amendments that would outline minimum standards for municipal advisors' continuing education requirements.

Charleston County, S.C., officials cite low state road funding in asking voters for sales tax increase.