Arkansas led the nation in measuring obesity in kids. Did it help?
In 2003, Arkansas became the first state to send home "fat letters" or BMI reports about all students as part of a broader anti-obesity initiative. At least 23 states followed Arkansas’ lead. Some have since scaled back their efforts.
In this Legislature’s Civility Caucus, Republicans and Democrats actually like talking to each other
At Civility Caucus gatherings, conversation might go to hot-button issues, but they are much more productive and sometimes even lead to co-sponsored bills.
New Florida law bans kids under 14 from social media
It is the latest in a series of efforts by states to regulate social media in a way that protects minors and stands up to legal challenges. But opponents say Florida’s law still runs afoul of the First Amendment.
Survey: Few states have ‘established’ privacy program
As states race to protect Americans’ data, the number of chief privacy officers has increased in state government. Still, a majority reported in a recent survey that they are building their programs.
Legislative inaction and dissatisfaction with one-party control lead to more ballot initiatives, with 60% of them in 6 states
COMMENTARY | Citizen-led ballot measures have been used in various states to expand Medicaid, preserve abortion rights and raise minimum wages, but over the past five years, lawmakers have increasingly made it harder to get these initiatives and referendums on the ballot.
States look to AI for its potential to help with finances
Artificial intelligence holds promise for creating budget-saving efficiencies, aiding in audits and helping with compliance. But the emerging technology also poses challenges that could affect spending.
Longtime state senator announces plans to retire
In an interview from earlier this year, Washington’s Karen Keiser discussed her nearly 30-year career and how to affect change in state legislatures.
Working-class people rarely have a seat ‘at the legislative table’ in state capitols
The dearth of working-class legislators raises concerns that economic challenges such as wage stagnation and the rising cost of living will get short shrift in state capitols.
Americans are skeptical of online age verification, even as its use grows abroad
States are turning to technology to verify users’ ages before allowing access to social media and other content. But the approach faces an uphill climb without a national data privacy law that addresses Americans' concerns about the safety of their personal data.
What does a state’s secretary of state do? Most run elections, a once-routine job facing increasing scrutiny
COMMENTARY | As the chief election official, a secretary of state’s influence over the democratic process can extend to every single elected office.
West Virginia’s top election official on trust, social media and secure elections
Ahead of what promises to be a hectic election season, Secretary of State Mac Warner spent part of his last National Association of Secretaries of State Winter Conference touching on conspiracy theories, among other topics.
States clash over what responsible AI looks like
While some states are still establishing task forces and preparing to take advantage of the tech, others are more hesitant, warning of job losses and federal influence on a nascent industry.
States look to rein in ballot initiatives with more ballot initiatives
Ballot measures in recent years have been used to expand Medicaid, preserve abortion rights and raise minimum wages. Now, state lawmakers are turning to them to put more restrictions on the process.
Election leaders debut new standards of conduct, aim to build trust ahead of key races
The standards call for better communication and more transparency. Secretaries of state and other election administrators on hand for the announcement also detailed the challenges they are facing leading up the November general election.
As privacy conversations become mainstream, data protection laws gain traction
The Garden State is the 13th to adopt a comprehensive data privacy framework, with more to go into effect this year and others set to follow with similar legislation.
States slowly embrace ‘whole-of-state’ cybersecurity approach
Federal grants helped spur adoption of the strategies across the country, but hurdles remain as more look to follow suit.
States vie for leadership role on AI
In recent days, governors announced major artificial intelligence initiatives that include creating a subcabinet focused on issues related to the emerging technology, licensing ChatGPT for employee use and unveiling an “AI Moonshot” initiative.
WIC program on pace to fall $1B short, says agriculture secretary
Unless Congress budgets more, the program will run out of money in mid-August, forcing states to waitlist those seeking help.
New York governor pledges to ‘shape the trajectory’ of AI development
Kathy Hochul announced in her State of the State address an AI consortium and research center, and issued a new policy for responsible AI governance.
As online gambling expands, so do concerns about addictions
Mobile sports betting is live and legal in 37 states and Washington, D.C. Online casino games are legal in 7 states. Those numbers could grow in 2024.
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