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Session Name Time/Room
Saturday – No Shuttle Service Saturday, Aug. 5 | 8:00 am-8:00 am
NCSL Task Force on Energy Supply Tour EnerNoc Demand Respond Control Center Saturday, Aug. 5 | 8:30 am-11:00 am
Summary: The Task Force begins with a tour of EnerNoc’s demand respond control center. Task Force sessions begin at 11:15 a.m. and explore a range of topics including energy storage, smart cities, hydrogen fuel cell advancements, offshore wind and more. Note: This tour is open to Task Force members and partners only. Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Energy Supply
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
LSCC Strategic Planning Work Group Saturday, Aug. 5 | 9:00 am-10:00 am
Westin Paine
Track: Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee
LSCC Standing Committees Work Group Saturday, Aug. 5 | 9:00 am-10:00 am
Westin Revere
Track: Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee
LSCC Staff Section Officers Work Group Saturday, Aug. 5 | 9:00 am-10:00 am
Westin Hancock
Track: Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee
NAPACSL Annual Meeting Saturday, Aug. 5 | 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Westin Douglass
Sponsored by: National Asian Pacific American Caucus of State Legislators Speaker: Abdul Abdulwaheed, Lux Dental Care, Massachusetts
Speaker: Liza Cariaga-Lo, Brown University, Rhode Island
Speaker: Representative Tackey Chan, Massachusetts
Speaker: Elisa Choi, Physician and Health Advocate
Speaker: Sarath Suong, Providence Youth Student Movement, Rhode Island
Speaker: Chanda Womack, Alliance of Rhode Island Southeast Asians For Education
Speaker: John Yang, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Washington, D.C.
LSCC Programs and Professional Development Subcommittee Meeting Saturday, Aug. 5 | 10:00 am-11:00 am
Westin Paine
Track: Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee
LSCC Information Technology, Social Media, E-Learning and Outreach Subcommittee Meeting Saturday, Aug. 5 | 10:00 am-11:00 am
Westin Revere
Track: Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee
LSCC Legislative Institution Subcommittee Meeting Saturday, Aug. 5 | 10:00 am-11:00 am
Westin Hancock
Track: Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee
NCSL Task Force on Energy Supply Saturday, Aug. 5 | 11:00 am-5:00 pm
Westin Grand Ballroom B
Summary:

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM:  Breakfast on Your Own
*Complimentary breakfast is available to task force members staying at the Element Seaport Hotel.

8:30 AM:  Meet in the Lobby of the Element Seaport Hotel

8:40 AM:  Depart for EnerNoc

9:00 AM – 10:45 AM:  Tour -- EnerNoc Demand Response Center
*This tour is open to task force members and partners only.

10:45 AM – 11:15 AM:  Depart for Westin Waterfront Hotel
* All sessions will take place in Grand Ballroom B.

11:15 AM – 11:30 AM:  Welcome and Introductions

11:30 AM – 12:15 PM:  Hydrogen Fuel Cells -- Market and Technology Advances

Hydrogen fuel cells are making inroads as a source for reliable and clean power for buildings, including those that house critical services such as hospitals and police stations. Most of the major auto manufactures will be releasing fuel cell powered vehicles in the next few years and UPS will be deploying fuel cell delivery trucks next year. Explore fuel cell technology developments and the future of fuel cells for transportation and the power the electric grid.

Speaker:
• Morry Markowitz, President, Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association

12:15 PM – 12:45 PM:  Lunch

12:45 PM – 1:45 PM:  Electricity Storage Revolution

Having the ability to store energy to meet the fluctuations in energy demand and supply improves grid reliability and decreases operating costs. Energy storage is also considered a key tool for integrating high amounts of distributed solar energy resources. As prices drop and storage options increase, more entities are studying and implementing energy storage solutions.  States are investigating and implementing policies that promote storage deployment. Hear about trends in energy storage and what it means for the electric grid.

Speaker:
• Alan Houghton, Renewable and Energy Services Leader, Johnson Controls
• Will Lauwers, Emerging Technologies Director, Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM:  Ensuring the Safety & Reliability of Gas Storage

By providing quick and necessary access to natural gas, the nation’s more than 400 gas storage facilities offer services that are critical to the reliable delivery of natural gas at peak demand, particularly for heating and power generation. But in 2015, a four-month methane leak from a storage facility in California was the largest of its kind in U.S. history. Learn about gas storage in the U.S., examine the response to the Aliso Canyon leak, and explore recommendations and actions from federal and state policymakers and the industry to ensure the safe and reliable storage of natural gas.

Speakers:
• Ray Harris, Jr., Vice President, National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation
• Byron Coy, Senior Technical Advisor, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation


2:30 PM – 2:45 PM:  Break

2:45 PM – 3:30 PM:  Business Meeting

3:30 PM – 4:45 PM:  The Rise of Smart Cities

As cities grow, they struggle to meet increased resource demand and capacity constraints. The smart city initiative is an attempt to leverage advances in transportation, energy and information technology to enhance a city’s livability, productivity, sustainability and resilience. At the heart of the smart city concept is energy technology, which is key to its implementation.  


Speaker:
• Michael Pesin, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Advanced Grid Research and Development, U.S. Department of Energy
• Subramanian (Mani) Vadari, Founder and President, Modern Grid Solutions

6:45 PM – 9:00 PM:  Task Force Group Dinner & Boat Tour
*Open to task force members and partners only. 

Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Energy Supply
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Full Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee (LSCC) Meeting Saturday, Aug. 5 | 11:00 am-12:00 pm
Westin Faneuil
Track: Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee
NCSL Task Force on Immigration and the States Saturday, Aug. 5 | 12:00 pm-4:00 pm
Westin Stone
Summary:

State legislatures have developed strategies to address immigration in the wake of federal gridlock. "Immigration federalism" influences policies such as drivers’ licenses, professional licenses, education, employment verification and cooperation on law enforcement. Discuss the latest immigration proposals from Congress and innovations in state capitols across the country. 

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM:  Working Lunch (Lunch available starting at 11:30 AM)

Welcoming Remarks

Presiding:
• Senator Mo Denis, Nevada, Task Force Co-Chair
• Senator René García, Florida, Task Force Co-Chair 

Task Force Business Meeting Roundtable

• Reports from state legislators on 2017 legislative sessions
• T.A. offer from NAE/WES
• Discuss Task Force report to the Executive Committee 

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM:  Update from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

Speakers:

• Brian Hyer, (Acting) Deputy Assistant Secretary, DHS – Office of Intergovernmental Affairs
• Debra Rogers, Deputy Associate Director, DHS – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services 
• Christopher M. Cronen, Field Office Director, Boston Field Office, DHS - U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
 
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM:  Update from the Office of Refugee Resettlement, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

Speaker:

• Scott Lloyd, Director, Office of Refugee Resettlement

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM:  Perspective on Immigration from International Delegates

Speakers:
•  Soo Wong, MP, Scarborough-Agincourt, Ontario Legislature, Canada
• Janneck Heere, Executive Director, Partnership of Parliaments, Germany
• Maria José de Sousa Fialho, Head of Unit - European Parliament, Washington, D.C.

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM:  Depart for Site Visit to Union Square Main Street
Tour of the Somerville neighborhood emphasizing economic development and immigrant businesses.

5:00 PM:  Task Force Adjourns

Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation for their support of this luncheon. Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Immigration and the States
Immigration
Executive Committee Work Group on Standing Committees Saturday, Aug. 5 | 12:00 pm-1:00 pm
Westin Commonwealth Ballroom ABC
Track: NCSL Executive Committee
NCSL Task Force on State and Local Taxation Saturday, Aug. 5 | 1:00 pm-5:00 pm
Westin Grand Ballroom CDE
Summary: 1:00 PM – 1:15 PM:  Welcome and Introductions

The Task Force chairs provide an overview of the meeting followed by attendee introductions.

Presiding:
• Senator Pam Althoff, Illinois
• Representative Chris Perone, Connecticut

1:15 PM – 2:15 PM:  Taxing Sugar: Sweet or Sour?

In November 2014, voters in Berkeley, Calif., approved a tax on sugary beverages. Since then, six other local jurisdictions have instituted similar taxes. Others have considered proposals in 2017 to tax beverages and most have rejected them, including West Virginia, Illinois, and Santa Fe. Examine this city tax and whether or not it has yielded the results sought by the governments that have adopted it.

Speakers:
• Kelly Brownell, Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy
• Richard Killingsworth, University of Delaward Center for Public Private Partnerships in Health

2:15 PM – 2:45 PM:  Streamlined Sales Tax/Business Advisory Council Update

Craig Johnson, executive director of the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Governing Board, updates attendees on the Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) and what he expects the future of SST to be if, and when, Congress or the courts reverse the Quill decision. Fred Nicely of the Council on State Taxation and Charles Collins of ADP provides an update of the work of the Business Advisory Council (BAC), the business community’s advisory body to SST, and discuses issues they would like streamlined sales tax states to address.

Speakers:
• Craig Johnson, Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board
• Fred Nicely, Council on State Taxation
• Charles Collins, ADP

2:45 PM – 3:30 PM:  What Exactly is the Value Added Tax (VAT)?

The United States is one of the few countries in the world that does not have a value-added tax (VAT). A value-added tax is similar to a sales tax; it is levied on the business level and is designed to tax all consumption. Harley Duncan of KPMG and Joe Huddleston of Ernst and Young discuss the VAT and how it compares to the Border Adjustability Tax (BAT) that is currently being considered as part of comprehensive federal tax reform.

Speakers:
• Harley Duncan, KPMG
• Joe Huddleston, Ernst and Young

3:30 PM – 4:00 PM:  Work Opportunity Tax Credit

Two years ago, the Task Force held a session on the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) and discussed a study that demonstrated how the credit could yield significant state savings. Discuss an updated study that suggests that state savings are twice what had been previously found. Taxation of Digital Goods As traditionally taxable products and services increasingly are being offered digitally, state sales tax bases are slowly eroding. As a result, more state and local level governments are considering if and how to tax digital products. Hear about recent developments in the digital tax arena at the state and local levels and what may occur at the state and federal levels the remainder of 2017.

Speakers:
• Charles Asensio, ADP
• Evan Migdail, DLA Piper

4:00 PM – 4:30 PM:  Taxation of Digital Goods

As traditionally taxable products and services are being increasingly offered digitally, state sales tax bases are slowly eroding.  As a result, more state and local level governments are considering if and how to tax digital products.  This session will provide an update of recent developments in the digital tax arena at the state and local levels as well  as provide an outlook for what may occur at the state and federal levels the remainder of 2017. 

Speakers:
• Deborah Bierbaum, AT&T
• Stacey Sprinkle, Verizon

4:30 PM – 5:00 PM:  Task Force Business Meeting

Members consider resolutions supporting the federal legislation regarding remote sales tax collection and taxation of digital goods.

Presiding:
• Senator Pam Althoff, Illinois
• Representative Chris Perone, Connecticut

7:00 PM – 10:00 PM:  Task Force Reception and Dinner

The Task Force reception is from 7-7:45 p.m. followed by dinner at the Legal Sea Foods’ flagship property on the Boston Waterfront. The restaurant is a 10-minute walk from the Westin Boston Waterfront, walking northeast on D street. 

Location:
Legal Sea Foods -- Legal Harborside
270 Northern Avenue - Liberty Wharf
Boston, MA  02210

** Reception and Dinner are for Task Force Members, Sponsors, and Inivted Guests Only **
Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on State and Local Taxation
Budget and Taxes
Member Outreach and Communications Subcommittee Meeting Saturday, Aug. 5 | 1:00 pm-2:00 pm
Westin Faneuil
Track: NCSL Executive Committee
Budget, Finance and Rules Committee Meeting Saturday, Aug. 5 | 2:00 pm-3:00 pm
Westin Faneuil
Track: NCSL Executive Committee
NCSL Task Force on Innovations in State Health Systems Saturday, Aug. 5 | 3:00 pm-5:30 pm
Westin Commonwealth Ballroom ABC
Summary: NCSL's Task Force on Innovations in State Health Systems explores a variety of issues and opportunities faced by state policymakers as they reform their own health systems. Task force members discuss innovative ideas from their own states, potential new flexibility with anticipated federal health changes, and learn more about initiatives to address “health in all policies.” Note: The meeting is open to anyone interested. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
NCSL Task Forces
Health and Human Services Committee
Task Force on Innovations in State Health Systems
Health and Human Services
Full Executive Committee Meeting Saturday, Aug. 5 | 3:15 pm-4:30 pm
Westin Harbor Ballroom 2 & 3
Track: NCSL Executive Committee
NCSL Legislator Nominating Committee Meet the Candidates Reception Saturday, Aug. 5 | 5:00 pm-6:00 pm
Westin Griffin
NALIT Business Meeting and Dutch Treat Dinner Saturday, Aug. 5 | 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Summary: NALIT members elect new officers and recognize the winners of the NALIT Legislative Staff Achievement Awards at NALIT’s annual Business Meeting and Dutch Treat dinner. Network with your legislative IT colleagues from around the country at a local restaurant for this event. Spouses and guests are welcome, but space is limited, so advance reservations are required. Contact Pam Greenberg (pam.greenberg@ncsl.org), NCSL Liaison to NALIT, for more details or to RSVP. Presiding: Linda Wettstone, Virginia General Assembly Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
Sunday Shuttle Schedule Sunday, Aug. 6 | 6:30 am-8:00 pm
Summary: Please Note: All conference attendees must have their badge with them to board buses, access the BCEC and attend social events.

Shuttle Pick Up/Drop Off Locations:
• Route 1 includes the Sheraton Boston (Sheraton entrance on Dalton Street), Hilton Back Bay (Pick up is at the Sheraton) and Boston Park Plaza (Columbus Avenue entrance).
• Route 2 includes Westin Copley (Westin entrance on Huntington Avenue), Marriott Copley Place (Marriott entrance on Huntington Avenue) and Colonnade (Pick up is at the Marriott Copley).

Shuttle Frequency:
• Sunday, Aug. 6: 6:30 am to 2:00 pm (every 12 minutes), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm (every 20 minutes) and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm (every 12 minutes). 
• Shuttle frequency may vary slightly based on traffic conditions.
• All vehicles will depart from the BCEC Northeast Level 1 Vestibule.

General Inquiries/Accessible Shuttle Information:
If you have questions regarding shuttle services, or require a wheelchair accessible shuttle, please call 857-321-0287 24-hours in advance to schedule a ride. All requests made within 24 hours will be assisted on a first-call, first-served basis.
Registration 8/6/2017 Sunday, Aug. 6 | 7:00 am-5:00 pm
Convention Center North Lobby
Summary: Registration is easy! Print out your badge at the kiosks in the convention center lobby and pick up a program.
Medicaid: Challenges and Opportunities (Preconference) Sunday, Aug. 6 | 7:30 am-12:00 pm
Westin Grand Ballroom AB
Summary: States need to be ready to respond and adapt if Congress and the Trump Administration make changes to Medicaid. It may come with a new price tag—along with opportunities and challenges—for the states. Hear from the administration, health experts and others about what federal changes may mean for states and about  best practices for improving efficiency and effectiveness in state Medicaid programs. Speaker: Josh Archambault, Foundation for Government Accountability, Florida
Speaker: Joycelyn Guyer, Manatt Health Solutions, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Hannah Katch, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Calder Lynch, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Kathleen Nolan, Health Management Associates, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Trinity Tomsic, Federal Funds Information for States, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
NCSL Task Force on Agriculture Sunday, Aug. 6 | 7:30 am-12:45 pm
Convention Center 257 A
Summary:

The Agriculture Task Force begins with a tour at noon on Saturday followed by meeting sessions on Sunday. Note: This tour is open to task force members, invited legislators and legislative staff, and partners. Please contact Ben Husch (ben.husch@ncsl.org) for more information.

7:30 AM – 8:00 AM:  Breakfast

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM:  Food Safety Modernization Act and the Produce Safety Rule

Now more than six years since enactment, where does implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) stand? Join us for a discussion about the costs, benefits and overall impacts of FSMA to states, farmers and the agricultural industry.

Speakers:
• Dr. Stephen Ostroff, Deputy Commissioner for Foods & Veterinary Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
• Bob Ehart, Senior Policy and Science Advisor, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM:  Food Freedom and the Growth of the Cottage Food Movement

The rapid growth of locally-grown foods and farmers’ markets has led to a corresponding growth in cottage food laws. These laws exempt small food producers from food safety requirements. Maine, North Dakota and Wyoming have enacted legislation to allow the direct sale of unregulated food to consumers. This session will discuss the benefits and concerns about the sale of unregulated foods.

Speakers:
• Christina Rice, Clinical Fellow, Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation, Harvard Law School
• Senator Troy Jackson, Maine
• Ernst Julian, Chief, Center for Food Protection, Rhode Island Department of Health
• Doug Farquhar, NCSL

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM:  Break

10:15 AM – 11:15 AM:  Putting Workers to Work: Addressing Labor Needs and the H-2A Program

Agricultural producers have looked to the federal H-2A program to fill temporary jobs with foreign nationals. This session will provide information on state approaches and current federal efforts to address this agricultural need through the guest worker program.

Speakers:
• Joe Young, New England Apple Council
• Mark Amato, American Farm Bureau Federation’s Labor Committee

11:15 AM – 12:15 PM:  Business Session: Legislator Roundtable and Task Force Planning

• Review of NCSL policies and resolutions
• What did you work on this past legislative session? What are your plans for next session?
• What NCSL meeting sessions would you like to see in the future?
• How can NCSL and the Task Force best support your work?

12:15 PM – 12:45 PM:  Networking Lunch
Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Agriculture
Agriculture and Rural Development
Infrastructure and Technology
Energy Policy Summit Sunday, Aug. 6 | 7:30 am-12:45 pm
Convention Center 254 AB
Summary:

Examine the grid infrastructure challenges and solutions, as well as the rapidly transforming energy market, the risks posed by declining baseload resources, and the technologies that are enabling this transformation.

7:30 AM – 8:00 AM:  Breakfast

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM:  Building the 21st Century Electric Grid

The nation’s energy infrastructure—much of which is old, at capacity and nearing its life expectancy—received a D+ in the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Infrastructure Report Card. With an estimated $2 trillion in investment needed to maintain grid reliability, how do we best leverage technology and funding to build in long-term reliability, flexibility and functionality? National experts explore needs, costs and options for states as they plan and implement strategies for creating a resilient, modern grid.

Speakers:
• Bruce Evans, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer, American Electric Power
• Paul J. Hibbard, Principal, Analysis Group, Inc.

9:00 AM – 10:15 AM:  Markets and the Evolving Energy Mix

Energy markets across the nation are facing a confluence of disruptive forces, with low natural gas and renewable energy prices challenging the viability of large nuclear and coal plants. The market turmoil is raising concern over how the closure of these long-term baseload resources may impact state economies, energy diversity and grid reliability. Several states have enacted or considered policies to protect struggling coal and nuclear plants. Is state policy hindering or fixing failures in energy market operations, and how can it compliment the market?

Speakers:
• William Berg, Vice President of Wholesale Market Development, Exelon Corp.
• Vince Duane, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, PJM Interconnection
• Leslie Kerr, Deputy Director of the Division of Policy Development, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM:  Break

10:30 AM – 11:45 AM:  Adapting to Change

Grid operators in many states utilize demand response, energy storage, and other advances to adapt to a rapidly changing mix without sacrificing reliability. Can declining baseload be effectively replaced by new technologies and management practices? How will markets incorporate and value these new approaches?

Speaker:
• Kari Bennett, Executive Director of External Affairs, Midcontinent Independent System Operator
• Jack Thirolf, Senior Director of Regulatory Affairs, Enel Green Power North America, Inc.
• Jay Morrison, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

11:45 AM – 12:30 PM:  The Grid of the Future

How will market forces shape the nation's energy system and how can policymakers enable these changes?  Dr. Chandu Visweswariah, a leading energy visionary, explores how economics and technology will create the grid of the future.

Speaker:
• Chandu Visweswariah, President and Chief Executive Officer, Utopus Insights

12:30 PM – 1:00 PM:  Lunch

Track: Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
NCSL Task Force on Military and Veterans Affairs Sunday, Aug. 6 | 7:30 am-12:15 pm
Westin Commonwealth Ballroom B
Summary:

NCSL’s Task Force on Military and Veterans Affairs examines issues affecting military-community relations and the health and well-being of service members, veterans and their families. All are welcome to attend.

7:30 AM – 8:00 AM:  Breakfast

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM:  Task Force on Military and Veterans Affairs Convenes

Opening Remarks by Task Force Co-Chairs:
• Representative Dan Flynn, Texas
• Representative Ken Ito, Hawaii

Pledge of Allegiance
Introductions
Rick Beyer, author of The Ghost Army of World War II

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM:  The State of U.S. Military Readiness

Speakers:
• Kristin Thomasgard-Spence, Program Director, Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI), U.S. Department of Defense
• Matthew Walsh, Executive Liaison Assistant to the Commanding General, U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence, Arizona

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM:  Putting Veterans First: State-Federal Cooperation

Speakers:
• Henry Huntley, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, D.C.
• General Les Beavers, Executive Director, National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs
• Marty Caraway, Senior Vice President, National Association of County Veterans Service Officers

10:00 AM – 10:30 AM:  New Hampshire's Military Access Projects

Speaker:
• Jo Moncher, Bureau Chief, Military Programs, New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services

10:30 AM – 10:45 AM:  Break

10:45 AM – 11:30 AM:  Veterans Workforce Development

Presiding:
• Representative Ken Ito, Hawaii

Speakers:
• Suzanne Hultin, NCSL
• Marion Cain, Associate Director, Force Readiness & Training, U.S. Department of Defense 

11:30 AM – 12:00 PM:  The App for Veterans

Hear about the mobile phone app giving Texas veterans quick access to crisis hotlines and other resources, developed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. 

Speaker:
• Jim Darwin, Senior Advisor, Health and Human Services Commission of Texas

12:00 PM – 12:15 PM:  Special Presentation

12:15 PM:  Task Force Adjourns

Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Military and Veterans Affairs
Military and Veterans
Mason's Manual Commission Sunday, Aug. 6 | 8:00 am-12:45 pm
Westin Otis
Summary: The full Commission meets briefly, and the Internal Integrity Subcommittee continues its review of Mason's Manual text. Sponsored by: Mason's Manual Commission Presiding: Alfred Speer, Louisiana State Legislature Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Legislatures
Mason's Internal Citations Subcommittee Sunday, Aug. 6 | 8:00 am-12:45 pm
Westin Paine
Summary: The Mason's Manual Subcommittee on Internal Citations continues its review of parliamentary authority citations. Sponsored by: Mason's Manual Commission Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Legislatures
Making Your Case: Effective Communication Sunday, Aug. 6 | 8:00 am-11:00 am
Westin Commonwealth Ballroom C
Summary: When the public policy topic at hand is important to you, it's critical to state your position persuasively and succinctly. Learn how to craft and deliver an argument to advocate for what you believe in, and tailor your messages for different circumstances. Discuss how to be assertive without coming across as unyielding, how to disagree respectfully, the importance of nonverbal cues, and how to put these techniques into practice. Speaker: Catherine Johns, Illinois Track: Women's Legislative Network
Young and New Staff Professionals Preconference Sunday, Aug. 6 | 8:00 am-11:30 am
Westin Burroughs
Summary:

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM:  Breakfast and Introductions

Welcome: 
• Chuck Truesdell, Legislative Fiscal Analyst, Kentucky

8:30 AM – 9:15 AM:  Communicating Your Way Through the Legislature

Learn best practices for navigating communication with bill sponsors, lobbyists, inquiring legislators and legislative aides, and other players in the legislature.

Speakers:
• Senator Toi Hutchinson, Illinois
• J.J. Gentry, Senate, South Carolina
• Bob Devries, Governmental Consultant Services, Inc., Michigan

9:15 AM – 10:30 AM:  Navigating the Legislature During Contentious Times 

Engage with your peers and veteran legislative staff to learn best practices for navigating the legislature when the atmosphere is antagonistic.

Speakers:
• Kara Owen, Office of the House Speaker, Tennessee House of Representatives
• David Sullivan, Office of the Senate President, Massachusetts
• Brad Young, House of Representatives, Ohio 

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM:  Finding and Utilizing a Great Mentor

Learn how to ask the right questions of the veteran staff for institutional knowledge, the best practices to communicate up, and navigating the legislature.

Speakers:
• Jennifer Miller, Massachusetts
• Britte McBride, Massachusetts

Track: Legislative Staff
Young and New Professionals
Newly Elected Legislator Professional Development Preconference Sunday, Aug. 6 | 8:00 am-11:30 am
Westin Carlton
Summary:

8:00 AM :  Breakfast, Introductions and Surprises in the Legislature 

8:15-9 AM:  What Great Legislators Do

Books, studies and articles on leadership are endless. But we'll boil it down to 10 essentials during this interactive session. Learn what the latest brain science tells us about how adults learn, comprehend and analyze, examine the traits that make a great legislator and how to apply them to your legislative life; and find out how to apply neuroscience to your leadership decision-making process.

Speaker:
• Stacy Householder, NCSL

9-9:15 AM:  Facebook for Legislators

Be the first to receive a copy of NCSL's and Facebook's guide for legislators on effective social media use.

Speaker:
• Eva Guidarini, Facebook, Virginia

9:15 AM – 10:30 AM:  The Nimble Negotiator

Negotiation in the legislative world is its own special skill set. Using case studies from state legislatures, this training invites legislators to examine their own tactics for negotiation and learn the most effective means of getting things done.

Speaker:
• Brian Mandell, Harvard Kennedy School, Massachusetts
• David Porter, Harvard Kennedy School, Massachusetts

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM:  Practical and Effective Lessons for Newly Elected Legislators

Share the tools you learned on the fly or from senior members in your first term about how to be most effective. You’ll walk away with an abundance of ideas to implement moving forward in your legislative career. 

Speakers:
• Tim Storey, NCSL
• Speaker Cliff Rosenberger, Ohio
• Assemblymember Eloise Reyes, California
• Mark Scheffel, Advantage Capital Partners, Colorado

Track: Young and New Professionals
NCSL Task Force on State and Local Taxation Sunday, Aug. 6 | 8:00 am-12:00 pm
Westin Grand Ballroom CDE
Summary: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM:  Breakfast

9:00 AM – 9:30 AM:  Remote Sales Tax Update

In 2015, United States Supreme Court Justice Kennedy invited the states to challenge Quill, the 1992 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that requires businesses to have physical presence in a state in order to be compelled to collect and remit that state’s sales tax. In the 25 years since the Quill ruling, e-commerce has seen tremendous growth, which has coincided with the steady decline in sales tax revenues for states. Given the lack of action by Congress to solve this problem, states have begun enacting laws and imposing regulations to collect the sales taxes that are owed but are uncollectable. Hear about the remote sales tax collection issue at the state and federal levels and what can be expected for the remainder of 2017.

Speakers:
• Max Behlke, NCSL
• Joe Rinzel, Retail Industry Leaders Association

9:30 AM – 10:00 AM:  The Future of Colorado-Style Sales Tax Reporting Laws

In 2010, Colorado required out-of-state sellers that have no physical presence in the state, to either 1) start collecting and remitting the applicable sales tax on purchases made by Coloradans, or to 2) report to the state Department of Revenue and to the consumer the amount of tax owed on the purchase. After years of litigation, the law became effective on July 1, 2017. Hear from Michael Mazerov, a senior fellow at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, about the Colorado reporting law and whether or not other states should consider enacting similar legislation.

Speaker:
• Michael Mazerov, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities

10:00 AM – 11:15 AM:  A New Tool for Electronic Commerce Tax Enforcement?

Netsweeper is an Internet content filtering company that developed a form of hybrid “AI” (Artificial Intelligence) technology to scan content, assign content to categories, and update its filter system without human intervention in real-time. Recently, the company has been in discussions with tax agencies across the world regarding how the Netsweeper application can be used for tax enforcement. Perry Roach and Lou Erdelyi of Netsweeper discuss how they believe their patented tax enforcement and collection strategy for virtual sales and eCommerce can provide governments the tools necessary to enforce their tax laws.

Speakers:
• Perry Roach, Netsweeper Inc.
• Lou Erdelyi, Netsweeper Inc.

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM:  Anti-Fraud Measures: Protecting Income Tax Returns

In the past, federal and state treasuries allowed criminals to steal billions of dollars through the annual income tax filing obligation. But recent innovations by all stakeholders have made it much more difficult to defraud government taxing agencies. Learn how this public private partnership is saving your state millions of dollars every year and better protecting your constituents from identity theft.

Speaker:
• Julie Magee, Director, Tax Regulatory Affairs, Credit Karma Tax

12:00 PM:  Adjournment
Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on State and Local Taxation
Budget and Taxes
International Program: Introductions Sunday, Aug. 6 | 8:30 am-9:45 am
Westin Harbor Ballroom 1
Summary: International legislators and staff meet colleagues and counterparts from across the globe. An NCSL officer welcomes delegations and gives an overview of NCSL. Each delegation introduces its members in attendance for the Summit. Moderator: Assemblymember Michael Sprinkle, Nevada
Speaker: Senator Dan Blue, North Carolina
Speaker: Raúl Burciaga, New Mexico Legislature
Track: International
NCSL Legislative Staff Nominating Committee: Candidate Interviews Sunday, Aug. 6 | 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Westin Bulfinch
NCSL Legislator Nominating Committee: Candidate Interviews Sunday, Aug. 6 | 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Westin Executive Board Room
Redistricting Data Users Help the Census Preconference Sunday, Aug. 6 | 9:00 am-11:00 am
Westin Lewis
Summary: Legislative staff and others who rely heavily on the Census P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data have their chance to provide Census Bureau staff with input as the bureau redesigns the 2020 Census data. Get an insider’s look at proposed changes and future Census redistricting activities. Speaker: Colleen Joyce, U.S. Census Bureau, Maryland
Speaker: Jennie Karalewich, U.S. Census Bureau - CRVRDO, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: James Whitehorne, U.S. Census Bureau, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
NCSL Foundation for State Legislatures Board Meeting Sunday, Aug. 6 | 9:30 am-11:00 am
Westin Harbor Ballroom 2 & 3
Track: NCSL Foundation for State Legislatures
International Program: Roundtable Discussions Sunday, Aug. 6 | 9:45 am-11:30 am
Westin Harbor Ballroom 1
Summary: Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education is vital for global competitiveness, economic growth and overall standard of living. States are considering strategies to prepare students for jobs in the 21st century workforce, including increasing graduation requirements in math or science, providing incentives for teachers in STEM areas, enhancing the use of technology in school buildings, creating public-private networks, and offering incentives for students who pursue math and science during post-secondary studies. Discuss trends in STEM education, how state legislatures have encouraged STEM curriculum, and successful public-private cooperation. Moderator: Julie Pelegrin, Legislative Legal Services, Colorado
Panelist: Anand Vaishnav, Education First, Washington
Respondent: Honorable Kai Klose, Member, Parliament of Hesse, Germany
Respondent: Honorable Soo Wong, Member of Provincial Parliament, Scarborough-Agincourt, Ontario, Canada
Track: International
NCSL 50-State Bill Information Service Training Sunday, Aug. 6 | 11:15 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 255
Summary: Learn the basics of NCSL’s 50-State Bill Information Service (BIS). The BIS, available exclusively to state legislators and legislative staff, provides access to the full-text of legislation in the 50 states, D.C., and the U.S. Congress. The BIS was developed in partnership with State Net/LexisNexis®. Track: Legislatures
Creating Transparency, Openness and Trust: Modern Approaches to Redistricting Sunday, Aug. 6 | 11:15 am-12:15 pm
Westin Lewis
Summary: To the public, redistricting processes are a mystery, with questions about transparency, openness and trust. Examine different ways to address redistricting itself and the political needs to engage the public, too. Speaker: Larry Boden, Esri, California
Speaker: Jerry Howe, Utah State Legislature
Speaker: Richard Leadbeater, Esri, California
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Women's Legislative Network Board Meeting Sunday, Aug. 6 | 11:30 am-1:00 pm
Westin Revere
Summary: Attend the Women's Legislative Network's summer board meeting. Track: Women's Legislative Network
Orientation for First-Time Attendees: Luncheon Session Sunday, Aug. 6 | 11:45 am-1:00 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: First time at the Summit? Grab a box lunch and take part in this interactive orientation and learn how to navigate your way through the nation's most substantive public policy meeting. Hear about the business meeting, standing committees, deep dives and issue forums to get the most out of your time in Boston!
Redistricting and Elections: Luncheon Session Sunday, Aug. 6 | 12:15 pm-1:00 pm
Westin Lewis
Summary: Meet your peers from around the country who work on making democracy all it can be. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges Esri for their support of this luncheon. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Take a Test Drive Sunday, Aug. 6 | 12:45 pm-4:30 pm
Summary: See and test drive a new zero emissions hydrogen fuel cell car. The Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association will have Toyota Mirai and Honda Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles available. Location: West Side Drive on Meeting Level 1, just outside the NW Lobby.
Sunday General Session – From Politics to Statesmanship: Solving Problems in a Partisan World Sunday, Aug. 6 | 1:00 pm-2:00 pm
Convention Center Ballroom
Summary: Solving complex problems is always difficult, and the job is harder when the participants are from different parties. Hear from Massachusetts’ two legislative leaders—both Democrats—and the Commonwealth’s Republican governor on how they roll up their sleeves and reach consensus to move their state forward. Presiding: Senator Dan Blue, North Carolina
Moderator: William Weld, former Governor, Massachusetts
Panelist: Governor Charles Baker, Massachusetts
Panelist: Speaker Robert A. DeLeo, Massachusetts
Panelist: Senate President Stanley Rosenberg, Massachusetts
Track: General Session
Captioning Legislative Webcasts Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-4:00 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: Increasingly, states are providing captions for the deaf and hearing impaired as part of their live webcasts of legislative proceedings. Learn about the issues concerning accessibility and captioning, including live stream captioning, necessary software, support on mobile devices and browsers and potential impact on remote testimony.  (Note:  This is a Live Streaming Session.) Moderator: Jeff Ford, Indiana General Assembly
Panelist: Bruce Ellsworth, South Carolina State Legislature
Panelist: Daniel Kerr, Swagit, Texas
Panelist: Sanjiv Menezes, Sliq Media Technologies, Quebec
Panelist: Paul Pak, Massachusetts General Court
Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
Legislatures
Infrastructure and Technology
Drafting from Someone Else’s Template Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 254 AB
Summary: Lawmakers often ask for draft legislation based on model language from special interest groups, or bills or statutes from other states. Crafting language that is appropriate for your code requires due diligence from researchers and drafters. Moderator: Angela Alexander, Texas State Legislature
Panelist: Othni Lathram, Alabama Law Institute/Legislative Fiscal Office
Panelist: Sarah Stanton, Virginia General Assembly
Track: Legislative Staff
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Continuing Legal Education
Legislatures
Health and Human Services Committee Opening Remarks and Federal Update Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: Hear a briefing on federal legislative and policy actions impacting states. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
ASLCS "A" Committee: Bylaws and Standing Orders Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:00 pm
Westin Hancock
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS "A" Committee: Inside the Legislative Process Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:00 pm
Westin Otis
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS "A" Committee: Site Selection Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:00 pm
Westin Paine
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS "A" Committee: Technology Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:00 pm
Westin Revere
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
State and Federal Budget Update Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:15 pm
Convention Center 256
Summary: Hear about NCSL's latest findings on state budget and tax actions followed by a roundtable discussion of individual state fiscal situations. Get an update of federal budget and tax activity and potential impact to states. Speaker: Max Behlke, NCSL
Speaker: Marcia Howard, Federal Funds Information for States, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Arturo Pérez, NCSL
Track: Legislative Staff
Budgets and Revenue Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
Budget and Taxes
Legislator Compensation Decisions: Do Commissions Help? Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:45 pm
Convention Center 253 B
Summary: How much should states pay state legislators for their service, and how should those pay rates be determined? Explore how legislator compensation commissions operate in states that have them, and whether this approach to setting legislator salaries is an effective approach to this challenging issue. Panelist: Stephanie James, Minnesota State Legislature
Panelist: John Mahoney, NCSL
Panelist: Teri Wright, Washington Citizens' Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials, Washington
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Legislative Effectiveness Committee
Legislatures
5G and Small Cell Deployment Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:45 pm
Convention Center 152
Summary: As 5G technology is implemented and the demand for wireless services continues to rise, preserving the authority of state and local governments over zoning and land use decisions for personal wireless service facilities is important. Discuss the next generation of wireless infrastructure. Moderator: Representative Brian Patrick Kennedy, Rhode Island
Speaker: Bethanne Cooley, CTIA-The Wireless Association, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Representative Tracy Kraft-Tharp, Colorado
Speaker: Representative Jason Saine, North Carolina
Speaker: Tom Savage, League of Arizona Cities and Towns
Track: Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Infrastructure and Technology
Keeping Homes Heated Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:45 pm
Convention Center 253 C
Summary: The rapid growth of natural gas and renewables in our energy mix is challenging the capacity of the nation’s transmission lines and pipelines. Both new infrastructure and better management tools will be needed to ensure the stability and reliability of our energy delivery system. Examine state, federal and industry efforts to overcome challenges related to infrastructure siting, permitting and financing. Moderator: Heather Anderson, South Carolina General Assembly
Speaker: Tony Clark, Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Pete Sheffield, Enbridge, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Elin Swanson Katz, Connecticut Office of Consumer Counsel
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Task Force on Energy Supply
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Infrastructure and Technology
Immigration in 2017 Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:45 pm
Convention Center 156 BC
Summary: The role of state and local law enforcement in federal immigration policy is back in the forefront of public debate. Learn about sanctuary policies, and actions by states and Congress. What do the administration’s orders on immigration enforcement mean for states? How have the courts weighed in? Moderator: Representative Craig Tieszen, South Dakota
Speaker: Peter Margulies, Roger Williams University, Rhode Island
Speaker: Representative Thomas U. Reynolds, Mississippi
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
NCSL Task Forces
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee
Task Force on Immigration and the States
Continuing Legal Education
Law and Criminal Justice
International Trade Panel & Discussion Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:45 pm
Convention Center 156 A
Summary: With a new administration in the White House the outlook for trade has changed. The U.S. has formally withdrawn from the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), and the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with Canada and Mexico is reopen for negotiations to begin later this year. Join this discussion about potential challenges and opportunities international trade offers states, along with possible implications moving forward. Moderator: Representative Rafael M. Anchia, Texas
Panelist: Secretary Matt DeCourcey, Parliamentary Secretary, Canada
Panelist: Linda Dempsey, National Association of Manufacturers, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Celeste Drake, AFL-CIO, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Labor and Economic Development Committee
Get Ready: Redistricting Is Coming Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:00 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Is your state thinking ahead toward redistricting? It’s never too early to start—but it is hard to catch up if you’re late. Are you lining up key staff? Engaging with the Census? Thinking about technology? Learning from past mistakes? Hear from those who’ve been in the trenches on the broad outline of what it means to be prepared. Moderator: Debra Levine, New York
Panelist: Mark Edwards, House Committee on Redistricting, Massachusetts
Panelist: Karin Mac Donald, Statewide Redistricting Database, California
Panelist: Frank Strigari, Ohio General Assembly
Panelist: Peter Wattson, Minnesota
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Best Practices in State Capitol Security Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:45 pm
Convention Center 255
Speaker: Martin Brock, North Carolina General Assembly
Speaker: James Melton, South Carolina General Assembly
Speaker: Anthony "Steve" Pike, Virginia General Assembly
Track: Legislative Staff
National Legislative Services and Security Association
Cost Analysis of the Principal Pipeline Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-3:15 pm
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: A strong school principal pipeline can improve the quality of principals, better matching them to schools and reducing turnover of teachers and principals. Hear about first-of-its-kind study estimating the costs of building these pipelines, which include job standards, pre-service preparation, selective hiring and placement, and on-the-job evaluation and support. Presiding: Senator Peggy B. Lehner, Ohio
Moderator: Kelly Latterman, NCSL
Speaker: Damaries Blondonville, Prince George's County Public Schools, Maryland
Speaker: Julia Kaufman, RAND Corporation, Pennsylvania
Speaker: Senator Ann Millner, Utah
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
In the Trenches with Social Media Sunday, Aug. 6 | 2:15 pm-4:15 pm
Convention Center 257 B
Summary: We’re rolling out the brand-new Facebook Guide for State Legislators! Be among the first to obtain this handy tool and hear directly from Facebook about how to get the most out of the world’s largest social media site. We’ll explore other social media apps as well during informal roundtable discussions. Join us to learn best practices for influencing the narrative surrounding social media content, how to manage these apps properly, and tactics other states are using to master this dynamic and challenging landscape. Speaker: Eva Guidarini, U.S. Government & Politics Outreach, Facebook, Virginia Track: Legislative Staff
Legislative Information and Communications Staff Section
Leadership Staff Section
Women's Legislative Network
ASLCS "B" Committee: Membership and Communication Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:00 pm-3:45 pm
Westin Hancock
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS "B" Committee: Legislative Administrator Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:00 pm-3:45 pm
Westin Otis
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS "B" Committee: International Communications and Development Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:00 pm-3:45 pm
Westin Paine
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS "B" Committee: Support Staff Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:00 pm-3:45 pm
Westin Revere
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Using Census Data for Redistricting Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:00 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Learn what “heavy users” of census data say about the data provided by the decennial census. Learn from data analysts from both sides of the aisle about how neutral, nonpartisan data are the building blocks for the political landscape. Moderator: Jeffrey Wice, New York State Legislature
Speaker: Clark Bensen, Polidata, Inc., Virginia
Speaker: Kimball Brace, Election Data Services Inc., Virginia
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Is the Taxation of Services Inevitable? Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:15 pm-4:15 pm
Convention Center 256
Summary: As digital services and products become an increasingly important share of the economy, will states look to broaden their tax bases to include more services to stabilize their revenues? Explore the service-based economy and how it is transforming the American economy and impacting traditional revenue sources for states. Moderator: Esther Van Mourik, Colorado General Assembly
Panelist: Scott Drenkard, Tax Foundation, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Michael Mazerov, Center on Budget & Policy, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Maureen Riehl, MultiState Associates Inc., Virginia
Track: Budgets and Revenue Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Budget and Taxes
Budget Challenges in Medicaid Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:15 pm-4:15 pm
Convention Center 151 AB
Summary: Perhaps no segment of state budgets is as complicated as Medicaid. Examine potential changes in Medicaid financing, and discuss the biggest challenges in Medicaid budgeting Panelist: Stephanie Barrett, Vermont General Assembly
Panelist: Melody Debussey, Georgia General Assembly
Panelist: Trinity Tomsic, Federal Funds Information for States, Washington, D.C.
Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
What Works in Early Education: A Review of the Research Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:25 pm-4:25 pm
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: Between 2002 and 2015, state spending on preschool programs nearly doubled from $3.3 billion to $6.2 billion. But educational research on the effects of preschool varies widely. Discuss the short- and long-term benefits of preschool, potential fadeout and who benefits most.  Speaker: Ron Haskins, Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Deborah Phillips, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
ASLCS "C" Committee: Professional Journal Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:45 pm-4:30 pm
Westin Hancock
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS "C" Committee: Program Development Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:45 pm-4:30 pm
Westin Otis
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS "C" Committee: Canadian-American Relations Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:45 pm-4:30 pm
Westin Paine
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Redistricting Goes to Court Sunday, Aug. 6 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Partisanship. Compliance with the Voting Rights Act. Attention to procedural details. The U.S. Supreme Court has heard it all—and will continue to do so. What will these cases mean for states’ redistricting efforts in the 2020 cycle? Moderator: Jessica Karls-Ruplinger, Wisconsin State Council
Speaker: Abha Khanna, Perkins Coie LLP, Washington
Speaker: Katherine McKnight, Baker Hostetler, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Continuing Legal Education
Elections and Redistricting
Health and Human Services Committee Business Meeting Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:00 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: Discuss policies and other issues concerning the committee.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Policy directives and resolutions are only accessible in electronic format on the NCSL app and on the agenda and resources page on the Summit website. All meeting rooms have wireless internet access. Here is the list of Health and Human Services Committee members.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
NCSL Center for Legislative Strengthening Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:00 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 253 B
Summary: The Center for Legislative Strengthening is NCSL’s new initiative designed to analyze and report on key issues that impact and contribute to the effectiveness of state legislatures. Learn about two of the center’s current inquiries: legislative committee systems and practices, and historic trends in legislative expenditures. Hear about the new NCSL webpage features designed to provide improved access to comparative data about the legislative institution. Speaker: Jonathan Griffin, NCSL
Speaker: John Mahoney, NCSL
Speaker: Brian Weberg, NCSL
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Legislative Effectiveness Committee
Legislatures
Financial Services for Marijuana Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:00 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 152
Summary: Alaska, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and the District of Columbia now allow recreational marijuana. More than half the states, the District of Columbia and Guam allow medical marijuana. Hear about efforts to help the industry move beyond the cash-only model to find effective financial services. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the Massachusetts Bankers Association, the American Bankers Association and the ABA State Association Alliance for their support of the break. Moderator: Senator Brian J. Feldman, Maryland
Panelist: Michael Correia, National Cannabis Industry Association, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Jeffrey Gerard, Greylock Federal Credit Union, Massachusetts
Panelist: Brenda Wells, College of Business, East Carolina University, North Carolina
Track: Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
NRI Committee Federal Update and Policy Review Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:00 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 253 C
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Agriculture and Rural Development
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Infrastructure and Technology
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee Business Meeting Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:00 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 156 BC
Summary: Come for discussion and potential action on new or renewal policies.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Policy directives and resolutions are only accessible in electronic format on the NCSL app and on the agenda and resources page on the Summit website. All meeting rooms have wireless internet access. Here is the list of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee members.
Presiding: Senator Gerald Malloy, South Carolina
Presiding: Representative Craig Tieszen, South Dakota
Speaker: Susan Parnas Frederick, NCSL
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee
Law and Criminal Justice
Labor and Economic Development Commitee Business Meeting Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:00 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 156 A
Summary: IMPORTANT NOTICE: Policy directives and resolutions are only accessible in electronic format on the NCSL app and on the agenda and resources page on the Summit website. All meeting rooms have wireless internet access. Here is the list of Labor and Economic Development Committee members. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Labor and Economic Development Committee
Expecting the Unexpected Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:15 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: A sudden special session, protesters at the capitol, a natural disaster or security threats—legislative staff are on the front line when the unexpected happens. Hear from colleagues in various roles about how they prepared for, dealt with or found solutions for unexpected situations.  (Note:  This is a Live Streaming Session.) Moderator: Senator Ginny Burdick, Oregon
Panelist: Raúl Burciaga, New Mexico State Legislature
Panelist: Peter Capriglione, North Carolina General Assembly
Panelist: Anthony "Steve" Pike, Virginia General Assembly
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Legislative Information and Communications Staff Section
Legislative Research Librarians
Leadership Staff Section
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
National Legislative Program Evaluation Society
National Legislative Services and Security Association
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Legislatures
Women's Legislative Network Roundtable Discussions Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:30 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 257 B
Summary: Join the Women's Legislative Network for informal discussions about women in politics and the top issues of 2017. Track: Women's Legislative Network
How Do State Budget Structures Influence Economic Growth? Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:30 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 256
Summary: There is a vibrant debate among tax experts concerning whether, and to what degree, state fiscal structures and increasing or decreasing taxes affect a state’s economy. Examine both sides of the debate and explore whether the outcome of tax changes in one state can be expected in other states. Moderator: Krista Lee, Tennessee General Assembly
Speaker: David Brunori, Quarles & Brady LLP, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Matthew Gardner, Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Joseph Henchman, Tax Foundation, Washington, D.C.
Track: Legislative Staff
Budgets and Revenue Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
Budget and Taxes
ASLCS Strategic Planning Special Committee Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:30 pm-5:30 pm
Westin Hancock
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
ASLCS Budget and Financial Review Special Committee Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:30 pm-5:30 pm
Westin Paine
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Implementation of ESSA: What’s in the State Plans Sunday, Aug. 6 | 4:35 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: States have new flexibility under the federal Every Student Succeeds Act in areas of accountability, assessments, school turnaround, and teaching and leadership quality. More than a dozen states have submitted their implementation plans to the U.S. Department of Education, with the rest on track to submit by September. Hear how these states propose to use this flexibility. Moderator: Michelle Exstrom, NCSL
Speaker: Lindsay Dworkin, Alliance for Excellent Education, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Adam Ezring, Collaborative for Student Success, Virginia
Speaker: Anne Hyslop, Chiefs for Change, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
Home States Reception at Google Sunday, Aug. 6 | 5:00 pm-7:30 pm
Summary:

NCSL invites you to attend a “Home States” Reception at Google’s Cambridge headquarters honoring leaders from states with Google offices and infrastructure. Join us for interactive demos of virtual reality, machine learning, information about Google’s functions in your state, and tasty regional food and drink. Space is limited to legislators and legislative staff. The buses depart from the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center’s Northeast Lobby. At the conclusion of the event, one bus will return to the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center and the second bus will return to the Back Bay area hotels. Please RSVP to Heather Morton (heather.morton@ncsl.org) by Thursday, July 27.

Track: Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Infrastructure and Technology
Health Care Overview from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Sunday, Aug. 6 | 5:00 pm-6:00 pm
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: Seema Verma, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, discusses the administration’s activity related to Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance regulations, and responds to ideas and questions from legislators. Speaker: Seema Verma, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Washington, D.C. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
NCSL Steering Committee Sunday, Aug. 6 | 5:25 pm-6:00 pm
Convention Center 257 A
Summary: The steering committee includes the overall standing committee officers and the legislator and staff chairs of each standing committee. Members will preview policies for consideration and decide on joint and re-referrals of policy directives and resolutions as necessary. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Legislative Staff Red Carpet Meet and Greet Sunday, Aug. 6 | 5:25 pm-6:00 pm
Convention Center SE Lobby B2
Summary: We’re rolling out the red carpet for legislative staff! Take time to see old friends and meet new colleagues before heading to the reception at the Lawn on D. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the Carpet and Rug Institute for their support of this reception. Track: Legislative Staff
Social Event at The Lawn on D (Opening Reception) Sunday, Aug. 6 | 5:30 pm-7:30 pm
Lawn on D
Summary: Come join the party at The Lawn on D! After your last session, head to the BCEC’s outdoor space for a night of BOSTON-OPLY fun. Our opening night extravaganza gives you the chance to interact with our life size BOSTON-OPLY game board, entertainers and chance wall. Network with your peers over festive appetizers and cocktails. This is a one-of-a-kind event you won’t want to miss! You must have your badge to enter. If you are 21+, please bring a valid government issued ID.
National Association of Jewish Legislators Board Meeting (Closed Meeting) Sunday, Aug. 6 | 7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Westin Faneuil
Sponsored by: National Association of Jewish Legislators
LINCS Dinner Sponsored by NCTA - The Internet & Television Association Sunday, Aug. 6 | 7:30 pm-9:00 pm
Summary: Join fellow LINCSters for networking and camaraderie at our annual dinner sponsored by NCTA, The Internet & Television Association. RSVP to Jane Andrade (jane.andrade@ncsl.org) by July 28. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges NCTA - The Internet & Television Association for their support of this dinner. Track: Legislative Staff
Legislative Information and Communications Staff Section
Monday Shuttle Schedule Monday, Aug. 7 | 6:30 am-6:30 pm
Summary: Please Note: All conference attendees must have their badge with them to board buses, access the BCEC and attend social events.

Shuttle Pick Up/Drop Off Locations:
• Route 1 includes the Sheraton Boston (Sheraton entrance on Dalton Street), Hilton Back Bay (Pick up is at the Sheraton) and Boston Park Plaza (Columbus Avenue entrance).
• Route 2 includes Westin Copley (Westin entrance on Huntington Avenue), Marriott Copley Place (Marriott entrance on Huntington Avenue) and Colonnade (Pick up is at the Marriott Copley).

Shuttle Frequency: 
• Monday, Aug. 7: 6:30 am to 11:30 am (every 12 minutes), 11:30 am to 4:30 pm (every 20 minutes) and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm (every 12 minutes).
• Shuttle frequency may vary slightly based on traffic conditions.
• All vehicles will depart from the BCEC Northeast Level 1 Vestibule.

General Inquiries/Accessible Shuttle Information:
If you have questions regarding shuttle services, or require a wheelchair accessible shuttle, please call 857-321-0287 24-hours in advance to schedule a ride. All requests made within 24 hours will be assisted on a first-call, first-served basis.
Registration Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:00 am-5:00 pm
Convention Center North Lobby
Summary: Registration is easy! Print out your badge at the kiosks in the convention center lobby and pick up a program.
Oral Health – Polishing Up Systems of Care: Breakfast Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:15 am-8:30 am
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: States spend millions of dollars every year to treat advanced dental disease—in hospital emergency rooms for adults and operating rooms for kids. Growing evidence links oral disease to chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart and lung disease and potential pregnancy complications. Learn about promising and cost-effective state strategies to improve access to the preventive services that can improve health and save states millions. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the DentaQuest Foundation for their support of this breakfast. Moderator: Representative April C. Weaver, Alabama
Speaker: Meg Booth, CDHP, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Senator Josh B. Green, Hawaii
Speaker: Representative David E. Heaton, Iowa
Speaker: Assemblymember Gordon M. Johnson, New Jersey
Speaker: Senator Judy Lee, North Dakota
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
Food and Farm: Breakfast Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:30 am-8:30 am
Convention Center 253 C
Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges Archer Daniel Midland for their support of this breakfast. Moderator: Senator Rita Hart, Iowa
Speaker: Jason Hafemeister, United States Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
NCSL Task Forces
Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Task Force on Agriculture
Agriculture and Rural Development
Money Transmitter Fees and Taxes – State Revenue and Policy Implications: Breakfast Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:30 am-8:30 am
Convention Center 152
Summary: State and federal efforts to impose an additional charge on wire transfers are raising concerns for traditional money services businesses like Western Union and new-comers like Amazon, Facebook, Google, PayPal and Square, who are licensed as money transmitters across the country at the state level. Discuss the ramifications of these additional charges on traditional and non-traditional money transmission companies. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges PayPal for their support of this breakfast. Speaker: Usman Ahmed, PayPal, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Jillian Pevo, Western Union, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Senator Bo Watson, Tennessee
Track: Budgets and Revenue Committee
Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Budget and Taxes
Medication-Assisted Treatment in the Justice System: Breakfast Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:30 am-8:30 am
Convention Center 257 B
Summary: Solutions to the continuing opioid abuse epidemic remain high on legislative agendas. Recent enactments have authorized, required, or funded the use of medication-assisted treatment throughout the justice system. Learn about approaches to this treatment. Moderator: Representative Eric K. Hutchings, Utah
Speaker: William (Zach) Holzapfel, Alkermes, Massachusetts
Speaker: Amber Widgery, NCSL
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee
Law and Criminal Justice
Outside the Census, Looking In: Breakfast Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:30 am-8:30 am
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: The U.S. Constitution mandates holding a decennial census. The 2020 Census will be the 24th time the people living in the United States will be counted. How has the Census changed? What role does it play in state and federal decision making? What new challenges have surfaced? Learn from longtime observers of the Census. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the Bauman Foundation for their support of this breakfast. Moderator: Senator Dee L. Brown, Montana
Speaker: Terri Ann Lowenthal, Funders Census Initiative 2020, Connecticut
Speaker: Jason Torchinsky, Holtzman, Vogel, Josefiak, PLLC, Virginia
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
School Choice: Much Ado About Something? Breakfast Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:30 am-8:30 am
Convention Center 253 A
Summary: For decades, fierce debates over school choice policies have consumed large amounts of time, energy and money. Why is this such a divisive issue? What is driving the support and opposition of school choice and how can it be resolved? Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges EdChoice for their support of this breakfast. Speaker: Kevin Chavous, American Federation for Children, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Robert Enlow, EdChoice, Indiana
Panelist: Rob Weil, American Federation of Teachers, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
NLPES Executive Committee Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:45 am-8:45 am
Westin Quincy
Summary: The Executive Committee of the National Legislative Program Evaluation Society meets. Presiding: Greg Fugate, Colorado General Assembly Track: Legislative Staff
National Legislative Program Evaluation Society
Notable Documents Award Ceremony and LRL Business Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:45 am-8:45 am
Westin Paine
Summary: Presentation of the 2017 Notable Documents Awards with light refreshments. Track: Legislative Staff
Legislative Research Librarians
RELACS Business Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:45 am-8:45 am
Convention Center 203
Summary: Research, editorial, legal and committee staff gather for their annual business meeting, including presentation of awards and discussion of staff section activities. Presiding: Susan Byorth Fox, Montana State Legislature
Presiding: Julie Pelegrin, Colorado General Assembly
Track: Legislative Staff
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
NALFO Business Meeting: Breakfast Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:45 am-8:45 am
Convention Center 257 A
Summary: Meet to approve officers and discuss staff section business. The 2017 NALFO Staff Achievement Award is presented. Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
Budget and Taxes
NLSSA Business Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 7:45 am-8:45 am
Westin Bulfinch
Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
Improving Children’s Chances by Combatting Early Trauma Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-11:15 am
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: Advances in science show how traumatic or adverse experiences in early childhood can affect a person’s long-term health and well-being, educational achievement and economic productivity. This can be costly to states, in terms of health care, education and human services. Learn how adverse childhood experiences affect brain development and think through policy options and strategies in this interactive session. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for their support of the refreshments. Speaker: Nadine Burke Harris, Center For Youth Wellness, California
Speaker: Melissa Merrick, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Georgia
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
What Would It Take to Balance the Federal Budget? Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-10:00 am
Convention Center 258 AB
Summary: The federal government is spending some $500 billion a year more than it raises in taxes, and the national debt is now nearly $20 trillion (77 percent of GDP). Without action, the debt will reach $25 trillion by 2027 (89 percent of GDP), and would threaten the stability of the nation’s finances. Addressing the problem is politically difficult. Hear an overview of the federal budget followed by presentations and discussions on how the federal government can get its fiscal house in order. Moderator: Senator Wayne Niederhauser, Utah
Panelist: Susan Irving, U.S. Government Accountability Office, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Timothy Penny, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: C. Eugene Steuerle, The Urban Institute, Washington, D.C.
Track: Budgets and Revenue Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Budget and Taxes
New Initiatives on Civility, Citizenship and Public Service Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-10:00 am
Convention Center 253 B
Summary: Join the committee for briefings on exciting new initiatives designed to revive civility and respect in the legislative process and to recognize the honorable and patriotic qualities of public service. Moderator: Representative Susan Westrom, Kentucky
Speaker: Ted Celeste, National Institute for Civil Discourse, Ohio
Speaker: Terry Hayes, Office of the State Treasurer, Maine
Speaker: Steven Rothstein, John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Legislative Effectiveness Committee
Legislatures
Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee Business Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-10:00 am
Convention Center 151 AB
Summary: Debate and vote on policies that guide NCSL's advocacy work in Washington, D.C.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Policy directives and resolutions are only accessible in electronic format on the NCSL app and on the agenda and resources page on the Summit website. All meeting rooms have wireless internet access. Here is the list of Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee members.
Presiding: Representative Curt McCormack, Vermont
Presiding: Representative Ed Orcutt, Washington
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Flood Insurance: What Changes Will Float to the Top? Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-10:00 am
Convention Center 152
Summary: The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is set to expire in September and bills have been introduced in Congress to overhaul the program and encourage private companies to step in. What will the NFIP look like moving forward? Moderator: Senator Rosalyn H. Baker, Hawaii
Panelist: Robert "Ned" Dolese, Coastal America Insurance Company, Mississippi
Panelist: Donald Griffin, Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, Illinois
Panelist: Velma Smith, The Pew Charitable Trusts, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Jennifer Webb, Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Roy Wright, Office of the Deputy Associate Administrator for Insurance and Mitigation, FEMA, Washington, D.C.
Track: Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Marijuana Federalism Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-10:00 am
Convention Center 156 BC
Summary: While the Trump administration mulls its approach to state-regulated, recreational marijuana, most agree that there is untenable conflict between the federal government and the growing number of states that have legalized marijuana use. Learn about the intergovernmental legal issues in play and what is at stake for states’ rights. Moderator: Senator Gerald Malloy, South Carolina
Speaker: Representative Roger E. Goodman, Washington
Speaker: John Hudak, Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Robert Mikos, Vanderbilt Law School, Tennessee
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee
Continuing Legal Education
Law and Criminal Justice
Military and Veterans Affairs Economic Outlook, Opportunities and Impacts Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-10:15 am
Convention Center 256
Summary: Discuss potential federal defense spending and the impact it will have on states, along with economic development opportunities for military veterans. Panelist: Tara Butler, U.S. Department of Defense, Virginia
Panelist: Barbara Carson, Small Business Administration, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Tim Ford, Association of Defense Communities, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
NCSL Task Forces
Labor and Economic Development Committee
Task Force on Military and Veterans Affairs
Military and Veterans
International Perspectives on Elections Systems Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-10:00 am
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Representatives from Canada, Mexico and Germany discuss how they run their elections. Like the U.S., they are federations of states or provinces. How do they register voters? How do voters vote? Do they promote participation? Is cybersecurity a worry? We’ll learn what’s the same in the U.S. and what’s not. Moderator: Michael Svetlik, International Foundation for Electoral Systems, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Angela Freimuth, State Parliament of Nordrhein, Westphalia, Germany
Panelist: Mathieu Lemay, National Assembly of Quebec
Panelist: Emilio Rabasa, Consulate of Mexico, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Education Committee Business Meeting/Federal Update Monday, Aug. 7 | 8:45 am-10:00 am
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: All Education Standing Committee members are encouraged to attend this meeting to discuss and vote on committee policies and resolutions. 

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Policy directives and resolutions are only accessible in electronic format on the NCSL app and on the agenda and resources page on the Summit website. All meeting rooms have wireless internet access. Here is the list of Education Committee members.
Presiding: Representative Robert Behning, Indiana
Presiding: Representative Alice Hanlon Peisch, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
NCSL 50-State Bill Information Service Training Monday, Aug. 7 | 9:15 am-9:45 am
Convention Center 255
Summary: Learn the basics of NCSL’s 50-State Bill Information Service (BIS). The BIS, available exclusively to state legislators and legislative staff, provides access to the full-text of legislation in the 50 states, D.C., and the U.S. Congress. The BIS was developed in partnership with State Net/LexisNexis®. Track: Legislatures
Exhibit Hall Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Convention Center Hall A
Summary: Be sure to schedule time to visit the Exhibit Hall featuring over 220 exhibitors and an opportunity to win an IPad Pro! The Hall is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Wednesday from 9 a.m.-noon.
Legislative Staff University: Making Work Worthwhile Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:00 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 205 ABC
Summary: Working in a legislature is stressful—long days, constant requests, deadlines on deadlines can make even the most dedicated legislative staffers feel like they’re drowning. What to do? Willow Jacobson, associate professor at the University of North Carolina School of Government, will tell you about cutting-edge research – and practical ideas – to motivate people, recognize and reward employees, and improve the workplace for everyone. Presiding: Wendy Jackson, Wisconsin State Legislature
Speaker: Willow Jacobson, School of Government - University of North Carolina
Track: Legislative Staff
Legislative Education Staff Network
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Legislative Information and Communications Staff Section
Legislative Research Librarians
Leadership Staff Section
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
National Legislative Program Evaluation Society
National Legislative Services and Security Association
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
What’s Cooking in the States in Terms of Elections Policy? Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:10 am-11:20 am
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Voter ID is big again, and everything about voter registration. But so are tech questions: What’s on the market, what’s around the corner, what’s secure, and who pays. Get the 30,000 foot primer on what legislators need to know. Moderator: Senator Cheryl C. Kagan, Maryland
Panelist: Thomas Hicks, U.S. Election Assistance Commission, Maryland
Panelist: Jennifer Jackson, Texas State Legislature
Panelist: Wayne Williams, Secretary of State of Colorado
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Budgets and Revenue Committee Business Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:15 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 258 AB
Summary: Committee members discuss and vote on committee business, consider and review policies, and vote on any new policy resolutions submitted for consideration.

A PDF version of the current Budgets and Revenue Committee Policy Directives and Resolutions can be found here.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Policy directives and resolutions are only accessible in electronic format on the NCSL app and on the agenda and resources page on the Summit website. All meeting rooms have wireless internet access. Here is the list of Budgets and Revenue Committee members.
Presiding: Representative Sylvia Luke, Hawaii
Presiding: Senator Anna MacKinnon, Alaska
Track: Budgets and Revenue Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Budget and Taxes
Legislator Pride: Reclaiming the Image of Public Servants Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:15 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: You worked hard to get elected because you care about your community and about important issues that affect your state. You want to make things better. But many citizens don’t see you that way, and public opinion of elected officials seems to decline every year. Learn how to reverse that trend and reclaim and rebuild the image of public servants doing work essential to American democracy. (Note: This is a Live Streaming Session.) Moderator: Representative Kristin Conzet, South Dakota
Speaker: Corey Cook, School of Public Service, Boise State University
Speaker: Senator Toi Hutchinson, Illinois
Speaker: Senator Toi Hutchinson, Illinois
Speaker: Karl Kurtz, Legis Matters, Colorado
Speaker: Gene Rose, At Last Communications, Colorado
Speaker: Steven Rothstein, John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Legislative Effectiveness Committee
Women's Legislative Network
Legislatures
Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee Business Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:15 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 151 AB
Summary: Committee members discuss, consider, review policies and vote on any new policy resolutions submitted for consideration and other committee business. Hear an update on the implementation of FirstNet and Internet privacy legislation.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Policy directives and resolutions are only accessible in electronic format on the NCSL app and on the agenda and resources page on the Summit website. All meeting rooms have wireless internet access. Here is the list of Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee members.
Presiding: Senator Wayne A. Harper, Utah
Presiding: Representative Brian Patrick Kennedy, Rhode Island
Speaker: Danielle Dean, NCSL
Speaker: Pam Greenberg, NCSL
Speaker: Edward Parkinson, First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), Washington, D.C.
Track: Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Critical Status: How Financing Can Help Address America's Infrastructure Crisis Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:15 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 253 C
Summary: There are multiple financial tools available to help build, maintain and operate critical infrastructure in the U.S., but some have been underutilized or misunderstood. Learn how states and the federal government can use public-private partnerships (P3s), bonding, value capture and federal financing to help improve transportation, water, energy and other kinds of infrastructure. Hear about NCSL’s newly released guiding principles for state legislatures to consider when creating P3 laws. Moderator: Representative Andrew J. McLean, Maine
Panelist: Shant Boyajian, Nossaman LLP, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Deborah Brown, WSP, Maryland
Panelist: Kathy Ruffalo, Ruffalo & Associates, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Infrastructure and Technology
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee Federal Update Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:15 am-10:45 am
Convention Center 156 BC
Summary: Learn about federal legislation in the 115th Congress that has state impact and how you can be an advocate for states’ rights. Presiding: Representative Craig Tieszen, South Dakota
Speaker: Susan Parnas Frederick, NCSL
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee
Law and Criminal Justice
School Funding – State Actions and Promising Approaches Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:15 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: Scarce state revenues. Lawsuits challenging state funding. New federally mandated financial reporting requirements. Antiquated funding formulas. These are just a smattering of issues facing state legislatures as they take on “the very apex of the function of a State” (Wisconsin v. Yoder). Examine challenges defining the current education finance landscape and examples of promising state approaches overcoming these challenges. Presiding: Representative Wendy Horman, Idaho
Speaker: Kirk Carapezza, WGBH, 89.7 FM, Massachusetts
Speaker: Rachel Hise, Maryland General Assembly
Speaker: Daniel Thatcher, NCSL
Speaker: Jonathan Travers, Education Resource Strategies, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
Labor and Economic Development Committee Special Briefing: Ensuring States are Globally Competitive, State Success Stories & Innovative Opportunities Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:30 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 256
Summary: Global competition for investment plays an important role in how states expand their economic development capabilities and foster new and innovative jobs. Join us for a special briefing on what policies can boost or hinder a state’s global economic competitiveness and what steps legislators have taken to grow their states' economies and competitiveness. Speaker: Jay Ash, Housing and Economic Development, Massachusetts
Speaker: Nancy McLernon, Organization for International Investment, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Stefan Pryor, Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Labor and Economic Development Committee
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Reentry Monday, Aug. 7 | 10:45 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 156 BC
Summary: After prison, individuals must secure a job, find a place to live, get health care, renew family relationships and comply with court-ordered debts. Yet lack of education and work experience, drug abuse and mental illness, and other issues hinder their ability to be productive, taxpaying community members. Learn how lawmakers are teaming up with state agencies and community, religious and business leaders to create a comprehensive support system for returning offenders. Moderator: Representative Eric K. Hutchings, Utah
Speaker: Michael Nail, Georgia Department of Community Supervision
Respondent: Senator Wesley T. Bishop, Louisiana
Respondent: Representative Katrina R. Jackson, Louisiana
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee
Law and Criminal Justice
Finding Common Ground: Understanding State Legislators’ Health Policy Goals Monday, Aug. 7 | 11:15 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: Hear how state legislators responded to a national survey about health policy goals. Find out where opinions diverged and where finding common ground can help bridge the partisan divide in viewpoints as the nation undergoes new changes in the health system. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
Redistricting and Elections Committee Business Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 11:30 am-12:00 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Meet your fellow committee members (although everyone is welcome to attend). Learn about NCSL opportunities, projects and help set priorities. A bonus: A Reader’s Digest version of 2017 legislation on elections and redistricting. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
NCSL Steering Committee Monday, Aug. 7 | 11:45 am-12:15 pm
Convention Center 257 A
Summary: The steering committee reviews the policies reported from the standing committees at the Summit and determines the calendar for the NCSL Business Meeting on Monday, August 7 at 3:15 p.m. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Booming Boomers – Preparing for an Aging Population: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: Every day, 10,000 Americans turn 65. A range of strategies exist to prepare for our aging population, with a focus on helping people remain in their homes as long as possible and ensuring access to care. These include supporting family caregivers and meeting the demands for home health services and technologies. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges AARP for their support of this luncheon. Speaker: Nancy LeaMond, AARP, Washington, D.C. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
Taxation and The Sharing Economy: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 258 AB
Summary: Hear about legislative activity related to the sharing economy and taxation, and a panel discussion with two legislators who share their experiences with short-term housing rental legislation. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges American Hotel & Lodging Association for their support of this luncheon. Moderator: Troy Flanagan, American Hotel & Lodging Association, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Assemblymember Irene Bustamante Adams, Nevada
Panelist: Liz Malm, Multistate Associates, Virginia
Panelist: Senator Thomas K. Norment, Virginia
Track: Budgets and Revenue Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Budget and Taxes
Legislative Effectiveness Committee Business Meeting: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 253 B
Summary: Meet your fellow committee members (although everyone is welcome to attend). Learn about NCSL opportunities, projects and help set priorities. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Legislative Effectiveness Committee
Legislatures
The Future of Electricity – Embracing New Technology and Meeting Customer Needs: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 253 C
Summary: The U.S. electric power industry is undergoing a profound transformation. The rapid pace of technological change and evolving electric customer needs and expectations are driving it. Explore how new technologies are changing the electric power sector and how policies and regulations need to keep up pace with this innovation to ensure your state can be at the forefront of realizing its benefits. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges Edison Electric Institute for their support of this luncheon. Moderator: Representative Dan Saddler, Alaska
Speaker: Philip Moeller, Edison Electric Institute, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Infrastructure and Technology
The Future of Artificial Intelligence and Voice Recognition Technology: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 254 AB
Summary: Voice recognition technology provides enormous potential benefits to consumers and to society. Examine the benefits, along with the challenges, and potential roles for policymakers in fostering the advancement of this technology. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges Amazon for their support of this luncheon. Moderator: Senator Wayne A. Harper, Utah
Speaker: Stacey Gray, Future of Privacy Forum, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Rohit Prasad, Amazon, Massachusetts
Track: Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Reducing Recidivism Through Inmate Training: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 156 BC
Summary: For the nearly 11.5 million people who cycle in and out of prison and jail every year, employment is key to becoming a productive, taxpaying member of the community. Learn about an award-winning prisoner training program that’s helping offenders find gainful employment and reducing recidivism. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges Johnson Controls, Inc. for their support of this luncheon. Moderator: Senator Delores G. Kelley, Maryland
Speaker: Jerry Hirsch, Johnson Controls International, Wisconsin
Speaker: Gary Shotwell, Corrections Consultant, Louisiana
Speaker: John Steele, Johnson Controls, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee
Law and Criminal Justice
International Program at the Massachusetts State House: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
State House
Summary: International delegates have lunch at the University of Massachusetts Club then tour the Massachusetts State House and participate in a mock session in the legislature. Please meet in the Northeast Lobby on the 1st floor to load into buses. The buses will depart the BCEC at 12:05 pm. Speaker: Senator Marc Pacheco, Massachusetts
Speaker: Anne Ziaja, Massachusetts Senate
Track: International
Data Delivers for Elections: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Fill your plate and sit back and enjoy an entertaining presentation on data, elections, decision making and the future from Charles Stewart, a top national thought leader on election administration. Speaker: Charles Stewart, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Manufacturing a Skilled Workforce: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 253 A
Summary: Manufacturers need a robust, skilled workforce. Workers need the advanced skills necessary for today’s manufacturing jobs. Lawmakers can help by supporting economic partnerships that ensure workforce development programs train workers in the skills needed by the manufacturers. Hear about state efforts to promote manufacturing and help it continuously adapt to remain ahead of global competitors. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the Manufacturing Extension Partnership for their support of this luncheon. Speaker: Rob Atkinson, Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, Washington, D.C. Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Labor and Economic Development Committee
Lessons in Student-Centered Learning from New England to Singapore: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: What does student-centered learning look like? Examine a variety of models from the U.S. and other countries that individualize supports for students so learning is personalized and competency-based, takes place anytime, anywhere, and ensures students have ownership over their learning. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the Nellie Mae Education Foundation for their support of this luncheon. Presiding: Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos, Washington
Moderator: Nicholas C. Donohue, Nellie Mae Education Foundation, Massachusetts
Speaker: Nathan Driskell, National Center on Education and the Economy, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Paul Leather, New Hampshire Department of Education
Speaker: Sung-Joon Pai, Charlestown High School, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
ASLCS Business Meeting: Luncheon Session Monday, Aug. 7 | 12:15 pm-2:00 pm
Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges International Roll-Call for their support of this luncheon. Presiding: Susan Kannarr, Kansas State Legislature Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Treating Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Monday, Aug. 7 | 1:30 pm-3:00 pm
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: The opioid epidemic shines a national spotlight on treatment needs for drug misuse, and also on a wider population of people with other substance addictions and/or mental illness. State innovations show promise in improving access and treatment for these conditions. Learn more about integrating mental health and substance misuse treatment with other health services and improving insurance coverage. Moderator: Representative Diane Franklin, Missouri
Speaker: Cynthia Reilly, Pew Charitable Trusts, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: David Seltz, Massachusetts Health Policy Commission
Panelist: Brendan Abel, Massachusetts Medical Society
Panelist: Ken Duckworth, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
Panelist: Representative Steve Eliason, Utah
Panelist: Debbie Plotnick, Mental Health America, Virginia
Panelist: Senator Daniel W. Thatcher, Utah
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
Public Pensions: Legislative Oversight and Plan Governance Monday, Aug. 7 | 1:30 pm-3:00 pm
Convention Center 258 AB
Summary: Public pension trustees oversee public retirement systems, but state legislatures, governors and others also play key roles in determining and funding benefits and deciding how assets are invested. Hear how states are approaching emerging issues in pension plan governance and what they mean for funding discipline. Speaker: Joshua Franzel, Center for State and Local Government Excellence, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Hank Kim, NCPERS, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Representative Craig Tieszen, South Dakota
Track: Budgets and Revenue Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Labor and Economic Development Committee
Budget and Taxes
Pensions
Effective Legislatures: How Does Your State Stack Up? Monday, Aug. 7 | 1:30 pm-3:00 pm
Convention Center 253 B
Summary: The institution of the state legislature is America’s answer to self-governance. These bodies epitomize and symbolize the core democratic values and beliefs that flowed from Virginia and Boston and are embodied in the Constitution. Join in this interactive discussion and quiz to measure how your state legislature is carrying this responsibility, burden and sacred trust. Be sure to bring your mobile phone to join the live, group survey experience. Speaker: Karl Kurtz, Legis Matters, Colorado Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Legislative Effectiveness Committee
Legislatures
Dodd-Frank: Change on the Horizon? Monday, Aug. 7 | 1:30 pm-3:00 pm
Convention Center 254 AB
Summary: Members of Congress and President Trump have indicated a desire to change or repeal many provisions of Dodd-Frank. What impact will these changes have on the dual state-federal system? Will consumers be able to access the credit they need? Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the Massachusetts Bankers Association, the American Bankers Association and the ABA State Association Alliance for their support of the break. Speaker: Ryan Donovan, America's Credit Unions, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Jon Gentile, National Association of Professional Insurance Agents, Virginia
Speaker: Margaret Liu, Conference of State Bank Supervisors, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Paul Richman, Insured Retirement Institute, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Jon Skarin, Massachusetts Bankers Association
Speaker: Meghan Sullivan, Mortgage Bankers Association, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Chi Chi Wu, National Consumer Law Center, Massachusetts
Track: Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce Committee
NCSL Standing Committees
Supreme Court Roundup Monday, Aug. 7 | 1:30 pm-3:00 pm
Convention Center 205 ABC
Summary: Many cases with implications for states came before the U.S. Supreme Court this term, including policing, transgender students, separation of church and state, and First Amendment speech. Learn about these cases and how the Court’s ruling will impact your state. Moderator: Representative Roger E. Goodman, Washington
Speaker: Lisa Soronen, State & Local Legal Center, Washington, D.C.
Track: Legislative Staff
NCSL Standing Committees
Law, Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Continuing Legal Education
Law and Criminal Justice
Drones – Regulating the Future of Unmanned Aviation Monday, Aug. 7 | 1:30 pm-3:00 pm
Convention Center 253 C
Summary: One of the hottest topics in the news and state legislatures is how unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, should be regulated. Some in the drone industry have concerns over the potential for a “patchwork system” and have sought to have the federal government exert sole control. Join us for a discussion between states, the federal government and the UAS industry on where policymakers go from here. Moderator: Assemblymember Elliot Anderson, Nevada
Panelist: Marke Gibson, Federal Aviation Administration, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Greg McNeal, Airmap, California
Panelist: Brendan Schulman, DJI, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Agriculture and Rural Development
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Infrastructure and Technology
Primary Permutations and Politics Monday, Aug. 7 | 1:30 pm-2:45 pm
Convention Center 257 B
Summary: Early last year primaries and caucuses were all the rage in the media and among politicos. Now, in the off year, what can level heads say about primaries and their role in shaping American politics and policies? Did last year’s election lead to changes this year? What role do primary runoffs play in America’s elections? Are top two primaries making any headway? What can data show? Moderator: Senator Daniel A. Ivey-Soto, New Mexico
Speaker: Charles Bullock, University of Georgia
Speaker: Elaine Kamarck, Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: John Opdycke, Open Primaries, New York
Speaker: Representative Mark A. Pody, Tennessee
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Continuing Legal Education
Elections and Redistricting
Excellence in Education: Lessons from Massachusetts Monday, Aug. 7 | 1:30 pm-3:00 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: For a number of years, Massachusetts has topped national and international rankings for student achievement in math, science and English Language Arts. It's the result of a strategic vision set years ago by education officials in Massachusetts and policies and practices put in place to meet that goal. Learn more about student achievement in the state and the successful strategies used to earn it a top spot in the world.  (Note:  This is a Live Streaming Session.) Presiding: Representative Robert W. Behning, Indiana
Presiding: Senator Joyce Elliott, Arkansas
Speaker: David Driscoll, David Driscoll Consulting, Massachusetts
Speaker: Representative Alice Hanlon Peisch, Massachusetts
Speaker: Jim Peyser, Executive Office of Education, Massachusetts
Speaker: Paul Reville, Harvard Graduate School of Education, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
NLSSA Boston Statehouse Tour Monday, Aug. 7 | 2:00 pm-5:00 pm
Summary: Note: This tour is for NLSSA members only. Members meet with Gene DiPersio, General Court officer. Track: Legislative Staff
National Legislative Services and Security Association
NCSL Business Meeting Monday, Aug. 7 | 3:15 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 210 ABC
Summary: All legislators and legislative staff are encouraged to attend the Business Meeting and consider policy directives and resolutions that will guide NCSL's advocacy efforts before Congress and the administration; amendments to the bylaws and rules of procedure; election of NCSL officers; and approval of the Conference budget. All other meeting participants are welcome to observe.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The policy directives, the Conference’s budget and other Business Meeting documents are accessible in electronic format on the NCSL app and on the agenda and resources page on the Summit website. The calendars for the Business Meeting are posted no later than 1:30 p.m. on Monday, August 7.
Holding State Government Accountable Monday, Aug. 7 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 255
Summary: Legislatures often look for ways to ensure state government performs efficiently and effectively. Join this roundtable to discuss new ways to measure efficiency and assess return on investment. Panelist: Jonathan Ball, Office of the Legislative Fiscal Analyst, Utah
Panelist: Jon Courtney, New Mexico State Legislature
Panelist: Kiernan McGorty, North Carolina General Assembly
Panelist: Linda Triplett, Mississippi State Legislature
Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
National Legislative Program Evaluation Society
Legislatures
Advising Legislators on Federalism Monday, Aug. 7 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 253 C
Summary: Decisions made at the federal level can have a powerful impact on the states. Learn how to guide legislators on how best to craft legislation to ensure power is appropriately shared between state and federal governments. Speaker: Vicki Jackson, Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Charles Quagliato, Virginia General Assembly
Track: Legislative Staff
Leadership Staff Section
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Continuing Legal Education
Legislatures
Policies for Legislative Technologies: How Are They Working? Monday, Aug. 7 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: Social media, personal and state-owned devices, email and text messages all raise questions about whether and how legislators and legislative staff use them, how the records they create are retained (or not) and which are subject to public records requests. Discuss how legislative policies were developed, what legislatures considered and how they came to their conclusions.  (Note:  This is a live Streaming Session.) Facilitator: Michael Adams, Virginia General Assembly
Panelist: Richard Brown, Nebraska State Legislature
Panelist: Susan Byorth Fox, Montana State Legislature
Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Leadership Staff Section
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
Infrastructure and Technology
Legislative Internship Programs Roundtable Monday, Aug. 7 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Westin Paine
Summary: Join a roundtable discussion and share information on recruiting, training and supervision, program support and more. This discussion is open to all attendees that oversee an internship program and/or supervise interns. Track: Legislative Staff
A Free and Responsible Press in Today's Political Climate Monday, Aug. 7 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 253 A
Summary: Confidence in the media is at all-time low, and its traditional role as a government watchdog is being challenged. Is freedom of the press being eroded by modern forces like the current political climate and digital and social media? Are charges of “fake news” fair? Join us for a robust roundtable discussion with journalists, legislators and government communicators about the state of the Fourth Estate and what it means for lawmakers and legislative communications professionals. Panelist: John Frank, The Denver Post, Colorado
Panelist: Dan Kennedy, Northeastern University, Massachusetts
Panelist: Frank Phillips, Boston Globe, Massachusetts
Track: Legislative Staff
Legislative Information and Communications Staff Section
Redistricting Session for Democrats Monday, Aug. 7 | 4:55 pm-6:00 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Join with your like-party peers to learn and strategize for the 2020 redistricting push. Moderator: Kimball Brace, Election Data Services Inc., Virginia
Moderator: Jeffrey M. Wice, New York State Assembly
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Redistricting Session for Republicans Monday, Aug. 7 | 4:55 pm-6:00 pm
Convention Center 151 AB
Summary: Join with your like-party peers to learn and strategize for the 2020 redistricting push. Moderator: Clarke Bensen, Republican National Committee, Washington, D.C.
Moderator: Mark Braden, Baker & Hostetler, Washington, D.C.
Moderator: Dale Oldham, Republican National Committee, Washington, D.C.
Track: Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff Reception Monday, Aug. 7 | 5:00 pm-6:00 pm
Convention Center 251
Summary: Please join your colleagues, mingle and make new connections! Track: Legislative Staff
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Joint Reception of the NCSL Foundation and Women's Legislative Network Monday, Aug. 7 | 5:00 pm-6:30 pm
Westin Pavilion
Summary: Please join the NCSL Foundation and the Women's Legislative Network to recognize Foundation sponsors and celebrate women in politics. Track: NCSL Foundation for State Legislatures
Women's Legislative Network
LSMI Alumni Reception Monday, Aug. 7 | 5:00 pm-6:00 pm
Westin Douglass
Summary: Join your fellow Legislative Staff Management Institute alumni at this annual opportunity to reconnect with classmates and hear news about NCSL's premiere staff professional development program.  Sponsored by: NCSL Foundation Speaker: Steve Boilard, Center for California Studies
Speaker: Paul Danczyk, University of Southern California
Young and New Professionals Reception Monday, Aug. 7 | 5:00 pm-6:30 pm
Convention Center Ballroom Prefunction
Summary: Swing by the YNP Reception to meet some of your peers. Young and new(ly elected) legislators, legislative staff, and private sector representatives are all welcome to mingle, grab a drink, and get to know each other. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges the Entertainment Software Association for their support of this reception. Track: Young and New Professionals
Social Event: A Night at The Garden Monday, Aug. 7 | 5:00 pm-8:00 pm
Summary: You’re invited to experience the magic of Boston sports first hand during this unique event at TD Garden. Step onto the legendary parquet floor of the Boston Celtics and shoot a few baskets like some of Boston’s most famous players. Then head upstairs to the Sports Museum for a walk through Boston’s sports history. You must have your badge to enter. If you are 21+, please bring a valid government issued ID. Note:  Here is a link that outlines transportation to the TD Garden.
Tuesday Shuttle Schedule Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 6:30 am-5:30 pm
Summary: Please Note: All conference attendees must have their badge with them to board buses, access the BCEC and attend social events.

Shuttle Pick Up/Drop Off Locations:
• Route 1 includes the Sheraton Boston (Sheraton entrance on Dalton Street), Hilton Back Bay (Pick up is at the Sheraton) and Boston Park Plaza (Columbus Avenue entrance).
• Route 2 includes Westin Copley (Westin entrance on Huntington Avenue), Marriott Copley Place (Marriott entrance on Huntington Avenue) and Colonnade (Pick up is at the Marriott Copley).

Shuttle Frequency:
• Tuesday, Aug. 8: 6:30 am to 11:30 am (every 12 minutes), 11:30 am to 3:00 pm (every 20 minutes) and 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm (every 12 minutes).
• Shuttle frequency may vary slightly based on traffic conditions.
• All vehicles will depart from the BCEC Northeast Level 1 Vestibule.

General Inquiries/Accessible Shuttle Information:
If you have questions regarding shuttle services, or require a wheelchair accessible shuttle, please call 857-321-0287 24-hours in advance to schedule a ride. All requests made within 24 hours will be assisted on a first-call, first-served basis.
Registration Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 7:00 am-5:00 pm
Convention Center North Lobby
Summary: Registration is easy! Print out your badge at the kiosks in the convention center lobby and pick up a program.
National Association of Jewish Legislators Annual Breakfast Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 7:00 am-8:45 am
Nutter McClennen & Fish
Summary: Please R.S.V.P. to NAJLEG@gmail.com if you would like to attend the breakfast at the law firm of Nutter, McClennen & Fish, located at 155 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA, 02210. Sponsored by: National Association of Jewish Legislators
Women in Politics: Breakfast Session Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 7:30 am-9:00 am
Convention Center 253 B
Summary: Join the Women's Legislative Network for breakfast and a lively discussion about women's leadership, featuring new research from the Barbara Lee Family Foundation about women candidates and women in the public sector. Presiding: Representative Kristin Conzet, South Dakota
Speaker: Susan MacKenty Brady, Linkage, Massachusetts
Speaker: Adrienne Kimmell, Barbara Lee Family Foundation, Massachusetts
Track: Women's Legislative Network
Kids Count: Breakfast Session Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 7:30 am-8:45 am
Convention Center 257 B
Summary:

Hear about the status of America's children as measured by economic security, education and health and the Foundation's vision to enhance child well-being and promote economic opportunity. 

Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges The Annie E. Casey Foundation for their support of this breakfast. Speaker: Lisa Hamilton, Annie E. Casey Foundation, Maryland Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
NCSL Task Force on Cybersecurity Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 7:30 am-5:00 pm
Convention Center 257 A
Summary: 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM: Internet of Things:  Breakfast Session 

The Internet of Things—or IoT—is the interconnection of devices that communicate wirelessly and send and receive data via the internet. From connected toys to household appliances to medical devices, this technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we work and live. With an ever-growing number of devices becoming connected, how are security concerns being addressed? 

Moderator:
• Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, Co-Chair, Task Force on Cybersecurity

Speakers:
• Margaret Gladstein, Partner, Capitol Advocacy, California
• John Marinho, Vice President, Technology and Cybersecurity, CTIA—The Wireless Association
• Jeffrey Zubricki, Director, Walmart

10:00 AM:  Meet in the Northeast Lobby of the Convention Center

10:15 AM:  Bus Departs

10:30 AM – 12:15 PM:  Tour – IBM CyberRange
*This tour is open to task force members and sponsors only.

11:45 AM – 12:15 PM:  Depart for Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

3:45 PM – 5:00 PM:  Cybersecurity Preparedness and Response  (Room BCEC 206 AB)
(Co-sponsored by the National Association of Legislative Information Technology)

Having an incident response plan in place before a cyber attack occurs requires more than just a set of written instructions. It goes beyond IT staff and requires raising awareness, training and walking through potential scenarios with key personnel. Learn what makes a good incident response plan and discover how legislatures are implementing them.

Moderator:
• Terri Clark, Director of Infrastructure Services, Legislative Computer Services, Kansas

Speakers:
• Sheraun Howard, Supervisory Special Agent, FBI
• Brandon Brin, Director of IT Security & Operations, Massachusetts Legislature
Moderator: Assemblymember Jacqui V. Irwin, California
Panelist: Margaret Gladstein, Capitol Advocacy, LLC, California
Panelist: John Marinho, CTIA—The Wireless Association, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Jeffrey Zubricki, Walmart, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Cybersecurity
Elections and Redistricting: Breakfast Session Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 7:30 am-8:45 am
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Join legislators and legislative staff to learn about their favorite policy options. These may include ranked choice voting, moving to redistricting commissions, setting “competitiveness” as a criterion for redistricting, opening or closing primaries, or re-inventing how electoral votes are awarded. Bring your ideas and be prepared to share. Speaker: Representative Rebecca Chavez-Houck, Utah
Speaker: Representative Dan M. Douglas, Arkansas
Speaker: Senator James B. Eldridge, Massachusetts
Speaker: Senator John Murante, Nebraska
Speaker: Delegate Sam Rasoul, Virginia
Speaker: Senator Greg F. Walker, Indiana
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Prayer Breakfast Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 8:00 am-8:45 am
Convention Center 253 A
Summary: All attendees are invited to join Oregon Senator Bill Hansell and others for an informal time of sharing among legislators, a song by Sandy Stait and a message from Emily Colson (daughter of Chuck Colson), who will reflect on the experience of raising Max, her special needs child. Coffee and breakfast will be served. All are welcome.
Science Advice for Legislatures: A Fellowship Program Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 8:00 am-8:45 am
Westin Lewis
Summary: Exploring the role of scientists as staff advisors in a state legislature. Sponsored by: California Council on Science and Technology
Infrastructure Financing Listening Session Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 8:00 am-8:45 am
Westin Faneuil
Summary: Join NCSL’s Transportation Program for a round-table discussion on infrastructure financing. NCSL is seeking input from state legislators and NCSL Foundation Sponsors regarding programming and research needs related to infrastructure and transportation. Track: Infrastructure and Technology
Pew State Policy Discussion: Breakfast Session Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 8:00 am-8:45 am
Convention Center 203
Tuesday General Session – Voters’ Opinions: Where do we Stand? Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 9:00 am-10:00 am
Convention Center Ballroom
Summary: From budgets to taxes, education to healthcare, Americans are demanding action from their legislators -- right now. But what issues matter most? What do voters truly want to hear? Find out how to speak to your constituents with the words (and visuals) that work for the issues and concerns that matter. Speaker: Frank Luntz, Luntz Global, Virginia Track: General Session
Exhibit Hall Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Convention Center Hall A
Summary: Be sure to schedule time to visit the Exhibit Hall featuring over 220 exhibitors and an opportunity to win an IPad Pro! The Hall is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Wednesday from 9 a.m.-noon.
Disruptive Innovation in Higher Education Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:15 am-12:30 pm
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: With ever-increasing tuition, sky-high student debt and stagnant graduation rates, higher education is in need of  real disruption. We’ll guide you through innovative strategies that could bring about significant change in higher education.

What You’ll Learn:
• New types of colleges.
• Different ways to teach that produce better student results.
• New finance models and ideas to slow down tuition increases.
Speaker: Sarah Ancel, Complete College America, Indiana
Speaker: Alfred Berkeley, Community Link Foundation, Michigan
Speaker: Jonathan Finkelstein, Credly, New York
Speaker: Mike Goldstein, Cooley, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Sally Johnstone, NCHEMS, Colorado
Speaker: Russell Poulin, WICHE Cooperative for Educational Technologies, Colorado
Speaker: David Woodrow, Community Link Foundation, Michigan
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Deep Dives
Education
Police Community Relations Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:15 am-12:30 pm
Convention Center 102 AB
Summary: Policing is at the forefront of many American racial and equity tensions. Last year, 64 officers and 963 civilians were shot and killed during police interactions—tragedies that highlight the need for action. There are no easy solutions. Building trust to find a path forward will take hard work, resources and mutual respect. Find out how to be a part of meeting this challenge.

What You’ll Learn:
• How collaborative efforts by lawmakers, community leaders and police officials can promote the unbiased administration of justice.
• Ideas to bolster transparency and accountability between communities and their police force.
• How analyzing data from individual police interactions can shape better policy.
Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges Axon for its support of the refreshments. Facilitator: Katherine McQuay, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Phillip Goff, Center For Policing Equity, New York
Speaker: Colm Lydon, Office of the Boston Police Commissioner, Massachusetts
Speaker: Mayor Catherine Pugh, City of Baltimore, Maryland
Respondent: Representative Roger E. Goodman, Washington
Respondent: Senator Jim Hendren, Arkansas
Respondent: Senator Kwame Raoul, Illinois
Track: Continuing Legal Education
Law and Criminal Justice
Deep Dives
Fixing Health Care: What’s Next? Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:15 am-12:30 pm
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary:

Federal proposals to replace the Affordable Care Act portend dramatic changes for states. From the most visible features such as health exchanges, insurance subsidies or credits and the Medicaid expansion, to lesser known provisions, such as payment reforms and financing sources, states face major unknowns.

What You’ll Learn:
• The latest developments from Washington, D.C., and what they mean.
• What new responsibilities and opportunities states have to improve health systems.
• How states have responded, including what’s working and what’s not.
• Resources that you may use in your state.

Presiding: Richard "Dick" Moore, former Senator and NCSL President, Massachusetts
Presiding: Senator Deb Peters, South Dakota
Speaker: Barbara Anthony, Pioneer Institute, Massachusetts
Speaker: Joseph Antos, American Enterprise Institute, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, Manatt Health, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Jane Norton, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Sara Rosenbaum, George Washington University, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Kim Holland, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Ken Preede, Commonwealth Care Alliance, Massachusetts
Respondent: David Woodmansee, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Continuing Legal Education
Deep Dives
Health and Human Services
Communicate to Succeed Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:15 am-12:30 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: If there were only one skill that determines your success as a legislator, staffer or lobbyist, it would probably be the ability to communicate your ideas efficiently and effectively. You’ll gain practical tips and acquire the tools needed to give short, compelling presentations.   (Note:  This is a Live Streaming Session.)

What You’ll Learn:
• How to make your speeches funny, memorable and moving.
• How to become a master storyteller.
• How to use visual graphics most effectively.
Speaker: Senator Bill B. O'Neill, New Mexico
Speaker: Marianna Swallow, Illinois
Track: Deep Dives
Legislatures
Beyond the Horizon: U.S. Economic Outlook Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:15 am-12:30 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: The national economy continues to improve, but revenue growth in states remains weak. Demographic shifts, proposed federal policies, and the possibility of major changes in spending priorities challenge lawmakers as they navigate a recovery unlike any other in recent history.

What You’ll Learn:
• What works to promote growth during a recovery.
• How to overcome challenges in taxation, volatile energy prices and other issues.
• How to apply an economic forecasting model used by banks to help your state prepare for what’s ahead.
Moderator: Jonathan Ball, Utah State Legislature
Speaker: Beth Ann Bovino, S&P Global Ratings, New York
Speaker: William Fox, University of Tennessee
Speaker: Daniel White, Moody's Analytics, Pennsylvania
Track: Deep Dives
Jobs and the Economy
The Changing Nature of Jobs: Is Our Workforce Prepared? Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:15 am-12:30 pm
Convention Center 104
Summary: While the current national unemployment rate is under five percent, millions of Americans still feel left out of the tepid economic expansion we’ve experienced since the Great Recession. Learn how states and the private sector are working together to address the skills gap and get unemployed and under-employed Americans back to work, focusing on job training and career readiness.

What You’ll Learn:
• The different measures of unemployment and how much “slack” is really in the labor market today (hint: it’s significant).
• What regions and occupations are facing notable mismatches in terms of supply and demand of qualified workers.
• How private companies and educators are partnering to create a pipeline of job-ready applicants.
Speaker: Anthony Chan, Chase, New York
Speaker: Rachel Zinn, Workforce Data Quality Campaign, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Samantha Cook, International Paper, South Carolina
Panelist: Anne Shecrallah Kandilis, Economic Development Council of Western Mass, Massachusetts
Panelist: Mary Keller, Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
Panelist: Lisa Knepper, Institute For Justice, Virginia
Panelist: Myra Reddy, Professional Beauty Association, Arizona
Panelist: Tom Sannicandro, Umass Boston - School for Global Inclusion and Social Development, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Leadership Staff Section
Deep Dives
Health and Human Services
Jobs and the Economy
Military and Veterans
NCSL Task Force on Cybersecurity: Tour-IBM CyberRange Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:15 am-12:15 pm
IBM CyberRange
Summary: *This tour is open to task force members and sponsors only. Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Cybersecurity
State Legislative Federalism Committees Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 10:30 am-12:30 pm
Convention Center 257 A
Summary: A growing number of legislative chambers are establishing “federalism” committees or adding state-federal relations to the responsibilities of other existing committees. At least 35 chambers have committees that consider state federal relations. Join legislators from these committees to discuss the state of federalism and how NCSL and the committees can work together in Washington, D.C. Track: Legislatures
NHCSL Luncheon Session Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 12:00 pm-2:00 pm
Loew's Boston Hotel
Sponsored by: National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators
Salute to Legislative Staff Luncheon: Conversations that Sparkle, Inform and Amaze Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 12:30 pm-2:00 pm
Convention Center Ballroom
Summary: Conversations are easy, right? You talk to people every day, and your success at your job hinges in part on how well you communicate. But did you know the essential ingredients to good conversations are honestly, brevity, clarity--and a whole lot of listening? Celeste Headlee, award-winning journalist, author and expert on the art of conversation, will lead you through 10 steps to make you a superstar conversationalist. Prepare to be amazed. Presiding: Raul Burciaga, New Mexico State Legislature
Speaker: Celeste Headlee, Celeste Headlee Media LLC, Georgia
Track: Legislative Staff
Legislative Education Staff Network
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Legislative Information and Communications Staff Section
Legislative Research Librarians
Leadership Staff Section
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
National Legislative Program Evaluation Society
National Legislative Services and Security Association
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Exhibit Hall Luncheon Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 12:30 pm-2:00 pm
Convention Center Hall B1
Summary: Enjoy a delicious lunch with your colleagues and visit exhibitors from around the nation with interesting information and policy perspectives. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges ISRI for their support of this luncheon.
Seven Secrets to Legendary Leadership Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: Learn strategies legendary leaders use every day. Discover how to deal with constant change, increasing pressure and the need to adapt quickly. Through activities and humor, you will be ready to apply these secrets immediately.  (Note:  This is a Live Streaming Session.) Speaker: Josh Davies, The Center for Work Ethic Development, Colorado Track: Sharpening Your Skills
Young and New Professionals
Wanted: Well-Qualified Teachers Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: Nearly every state is experiencing teacher shortages and challenges in recruiting and retaining highly effective educators in certain subjects and specific localities. What's driving these shortages? Why don’t high-performing countries, such as Finland and Singapore, experience the same challenges? Develop a policy roadmap to help your state find more permanent solutions to these shortages. Presiding: Rachel Gudgel, Legislative Education Study Committee, New Mexico
Moderator: Michelle Exstrom, NCSL
Speaker: Harold Acorn, Moreno Valley Educators Association, California
Speaker: Ellen Behrstock-Sherratt, American Instititutes for Research, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Tara Kini, Learning Policy Institute, California
Speaker: Lieb Sutcher, Learning Policy Institute, California
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
Creating a Smart Power Grid: How Technology is Revolutionizing our Relationship to Energy Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 253 B
Summary: Technology is rapidly transforming the grid. These changes—including smart meters, household devices, and energy storage—increase resiliency and efficiency while providing utilities and consumers greater control. But data privacy and risk of cyber-attacks are concerns. Explore the advantages of an intelligent grid and the potential risks through case studies. Moderator: Representative Jeff R. Morris, Washington
Speaker: John Barnick, ABB, North Carolina
Speaker: Marcy Reed, National Grid Massachusetts
Track: Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Infrastructure and Technology
Measuring Risk in Pension Plans Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 254 AB
Summary: Since 2000, investment losses and other risks have helped create significant gaps in some states’ pension funding. New tools are available to better understand the effect various types of market and benefit changes can have on pension plan funding levels. Learn how state policymakers can stress test their plans and make changes to keep ahead of funding challenges. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges The Pew Charitable Trusts for their support of this session. Moderator: Representative Isaac W. Choy, Hawaii
Speaker: Susan Banta, The Pew Charitable Trusts, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Sussan Corson, S&P Global Ratings, New York
Speaker: Graham Schmidt, Cheiron, Inc., California
Speaker: Robert Stein, SOA Blue Ribbon Panel, Public Pension Plan Funding, New York
Track: Pensions
Voter Confidence Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: The phrase “voter confidence” was commonly used during the 2016 election. But what does it really mean? How can we measure it and increase it? What impact do post-election audits, election observers, recount laws, clean voter rolls and other legislative options have on voters’ confidence that elections are free of fraud? Moderator: David Becker, The Center for Election Innovation & Research, Washington, D.C.
Panelist: Tre Hargett, Secretary of State of Tennessee
Panelist: Christy McCormick, U.S. Election Assistance Commission, Maryland
Panelist: Robby Mook, Harvard Kennedy School
Track: Elections and Redistricting
Critical Thinking: Objective Analysis for Today’s World Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 258 AB
Summary: Critical thinkers know how to evaluate massive amounts of information filled with sophisticated rhetoric designed to sway their decisions. In today’s world bombarded with instant information, learn how to filter out bias, recognize misrepresentations, and teach others how to distinguish bias from fact.  Speaker: Kevin de Laplante, Critical Thinker Academy, Ontario Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Legislative Information and Communications Staff Section
Legislative Research Librarians
Leadership Staff Section
National Legislative Program Evaluation Society
National Legislative Services and Security Association
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Sharpening Your Skills
Biotechnology and State Roles Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary:

Biotech research is growing fast. In Massachusetts, more than 63,000 biopharma employees are working on more than 1,600 potential new medicines. Learn how new models for pricing and research are hoping to bring down the cost.  

Moderator: Susan Dentzer, Network for Excellence in Health Innovation (NEHI), Massachusetts
Panelist: Robert Coughlin, Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio)
Panelist: Alice Moore, Executive Office of Health & Human Services, Massachusetts
Panelist: Michael Sherman, MD, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Massachusetts
Panelist: Martin Zagari, MD, Amgen, California
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
NCSL 50-State Bill Information Service Training Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-2:45 pm
Convention Center 255
Summary: Learn the basics of NCSL’s 50-State Bill Information Service (BIS). The BIS, available exclusively to state legislators and legislative staff, provides access to the full-text of legislation in the 50 states, D.C., and the U.S. Congress. The BIS was developed in partnership with State Net/LexisNexis®. Track: Legislatures
Locked Up: Reforming Bail and the Front End of Justice Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:15 pm-3:30 pm
Convention Center 102 AB
Summary: Jails are intended to hold people who are dangerous or pose a flight risk before trial, but have instead become de facto warehouses for people with serious mental illness and those who are too poor to meet financial conditions of release. Six of every 10 people in local jails have not been convicted of a crime, but are held awaiting trial, and most are accused of property, drug or other nonviolent offenses. Find out the latest on what states are doing to change the front end of the justice system. Moderator: Susan Parnas Frederick, NCSL
Panelist: Laurie Garduque, The John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Illinois
Panelist: Senator Robert M. Hertzberg, California
Panelist: Marc Levin, Right on Crime, Texas
Track: Law and Criminal Justice
NHCSL BBA Meeting Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 2:30 pm-3:30 pm
Loew's Boston Hotel
Sponsored by: National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators
Leadership Lessons from Star Trek: What Would Captain Kirk Do? Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Star Trek captured the imagination of millions as the U.S.S. Enterprise navigated the cosmos. Who knew that the daring and debonair Captain James T. Kirk demonstrated quintessential leadership? This entertaining session offers a fresh perspective on being a transcendent leader and explore that ever-important question: What would Captain Kirk do? Speaker: Alex Knapp, Forbes, Missouri Track: Leadership Staff Section
Sharpening Your Skills
Improving Schools: It Can Be Done Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: What makes one school successful, while another one struggles? The new federal education law requires states to identify strategies for improving failing schools, which can include everything from teachers and leaders, to school choice and school climate, to behavioral and mental health, and, of course, funding. Speaker: Susan Bowles Therriault, American Institutes for Research, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Erica Champagne, Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
Speaker: Joan Wasser Gish, The Center for Optimized Student Support, Boston College, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
Health and Human Services
Water Knows No Boundaries Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 253 B
Summary: Droughts, shifting populations and industrial needs threaten our water supplies. Innovations in data collection and withdrawal practices, however, can help states manage the demands for surface and groundwater and decrease interstate conflicts over this precious resource. Learn from other state experiences how to best promote sustainable water use. Moderator: Larry Morandi, formerly NCSL
Speaker: Peter Gleick, Pacific Institute, California
Respondent: Delegate Tawanna P. Gaines, Maryland
Respondent: Senator Jerry Sonnenberg, Colorado
Track: Energy, Environment and Natural Resources
Infrastructure and Technology
Retiree Health Benefits Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 254 AB
Summary: Retiree health benefits are an important part of attracting and retaining a talented workforce. States vary widely in their retiree health promises—in funding levels, benefits offered and legal protections. In most states these benefits are unfunded and liabilities continue to grow. With states now required to account for these liabilities in their financial statements, find out what they are doing to address these concerns. Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges The Pew Charitable Trusts for their support of this session. Moderator: Senator Karen E. Spilka, Massachusetts
Speaker: Ward Brigham, UnitedHealthcare Retiree Solutions, Texas
Speaker: Greg Mennis, The Pew Charitable Trusts, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Amy Monahan, University of Minnesota Law School
Speaker: David Vaudt, Governmental Accounting Standards Board, Connecticut
Track: Pensions
First Stop: Jail or Treatment? Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 102 AB
Summary: Our jails are frequently the first stop for individuals suffering from mental health and substance abuse problems. Deflecting these people from arrest and prosecution to treatment and services in the community is an emerging "public health" approach. Explore ways the states are detouring people away from jail. Moderator: Representative Eric K. Hutchings, Utah
Panelist: Jac Charlier, Center for Health and Justice at TASC, Illinois
Panelist: Edward Garvey, Boston Police Department, Massachusetts
Panelist: Senator Whitney H. Westerfield, Kentucky
Respondent: Brian Larkin, Boston Police Department, Massachusetts
Track: Continuing Legal Education
Law and Criminal Justice
Health and Human Services
Roots of American Legislatures: Virginia in 1619 Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 253 A
Summary: The House of Burgesses—the original legislative assembly in the American colonies—met for the first time on July 30, 1619. What were the burning issues of this first “General Assembly” and are they similar to those we grapple with today? Find out what we can learn from our own history and how civics education at all levels might improve the process of government during this unique session highlighting the roots of American democracy. Moderator: Susan Clarke Schaar, Virginia General Assembly
Speaker: Warren Billings, University of New Orleans, Louisiana
Panelist: Senator Ryan T. McDougle, Virginia
Panelist: Delegate Kenneth R. Plum, Virginia
Respondent: Speaker Shawn Jasper, New Hampshire
Track: Legislatures
Research Methods—Which One Do I Choose? Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 151 AB
Summary: Good legislative research—whether for a specific member, a committee or a program evaluation—requires the data needed to make sound decisions. A research method is a systematic plan for gathering evidence, and a range of methodologies exist. How do you decide which method is best suited to achieve your objective? Learn several approaches to designing the appropriate methodology. Panelist: Jennifer Bernier, Connecticut General Assembly
Panelist: Greg Fugate, Colorado General Assembly
Panelist: Anne Sappenfield, Wisconsin State Legislature
Track: Legislative Staff
Legislative Research Librarians
Leadership Staff Section
National Legislative Program Evaluation Society
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Legislatures
Cybersecurity Preparedness and Response Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: Having an incident response plan in place before a cyber attack occurs requires more than just a set of written instructions. It goes beyond IT staff and requires raising awareness, training and walking through potential scenarios with key personnel. Learn what makes a good incident response plan and discover how legislatures are implementing them.  Moderator: Terri Clark, Kansas State Legislature
Panelist: Brandon Brin, Massachusetts General Court
Panelist: Sheraun Howard, FBI, Washington, D.C.
Track: Legislative Staff
NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Cybersecurity
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
Infrastructure and Technology
Biotechnology Tour (advance registration required)* Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-6:00 pm
Summary:

Tour one of Massachusetts' premier biotechnology companies, Foundation Medicine, sponsored in partnership with Genentech and NCSL. Foundation Medicine works with patients, providers and the BioPharma industry to provide genomic information about cancer to better target treatment and transform cancer care. Bus transportation to and from the Cambridge location will be provided. 

*Note: Limited to state legislators and legislative staff.  Advance registration is required and space is limited. Please email (health-info@ncsl.org?subject:Bio_Tour) for more information and to sign up for the tour.

Speaker: Fritz Bittenbender, Genentech, Massachusetts
Speaker: Representative Ronald Mariano, Massachusetts
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
NALFO Discussion with Economist Beth Ann Bovino Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 3:45 pm-4:30 pm
Convention Center 255
Summary: Beth Ann Bovino, U.S. chief economist at S&P Global Ratings, joins legislative fiscal staff to answer in-depth questions about the future of the U.S. economy and its implications for states. Facilitator: Beth Ann Bovino, S&P Global Ratings, New York Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
2018 Exhibit Space Selection Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 4:00 pm-5:00 pm
Convention Center 156 BC
State Revenue Performance in the Great "Slowcovery" Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 4:30 pm-5:30 pm
Convention Center 255
Summary: The U.S. economy has been relatively strong, but state revenue growth has been modest. Examine increased volatility in revenue forecasting, why these changes are occurring, and what they mean for the future of state budgets. Panelist: James Landers, Indiana General Assembly
Panelist: Natalie Mullis, Colorado General Assembly
Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
Budget and Taxes
Fenway Park Event Shuttle Schedule Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 6:00 pm-10:00 pm
Summary: Please Note:  All conference attendees must have their badge with them to board buses, access the BCEC and attend social events.

Event Details:
• The event at Fenway will take place from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
• Attendees departing from hotels on Routes 3 & 4 should allow 30-40 minutes travel time due to usual traffic conditions.
• Attendees on Routes 1 & 2 should allow 15-20 minutes travel time due to usual traffic conditions.
• Shuttles will run between Route 3 & 4 and Fenway Park between 5:45 pm – 8:00 pm.  Shuttles will run between Route 1 & 2 and Fenway Park starting at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  After 8:00 pm, all trips will be return trips to the hotels only.

Shuttle Pick Up/Drop Off Locations:
• Route 1 includes the Sheraton Boston (Sheraton entrance on Dalton Street), Hilton Back Bay (Pick up is at the Sheraton) and Boston Park Plaza (Columbus Avenue entrance).
• Route 2 includes Westin Copley (Westin entrance on Huntington Avenue), Marriott Copley Place (Marriott entrance on Huntington Avenue) and Colonnade (Pick up is at the Marriott Copley).
• Route 3 includes Renaissance Waterfront (Entrance on Congress Street) and Seaport Waterfront (Entrance on Seaport Lane).
• Route 4 includes Westin Waterfront (Entrance on D Street), Aloft (at Westin Waterfront) and Element (at Westin Waterfront).

LGBTQ Reception Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Summary:

Senate President Stan Rosenberg, Senator Julian Cyr and the Massachusetts LGBTQ Legislative Caucus invite you to attend a reception in the District Hall Lounge celebrating LGBTQ legislators and staff. RSVP to Sharon@durkanconsulting.com to attend.

Social Event at Fenway Park (Reception) Tuesday, Aug. 8 | 6:30 pm-9:30 pm
Fenway Park
Summary: What’s a trip to Boston without visiting Major League Baseball’s oldest and most beloved ballpark? Fenway Park is opening its doors for a night of behind-the-scenes fun. Take a tour of the ballpark, go for a walk along the field, and get up close and personal with the Green Monster, all while snacking on delicious ballpark cuisine. A night at Fenway Park is a night you won’t soon forget! You must have your badge to enter. If you are 21+, please bring a valid government issued ID.
Wednesday Shuttle Schedule Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 6:30 am-3:00 pm
Summary: Please Note: All conference attendees must have their badge with them to board buses, access the BCEC and attend social events.

Shuttle Pick Up/Drop Off Locations:
• Route 1 includes the Sheraton Boston (Sheraton entrance on Dalton Street), Hilton Back Bay (Pick up is at the Sheraton) and Boston Park Plaza (Columbus Avenue entrance).
• Route 2 includes Westin Copley (Westin entrance on Huntington Avenue), Marriott Copley Place (Marriott entrance on Huntington Avenue) and Colonnade (Pick up is at the Marriott Copley).

Shuttle Frequency:
• Wednesday, Aug. 9: 6:30 am to 12:00 pm (every 12 minutes), 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm (every 20 minutes).
• Shuttle frequency may vary slightly based on traffic conditions.
• All vehicles will depart from the BCEC Northeast Level 1 Vestibule.

General Inquiries/Accessible Shuttle Information:
If you have questions regarding shuttle services, or require a wheelchair accessible shuttle, please call 857-321-0287 24-hours in advance to schedule a ride. All requests made within 24 hours will be assisted on a first-call, first-served basis.
Registration Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 7:30 am-12:00 pm
Convention Center North Lobby
Summary: Registration is easy! Print out your badge at the kiosks in the convention center lobby and pick up a program.
Legislative Staff Breakfast: Take the Crazy Out of Change Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 8:00 am-9:15 am
Convention Center 205 ABC
Summary: Barbara Dershowitz, a change management specialist and author of "The Secret Life of Change," will help you ease the path of change in your life, your office, your organization, and deliver you—fully-functioning, sane, and intact—into a new normal that is stable, feels right, and works to your best advantage. Presiding: Chuck Truesdell, Kentucky State Legislature
Speaker: Barbara Dershowitz, Barbara Dershowitz LLC, New York
Track: Legislative Staff
Legislative Education Staff Network
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Legislative Information and Communications Staff Section
Legislative Research Librarians
Leadership Staff Section
National Association of Legislative Fiscal Offices
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
National Legislative Program Evaluation Society
National Legislative Services and Security Association
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Republican Breakfast Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 8:00 am-9:15 am
Convention Center 253 BC
Sponsored by: NCSL gratefully acknowledges GOPAC for their support of this breakfast. Speaker: Ambassador John Bolton, American Enterprise Institute, Washington, D.C.
Democratic Breakfast Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 8:00 am-9:15 am
Convention Center 258 AB
Speaker: U.S. Representative Keith Ellison, deputy chair, Democratic National Committee, Washington, D.C.
NBCSL Corporate Roundtable Meeting Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 8:15 am-9:30 am
Sponsored by: National Black Caucus of State Legislators
NBCSL Executive Committee Meeting Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 8:15 am-9:30 am
Renaissance Boston Waterfront
Sponsored by: National Black Caucus of State Legislators
Exhibit Hall Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Convention Center Hall A
Summary: Be sure to schedule time to visit the Exhibit Hall featuring over 220 exhibitors and an opportunity to win an IPad Pro! The Hall is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Wednesday from 9 a.m.-noon.
NCSL Foundation: Advance Your Government Affairs Team Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:00 am-9:30 am
Convention Center 251
Summary: Join NCSL Foundation sponsors and staff to learn how to engage your government affairs team at a higher level with state lawmakers. Track: NCSL Foundation for State Legislatures
State Strategies to Address Opioid Misuse Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:45 am
Convention Center 157 ABC
Summary: States are tackling the epidemic misuse of opioid painkillers using the four prongs of prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery. Discover what’s working, what’s next and where challenges remain. Moderator: Tamara Dodge, Wisconsin Legislature
Speaker: Michael Botticelli, Grayken Center for Addiction Medicine, Massachusetts
Panelist: Representative Steve Eliason, Utah
Panelist: Representative Denise C. Garlick, Massachusetts
Panelist: Senator Jim Merritt, Indiana
Panelist: Senator Joshua Miller, Rhode Island
Track: Legislative Staff
NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Health and Human Services
Leadership Roundtable: Advice from the Wise Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:45 am
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: Legislatures need outstanding leadership to thrive and be strong co-equal branches of government. But what does it really take to be an effective and successful legislative leader? Attend this session to be part of a vibrant discussion on the unique challenges facing legislative leaders and some valuable strategies to face those tests. Track: Sharpening Your Skills
Preparing for Natural Disasters Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:45 am
Convention Center 151 AB
Summary: Natural disasters take a toll on states and their budgets and cuts in federal support for mitigation activities and disaster relief have been proposed. Discuss building codes, intergovernmental collaboration and other strategies that can make your state more resilient without breaking the bank. Moderator: Anne Stauffer, Pew Center On the States, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Dean Savramis, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Massachusetts
Speaker: Hadi Sedigh, National Association of Counties, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Representative Jonathan Singer, Colorado
Speaker: Ellen Vaughan, Environmental and Energy Study Institute, Washington, D.C.
Track: Natural Resources and Infrastructure Committee
Infrastructure and Technology
What Happened to the American Dream? Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:45 am
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: The idea that children are able to achieve a higher standard of living than their parents was part of the American dream. But a recent study from Stanford and Harvard says this no longer holds true. Just 46 percent of 30-year-olds today are making more than their parents did at age 30. This changing landscape will affect consumption, the job market and the economy.  (Note:  This is a Live Streaming Session.) Moderator: Katherine Schill, House of Representatives, Minnesota
Speaker: Kenan Fikri, Economic Innovation Group, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Robert Manduca, Harvard University, Massachusetts
Track: Budget and Taxes
From Playrooms to Boardrooms: Encouraging STEM Careers for All Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:45 am
Convention Center 254 AB
Summary: Ensuring that all children—both boys and girls—from an early age are exposed to science, technology, engineering and mathematics is a priority in many states as jobs in these areas are expected to grow 33 percent in three years. Debbie Sterling, GoldieBlox founder, will share her books, toys and apps for children, developed to build confidence in STEM areas.  Learn what state legislators can do to help nurture young entrepreneurs in these areas. Speaker: Debbie Sterling, Goldieblox, New York
Panelist: Representative Rena Moran, Minnesota
Panelist: Senator Howard A. Stephenson, Utah
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Women's Legislative Network
Education
Smart on Crime Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:45 am
Convention Center 102 AB
Summary: Instead of responses that criminalize juvenile delinquency and impose lengthy prison sentences, the new approach is to invest in community-based alternatives that protect public safety, reduce recidivism and effectively manage costs. Explore the changing attitudes and learn about smart on crime policies. Moderator: J.J. Gentry, South Carolina Senate
Speaker: Adam Gelb, The Pew Charitable Trusts, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Ronal Serpas, Law Enforcement Leaders, Louisiana
Speaker: Representative Gregory Snowden, Mississippi
Track: Law and Criminal Justice
Security of Legislative Committees: Legal Ramifications Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:30 am
Convention Center 152
Summary: Legislative committees study issues and hear from supporters and opponents. Civil disobedience at these hearings is becoming the norm. Learn how the courts are ruling on cases where the exercise of constitutional rights of citizens affects the safety and security of these legislative proceedings. Speaker: Martin Brock, North Carolina General Assembly
Speaker: John Fellows, Utah State Legislature
Track: Legislative Staff
Leadership Staff Section
National Legislative Services and Security Association
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Continuing Legal Education
Legislatures
NALIT Executive Committee Meeting Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:30 am
Convention Center 150
Summary: Discuss association services, meetings and outreach efforts. All NALIT members (legislative information technology professionals) are welcome to attend. Presiding: Linda Wettstone, Virginia General Assembly Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
ASLCS Executive Committee Meeting Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-11:30 am
Convention Center 257 A
Summary: Discuss plans, budgets, and activities for the remainder of the 2016-2017 year. All members are welcome to attend. Presiding: Susan Kannarr, Kansas State Legislature Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
Redistricting Working Group Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:30 am
Convention Center 203
Summary: Join your fellow redistricting geeks to help guide NCSL’s redistricting work over the next few months. The centerpiece: Working on the 2020 edition of the Redistricting Law book, aka The Red Book. Moderator: Frank Strigari, Ohio General Assembly
Moderator: Jeffrey Wice, New York State Legislature
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Redistricting and Elections Committee
Elections and Redistricting
Digging Out of Student Loan Debt Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-10:45 am
Convention Center 153 ABC
Summary: The cost of college and the complexity of student lending have the potential to hinder rather than help many Americans’ financial security and economic mobility. More than a quarter of student loan borrowers are in delinquency or default. Explore who is struggling the most with repayment and discuss federal and state strategies to help these borrowers. Speaker: Rajeev Darolia, University of Kentucky
Speaker: Representative Matthew L. Lesser, Connecticut
Speaker: Sarah Sattelmeyer, The Pew Charitable Trusts, Washington, D.C.
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Education Committee
Education
NHCSL Executive Committee & BBA Meeting Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 9:30 am-11:30 am
Loew's Boston Hotel
Sponsored by: National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators
Bill Drafting Systems: A Collaborative Effort Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 10:30 am-11:45 am
Convention Center 152
Summary: Several states have upgraded their electronic bill drafting systems and many others are considering changes. Discuss the key factors that are critical to designing a system that works for drafters and editors; impediments to avoid; and implementation strategies utilized by IT professionals to develop these new systems. Moderator: Kyle Forster, North Dakota Legislative Assembly Legislative Assembly, North Dakota
Panelist: Joe Diana, Texas State Legislature
Panelist: Brett Ferguson, Texas State Legislature
Panelist: Elaine Filer, California State Legislature
Panelist: Susan Murray, Montana State Legislature
Panelist: Kendra Nielsen, California State Legislature
Panelist: Rachel Weiss, Montana State Legislature
Track: Legislative Staff
National Association of Legislative Information Technology
Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff 
Legislatures
Infrastructure and Technology
The Legal Landscape of Autonomous Vehicles Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 11:00 am-12:15 pm
Convention Center 104
Summary: Bryant Walker Smith, a nationally recognized expert on autonomous vehicles, will share his insight on the existing legal framework, legislative trends and how laws may need to change to address this technology. Hear from legislative and industry respondents on how they perceive the fast-moving technological climate and requisite policy changes needed. Speaker: Hilary Cain, Toyota, Washington, D.C.
Speaker: Bryant Walker Smith, University of South Carolina School of Law
Respondent: Representative Robert M. Spendlove, Utah
Respondent: Representative William M. Straus, Massachusetts
Track: Continuing Legal Education
Infrastructure and Technology
What Could Federal Tax Reform Mean for the States? Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 11:00 am-12:15 pm
Convention Center 156 BC
Summary: The Trump administration has made federal tax reform a key priority and will likely have the support of Congress in making some changes. The proposed reforms would represent a significant departure from the current tax structure. Learn how potential federal tax changes could affect state budgets and whether states may need to adjust their own tax codes. Moderator: Joseph Crosby, MultiState Associates, Virginia
Panelist: Senator Curtis S. Bramble, Utah
Panelist: Representative Jay R. Kaufman, Massachusetts
Track: Budget and Taxes
Keeping Our Promise to Veterans with Disabilities Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 11:00 am-12:15 pm
Convention Center 254 AB
Summary: Today's veterans have higher rates of disability than ever before, making the transition to civilian life extremely challenging. Traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress are common problems. So, too is suicide. Learn which state and federal efforts are most successful at helping disabled veterans receive the care they need on the road to recovery. Speaker: Dr. Louis Chow, Home Base Program, Massachusetts
Speaker: Vincent Ng, VA Boston Healthcare System, Massachusetts
Speaker: Francisco Ureña, Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services
Track: Health and Human Services
Military and Veterans
Cannabis Crosses the Country Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 11:00 am-12:15 pm
Convention Center 206 AB
Summary: Lawmakers from states that recently legalized recreational marijuana at the ballot box have plenty to learn from the pioneering states when it comes to taxation, product regulation and other issues. But no one is certain how all this may change with the Trump administration. Explore the complexity and uncertainty of state cannabis laws.  (Note:  This is a Live Streaming Session.) Moderator: Karmen Hanson, NCSL
Panelist: Lewis Koski, Freedman & Koski Inc., Colorado
Panelist: Representative Daniel Pabon, Colorado
Panelist: Representative Teresa S. Pierce, Maine
Panelist: Jordan Wellington, Vicente Sederberg, Colorado
Track: NCSL Standing Committees
Health and Human Services Committee
Law and Criminal Justice
Health and Human Services
The Boston Tea Party Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 11:00 am-12:15 pm
Convention Center 102 AB
Summary: Iconic revolutionary figures step out of the pages of history as they debate and discuss the ramifications of the Boston Tea Party as the catalyst of America’s road to revolution. Hear directly from their own writings and correspondence as they contemplate the meaning of American independence and creation of their own government. Hear these words along with voices of contemporary thinkers about the meaning of the Boston Tea Party and how this historic event helped form American Democracy.

Creative Director of the Performance:  Evan O'Brien, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Massachusetts

Tea Party Museum Actors:
• Kelly Horan Galante
• Christopher Sherwood Davis
• Angelo Alexander
• Stephen Chueka
• Jillian Couillard
Panelist: Robert Allison, Suffolk University, Massachusetts
Panelist: John Bell, Massachusetts
Panelist: Representative Byron D. Rushing, Massachusetts
Track: Legislatures
The Future of Foster Care Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 11:00 am-12:15 pm
Convention Center 204 AB
Summary: More than 400,000 children and youth are in foster care. For most, it’s temporary, yet many languish there for years. Learn how state legislators can support and encourage foster parents to ensure the money they’ve invested in state foster care systems actually produces results. Speaker: Annie Blackledge, Mockingbird Society, Washington
Speaker: Senator A.J. Griffin, Oklahoma
Speaker: Carole Schauffer, Strategic Initiatives Youth Law Center, California
Track: Health and Human Services
Statehouse Saboteurs: How to Thwart Schedule Disruptions Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 11:00 am-12:15 pm
Convention Center 151 B
Summary: Media snafus, constituent requests, vetting information on the fly—all these can get you off track quickly and ruin your day. Find the tools to deal with these everyday roadblocks from experts who have learned to successfully head them off. Speaker: Senator Stanley P. Chang, Hawaii
Speaker: Justine Griffin, Rasky Partners, Inc., Massachusetts
Speaker: Ryan Kelly, Synergetic Endeavors, Minnesota
Track: Leadership Staff Section
Sharpening Your Skills
Young and New Professionals
2018 Kick-Off Luncheon – Where Do We Go from Here? Leadership in Challenging Times Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 12:30 pm-2:15 pm
Convention Center Ballroom
Summary: Presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin will reflect on more than 150 years of U.S. history to put into context our most recent unconventional presidency. Goodwin will bring to life some of our most successful presidents to provide insight for today’s leaders, and to demonstrate that however fractured our modern political culture has become, our democracy is also resilient and has survived—even thrived—through troubling times in the past. Speaker: Doris Kearns Goodwin, Massachusetts Track: General Session
NCSL Task Force on Insurance Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 2:15 pm-5:30 pm
Westin Commonwealth Ballroom AB
Summary:

2:15 PM – 2:30 PM:  Welcome and Introductions

Presiding:
• Representative Brian Patrick Kennedy, Rhode Island, Task Force Co-Chair 
• Representative George Keiser, North Dakota, Task Force Co-Chair 

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM:  The State of Health Insurance

What does the effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act mean for the health insurance industry? Now that a bill has passed the House and as the Senate works on its version, what do states need to be tracking in the federal legislation? How will it affect state regulation of health insurance?

Speakers:
• A representative from America's Health Insurance Plans
• Richard Cauchi, NCSL
• Michael Miller, Community Catalyst, Massachusetts

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM:  Autonomous Vehicles and Insurance

Self-driving cars, also known as autonomous vehicles, have the potential to revolutionize how—and how safely—people get from point A to B. They also have the potential to revolutionize the auto insurance market. Discuss the impact on auto insurance.

Speakers:
• Commissioner David Altmaier, Florida
• Birny Birnbaum, Center for Economic Justice, Texas
• Alison Pascale, Audi of America, Washington, D.C.
• David Snyder, Property Casualty Insur5ers Association of America, Illinois

4:30 PM – 4:40 PM:  Break

4:40 PM – 5:30 PM:  Insurance Industry Roundtable

Hear from representatives from different lines of insurance on what the industry sees as the issues to watch in the states.

Speakers:
• Grace Campbell, America's Health Insurance Plans, Colorado
• Bryan Cox, American Council of Life Insurers, Washington, D.C.
• Tim Lynch, National Insurance Crime Bureau, Illinois
• Paul Richman, Insured Retirement Institute, Washington, D.C.
• David Snyder, Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, Illinois

5:30 PM – 6:00 PM:  Roundtable with Regulators

Hear from state insurance commissioners on what the state regulatory agencies see as issues to watch in the states as well as what is happening in Washington that could impact state regulation of insurance.

Speakers:
• Commissioner David Altmaier, Florida
• Acting Commissioner Gary Anderson, Massachusetts
• Superintendent Eric Cioppa, Maine
• Superintendent Elizabeth Kelleher Dwyer, Rhode Island
• Commissioner Tom Glause, Wyoming
• Commissioner Ted Nickel, Wisconsin, NAIC President

6:30 PM – 9:00 PM:  Reception and Task Force Dinner 

Dinner is open to Task Force members and industry representatives.  There will be a $500 per person registration fee for non-Task Force sponsors to attend the dinner. 

Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Insurance
Mason's Manual Internal Integrity Subcommittee Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 2:30 pm-5:00 pm
Westin Quincy
Summary: The Mason's Manual Internal Integrity Subcommittee continues its review of manual text. Presiding: Yolanda Dixon, Louisiana State Legislature Track: Legislative Staff
American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries
NCNASL Annual Meeting Reception Wednesday, Aug. 9 | 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Sheraton Copley Boston
Sponsored by: National Caucus of Native American State Legislators
NCSL Task Force on Insurance Thursday, Aug. 10 | 8:00 am-1:00 pm
Westin Commonwealth Ballroom AB
Summary:

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM:  Working Breakfast: Air Ambulance/Transport

Complaints regarding air ambulance costs are increasing, but as all air travel is regulated by the federal government, states have been prevented from addressing the problem. Discuss state and federal efforts to address air ambulance and air transport issues.

Speakers:
• Christopher Eastlee, Association of Air Medical Services, Indiana
• Elizabeth Imholz, Consumers Union, California
• Commissioner Ted Nickel, Wisconsin, NAIC President

9:30 AM – 10:15 AM:  Infrastructure Investing for Insurers

Insurers are looking at public-private partnerships (P3Ps) as potential attractive investment opportunities. But there are challenges and risks for insurers, regulators and states involved in these investments.

Speakers:
• Milum Livesay, TIAA, North Carolina
• Michael Lovendusky, American Council of Life Insurers, Washington, D.C.
• Commissioner Ted Nickel, Wisconsin, NAIC President

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM:  Break

10:30 AM – 11:15 AM:  Future of Insurance: Blockchain and Big Data

Emerging technologies like Blockchain and the use of Big Data have the potential to radically change the insurance industry. Discuss the impact of these insurance innovations.

Speakers:
• Robert Bauer, American International Group, New York
• Max Behlke, NCSL
• Commissioner Ted Nickel, Wisconsin, NAIC President
• Dr. Anand Rao, PwC, Massachusetts

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM:  Cyber Insurance

According to a recent survey, 50 percent of U.S. firms do not have cyber risk insurance and 27 percent of U.S. executives say their firms have no plans to take out cyber insurance, even though 61 percent of them expect cyber breaches to increase in the next year. What is cyber risk insurance and what do state policymakers need to know about it?

Speakers:
• Birny Birnbaum, Center for Economic Justice, Texas
• Superintendent Elizabeth Kelleher Dwyer, Rhode Island
• Kevin McKechnie, ABA Office of Insurance Advocacy, Washington, D.C.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM:  Roundtable Lunch and Business Meeting 

Discuss what is going on insurance-wise in the states with legislators.

Track: NCSL Task Forces
Task Force on Insurance
NCNASL Annual Meeting Thursday, Aug. 10 | 8:00 am-3:00 pm
Sheraton Copley Boston
Sponsored by: National Caucus of Native American State Legislators

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