Political Polarization Is Not a Driver of Gridlock at the State Level
States like Colorado have polarized—but productive—legislatures. Term limits and relatively weak lobbying interests help explain the phenomenon.
Browsing Tag
state legislatures
11 posts
Legalizing Gay Marriage Reduced Homophobia
A new study finds that state laws sent a strong message about how norms were changing—and homophobia declined as a result.
Rent Control Passed in Oregon. Will It Work as a Housing-Crisis Solution Nationwide?
If rent-control measures pass in all of the states and cities where they're currently on the table, nearly a third of all renter households in the United States could secure relief.
The Malleable Conflicts of Interest in State Legislature Rules
In many states, laws and ethics rules allow representatives to advance bills that would benefit their own financial interests.
New York State Lawmakers Appoint First Woman to Serve as Attorney General
The New York state legislature voted nearly unanimously Tuesday to appoint Barbara Underwood to serve as the state's attorney general, making her the first woman to hold the position.
Ten South Florida Cities Are Suing the State to Regain Control of Their Gun Laws
Mayors across the state are subject to a state law that threatens harsh penalties for municipalities that attempt to pass any of their own restrictions on firearms.
How to Fix Our Legislatures
The trick is to hold legislatures accountable, even when the system is oriented around individual legislators.
One Year After the Death of Eric Garner, Reform Deferred
Despite protests in New York and beyond, police reform is in a dismal state.
When Incumbents Get a Free Ride
Fielding candidates in unfavorable districts might seem like a waste of precious resources to a party—and most of the time, it is—but it's also a responsibility.
On the Need for Legislative Staff
Having a decent number of staffers available gives state legislators a better ability to make competent, independent decisions and to resist the influence of other actors.