850 preemption bills are pending in 2026 state legislatures. 25 states block local minimum wage increases. 43 states override local gun regulations.
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U.S. Capitol switchboard: (202) 224-3121
Here's what to say:
- I'm calling to oppose state preemption laws that strip cities of the right to set local policy.
- 25 states block cities from raising the minimum wage. 43 states preempt local gun safety ordinances. Nearly 850 preemption bills are pending this year.
- When Kansas City raised its minimum wage, the state legislature forced workers to give back their raises. That should not be legal.
- I'm asking you to support home rule and oppose any bill that overrides local decisions on wages, housing, or public safety.
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Write Your Own Letter
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Dear [Senator/Representative name],
I am writing as a constituent from [city, state] about defend local authority against state preemption.
25 states block cities from raising the minimum wage. 43 states preempt local gun safety ordinances. Nearly 850 preemption bills are pending this year.
When Kansas City raised its minimum wage, the state legislature forced workers to give back their raises. That should not be legal.
The facts support this: 850 Preemption bills pending in 2026 state legislative sessions, up one-third from two years ago. 25 States that prohibit cities from raising the local minimum wage. 43 States that preempt local gun safety regulations.
I am asking you to take a public position on this issue and act accordingly. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]
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Key Facts to Mention
Use these in your letter, call, email, or social post.
- 850 Preemption bills pending in 2026 state legislative sessions, up one-third from two years ago
- 25 States that prohibit cities from raising the local minimum wage
- 43 States that preempt local gun safety regulations
Preview the full letter
Twenty-five states prohibit cities and counties from raising their local minimum wage above the state floor. In most of those states, the floor is the federal $7.25. When Kansas City voters approved a higher minimum wage in 2015, Missouri's legislature passed a law making it illegal for any city to set wages above the state level. Workers who had already received raises had them taken back.
The trend is accelerating. The Local Solutions Support Center tracks nearly 850 preemption bills in 2026 state sessions, up one-third from two years ago. Texas passed HB 2127, barring cities from passing local ordinances that touch nine areas of state code. Florida preempted tenant protections statewide, nullifying 46 local ordinances in 35 cities. Forty-three states preempt local gun regulations.
Write your state legislators and tell them cities should decide local policy. Support home rule ballot measures in your state. Show up at city council meetings. Even in preempted states, cities can pass resolutions, allocate funds creatively, and build coalitions challenging these laws in court.
This action is part of our Red States coverage.