Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is the meeting?
July 22-26, 2008, in New Orleans, Louisiana at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, Louisiana.

How many people will attend?
We're expecting 6,000 legislators, legislative staffers, business representatives, government officials, union members, foundation representatives and others interested in public policy.

When should I arrive?
You should plan to arrive Tuesday, July 22, in the early afternoon. Standing Committees (which are open to all attendees) and staff sections meet then. Members of the Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee, however, will meet at 9 a.m. The opening general session is on Wednesday morning.

How long should I stay?
Plan on staying through Saturday, July 26. That way you can attend the spectacular closing party on Friday night, and on Saturday hear a provocative speaker, take advantage of some opportunities for volunteer activities if you like, and venture deep into the Louisiana bayous aboard a flatboat to see alligators.

Who should I contact about an idea for a session?
Call the NCSL staffer who researches your topic. To find out who to contact, call us at 303-364-7700 or send an email.

When is the Business Meeting?
This important meeting, in which delegates direct NCSL on what issues to lobby the federal government, is Friday morning, July 25.

What activities are planned?
The Louisiana Host Committee will welcome you to an unforgettable Opening Reception! Louisiana Jamboree on Wednesday night at the Louisiana Superdome. This event will feature the best food, drinks and entertainment New Orleans and Louisiana has to offer. A special Kids Zone will be on the floor of the Louisiana Superdome. An event like no other, in a city like no other!

On Friday night another family friendly event is planned in the New Orleans Arts District.  Join us at the only National Museum dedicated to World War II and the Contemporary Arts Museum.  We will feature Big Band Sounds, Jazz and Zydeco along with the best of New Orleans Cuisine and a Special Youth "Party within the Party".

 Who are the major speakers?
Those of you who have attended the annual Legislative Summit in the past, know the speakers are phenomenal. This year will be no different. We are lining up notable speakers and general sessions that are memorable. Check back for updates.

How many sessions will there be?
You can choose from some 150 sessions on topics that you, your legislature and the citizens of your state care about most. Check the online agenda for constant updates on the program starting on February 18.

What topics will you cover?
You will hear about the hottest topics in the states and nation today, as well as the critical issues that haven't made the headlines. We have a professional track for legislators and legislative staff. The online agenda is your best source for information.

I'm interested in exhibiting, who should I contact?
We offer outstanding opportunities for exhibitors.To learn more about our audience, the benefits of exhibiting at the Legislative Summit and the costs, contact LeAnn Hoff.

What is States' Night?
States' Night is an opportunity for delegates from each state to get together to compare notes, catch up on the week's activities and enjoy the sites of New Orleans. States' Night this year is Thursday, July 24. It is coordinated by state delegations, not by NCSL.

Is this an annual meeting or a legislative summit?
The answer is both! Up until 2007, the meeting was referred to as NCSL’s Annual Meeting and Exhibition. While we now market it as NCSL’s Legislative Summit, it is the official annual meeting for America’s state legislators and legislative staff.