Trump administration

A number of universities have used the capital markets for financing as the Trump administration targets federal funding for higher education.

The effects of the One Big Beautiful Bill have yet to make a dent in state and local budgets as market experts and academics look into the future with concern.

The National League of Cities rolled out its annual report showcasing the challenges facing mayors, including the end of BIL funding and a steady diet of uncertainty about the flow of future federal dollars.

The House cuts are less severe than those proposed in President Donald Trump's 2026 budget.

Streamlining federal permitting and partnering with state DOTs are among the priorities for the next surface transportation bill.

"It's time for this boondoggle to die," said Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.

"Most states do not expect to be able to keep key roads and bridges to a state of good repair," said David Draine, principal officer, public sector, retirement systems for the Pew Charitable Trusts. 

The House Appropriations Committee kicks things off with markups of three infrastructure-related funding bills this week, including transportation.

The comprehensive federal tax bill President Trump signed July 4 is credit negative for universities, Moody's Ratings said.

Most states have already enacted their budgets for the fiscal year as the effects of Medicaid restrictions and tax policy changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill are being analyzed and raising concern.