DENVER - When American colonists protested tyranny by dumping 45 tons of tea into the Boston Harbor in 1773, they were taking a stand on an issue they felt was worth fighting for.
More than 1,300 state legislators from all 50 states will come together in Boston for a crash course on important policy information that will affect our country’s future and honor its past. Legislators will have an opportunity to make history by learning from experts, sharing ideas and taking a stand on key issues facing their communities.
What's the Latest News on Read ID?
States are likely to spend at least $11 billion to implement the federal Real ID Act. Despite the real costs, real mandates and unreal expectations, the Department of Homeland Security rejected major recommendations from state legislators to make the law more practical and affordable. Find out what resources and remedies are available. Tuesday, August 7, 2007 1:30-3:30 pm; 210B
Federal Immigration Reform: What's in it for the States?
Why should states care about immigration? Federal immigration proposals could create opportunities for more federal assistance but also present pitfalls including unfunded federal mandates. Thursday, August 9, 2007 10:15am-12:15pm; 210A
The Heat is On: States Take on Climate Change
2006 was the hottest year in U.S. History. If the earth's climate is changing, how will it affect the economic and social well being of the nation. And what is the state role? Tuesday, August 7, 2007 3:15-5:00pm; 210A
Exotic Mortgages
Low interest rates and so-called exotic mortgages have made it easier to own your own home, but foreclosure rates are climbing, and unscrupulous mortgage lenders have scammed homeowners. Hear about states' efforts to protect homeowners. Tuesday, August 7, 2007 1:30-3:00 pm; 253A
How Secure Are We?
The United States has made great strides in protecting the homeland, yet much work remains. Learn about the most promising practices that have been utilized by our states, the federal government and other countries in preventing future terrorist attacks, preparing for natural disasters and in securing our borders. Speakers will include officials from the United States and several other countries. Wednesday, August 8, 2007 2:45-4:15; 257A
Protecting Children Online and in Your Neighborhood
The popularity of Internet social sites for young people make them appealing playgrounds for sexual predators. State and federal officials will address strategies to catch online predators and address child protection. Wednesday, August 8, 2007 1:00-2:30; 210C
Food vs. Fuel: Meeting the Growing Demands on Agricultural Production
Increasing bioenergy demands stretch agricultural production to provide not only food, feed, and fiber, but also fuel. How can we balance these competing demands on crop production? Monday, August 6, 2007 3:00-5:00 pm; 210A
Creating Opportunity to Reduce Child and Family Poverty
Millions of children live in poverty. New research highlights how child poverty limits school achievement and work opportunities and increases crime. Poverty also creates a drag on economic productivity and increases health care costs. Come hear how states and cities, such as New York City, Connecticut and Arkansas, are developing broad-based strategies to address child poverty. Wednesday, August 8, 2007 1:00-2:30pm; 257A
Politics of Choosing Judges
Million dollar campaigns, attack advertising, interest group activity and political influence affect the way we select our judges. Legal experts will examine these trends and whether they have a direct influence on the decisions judges make. Thursday, August 9, 2007 10:15am-12:15 pm; 205B
Fit or Flabby? Flesh and Flabby? - School Wellness Legislation
Federal law now requires nearly all school districts to establish a local wellness policy, including guidelines for nutritious school foods, physical activity and nutrition education. What's happened as a result? Tuesday, August 7, 2007 1:30 - 3:00 pm; 253 B
NCSL will offer more than 200 policy forums on timely issues. Here are a few more that might spark your interest!
Boston's Big Dig
Next Big One - Are consumers and insurance companies ready?
The Media: Out with the Old, In with the New?
What is the Federal Government Doing to State Taxes?
Improving Higher Education Now
Credentialed members of the media are welcome to attend any session at this premier state legislative event of the year. There are no registration fees for journalists but they must register. To do so, please present your press credentials at the onsite press room in Room 153 A of the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in Boston.
NCSL is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staff 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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