NCSL Releases Top 10 Issues Forecast, Calendar for State Legislatures; Budgets, Elections Serve as Major Backdrops

12/23/2003

From: Gene Rose of the National Conference of State Legislatures, 303-856-1518

DENVER, Dec. 23 -- Budgets and elections are major backdrops for the 2004 state legislative sessions, according to a top 10 list issued today by the National Conference of State Legislatures. NCSL issued its annual forecast as 36 state legislatures prepare for the start of their regular legislative sessions next month, in a pivotal election year.

The top 10 issues forecast looks at 10 issues that will cross state and political lines in the 2004 sessions. The full release can be found at http://www.ncsl.org/programs/press/2003/pr031223.htm.

In addition, the state legislative calendar notes that 44 states are holding regular legislative sessions in 2004, in an election year where 78 percent of state legislative seats are up for grabs. The full release can be found at http://www.ncsl.org/programs/press/2003/pr031222.htm.

NCSL is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. NCSL provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.