With federal pandemic relief funding running out this month, state legislatures are considering a wide range of options to make child care more affordable and finding creative ways to fund those options.

NCSL’s Center for Legislative Strengthening surveyed legislative HR and staff directors, asking about recruitment and retention efforts, which continue to be a high priority for employers across the country, including state legislatures.

States struggle with the financial strain caused by the growing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, which tax public resources and challenge the insurance sector’s ability to manage escalating risks.

Julie Bracken is the proofreading manager for the Texas Legislative Council.

Criminal justice expert Ebony Ruhland studies how probation and parole affect individuals, their families and their communities.

Stories can drive policy action, but before lawmakers share a story, they should follow these four steps to ensure it’s influencing the right people.