State governments are typically comprised of an executive branch having multiple departments and led by an elected governor, a legislative branch that often has two chambers of elected representatives, and a judicial branch. States also often have a number of independent regulatory bodies, such as public utility commissions. When the federal government sets a regulatory standard, for example for emissions, state governments are typically tasked with implementing it through more detailed regulation of industry. Often states will implement their own standards, serving as testbeds for innovative policy ideas.
Lydia Tackett a professor of geosciences who discovered her passion for paleoecology while in graduate school in the west. She is also the District 44 (Cass County, ND) Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party Chair. ESAL interviewed Tackett about her combined passions for “playing in the dirt, crackin’ rocks for fossils, and civic engagement.”
Tepring Piquado discusses her journey from the field of neuroscience to running for public office. Read about her experiences with the California Council on Science and Technology, and her transition into the legislative process from academia.
ESAL spoke with Center for Human-Carnivore Coexistence (CHCC) Director and wildlife biologist Kevin Crooks, and with Assistant Professor and conservation psychologist Rebecca Niemiec about the Center’s role in the reintroduction of gray wolves to Colorado and associated public engagement efforts.
The BLOCK Project is a grassroots program confronting the challenge of skyrocketing rent and property values. The project builds detached accessory dwelling units in backyards to house people. To date, the project has built 10 homes, with another 5 anticipated within the next year.
The Conservation Federation of Missouri's (CFM) mission is to ensure that the state’s wildlife, natural resources, and rich outdoor heritage are preserved through advocacy, education, and partnerships. ESAL spoke with Colton Zirkle, education and communications coordinator at CFM, to learn more about their work advocating for the Missouri outdoors.
On September 8, ESAL co-hosted “Beyond the Bench: Scientists Shaping State & Local Policy”, a virtual event with the American Chemical Society. A panel of three California scientists shared their transition into science policy and advice for local engagement.
The California Council on Science and Technology connects California scientists to policy and decision makers with expert advice on issues such as the environment, education, health, and disaster response. CCST leaders Amber Mace and Sarah Brady spoke with ESAL about the organization’s latest endeavors.
While electric vehicles are a critical part of local climate change and air pollution mitigation, structural barriers create gaps in charging infrastructure for marginalized communities. ESAL volunteer Chris Jackson recently published a policy brief outlining how policymakers can ensure that those benefits are equitably distributed.
ESAL covered an online discussion by the USC Center on Public Diplomacy with California’s Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis on the state’s response to COVID-19 challenges. The conversation also addressed the growing role of state and city governments’ broader leadership in international affairs.
