2014 PREVIEW | hot topic © James Orndorf /ImageZoo/Corbis
THE FEDS AND THE
The economy will once again be the issue at the top of the list for many state legislators across the country. In addition to the typical budget challenges, states face the uncertainty of federal funding due to Congressional gridlock. The recent federal government shutdown cost the U.S. billions of dollars and some states picked up the tab for federal services—like keeping national parks open—with no guarantee of reimbursement. In addition, more federal funding could be cut through sequestration. But other policy areas will demand the attention of legislators, and many of those, too, will be influenced by what happens at the federal level. With such stress in the current political environment, civility in the legislative process will be at a premium.
IN THIS SECTION 12 Fiscal Challenges Facing States 16 By the Book—Federal Employment 18 Top 5 Education Issues 19 Top 5 Transportation Issues 20 Top 5 Energy & Environment Issues 21 Top 5 Agricultural Issues 23 Top 5 Health Issues 24 Health Insurance Exchanges 32 10 Questions—Ohio Sen. Frank LaRose 34 Straight Talk 36 How to—Get the Most from Legislative Staff Back to Top
» JAN / FEB 2014
26 CSG Leadership on the Issues
CAPITOL IDEAS
22 Top 5 Immigration Issues
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