State and local policymakers are turning their attention to the front end of the criminal justice system. Read NCSL's State Legislatures magazine article about rerouting people who got caught up in but do not belong in the system.
As people with disabilities continue to be underrepresented in the workforce, some state lawmakers are working to make sure they enjoy the same employment opportunities as everyone else.
NCSL tracks many criminal justice hot topics like marijuana; human trafficking; juvenile life without parole; death penalty; drug crime policy and other issues.
Having a criminal record can make it difficult, or even impossible, for an individual to work in a given field, especially one that requires an occupational license. Read about these barriers to employment.
A person experiencing a mental health crisis is more likely to encounter law enforcement than they are to receive medical assistance. This report connects legislators to the tools they need to consider cost effective policies that respond to mental health issues and enhance public safety.
NCSL maintains criminal justice legislation and bill tracking databases on juvenile justice, pretrial release and more.