1. Describe the evolution of state legislatures as discussed in class and the readings. What are the key elements of “reform”? Have these changes improved the capacity of state legislatures? Please provide detailed examples to support your opinion.
2. Please use the framework in the Rosenthal book to describe the role of state governors as policy leaders. Use the governor you have been assigned to write about as an example if you wish, or compare other governors from the text or your other reading. What are the important factors for success??
3. Discuss the elements of fiscal policy as relates to state government. Describe, in detail, the various sources of revenue and categories of expenses. What is the role of debt and future obligations? How does the budget guide state government in addressing policy issues?
4. Choose one of the following policy areas in state government: health and welfare programs, education (primary/secondary or higher), environmental, or economic development. Describe, in detail, the role that states play in developing, influencing, and administering initiative in this particular area. Give specific examples where you think that states have been successful or not.