Policies and enacted state laws that support the early childhood workforce, including educators and infant and early childhood mental health consultants.

Earned income tax credits and child tax credits make dramatic differences in the well-being of low-income families.

Entrepreneur Paris Hilton joined NCSL in calling for tougher oversight of the nation’s foster care institutions, where nearly 200,000 adolescents are housed.

Federal free school meal waivers will end soon, but many state legislatures have acted in recent years to make school meals more affordable and nutritious, and to increase access for all students. 

As rental and owner-occupied home prices continue to rise and the supply of affordable housing for low- and middle-income families continues to fall, manufactured housing has emerged as an appealing option for many buyers. 

Families with young children are at greater risk of experiencing poverty and food insecurity than the overall population.