The Nov. 5 election reduced the number of states where one party has a trifecta—controlling both chambers in the legislature as well as the governor’s seat—and added two where neither party will dominate, NCSL elections experts...

In their 2024 legislative sessions, state lawmakers continued their efforts to integrate nondegree credential options into their larger postsecondary and career-training ecosystems.

The small private learning institutions known as microschools grew in popularity as families sought pandemic-era options to remote learning at public schools.

The federal Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention offers grants to states to handle juvenile cases informally, often via community-based services that can reduce reoffending and increase public safety. 

Hot topics in criminal justice legislation for 2025 include Medicaid Section 1115 waivers; prison conditions and reentry opportunities; the behavioral health crisis; immigration; and competency to stand trial. Forecast ’25

State legislative hot topics for 2025 in education include systemic educational changes; student leaning loss; academic and emotional well-being; and higher education affordability and outcomes. Forecast ’25