I don't think people keep up with the news on here. I know I didn't when I first got here.
I think once you put your state in your info, they could send you updates that pertain to your state. If you don't want it, you can opt out. That would help people to be better advised.
We could have a sub forum for every state, but unless you added it to your watch list, you wouldn't know what is going on. So there are 2 methods right there, to alert people. I would also advise starting a new thread with new info. If you are subscribed to get thread updates, you will be more likely to look at a new thread, than a two month old thread. (just making up a scenario)