Volume 46, No. 1 | Download the Magazine
DEPARTMENTS
From the Editors
Congressional gridlock means states get limited funding and policy direction on several important issues. It also means they have opportunities to experiment with policies of their own.
Trends
Changes to college admissions rules after Varsity Blues scandal; public banks; bicycle helmet laws; census worker shortage; women in legislative leadership; Steven D. Gold Award
Stateline
The brighter side of legislative news: female peony farmers in Alaska; Vermont tops “healthiest state” ranking; military service dogs honored; toward plain-language legislation; feral pigs expanding range
On the Same Page
The "America in One Room" project aims to find out if the nation’s political divisions and polarization are as entrenched as some people claim they are.
Toolbox
Most workplaces are built by and for extroverts, but with a few tips — and some support from savvy managers — introverts can learn to thrive.
Innovations | What Can Congress Learn From the States?
When a U.S. House committee was charged with finding ways to modernize Congress, it turned to the states — and NCSL — for help.
StateStats
Proponents on both sides of the gun dispute can cite studies supporting their views, meaning debates over restrictions will surely continue in legislative chambers this year.
Newsmakers
What’s happening under the domes
Yes, No, Maybe So | What's (Un)Ethical About Lobbying?
Like politicians and journalists, lobbyists get a bad rap. But all states define ethical boundaries between lobbyists and public officials, protecting public trust and government integrity.
The Final Word
Nevada Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro presides over half of the nation’s first female-majority legislature.