State public policy resources

The Big Seven is a group of nonpartisan, non-profit organizations made up of United States state and local government officials. The Big Seven are:

• The Council of State Governments
  The Council of State Governments was founded during the Great Depression. The members of CSG include every elected and appointed state and territorial official in the United States.
• National Governors Association
  Founded in 1908, the National Governors Association is the collective voice of the nation's governors
• The National Council of State Legislatures
  The National Conference of State Legislatures is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the nation's 50 states, its commonwealths and territories.
• The National League of Cities
  The National League of Cities is the oldest and largest national organization representing municipal governments throughout the United States. Its mission is to strengthen and promote cities as centers of opportunity, leadership, and governance.
• The United States Conference of Mayors
  The U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. There are 1,201 such cities in the country today. Each city is represented in the Conference by its chief elected official, the mayor.
• The National Association of Counties
  The National Association of Counties (NACo) is the only national organization that represents county governments in the United States. Founded in 1935, NACo provides services to the nation’s 3,066 counties.
• International City/County Management Association
  ICMA is the professional and educational organization for chief appointed managers, administrators, and assistants in cities, towns, counties, and regional entities throughout the world. Since 1914, ICMA has provided technical and management assistance, training, and information resources to its members and the local government community.

Crime and Courts

U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics Collects and analyzes information on crime, criminal offenders, victims of crime, and the operation of justice systems at all levels of government. Contains reports on state-by-state crime statistics. FBI Uniform Crime Reports The Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program was conceived in 1929 by the International Association of Chiefs of Police to provide reliable, uniform crime statistics for the nation. In 1930, the FBI was tasked with collecting, publishing, and archiving those statistics. Today, several annual statistical publications, such as the comprehensive Crime in the United States, are produced from data provided by nearly 17,000 law enforcement agencies across the United States. Other annual publications, such as Hate Crime Statistics and Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted address specialized facets of crime. National Center for State Courts An independent, non-profit organization that collects and interprets the latest data on court operations nationwide; and provides information on proven "best practices" for improving court operations. National Association of Attorneys General The association conducts policy research and analysis of issues, conducts training, and facilitates communication between the states’ chief legal officers and all levels of government. The Web site includes links for Attorneys General, recent headlines and information on initiatives, projects and policies supported by the NAAG. Columbia University National State Attorneys General Program The Program is a legal research, education-and-policy center that examines the implications of the jurisprudence of state attorneys general. The Program is active in the development and dissemination of legal information that state prosecutors are able to use in the carrying out of their civil and criminal responsibilities. Provides news, research and resources. The National Center for Victims of Crime The nation's largest victim's rights organization advocates for victims of crimes. It works with local, state and federal partners to: provide services and resources to crime victims; advocate for laws and public policies that protect crime victims; and deliver training to those who serve crime victims. The Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice The nonprofit nonpartisan organization advocates criminal justice reforms that reduce incarceration and promote rehabilitation. KLAAS KIDS Foundation The Foundation's mission is to stop crimes against children. It advocates child protection legislation and provides links to victims' rights laws in all 50 states. The Web site also provides background information on Megan's Law and Amber Alerts. The Justice Project The Justice Project is a nonpartisan, national criminal justice reform organization that works to address unfairness and inaccuracy in the criminal justice system, with a focus on the capital punishment system. Death Penalty Information Center Provides death penalty related news, statistics and analysis. Death Penalty Links Over 1,000 links to death penalty related Web sites are reviewed on the Clark County, Indiana prosecuting attorney's Web site. Pro-Death Penalty.com Death penalty advocacy group that provides capital punishment statistics and weekly news updates. The Web site includes a database of the victims of death row inmates. Currently, it contains over 1800 names. DNA Resource.com A resource for the latest developments in forensic DNA policy. The Web site includes a database of current and past state DNA legislation. Legal Newsline.com A Chicago-based newswire devoted to coverage of state supreme courts and states attorneys general.

Economy and Business		BACK TO TOP
Bureau of Economic Analysis An agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce that tracks economic information in all 50 States. Organizes data by region and industry. Also provides national and international data. The Bureau's Online Newsroom was created to help reporters and editors develop business and economic stories. It includes contact information for BEA subject matter experts; interactive tables, charts and graphs; and a list of links to economic indicators produced by several federal agencies. Bureau of Labor Statistics Produces monthly and annual employment, unemployment and labor force data. The bureau also provides an interactive map with labor statistics for each state. The Federal Reserve Board's Beige Book The Federal Reserve gathers anecdotal information on current economic conditions through reports from bank directors and interviews with key business contacts, economists, market experts and other sources. The U.S. Census Bureau The bureau provides data on People & Households and Business & Industry. It also provides State & County QuickFacts about people, business and geography. The U.S. Census Bureau's Survey of Business Owners Approximately 2.4 million businesses will be asked to provide information about their characteristics and the characteristics of their owners. Estimates from the survey will be available beginning in mid-2010. Includes latest news and Facts for Features. The U.S. Census Bureau's Manufacturing, Mining and Construction Statistics The bureau provides sample estimates of statistics for 50,000 manufacturing establishments as well as mining and residential construction data. The U.S. Department of Labor Provides News, Latest Numbers, Laws & Regulations and instructions for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Web site includes State Fact Sheets that provide information on population, employment, income, farm characteristics and farm financial indicators.

Education		BACK TO TOP
Achieve Created in 1996 by the nation's governors and corporate leaders, Achieve is an independent, bipartisan, non-profit education reform organization based in Washington, D.C. that helps states raise academic standards and graduation requirements, improve assessments and strengthen accountability. The Website includes an interactive map showing how each state is addressing school improvement issues. Afterschool Alliance The organization is dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of afterschool programs. Center for American Progress Founded in 2003, CAP is headed by John D. Podesta, former chief of staff to President Bill Clinton and professor at the Georgetown University Law Center. The Web site includes an Education issues page. Council of Chief State School Officers The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) is a nonpartisan, nationwide, nonprofit organization of public officials who head departments of elementary and secondary education in the states, the District of Columbia, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and five U.S. extra-state jurisdictions. Education Commission of the States The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization is an interstate compact created in 1965 to improve public education by facilitating the exchange of information, ideas and experiences among state policymakers and education leaders. The Web site includes a database of Education Issues and an annual report on educated-related proposals in State of the State addresses. National Center for Education Statistics The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) is the primary federal entity for collecting and analyzing data related to education in the U.S. and other nations. The website includes: reports on surveys and programs; a search tool for colleges, public schools & districts, private schools and public libraries; and Fast Facts about American education. The Nation's Report Card The National Center for Education Statistics produces "The National Assessment of Educational Progress." The U.S. Department of Education The department establishes policies on federal financial aid for education; collects data on America's schools; focuses national attention on key educational issues; and works to ensure equal access to education. The Website includes news and organizes its information for Students, Parents, Teachers and Administrators. No Child Left Behind Act The U.S. Department of Education's Web site of latest developments and policies affecting the federal law. U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education & Labor Web site includes information on hearings and pending legislation. U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions The Web site includes news and headlines, scheduled hearings and pending legislation as well useful links to education resources. Alliance for Excellent Education Alliance promotes hihg school reform with the goal of making students better prepared for college or the workforce. Based in Washington, DC, the policy and advocacy organization was founded in 2001 by philanthropists Gerard and Lilo Leeds. American Federation of Teachers The AFT is the country's second-largest teacher's union. The Web site includes education information abd resources for members. Center on Education Policy The Center on Education Policy is a national, independent advocate for public education and for more effective public schools. CEP's Web site includes reports on the No Child Left Behind Act, dropouts, special education and high school exit examinations. Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges AGB provides information on governance and leadership in high education. Education Sector A nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank that is committed to achieving measurable impact in education policy, both by improving existing reform initiatives and by developing new, innovative solutions to the nation’s most pressing education problems. Education Trust The Education Trust was established in 1990 by the American Association for Higher Education as a special project to encourage colleges and universities to support K-12 reform efforts. Since then, the Ed Trust has grown into an independent nonprofit organization that works for the high academic achievement of all students at all levels, pre-kindergarten through college. Education Week A resource for recent news and developments affecting K-12 and higher education. Hechinger Institute on Education and the Media Based at Teachers College, Columbia University, the Institute equips journalists with the knowledge and skills they need to produce fair, accurate and insightful reporting. Since its launch in 1996, the institute has sponsored seminars for journalists who write, editorialize or edit coverage of education. National Association of State Boards of Education A nonprofit association that strives to strengthen state leadership in educational policy making and advocates for equal access to education and continued citizen support for public education. the Web site includes a repository of Education Issues and a school health policy database. National Board for Professional Teaching Standards A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization formed in 1987 to advance the quality of teaching and learning by developing professional standards for accomplished teaching, creating a voluntary system to certify teachers who meet those standards and integrating certified teachers into educational reform efforts. It's first policy statement, "What Teachers Should Know and Be Able to Do," outlined the "Five Core Propositions." National Education Association The nation's largest and oldest teacher's union. Provides information about issues important to the union and tools such as lesson plans and promising practices. National Education Writers Association A national organization that was organized in 1947 by a group of newspaper reporters with the intent of improving education reporting to the public. National Institute for Early Education Research The institute supports early childhood education efforts by providing research-based information. Pre-K Now A project of the Pew Center on the States, Pre-K Now is a public education and advocacy campaign that advances high-quality, voluntary pre-kindergarten for all three and four year olds. The Rural School and Community Trust A national nonprofit organization that is dedicated to helping rural schools and communities get better together. The Rural Trust advocates for appropriate state educational policies, including the key issue of equitable and adequate funding for rural schools. School Matters A Web site for parents researching iniformation about public schools. It includes student achievement information, financial data and demographic breakdowns. Thomas B. Fordham Institute A Washington, D.C.-based, non-profit think tank dedicated to advancing educational excellence in America's K-12 schools. It promotes policies that strengthen accountability and expand education options for parents and families. Its reports examine issues such as the No Child Left Behind Act, school choice and teacher quality.

Elections		BACK TO TOP
Demos Demos is a non-partisan public policy research and advocacy organization founded in 2000 and headquartered in New York City. It advocates for a more equitable economy and high levels of voting and civic engagement. The Web site offers news and experts in issues such as campaign finance, election administration and election day registration. Electionline.org A project of the Pew Center on the States, Electionline.org is a nonpartisan, non-advocacy Web site providing up-to-the-minute news and analysis on election reform. Electionline Today offers the latest news headlines. National Association of Secretaries of State Founded in 1904, the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) is the nation's oldest, nonpartisan professional organization for public officials. It has key initiatives in the areas of elections and voting, state business services, electronic government and digital archiving. An Elections & Voting section includes a database of state election offices, election links and recent NASS election surveys. The Sentencing Project A national organization advocating for a fair and effective criminal justice system by promoting reforms in sentencing law and practice, the Project offers a section on Felony Disenfranchisement. The University of Virginia Center for Politics A nonprofit, nonpartisan political resource center founded by Larry J. Sabato, a professor of politics. CQ Politics Congressional Quarterly's politics Web site offers election and political coverage. CQ Politics Congressional Quarterly's politics Web site offers election and political coverage. Initiative and Referendum Institute. A non-profit non-partisan research and educational organization dedicated to the expansion of the initiative and referendum process in the US. Pollster.com A Web site that examines information from multiple major polls.

Energy		BACK TO TOP
Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency The Web site includes an interactive map providing information on each state’s various incentives, including corporate tax credit, state loan programs, rules, and regulations. Established in 1995, the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) is an ongoing project of the North Carolina Solar Center and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC). It is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). Energy Information Administration The EIA offers official energy statistics from the U.S. Government. The Web site includes policy-neutral data, forecasts, and analyses and is dedicated to promoting sound policy making, efficient markets, and public understanding regarding energy and its interaction with the economy and the environment. Features include the Annual Energy Review, This Week in Petroleum, New Manufacturing Data and Natural Gas Source maps. Union of Concerned Scientists What began as a collaboration between students and faculty members at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1969 is now an alliance of more than 250,000 citizens and scientists. The nonprofit organization seeks to develop innovative, practical solutions and to secure responsible changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices. The Web site includes information on Global Warming, Clean Energy, Clean Vehicles and Nuclear Power. National Association of State Energy Officials NASEO is a national non-profit organization whose membership includes the governor-designated energy officials from each state and territory. The organization was formed by the states and through an agreement with the National Governors Association in 1986 and was created to improve the effectiveness and quality of state energy programs and policies, provide policy input and analysis, share successes among the states, and to be a repository of information. The Web site includes a Resource section the offers useful links to federal, state and national energy organizations. Resource Renewal Institute The RRI was founded by Huey D. Johnson, a distinguished environmentalist and a leading U.S. proponent of sustainability policy known as Green Plans. National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners NARUC members include the governmental agencies that are engaged in the regulation of utilities and carriers in the 50 states. Interstate Oil & Gas Compact Commission A multi-state government agency that promotes conservation and efficient recovery of domestic oil and natural gas resources while protecting health, safety and the environment. National Rural Electric Cooperative Association NRECA was organized to represent the national interests of cooperative electric utilities and the consumers they serve. Natural Resources Defense Council NRDC actively pursues litigation to support environmental protections and offers online resources related to environmental advocacy. Issues include global warming, endangered wildlife and wild places, clean energy, the world's oceans, toxic chemicals and the greening of China. Pew Center on Global Climate Change The Pew Center on Global Climate Change is a non-profit, non-partisan organization established to "provide credible information, straight answers, and innovative solutions in the effort to address global climate change." Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association promotes policies, regulations and research supporting the ethanol industry. The national trade association "promotes policies, regulations and research and development initiatives that will lead to the increased production and use of fuel ethanol." The Southern States Energy Board The Southern States Energy Board is a non-profit organization created to promote economic development through innovative energy and environmental policies in 16 states.

Environment		BACK TO TOP
Renewable Energy Policy Project REPP formed with initial support from the Energy Foundation and the Department of Energy. It supports the advancement of renewable energy technology through policy research. Environmental Council of the States ECOS is nonprofit comprised of state environmental agency or commission heads from around the country. The purpose of ECOS is to improve the capability of state environmental agencies in order to protect and improve human health and the environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Since 1970, the EPA has led the nation's environmental science, research, education and assessment efforts. The mission of the Environmental Protection Agency is to protect human health and the environment. EPA employs 17,000 people in its Washington, D.C. headquarters, 10 regional offices, and more than a dozen labs. The Web site includes a section on EPA Laws & Regulations. Smithsonian Environmental Research Center SERC is a unit of the Smithsonian Institution. The research and education center is "dedicated to understanding ecological processes that sustain life at the land/sea margin" and "committed to finding solutions to grand environmental challenges that we face in the 21st century". The U.S. House Committe on Natural Resources Considers legislation about fisheries and wildlife, public lands, Native Americans, irrigation and reclamation, Mineral lands and mining, and oceanography. U.S. Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works Deals with pollution, highway construction and repair, environmental aspects of the continental shelf, toxic substances other than pesticides, fisheries and drinking water and wastewater systems. Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies The organization represents the fish and wildlife professionals in the 56 states and territories, and the federal agencies of the United States. The Association also represents many provinces of Canada and Mexico. It promotes sound management and conservation. Center for Environmental Innovation CEI is an alliance of university faculty members that focuses on environmental, health and safety issues requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Natural Resources Defense Council NRDC actively pursues litigation to support environmental protections and offers online resources related to environmental advocacy. Issues include global warming, endangered wildlife and wild places, clean energy, the world's oceans, toxic chemicals and the greening of China. The National Association of Clean Air Agencies Formerly STAPA and ALAPCO, the Association represents air pollution control agencies in 53 states and territories and over 165 major metropolitan areas across the United States. The Clean Air Trust The Clean Air Trust promotes strong air pollution controls and advises policy-makers on enforcement of the federal Clean Air Act. The Web site includes a Climate Change Calculator that measures your carbon footprint by estimating how many tons of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases you create each year. National Caucus of Environmental Legislators. The NCEL was organized in 1996 for the purpose of providing environmentally progressive legislators with an opportunity to coordinate their activities with respect to national legislative organizations, and to share ideas. The State Environmental Leadership Program SELP is a staff-supported network of independent environmental activist organizations that focus on state level policy to preserve, protect and enhance the natural and human environment, and the health and quality of life. State Sportsmen's Caucuses A network of state legislative sportsmen's caucuses. Now with 38 state legislative sportsmen's caucuses representing more than 1,200 state legislators, NASC facilitates the interaction and idea exchange among state caucus leaders and the outdoor community.

Health Care		BACK TO TOP
National Center of Health Statistics As the Nation's principal health statistics agency, NCHS compiles statistical information to guide actions and policies to improve the health of U.S. citizens. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention An agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services based in the metro Atlanta area. It was created to protect public health and safety by providing information from the federal government relating to public health and disease management. The CDC closely monitors disease outbreaks across the states. Alliance for Health Reform A nonpartisan, nonprofit group, the Alliance believes that all in the U.S. should have health coverage. They do not advocate for any particular plan or take positions on legislation. Instead, they provide information about the nation's health care problems and the trade-offs posed by competing proposals for change. American Academy of Pediatrics The mission of the American Academy of Pediatrics is to attain optimal physical, mental and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents and young adults. It provides general information related to child health and specific guidelines for various pediatric issues. American Hospital Association The AHA is the national organization representing hospitals and health care networks. The AHA portal provides useful links to organizations serving health care providers and their suppliers. It also includes a Hospital Finder. American Medical Association The AMA is a national professional organization representing doctors. United Health Foundation The United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group in 1999 as a not-for-profit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and health care. It produces America's Health Rankings, an annual analysis of national health on a state-by-state basis that ranks the healthiest and least healthy states. The 2008 rankings revealed that the overall health of the U.S. population has not improved for the fourth year in a row. Association of State and Territorial Health Officials ASTHO is a non-profit membership association representing the chiefs of state and territorial health agencies and the 120,000 individuals who work for them. The Web site provides useful information on public health policy in the states and includes links to all 50 states' public health departments. Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services CMS is the federal agency that administers Medicare, the federal health insurance program for those 65 years and older, and Medicaid, a joint state-federal program that provides health coverage for the nation's poor and disabled. Center for Studying Health System Change This Washington, D.C.-based think tank is funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and provides information on insurance-related issues. Childrens Defense Fund CDF is a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group that conducts research, public education campaigns and promotes public policies relating to child health and welfare. Family Research Council FRC works to promote public policies that champion marriage and family as the foundation of society. FRC is a pro-life organization that also advocates abstinence-based sex education. Families USA Families USA is a national, non-profit organization which advocates for high-quality, affordable health and long-term care for all Americans. Georgetown University's Center for Children and Families The nonpartisan policy and research center focuses on finding ways to improve access to, and quality of, health care for children and families, especially for the poor and working class. Guttmacher State Center Guttmacher State Center is a centralized clearinghouse for state-level research and policy information on reproductive health issues, searchable by state or by subject. Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured KCMU is a valuable resource for statistics and analysis on Medicaid, the state-federal program that provides health insurance for the low-income and disabled. In addition, Kaiser also provides a comprehensive database of state health facts online. National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI is a national non-profit that advocates for equitable treatment of and services for the mentally ill. NARAL Pro-Choice America NARAL is a national pro-choice advocacy group that works to protect women's abortion rights and increase women's access to reproductive health information. National Academy for State Health Policy NASHP is a non-partisan, non-profit think tank based in Portland, Maine that provides policy analysis and health information, particularly focusing on children's health insurance (CHIP), Medicaid, medical errors and managed care. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy NABP is a national professional association representing the state boards of pharmacy in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. National Mental Health Association The National Mental Health Association is a national nonprofit advocacy organization that addresses all aspects of mental health and mental illness. Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America PhRMA is the voice of the pharmaceutical industry and the organization that's taking a lead role in challenging some state prescription drug programs. PhRMA recently launched a new Web site - www.innovation.org - that includes a 'viewpoints' section that outlines the organization's take on a number of controversial topics. Rural Assistance Center Started in 2002, RAC serves as an "information portal" for rural communities and others to help them provide quality health and human services to rural residents. RAC works with states' offices of rural health and workforce agencies. Rutger's Center for State Health Policy Funded by a five-year grant from The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Rutgers Center for State Health Policy, focuses on research and analysis of state-level health care policies. State Coverage Initiatives SCI is an initiative of The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation that works with states to plan, execute, and maintain health insurance expansions, and improve the availability and affordability of health care coverage. State Health Access Data Assistance Center This online resource from the University of Minnesota provides health policy research and analysis, including resources related to issues of health insurance coverage, data collection methods and state health policy. StateHealthFacts.org This online resource from the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation includes state-by-state data on health topics including insurance coverage, Medicaid, SCHIP, HIV/AIDS and minority and women's health. Report: A Decade of Broken Promises A coalition of health care groups, led by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, concludes that only three states are devoting adequate money from the 1998 tobacco settlement toward efforts to keep children from smoking. The report includes assessments of each state. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services The HHS Web site provides news and information from the federal cabinet agency on health and social services.

Homeland Security		BACK TO TOP
U.S. Department of Homeland Security This site provides threat and protection information for citizens, business and government. Federal Emergency Management Agency The FEMA site offers daily updates about national emergency and disaster situations. National Emergency Management Association NEMA is the professional association of emergency management directors from all 50 states, eight territories and the District of Columbia. National Interagency Fire Center The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), located in Boise, Idaho, is the nation's support center for wildland firefighting. Eight different agencies and organizations are part of NIFC, including: U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the National Weather Service, The National Park Service, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. St. Louis University's Institute for Biosecurity The Institute was established in 2000 with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It's original mission was to carry out bioterrorism and preparedness research, but has since evolved to include addressing emerging infectious diseases, naturally occurring or introduced by terrorists. The Web site provides updates on news, congressional testimony, and independent research projects. Terrorism Research Center Founded in 1996, TRC is an independent institute dedicated to the research of terrorism, information warfare and security, critical infrastructure protection and other issues of low-intensity political violence. The center maintains a network of terrorism and information warfare specialists drawn from industry, government, and academia in the United States, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Argentina, India, the Middle East, France, and Australia. Jurist: Terrorism Law & Policy A project of the University of Pittsburgh's School of Law, the Web site offers current news on terrorism, homeland security and anti-terrorism policy. Audio news and visual press briefings are complemented by live C-Span coverage. A Tribute to Our Troops The Providence Journal created this database of American troops deployed around the world. The feature allows users to share their thoughts and good wishes with troops. Faces of the Fallen The Washington Post maintains a database of U.S. service members who have died in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Critical Infrastructure Protection Program A Project of the George Mason School of Law, the CIP "integrates law, policy, and technology to conduct comprehensive infrastructure protection analysis and research, including resiliency studies, security assessments, educational initiatives, and recommendations relevant to improving U.S. and international security." Library of Congress: Terrorism Terrorism Internet resources selected by the Library of Congress.

Hurricanes		BACK TO TOP
National Hurricane Center The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is a component of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) located at Florida International University in Miami, Florida. The NHC mission is to save lives, mitigate property loss, and improve economic efficiency by issuing the best watches, warnings, forecasts, and analyzes of hazardous tropical weather and by increasing understanding of these hazards. DisasterAssistance.gov This U.S. Government Web site consolidates disaster assistance information. Local resource information to help keep citizens safe during an emergency is also available. Currently, 17 U.S. Government agencies, which sponsor almost 60 forms of assistance, contribute to the portal. FEMA: Hurricane This Web site provides information on what to do before, during and after a hurricane. CDC: Hurricanes Emergency Preparedness and response information provided by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Hurricane Hunters Association This Web site supports the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, known as the Hurricane Hunters of the Air Force Reserve.

Politics		BACK TO TOP
Grading the States: Government Performance Project A project of the Pew Center of the States, this database that evaluates states’ government performance on their basic management functions. BillHop.com BillHop is a wiki and blogging tool that allows members to track, discuss and take action on legislation at the federal and state levels. NCSL Legislative Tracking Web Resources A 50-state database covering various issues that concern state legislators and legislative staff. A project of the National Conference of State Legislatures. Census Report on Government Spending The Latest news from the U.S. Census Bureau on state issues. Center for Politics The University of Virginia's nonprofit, nonpartisan political resource center. Founded by Larry J. Sabato, a professor of politics. Center for Public Integrity CPI is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to producing original, responsible investigative journalism on issues of public concern both in the United States and around the world. the Web site includes extensive information on U.S. public records law. Common Cause This nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy group provides comprehensive information on campaign finance reform at the federal, state and local level. CQ Politics Congressional Quarterly's politics Web site offers election and political coverage. CQ Moneyline Provides campaign finance news. Democratic Governors Association A policy and strategy organization for Democratic governors. Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee This organization works to win state legislative seats and chambers for Democrats. Follow the Money State level campaign finance information provided by the nonprofit, nonpartisan National Institute on Money in State Politics. The Web site's databases track political donations in all 50 states. Governing.com This Web site offers daily state-level political news stories and links to other political information. Governors' Opinion & Commentary A listing of opinion articles by the nation's governors, collected by the National Governors Association. Politics1 Nonpartisan political information for all 50 states including names and links to candidate Web sites, election calendars and state election agencies. POLITICO.com POLITICO covers political news with a focus on national politics, Congress, Capitol Hill, lobbying and advocacy. Republican Governors Association A policy and strategy organization for Republican governors. Republican State Leadership Committee. The RSLC works to electc Republicans to the office of Attorney General, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State and legislator.

Social Policy		BACK TO TOP
American Civil Liberties Union The ACLU, which has offices in almost every state, defends individual civil liberties as outlined in the U.S. Constitution in the courts, state legislatures and communities. American Public Human Services Associations APHSA is a bipartisan, non-profit organization whose members include human service agencies in all 50 states. APHSA educates Congress, the media and the public about what is happening in the states in welfare and health care reform. Annie E. Casey Foundation The Annie E. Casey Foundation works to foster public policies that more effectively meet the needs of disadvantaged children and families. Br /> Center for Law and Social Policy This national, non-profit research organization tracks social policy issues including workforce development, civil legal assistance for low-income families, child welfare, marriage policy and reproductive health. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities The CBPP is a non-profit research organization that provides reports on budget and social policies that affect low-income people. Children's Defense Fund CDF is a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group that conducts research, public education campaigns and promotes public policies relating to child health and welfare. Drug Policy Alliance The Drug Policy Alliance advocates reforming punitive drug laws. Hudson Institute Welfare Policy Center The Welfare Policy Center, a division of the Hudson Institute, helps design and implement new welfare programs, including Wisconsin's W-2. It also conducts research on welfare. Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured KCMU is a valuable resource for statistics and analysis on Medicaid, the state-federal program that provides health insurance for the low-income and disabled. In addition, Kaiser also provides a comprehensive database of state health facts online. MDRC This is a New York-based, nonprofit social policy research organization focused on measuring the effectiveness of federal and state welfare policies to improve the independence and well being of low-income families. Marijuana Policy Project MPP is a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group that works to decriminalize penalties for marijuana use, with a particular emphasis on making it medically available to sick people who have the approval of their doctors. NAMI NAMI is a national non-profit that advocates for equitable treatment of and services for the mentally ill. NARAL Pro-Choice America NARAL is a national pro-choice advocacy group that works to protect women's abortion rights and increase womens' access to reproductive health information. National Center for Children in Poverty NCCP is a non-partisan research and policy organization at Columbia University that tries to develop strategies to prevent child poverty and better the lives of low-income children. National Mental Health Association The National Mental Health Association is a national nonprofit advocacy organization that addresses all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The National Right to Life Committee The National Right to Life Committee offers information on the pro-life movement and issues including abortion, euthanasia and infanticide. Pew Commission on Children in Foster Care The Pew Commission on Children in Foster Care was formed in May 2003 and is supported through a grant from The Pew Charitable Trusts, which also funds Stateline.org. The Commission is an independent, nonpartisan entity dedicated to developing policy recommendations to improve the foster care system. Southern Poverty Law Center Based in Montgomery, Ala., the Southern Poverty Law Center promotes tolerance education programs and its legal department files class action civil rights cases on behalf of vulnerable and victimized populations. The Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life The Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life is a nonprofit, nonpartisan clearinghouse of information related to the intersection of religion and public policy. It's funded by The Pew Charitable Trusts, which also funds Stateline.org. U.S. Administration for Children and Families This federal agency is a subdivision of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ACF oversees federal programs that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals and communities. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services The HHS Web site provides news and information from the federal cabinet agency on health and social services. Urban Institute The Urban Institute is a nonprofit nonpartisan policy research and educational organization established to examine the social, economic, and governance problems facing the nation, including low-income housing and welfare.

Taxes & Budget		BACK TO TOP
Center on Budget and Policy Priorities CBPP "conducts research and analysis to help shape public debates over proposed budget and tax policies and to help ensure that policymakers consider the needs of low-income families and individuals in these debates. We also develop policy options to alleviate poverty." Americans for Tax Reform The Cato Institute was founded in 1977 by Edward H. Crane. It is a non-profit public policy research foundation headquartered in Washington, D.C. The Institute is named for Cato's Letters, a series of libertarian pamphlets that helped lay the philosophical foundation for the American Revolution. The group advocates limits on state spending. CATO Institute The Cato Institute was founded in 1977 by Edward H. Crane. It is a non-profit public policy research foundation headquartered in Washington, D.C. The Institute is named for Cato's Letters, a series of libertarian pamphlets that helped lay the philosophical foundation for the American Revolution. The Institute's mission "is to increase the understanding of public policies based on the principles of limited government, free markets, individual liberty, and peace." Council on State Taxation COST is a nonprofit trade association consisting of over 600 corporations engaged in interstate and international business. COST's objective is "to preserve and promote equitable and nondiscriminatory state and local taxation of multi-jurisdictional business entities." Federation of Tax Administrators Organization of state tax officials. Web site offers comparative information on state tax agencies. Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy Liberal research organization that works on government taxation and spending policy issues. National Association of State Budget Officers Research and advocacy organization for budget officers from the 50 states. National Taxpayers Union Advocates limits on state spending and provides comparisons of state and local tax rates and burdens. Tax Foundation Conservative tax policy research organization. Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government The public policy research arm of the State University of New York; tracks revenue information across the 50 states.

Technology		BACK TO TOP
Center for Technology in Government The Center for Technology in Government works with government to develop information strategies that foster innovation and enhance the quality and coordination of public services. National Institute of Standards and Technology Founded in 1901, NIST is a non-regulatory federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce. NIST's mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life. Government Computer News Website with relevant technology news at the federal, state and local level. U.S. Office of Science & Technology Policy Congress established OSTP in 1976 with a broad mandate to advise the President and others within the Executive Office of the President on the effects of science and technology on domestic and international affairs. The 1976 Act also authorizes OSTP to lead interagency efforts to develop and implement sound science and technology policies and budgets, and to work with the private sector, state and local governments, the science and higher education communities, and other nations toward this end. Public Safety Wireless Technology Links The National Institute of Standards and Technology provides a selection of web links that are all related in some way to wireless systems for public safety and law enforcement applications. DNAresource.com Includes database of current and past state legislation related to forensic DNA policy. Government Technology This site provides the latest developments concerning e-government, telecom, homeland security and other issues. Information Technology Association of America This group represents the broad spectrum of information technology, including Internet and online services, systems integration and telecommunications. Wisconsin Technology Network A regional source for news, commentary and analysis on technology and life science. ZDNet Government Part of ZDNet.com's blog network, ZDNet Government reports on developments on information technology in federal, state and local governments.

Transportation		BACK TO TOP
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials AASHTO provides useful information on state transportation policy. Governors Highway Safety Association The association represents state highway safety programs and provides links to transportation departments in all 50 states. U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics The bureau offers an up-to-date database on transportation statistics. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration The Web site provides information on vehicle recalls, technical service bulletins, safety issues, ongoing research and development projects. U.S. Department of Transportation The U.S. Transportation Department offers news and information from the federal cabinet agency. Surface Transportation Policy Partnership The Surface Transportation Policy Project is a nationwide coalition working to ensure safer communities and smarter transportation choices that enhance the economy, improve public health, promote social equity, and protect the environment. Links to State Transportation Departments The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration provides links to each state's Department of Transportation. Federal Highway Administration The Federal Highway Administration's top priorities are to "make transportation safer and more secure, to reduce traffic congestion, and to preserve the environment."