ASC's Intersections Newsletter — May 10th, 2024
Nora’s Note
Big moves for small businesses. The USDOT’s first update to the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program in more than a decade goes into effect this week, with several significant modernizations. Established by the federal government in 1983 to encourage greater equity in the distribution of funds to small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, the DBE program has opened doors for countless American small businesses to earn government contracts and foster meaningful business relationships. And just this week in New York, ASC attended the New York Power Authority Supplier Diversity Expo, connecting with a variety of businesses across the state and strengthening collaborations with suppliers. As small businesses continue to open at an unprecedented rate across the US, the strengthening of the DBE program is a crucial step in opening opportunities for all American entrepreneurs.
Transportation
Biden administration to require advanced safety tech on all new cars and trucks. Starting in 2029, all new cars and trucks in the U.S will be required to have automatic emergency braking systems following Biden’s new federal safety regulation. This system stops a car travelling at 60-mph and must start braking at up to 45mph to account for oncoming pedestrians. Read more to learn how NHTSA estimates that this new standard will save at least 360 lives a year and prevent 24,321 injuries. (Source: NBC News)
AMNY: Fair Fares transit discount program finally compatible with OMNY for trial period
Mass Live: Worried your EV will run out of juice? Mass. plans to add more charging stations
Transport Topics: US to Require Automatic Emergency Braking on New Vehicles
Climate
This spring, DC-area students are planting native flowers — and activating ‘the solarpunk imagination’. The "Wild Visions" project is aimed at creating wildlife habitats and exploring sustainable futures through the lens of solarpunk—a movement that merges ecology with technology. The initiative encourages student creativity in addressing the biodiversity crisis and reinforces community and environmental connections. The project also features awards like the Plantys, recognizing outstanding contributions in garden design that promote ecological and social well-being. Read more about participating student groups and local organizations. (Source: Grist)
Canary Media: Clean energy in rural America gets another big boost of federal funding
PV Magazine: New green bank to support distributed solar and storage in the Appalachian region
Smart Cities Dive: Energy Department finalizes rule to phase out fossil fuels in federal buildings
Economic Development
Natural disaster relief campaigns grow online. As extreme weather and climate disasters increase, Americans are turning to online platforms seeking donations for relief. The frequency of billion-dollar disasters has increased significantly, now occurring about every 12 days. This increase coincides with a rise in individual fundraising efforts, collecting over $500 million from more than 4 million donors in the past five years. Climate change and denser populations contribute to the severity and vulnerability to events like hurricanes and tornadoes. Read more to learn about financial relief from online fundraisers. (Source: Axios)
Digital
AI security bill aims to prevent safety breaches of AI models. A bipartisan effort led by senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) has introduced the Secure Artificial Intelligence Act to advance research in counter-AI measures. The bill mandates the creation of a database of AI breaches, underscoring the importance of AI safety which aligns with the Biden administration's AI executive order. Read more about the initiative addressing emerging security challenges in AI technology. (Source: The Verge)
GovTech: On AI, Legislators Seek a Balance Between Innovation, Regulation
Energy News Network: New England utilities plan ‘transformational’ data platform to make it easier to calculate energy savings
AZ Central: Federal grants aim to boost technology for road safety in metro Phoenix
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