VOLUME 43, No. 5
BIG DATA: STRATEGIC ASSETS
By Allison Hiltz
The data states collect can be a force for creating good policy.
THE WASTE NO ONE WANTS
By Katie Meehan
Lawmakers must overcome the “not in my backyard” mentality to find a home for the nation’s nuclear waste.
WALKING A TIGHTROPE
By Margaret Wile
States are balancing the rights of addicted women with the health needs of their developing babies.
LESSONS LEARNED
Staff Book Reviews
Former lawmakers and a staffer share hard-won insights on making government work better.
DEPARTMENTS
SHORT TAKES ON NCSL NEWS
Connections, support, expertise and ideas from NCSL, with updates on the SALT Task Force, the NCSL Foundation and recent visits with lawmakers.
STATESTATS
Health impact assessments use data and community input to provide insight into how policies, programs and projects affect a community’s health.
ETHICS 101: YES, NO, MAYBE SO
You’re an ethical social media user, right? With powerful social media tools come big responsibilities for lawmakers and their staffs.
NEWSMAKERS | WHAT LAWMAKERS ARE DOING AND SAYING
A look at who’s making news under the domes, with updates on leadership changes and quotes from lawmakers.
TRENDS IN STATE POLICY NEWS
The latest on presidential tax returns, banning plastic bag bans, unauthorized immigrants and the web’s newest threat, sextortion.
STATELINE | LEGISLATIVE NEWS IN BRIEF
Marijuana clubs in Colorado; the slow demise of roadside rest areas; Americans’ political divisions; time running out on North Dakota’s parking meter ban.
WHAT STAFF KNOW
Lawmakers must filter more media “noise” than ever; research staff can help you separate fact from fiction. Here are three things they want you to know.
THE FINAL WORD
Meet Florida Senate President JOE NEGRON
“When I look at proposed legislation, I do so with an essential wariness and skepticism about government.”