February 27, 2007
In This Edition: Real ID Resources, State Budget Actions and Extreme Drunk Driving Laws
Capitol Ideas is a periodic listing of story ideas and background information from new NCSL research.
Real ID Resources
The federal government is expected to release Real ID regulations any day now. Stay up on the latest federal and state actions at our new web page, www.ncsl.org/realid. There, you can track state legislation, get background information and more. Questions about Real ID? For information about what the federal government is up to, call Molly Ramsdell at (202) 624-3584. To find out what the states are doing, call Matt Sundeen at (303) 856-1539.
State Budget Actions, 2006 and 2007
You read the preliminary information. Now get the final report. The findings from NCSL's 24th annual survey of legislative fiscal offices show that state finances continue to improve. Revenue collections have been stronger than projected, so year-end balances could surpass original forecasts. The report, which includes information from all 50 states, provides an overview of state finances, focusing on state general fund budgets and selected spending categories. Ask for a copy of the report. For interviews, call Corina Eckl at (303) 856-1388.
Extreme Drunk Driving Laws
At least 35 states and the District of Columbia have enacted high Blood Alcohol Content laws, with thresholds that range from .15 to .20. Those thresholds are in addition to the standard .08 illegal per se offense, creating a tiered system. For those convicted of "extreme drunk driving," most states impose longer license suspensions, longer prison sentences, additional fines, installation of ignition interlock devices, mandatory alcohol treatment and possible vehicle sanctions, such as impoundment or forfeiture. Find our more in the new NCSL Legisbrief, Extreme Drunk Driving. Ask for a copy of the brief. For interviews, contact Jeanne Mejeur at (303) 856-1467.
NCSL is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.
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