Peril in the Pipes

In today’s newsletter: Some parts of the population—children, especially—continue to have too much lead in their blood; our experts tell us what their crystal ball says about the coming election; and a new program helps families buy food for the months when students aren’t in school. Also, a former college baseball player had moved on to the legislature, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t still play ball.

Peril in the Pipes: Protecting the Public From Lead Exposure

Despite years of progress in reducing lead in fuels, paints and water service lines, elevated blood lead levels remain an issue for children. An estimated 1 in 40 kids 5 years old and younger have unsafe levels of the toxic metal in their blood.

State Elections Crystal Ball: What’s on the Horizon for 2024

NCSL experts frame the issues as voters prepare to weigh in on legislative seats, governorships and ballot questions galore.

We’ve Moved! Scope of Practice Website Has New Home at NCSL.org

This updated policy resource center tracks bills on scope of practice requirements for health professionals.

Which States Are Expanding Adult Dental Benefits?

Between 2020 and 2023, 26 states expanded Medicaid adult dental benefit offerings. And four of those states expanded their benefits twice during that time. This is just one of many updates captured in CareQuest Institute’s Medicaid Adult Dental Coverage Checker. The tool shows the landscape for Medicaid adult dental benefits, helping to inform both federal- and state-level policymaking conversations.

Explore the Coverage Checker

Iowa’s J.D. Scholten Pitching Bills and Strikes

At age 44, the former college baseball standout had transitioned into politics as a first-term state lawmaker. But when his local team was in a bind and needed a pitcher, he showed he still had some good stuff.

NCSL Supports Summer Food Service Program

The USDA’s food program includes an option that helps families buy food during the summer months when school is not in session. State legislatures supply matching funds to make the option work.

Crisis Intervention and Community-Based Services

People in mental health crisis are more likely to encounter law enforcement than be connected to treatment. States are now building crisis response systems to provide immediate access to support, care and resources.