January 2009
Obama: A Change in Direction
Lawmakers hope the new president will ride in tandem with the states.Online Extra: Full package of Obama's positions.
Some Unsolicited Advice
What experts think the new president should know about issues crucial to states.Online Extra: Read additional comments on education from Richard Rothstein of the Economic Policy Institute and the streamlined sales tax from Harley Duncan of KPMG LLP.
Battle for the Ballot
Outdated laws governing the initiative process allow abuse.Online Extra: NCSL's Ballot Measures Database allows you to search by state or topic area for more detailed information.
The Influence Business
Lobbyists help shape public policy, but in many states it's becoming tougher for them to play that role.Online Extras:
1. Check out the American League of Lobbyists Code of Ethics.
2. A Big Business and GrowingMoney For Your Life (Insurance)
Selling a policy for cash is not as unusual as you might think.An Old Battle Rejoined
Poverty is getting a fresh look in the states as a rocky economy pushes more people into hard times.