The Center for American Progress constantly strives to find meaningful solutions and pathways to promote progressive policy advancement at the state and local level. Our work focuses on locally driven solutions as well as the vast policy and communications expertise in the organization. We hope this research and data can help facilitate thoughtful debate among state and local leaders so that we can bring about progressive change in an ever-changing political landscape.
State Budgets Tied to Fossil Fuels Are Slowing the Energy Transition and Leaving Workers and Communities Behind
Oil and gas lobbyists have spent decades working to entrench dependence on fossil fuels. Solutions require a new model that builds wealth and empowers rural communities.
Fines and Fees Are a Barrier to Criminal Record-Clearing
Jurisdictions can take several steps to eliminate the financial barriers imposed by fines and fees, which would help system-impacted individuals clear their records and reenter society.
The American Rescue Plan Can Help States and Localities Meet Employment Goals and Invest in Workers
American Rescue Plan funding allows state and local governments to invest in employment solutions for their residents, including skills training, career pathways in educational settings, child care, and other basic needs.
Maine Provides Leadership on Religion and Vaccines
The Rev. Jane Field of the Maine Council of Churches shares her thoughts on Maine’s approach to containing COVID-19, as well as the response from religious communities in the state.
Fact Sheet: State-by-State Estimates of Eligibility for a 2010 Immigration Registry Update
Updating the Immigration and Nationality Act’s registry date from 1972 to 2010 would allow millions of undocumented immigrants to access a pathway to citizenship.
In 2021, the United States has seen the highest number of abortion restrictions made law in a single year, and the legal context in which this newly enacted legislation will operate is particularly tenuous.
Concealed Carry Is Linked to Increased Gun Violence in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s 2011 concealed carry law has been linked to higher levels of gun violence in the state—and policymakers must take action to correct the problem.
