Message from the executive director.

• Author: Pound, William T.
• Position: National Conference of State Legislatures

Welcome to all who serve in our state legislatures--including the new lawmakers in Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey and Virginia elected last fall--and to the roughly 30,000 legislative staff who keep our institutions running. Given the inertia in Congress, Americans are looking more and more to the states to solve problems. And as the laboratories of democracy, state legislatures deliver. You are the first to tackle tough topics, like those outlined in our cover story about emerging issues. You are the ones who reach across the aisle, negotiate, compromise and collaborate to get things done. You are the innovators.

As you convene in capitals across the country and begin the difficult work of solving some of the nation's biggest challenges. I'd like to remind you that NCSL is here to help. We provide thorough, unbiased and comprehensive information to help you navigate complex policy issues. Visit ncsl.org regularly and be sure to download our new mobile app from the Apple or Android store.

I'd like to extend my gratitude to those of you who are involved in NCSL, whether by serving on our executive committee or one of our standing committees, sharing your perspective and expertise, using our services or...