Author: Yemi Adewunmi

  • What Are E-Government Services?

    What Are E-Government Services?

    The digital age has brought about the intersection of technology and government services. These services, known as e-government, have brought about innovative transformation. E-government is not just about moving services online. It’s about reimagining the relationship between the U.S. government and its citizens.

    E-government has allowed the U.S. government to become more accessible, transparent, and inclusive. By harnessing technology, the government can streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and provide beneficial services to citizens. As such, e-government services bridge the gap between the government and its citizens. It makes it easier for Americans to access vital services, engage in policy-making, and hold their government accountable.

    The E-Government Act of 2002

    At the heart of this transformation in the United States is the E-Government Act of 2002. This landmark legislation was designed to improve the management of federal government activities. Prior to the E-Government Act, the U.S. government had a disjointed approach to digital initiatives. Federal agencies operated under a patchwork of systems and services, hindering rather than facilitating access to government information and services.

    The E-Government Act was not merely a policy adjustment. It was a strategic overhaul designed to bring federal agencies into the digital age. The Act required Agencies to move towards electronic government. In doing so, it set the stage for a more interconnected and efficient federal infrastructure.

    Objectives of the E-Government Act of 2002

    The objectives of the E-Government Act were multifaceted and ambitious. It sought to make the federal government not only more efficient and cost-effective, but also more transparent and participatory.

    Enhancing Internet-Based Services

    Primarily, the Act sought to improve the management of e-gov services and processes. It promoted use of the internet and other technology to enhance citizen access to government information. Ultimately, legislators who supported the Act envisioned a government where citizens could easily access a wide array of services online, from renewing licenses to filing taxes and participating in public consultations.

    Increasing Transparency and Opportunities for Citizen Engagement

    The goals of the E-Government Act also extended to:

    • Increasing opportunities for citizen participation in government
    • Improving government accountability through enhanced access to information
    • Maximizing the value of government information through increased availability and access

    Bridging the digital divide was a key step towards achieving these goals. For effective e-government, all Americans must be able to access online government services.

    Improving Collaboration Within the Government

    Finally, the Act went beyond reducing costs and burdens for businesses and citizens. It also sought to improve collaboration between government agencies themselves. The Act created a technology-enabled, collaborative system to help government agencies share information and systems. As such, agencies were able to avoid duplication and leverage the power of technology.

    What Did the E-Government Act of 2002 Do?

    The E-Government Act established a framework for e-government initiatives. This included the creation of the Office of Electronic Government within the Office of Management and Budget. The new Office was tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Act.

    The Act also called for:

    • The development of federal websites to improve the service delivery to the public
    • The protection of privacy in government websites and digital services
    • The use of technology to improve the readiness for and response to emergencies

    Overall, the Act laid the groundwork for a more unified, efficient, and citizen-centered approach to government service delivery. It was a significant step towards a fully digital government.

    Key E-Government Initiatives

    Regulations.gov

    One of the pivotal outcomes of the E-Government Act is the eRulemaking initiative. This initiative changed how the public interacts with the rulemaking process, which is a cornerstone of democratic engagement. In the United States, rulemaking is a structured process where agencies develop, propose, and finalize new regulations. Rulemaking also allows for public input through notice and comment periods before implementation.

    Engaging with the rulemaking process was once a daunting task. Regulations.gov has removed many of these barriers. Now, with a few clicks, individuals can:

    • Submit comments on proposed regulations
    • Review others’ submissions
    • Stay updated on issues that matter to them

    Regulations.gov has democratized access to shaping the laws and regulations that govern daily life.

    The Traditional Regulatory Process: Cumbersome and Inaccessible

    As mentioned, participating in the regulatory process was once cumbersome and inaccessible. Details of proposed rules were published in the Federal Register, a dense, daily journal of government activities. Beyond being well-versed in the procedural nuances of rulemaking, individuals had to know when a rule would be published. They had to navigate a complex submission process that varied from one agency to another. This system favored organizations with resources and knowledge, leaving the general public with limited avenues to participate.

    The Impacts of eRulemaking on Digital Accessibility and Transparency

    Regulations.gov was launched as part of the eRulemaking initiative. The platform centralized access to proposed rules and regulations from participating federal agencies. Now, citizens can easily search, view, and comment on them electronically. The impact of this shift on digital accessibility was profound. Regulations.gov now hosts millions of comments from the public on a wide array of rulemaking activities. In some cases, eRulemaking has enabled significant public influence on policy outcomes. During the Net Neutrality debate, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) received millions of comments through the portal. Comments reflected a broad spectrum of views from individuals, businesses, and organizations. This public engagement played a crucial role in shaping the FCC’s approach to internet regulation.

    The transition to eRulemaking has not just streamlined the rulemaking and regulatory process. It has fundamentally changed who can participate in rulemaking. By lowering the barriers to entry, Regulations.gov has empowered a more diverse and representative cross-section of Americans to have their voices heard.

    USA.gov

    Another critical development driven by the E-Government Act is the launch of USA.gov. USA.gov aggregates a vast array of government resources and services into a single, user-friendly platform. As such, it has simplified how citizens engage with government resources. On USA.gov, Americans can find information on federal programs and accessing services. It’s also a useful tool for learning about how the government works. USA.gov serves as a central gateway to the breadth and depth of what the U.S. government offers.

    FirstGov.gov: The Foundation

    FirstGov.gov, the first iteration of USA.gov, was launched in September 2000. The initiative was groundbreaking, providing citizens, businesses, and other government entities with a single point of access to an extensive range of resources. FirstGov.gov helped make the U.S. government more digitally accessible, allowing it to better serve Americans.

    Its start was fueled by the vision and support of internet entrepreneur Eric Brewer. Brewer donated a powerful search engine technology, stemming from research funded by the Department of Defense. This donation was instrumental in accelerating the development and launch of FirstGov.gov.

    In January 2007, FirstGov.gov rebranded as USA.gov. This change was more than nominal. It represented a strategic enhancement of the portal’s interface, usability, and scope of services. With this transition, USA.gov aligned with broader efforts under the E-Government Act.

    Significant Milestones

    Over the years, USA.gov has expanded its offerings and improved its user experience. Key developments include:

    • The introduction of a Spanish-language counterpart, GobiernoUSA.gov (now USA.gov en Español)
    • The launch of mobile applications and social media channels to reach a wider audience
    USA.gov aggregates a vast array of government resources and services into a single, user-friendly platform. As such, it has simplified how citizens engage with government resources. On USA.gov, Americans can find information on federal programs and accessing services. It’s also a useful tool for learning about how the government works.

    These efforts have broadened the accessibility and convenience of government information.

    USA.gov and its Spanish counterpart have seen a steady increase in user engagement. By FY 2022, the platform had engaged with over 105 million users. USA.gov’s continued growth and engagement reflects Americans’ growing reliance on digital resources for government-related information and services.

    The Role of USA.gov Today

    Today, USA.gov remains a central hub for Americans seeking to access government information and services. It enables users to navigate federal agencies and services with ease, including:

    • Applying for benefits
    • Finding health resources
    • Learning about legal requirements
    • Engaging in civic activities

    USA.gov’s evolution and enhancements reflect the ongoing commitment to making government more accessible and transparent.

    Healthcare.gov

    Launched as part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Healthcare.gov is one of the most ambitious and scrutinized e-gov services initiatives in U.S. history. Launched in October 2013, it aimed to revolutionize the way Americans access and enroll in health insurance.

    Healthcare.gov is an online marketplace where Americans can:

    • Compare health insurance plans
    • Determine eligibility for financial assistance
    • Enroll in a plan that meets their needs

    The platform’s rollout faced a gamut of implementation challenges. Regardless, Healthcare.gov marked significant successes. It also profoundly impacted American health insurance coverage rates.

    Implementation Challenges

    The initial launch of Healthcare.gov was fraught with technical issues. High visitor volumes overwhelmed the system. This led to long loading times, error messages, and difficulties in account creation and plan enrollment.

    Integrating databases and systems across federal agencies proved challenging. Further, ensuring real-time data synchronization presented substantial hurdles. Finally, though of the utmost importance, ensuring the protection of personal and health information added complexity. These challenges hindered Healthcare.gov’s initial development and deployment.

    But implementation challenges faced by Healthcare.gov were not just technical. Public perception issues and political controversy surrounded the ACA itself. As such, successful implementation required more than technical solutions. Strategic communication and outreach efforts were necessary to build trust and encourage use.

    Successes and Evolution

    Despite its rocky start, Healthcare.gov achieved improved stability, performance, and user experience. The federal government and technology teams undertook significant efforts to rectify early issues. These include:

    • Enhanced server capacity
    • Streamlined user interfaces
    • More efficient back-end processes to verify users’ information and eligibility.

    Over time, Healthcare.gov evolved into a more reliable and user-friendly platform.

    Impact on Insurance Coverage Rates

    Healthcare.gov has had a significant impact on health insurance coverage rates. Between 2010 and 2016, the ACA helped reduce the uninsured rate by 43%. This translates to approximately 20 million Americans gaining coverage. This reduction cannot be attributed solely to Healthcare.gov. State-run exchanges and Medicaid expansion also played significant roles. However, the platform has made health insurance more accessible and understandable to millions of Americans. Healthcare.gov helps Americans make more informed decisions about their health insurance. These decisions lead to better health outcomes and financial protection against medical costs.

    Challenges and the Road Ahead

    It’s clear that e-government services have transformed public engagement with the government. However, these benefits are not without challenges. Ongoing concerns remain, including:

    • Ensuring privacy and security
    • Overcoming disparities in access to technology
    • Securing the necessary funding and management to sustain e-government initiatives
    • Adapting to keep pace with technological changes

    Cybersecurity Measures and Privacy Policies

    Implementing robust cybersecurity measures and privacy policies is necessary to protect user data. Unauthorized access, data breaches, and other threats endanger the security of e-government services. Adopting a multi-layered security approach is necessary to safeguard personal information. Encryption, SSL certificates, and end-to-end data protections are key to this approach.

    Beyond technical measures, comprehensive privacy policies are required. These policies ensure transparency in how personal data is collected, used, and stored. They must comply with regulations that set stringent standards for data privacy and security. These include the GDPR in the European Union and HIPAA in the United States.

    User authentication processes have also been strengthened. Multi-factor authentication requires users to provide two or more verification factors in order to access their accounts. These measures not only enhance security, but also ensure that user data remains confidential and protected.

    Bridging the Digital Divide

    Disparities in access to technology prevent the U.S. from achieving inclusive digital governance. These disparities are often referred to as the digital divide. Various initiatives to enhance digital accessibility and literacy can address this issue.

    Mobile Accessibility

    Widespread smartphone use has led many e-government services to optimize for mobile access. Mobile apps and responsive design ensure that users can access government services anytime, anywhere. Mobile accessibility allows those who do not have access to a desktop computer or broadband internet to access e-gov services.

    Multilingual Resources

    To serve diverse populations, e-government platforms often provide resources in multiple languages. Non-English speakers require access to government services and information in their native language. Multilingual support not only enhances accessibility, but also promotes inclusivity. With multilingual resources, e-gov services ensure that language barriers do not impede access.

    Outreach Programs

    The U.S. government has also launched various outreach and education programs. Targeting underserved communities, these programs aim to raise awareness about e-gov services. They might also have the goal of improving digital literacy. To do so, outreach programs offer training and resources to help individuals navigate digital platforms and access online services. Community centers, libraries, and non-profits often collaborate on these efforts. Community partners provide crucial support in bridging the digital divide.

    Increasing Internet Accessibility

    Public Wi-Fi access points and subsidized internet service programs aim to increase internet accessibility. Directed towards low-income households, these initiatives address internet affordability and availability. These initiatives play a pivotal role in ensuring that all Americans can benefit from e-government services.

    The Future of E-Government

    Successful e-government requires continuous innovation, commitment, and public engagement. Future initiatives must build on the successes of Rulemaking.gov, USA.gov, and Healthcare.gov. They also must address the challenges inherent to e-government head-on. With these efforts, e-government services can continue to foster a more informed, engaged, and empowered citizenry.

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  • Cryptocurrency Regulation and Laws in 2024

    Cryptocurrency Regulation and Laws in 2024

    There are many good reasons to centralize data. Storing data in a single location makes it easier for an organization to access, organize, and update said data. The analyses gleaned from highly consolidated databases are more likely to be comprehensive and consistent. Administrators of centralized servers can more readily look for evidence of data quality issues and security breaches. Finally, centralizing data allows applications to operate in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

    There are also less desirable outcomes from data centralization. Concentrated power, sacrificed privacy, reduced accountability, and curbed competition are a few. We know this because the internet has become increasingly centralized over the last 25 years. This process began when a handful of companies created user-friendly applications. These apps and websites made the world wide web highly accessible. Now, the vast majority of internet activity ends up recorded in databases owned by Google, Meta, Amazon, and Microsoft, and others.

    Blockchain technology is a response to the negative side effects of data centralization. It is an alternative approach to structuring digital information. Blockchain technology allows data to be stored across multiple computers in a network. The nature of blockchain means that individual computers can reliably verify the authenticity of the information received from other “nodes” in the blockchain network. Every time data on a blockchain is shared, the transaction is automatically recorded in a distributed ledger. The distributed ledger cannot be modified.

    Helpful explanations of blockchain have been published by government entities like the U.S. Government Accountability Office, the National Institute for of Standards and Technology, and the Department of Homeland Security.

    Blockchain’s Most Prominent Application: Cryptocurrency 

    Blockchains can store virtually any kind of data, but the initial use cases enabled the creation of cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin, the first cryptocurrency, was launched in 2009. Since then, cryptocurrencies have allowed people to conduct secure financial transactions. Cryptocurrency transactions are completed without the involvement of a national authority, such as a central bank.

    Early on, critics argued that only criminal actors would benefit from such a system. Cryptocurrency has potential to fund extremist groups as well as facilitate money laundering and dark web transactions. While threats remain, cryptocurrency has many benefits. These include:

    • Increasing participation in the global economy, particularly for people from developing countries
    • Reducing the risks associated with conducting business in new markets
    • Facilitating more efficient transactions at a lower cost
    • Protecting private citizens from corrupt government seizure of their assets
    • Reducing security risks of identity theft
    • Preserving personal privacy and individual autonomy

    For better or worse, policymakers appear to be coming to terms with the fact that cryptocurrencies are “here to stay.” Policymakers have moved beyond attempting to ban the technology or ignoring it altogether. Rather, they’re now focusing on figuring out how to approach responsible crypto-asset regulation.

    Crypto and Public Policy: Multiple Dimensions of Financial Regulation

    The prospects for Congressional action on cryptocurrency remain murky. This is in part because of the sheer number of pertinent issues that must be addressed. Issues range from ensuring the stability of financial markets to determining the legal implications of smart contracts.

    Currently, at least four federal regulatory authorities are involved in managing cryptocurrency risks. This includes the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Commodity Features Trading Commission (CFTC), the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Department of the Treasury. Each organization would take a different approach to a comprehensive regulatory framework. Below, we examine the enforcement priorities of each.

    SEC: Protecting Investors and Closing Loopholes

    The foundation of all SEC regulation is reporting requirements. These requirements are intended to help investors make sound decisions. Companies that sell shares or “securities” are required by the SEC to file a registered public offering statement prior to distributing to investors. Additionally, organizations that facilitate the buying and selling of securities, including stock exchanges and certain types of investment firms, must register as national securities exchanges. 

    From the SEC’s perspective, many cryptocurrency offerings are effectively the same as securities sales. This means that cryptocurrency companies must comply with the same investor protection standards that govern publicly-traded companies. This includes regular disclosures related to corporate governance and susceptibility to market risks.

    The SEC also seeks to classify certain cryptocurrency companies as securities exchanges. This is because they allow users to trade in their digital assets for traditional currencies. As an example, in its ongoing complaint against Coinbase, Inc., the SEC charges that the organization has been operating as an unregistered national securities exchange since 2019.

    CFTC: Deterring Market Manipulators and Stopping Scams

    The CFTC is concerned with curbing fraud and other deceptive behaviors in derivatives markets. Derivatives are financial investment contracts. Their value comes from the market price of an underlying asset, such as a currency or a commodity.  Commodities have historically included resources like wheat, gold, and oil, and, since 2015, Bitcoin.

    For nearly a decade, the CFTC has sought to regulate Bitcoin and other digital currencies. In that time, the agency has primarily focused on bringing cases against market manipulators. Mitigating the abuses brought by market manipulators is particularly important with cryptocurrency regulation. Once a person falls victim to a scam, transactions function like digital contracts that cannot be reversed or disputed. Blockchains also make it easy for scammers to hide their real identity, acting quickly to withdraw their ill-earned gains as cash before disappearing.

    DoJ: Prosecuting Fraud and Curbing Illicit Finance

    A key aspect of the DoJ’s approach to cryptocurrency is targeting criminals who use crypto to conduct nefarious activities, like funding terrorist groups and committing cyber crimes. In 2021, the DoJ’s Criminal Division announced the launch of the National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET). As a subdivision of the Fraud Section, the NCET’s aim was to combat the use of cryptocurrency as an illicit tool. It focuses on instances of extortion, fraud, and money laundering.

    The DoJ goes beyond combatting criminal crypto activity. The Department also targets crypto exchanges that turn a blind eye to such crimes. The prosecution of former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhoa is an example of such efforts. Zhoa’s prosecution centered on his failure to implement an effective anti-money laundering program.

    Department of the Treasury: Interpreting and Enforcing Tax Law

    The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sits within the Department of the Treasury. In its capacity to regulate cryptocurrency, the IRS evaluates crypto assets within the context of the tax code. Typically, the money an individual gains or loses from securities and commodities transactions over the course of a given year are reported to the IRS by their broker. This standard reporting practice helps deter tax evasion.

    The decentralized and private nature of cryptocurrency presents challenges for the IRS. Since crypto is inherently decentralized, determining who qualifies as a broker is challenging. The privacy-preserving nature of blockchain also complicates compliance logistics for digital asset monitoring.

    Looking Ahead: A Push to Fill in Gaps in Federal Cryptocurrency Regulation

    Many arms of the federal government are actively involved in cryptocurrency regulation. Despite this, each has also issued calls for Congressional action. No matter how creative or involved enforcement agencies may get, gaps will remain. Regulators are unable to fully mitigate the unique risks associated with blockchain. Comprehensive blockchain regulation is still

    Cryptocurrency regulation is multifaceted. It’s important for observers to keep in mind the wide range of legislative proposals. As an example, bills have been introduced to:

    • Dictate new CFTC reporting requirements for digital asset trading platforms (HR.5966) 
    • Expand the applicability of existing federal anti-money laundering laws to cover digital assets (S.2669)
    • Require crypto advertisements to disclose when celebrity spokespeople have been paid for their endorsements (S.1358)
    • Direct agencies to study the environmental impacts of cryptocurrency mining (S.661)

    Opinions on cryptocurrency regulation don’t fall along clear party lines. In the absence of obvious partisan signals, monitoring the details of competing proposals is especially important.

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  • Federalism: Balancing State vs. Federal Powers

    Federalism: Balancing State vs. Federal Powers

    Who makes the laws that govern your life? If you live in the United States, more than one government is in charge. To stay on top of policy changes and understand state vs. federal powers, it helps to know which level of government has the power to make laws in different domains.

    The United States uses a system called federalism, which is the division of powers between national and regional governments. This allows states to test ideas independently. They can act as “laboratories of democracy,” as U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis put it.

    After the United States declared its independence in 1776, the Continental Congress drafted the Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union. This became the new country’s basis of government. The document granted much power to the 13 states and very little to Congress, making the national government ineffective and creating conflict among states. State delegates later met in 1787 to create the Constitution of the United States. This new Constitution established a federalist system with more balanced state vs. federal powers.

    This didn’t settle the matter, though. Throughout the country’s history, the state and federal governments of the United States have struggled over power. Key U.S. Supreme Court decisions expanded federal authority through the American Civil War, before restricting it again in the later 1800s and early 1900s. The “New Deal” strengthened the government again in the 1930s, while changes in the 1980s returned some power to the states.

    The one constant is the U.S. Constitution — and even that can change with amendments. One amendment in particular is crucial to dividing federal and state powers.

    The Tenth Amendment

    The Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is the last amendment in the Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791. It reads, “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.”

    This limits the federal government to the specific powers outlined in the Constitution. The U.S. Congress also can pass any laws that are “necessary and proper” to carry them out.

    Enumerated Powers

    Enumerated, or expressed, powers are those listed in the Constitution as belonging to the federal government. Examples of Congress’ enumerated powers include:

    • Taxation and levying tariffs
    • Borrowing money
    • Regulating foreign and interstate commerce (between states)
    • Establishing naturalization rules
    • Establishing bankruptcy rules
    • Coining money
    • Creating post offices and post roads
    • Securing intellectual property
    • Creating federal courts below the Supreme Court
    • Declaring war
    • Raising and supporting an army
    • Providing and maintaining a navy
    • Calling forth a militia to execute federal laws, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions

    The federal government also holds powers that aren’t listed in the Constitution but are needed to carry out other powers. According to Article 1, Section 8, “The Congress shall have Power… to make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof.” In McCulloch v. Maryland, the Supreme Court ruled that this “Necessary and Proper Clause” gives the federal government certain implied powers.

    There are many implied powers, including:

    • Creating a national bank
    • Setting a minimum wage
    • Creating labor laws
    • Regulating immigration
    • Creating a military draft

    The Supreme Court plays a large role in defining these powers when it tests whether federal laws are constitutional.

    Reserved Powers

    Reserved powers are any powers that state governments keep under the Tenth Amendment. States hold any power that the Constitution has not assigned to the federal government or disallowed. Examples include:

    • Creating local governments
    • Regulating intrastate commerce (within a state)
    • Creating and maintaining public schools
    • Protecting public health and safety
    • Regulating marriage and divorce
    • Holding elections

    The federal government may not directly control these areas, but it can give incentives for states to do what it wants through grants and mandates. Grants from the federal government to the states may come with strict instructions for how to use the money. This has influenced welfare programs and public education. Mandates put conditions on federal funding that may not be related to how those funds are spent. For example, Congress has tied highway funding to setting the minimum age for purchasing alcohol at 21 years.

    Division of State vs. Federal Powers

    The division of powers between state and federal governments isn’t always clear-cut. Some belong only to the federal government or are reserved to the states, while other powers are shared between them.

    In 1960, political researcher Morton Grodzins criticized an old view of U.S. federalism as a “layer cake” with clearly divided parts. He said modern federalism was more like a “marble cake,” made up of different parts that swirl together. Even so, some defined boundaries still exist.

    Exclusive Federal Powers

    State governments cannot use exclusive powers belonging to the federal government without federal permission. Several enumerated powers are exclusive, including:

    • Coining money
    • Taxing imports and exports
    • Declaring war
    • Creating treaties and foreign agreements
    • Regulating interstate commerce

    Powers like these help the nation act as a union, especially in the areas of trade and foreign relations. Individual states cannot create their own currency or set up their own trade agreements. They also cannot go to war or sign treaties on their own. On official business, the rest of the world interacts with the United States of America as a whole.

    These powers also keep states from creating barriers to trade with each other, as they did under the Articles of Confederation.

    Concurrent Powers

    Both federal and state governments share certain powers called concurrent powers. Examples include:

    • Taxation
    • Establishing banks
    • Administering courts
    • Making and enforcing laws
    • Spending money for the general welfare of the public

    What happens when Congress and state legislatures use their concurrent powers to pass laws that don’t agree? Congress can write an express provision into a bill saying that its law preempts any state laws on the subject. Even without an express preemption provision, federal laws take priority over state laws if the two come into conflict.

    This is due to the “Supremacy Clause” in Article VI of the Constitution. It names the U.S. Constitution as “the supreme law of the land,” along with federal laws written under its authority. The Supreme Court ruled in McCulloch v. Maryland that this allows for federal preemption over state law.

    Balancing State vs. Federal Powers: Current Issues

    Power struggles between the federal and state governments continue to this day. They likely always will.

    Many state laws now conflict with federal law on the topic of marijuana, or cannabis. The production, sale, possession, and use of marijuana is illegal under federal law. The federal government has claimed authority over the drug trade through its power to control interstate commerce. Meanwhile, states are pushing back to claim their own authority over intrastate commerce and public safety. Starting in 1996, individual states began legalizing marijuana for medical use. They started to make recreational use legal in 2012. As of March 2024, 24 states have legalized recreational cannabis and another 14 allow it for medical purposes.

    In recent years, immigration has become another common battleground for state vs. federal powers. The Constitution gives the federal government the power to make and enforce naturalization rules, regulate foreign commerce, and declare war on foreign nations. These powers form the basis of regulating immigration as an implied power. Some states still try to restrict immigration or increase border control on their own. Other state and local governments choose not to enforce some federal immigration laws.

    Tensions also abound in healthcare and public health. Some states have fought federal mandates in the Affordable Care Act, saying they overstep into state powers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, federal authority over critical nationwide issues collided with state authority over public safety, schools, and business within a state. Many of these tensions are still not resolved.

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  • Revolutionizing Public Policy Research in Academia: Plural for Universities

    Revolutionizing Public Policy Research in Academia: Plural for Universities

    When it comes to academic research, technology presents unparalleled opportunities. This is especially true within public policy, legislative, and government studies. Colleges and universities stand at the forefront of this effort, tasked with providing helpful information and shaping students into prepared professionals.

    Studying public policy and government data comes with unique challenges. The sheer volume of information available can be overwhelming, making it difficult for students and researchers to pinpoint relevant data amidst the noise. Further, the existing infrastructure for accessing legislative information is often outdated, fragmented, and decidedly not user-friendly. These challenges unnecessarily complicate the policy research process.

    Software tools like Plural become indispensable in this context. With best-in-class public policy data, Plural serves as a navigational aid, guiding students and researchers through the research process. Plural enables users to access, analyze, and synthesize information with greater efficiency and accuracy.

    By streamlining the policy research process, Plural goes beyond enhancing academic work. Adding Plural to your University’s tech stack helps ensure that students are equipped with real-world public policy skills. Adopting software tools like Plural are a critical step towards preparing the next generation of policy leaders.

    Plural for Universities

    Plural has partnered with universities across the country. Through harnessing the power of Plural’s public policy intelligence tool, researchers and students can generate powerful insights into history, current trends, representation, and more. Learn more below.

    Best-in-Class Public Policy Data

    No matter what issue you’re researching, Plural offers an intuitive, easy-to-use solution. Plural’s best-in-class public policy data ensures that students and researchers get comprehensive information in real-time.

    Plural’s suite of tools allows for efficient deep dives into legislative information. This includes:

    • Tools to discover everything there is to know about a bill
    • Legislator and staffer information
    • Historical data
    • AI-powered insights
    • And more!

    Plural helps students and researchers develop real-world, comprehensive policy intelligence. Understanding the nuances of policy changes, legislative developments, and their implications sets the tone for impactful research and informed debate.

    Advanced Search, Advanced Insights

    With Plural, it’s easy to filter through the noise to find relevant data with advanced search capabilities. Advanced search functionality is a game-changer for public policy students and researchers. Search by keyword, legislature, session, bill status, and more. Plural helps students and researchers uncover what they’re looking for.

    Precise querying ensures that they can find specific legislative documents, legislator information, and historical data relevant to their work. With easy access to the right information, students and researchers can begin generating impactful insights and knowledge. Advanced search’s helpfulness goes beyond access. It’s about enabling researchers to build a more nuanced, comprehensive understanding of policy.

    Real-Time Updates

    Public policy moves fast — Plural helps students and researchers discover key information quickly. With real-time notifications, Plural users never miss an update. When it comes to research, success hinges on the relevancy of the information at hand. Real-time updates ensure that research is always grounded in the most current data. This immediacy transforms students’ and researchers’ ability to contribute timely and relevant insights to academic and policy discussions, significantly enhancing their success and impact in the field.

    Collaboration Without Limits

    At Plural, we know that an effective education is built on knowledge-sharing and collaboration. What’s more, in the field of public policy research, where perspectives from various disciplines can enrich analysis, the ability to work together effortlessly is invaluable. That’s why we never limit collaboration.

    Plural encourages seamless collaboration, breaking down traditional barriers within academic institutions. Tag legislation based on topics, and invite peers to securely collaborate on projects, even if they don’t have a Plural account. Students can even create separate secure workspaces for each project.

    Seamless Organization

    Public policy research can be messy. Plural helps students and researchers organize their thoughts and work. Best-in-class collaboration tools allow you to keep your peers and colleagues in the loop. Organize bills with tags, upload files, add notes and annotations, and more, all in one place.

    Preparing the Next Generation

    Leading institutions like Columbia University and the University of Minnesota trust Plural to enhance their students’ and researchers’ policy work.

    The benefits of Plural for policy research go beyond immediate improvements to research output and collaboration. Plural plays a crucial role in preparing the next generation of policy professionals. By integrating Plural into their curriculum, universities offer a hands-on experience with the complexities of policy research. Plural equips students with the skills needed to navigate and influence policy.

    As universities adapt to and incorporate technology, tools like Plural become increasingly critical. In Plural, academic institutions have a robust partner in their efforts to contribute to policy discourse and prepare students for their future.

    Plural for Universities: Get Started

    Plural is not just another software provider; it’s a pivotal partner for academic institutions dedicated to leading the charge in public policy research. By offering tools that enhance access to data, streamline research processes, and foster collaboration, Plural sets a new standard for academic research in the digital age.

    Interested in learning more about Plural? Book a demo today!

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  • Privacy Regulation in the Digital Age 

    Privacy Regulation in the Digital Age 

    In 2016, researchers on communications and internet policy presented a paper on “the biggest lie on the internet.” The falsehood in question? “I agree to these terms and conditions.”

    The paper made a splash because it confirmed what most of us already knew about how effectively users guard their personal privacy online, albeit in the starkest terms possible. The study demonstrated that when presented with terms of service that would sign away one’s first-born child to an online service provider, 98% of users clicked “yes.” Needless to say, the results inspired little confidence in the state of tech privacy. 

    What is Data Privacy? 

    Though intuitively understood by most people, there is no universal definition for the term “privacy.” Policymakers became particularly aware of this fact in the 1960s. At that time, early computers raised questions about the ethics of centralizing personal information. A legal scholar named Alan Westin set forth the following definition, which remains relatively well accepted:

    Privacy is “the claim of individuals, groups, or institutions to determine for themselves when, how, and to what extent information about them is communicated to others.”

    Tech Privacy as a Public Policy Issue

    In today’s terms, policy questions central to tech privacy include:

    • What information can/should internet companies collect about users?
    • Who owns the personal information about an individual? (Read: Who is able to monetize it?)
    • Do users need to consent to the collection and/or sharing of their personal data? If so, what are the criteria for meaningful consent?
    • Can personal data collected in one context be used for an unrelated purpose? 
    • How transparent must tech companies be with users about their business models?
    • How are misuses of data identified? How are laws enforced?
    • What counts as personal data? Do social media posts, location data and/or search engine history?

    Regulating Data Privacy

    Scholars like Westin were only half successful in pushing Congress to protect the “claim” of people to their personal information. The U.S. Privacy Act of 1974, passed in the aftermath of Watergate, imposed limits on how the government could gather, store, and disseminate citizens’ data. For better or worse, no such constraints were applied to the private sector. Decades later, there is still no comprehensive privacy law that governs how personal data is collected or used in the United States. This puts the US in stark contrast with the European Union (EU), which notably enacted its General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, in 2018. 

    Federal-Level: Stagnant Sector-Specific Regulation

    There are limited situations where privacy regulations do exist at the federal level. In these instances, regulations take the form of sector-specific laws which impose requirements on organizations that meet certain criteria. Some examples include:

    • HIPAA for healthcare providers, health insurance companies, and healthcare clearinghouses
    • GLBA for financial institutions, including businesses that provide financial products or services to consumers
    • FERPA for all K-12 schools, colleges, and universities that receive federal funds

    In today’s data economy, the piecemeal approach to privacy leaves many gaps in consumer protection unaddressed. Entities that fall outside the definition of “covered entity” specified by regulators can largely do what they want with consumer data. Health and wellness apps demonstrate this discrepancy. Although products like fertility monitors, weight loss trackers, and  cognitive behavioral therapy journals all collect medical information from individual users, they are not subject to HIPAA.

    As the shortcomings of sector-specific laws have grown clearer, the pressure for policymakers to act has intensified. Over the last five years, the U.S. Government Accountability Office and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have both made repeated calls for Congress to enact comprehensive privacy legislation. The FTC in particular has repeatedly cited the failure of their fines in curbing the behavior of the largest tech companies, given how readily they can withstand billion-dollar penalties.  

    State-Level: Taking the Lead on Comprehensive Privacy Laws

    In the last three years, local jurisdictions across the US have signaled that they will no longer wait patiently for federal leadership on privacy regulation. Many states have begun experimenting with different approaches to tech privacy, creating a patchwork of emergent laws for companies to navigate.

    As of March 2024, fourteen states have enacted comprehensive privacy laws. There are five currently in effect in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Utah, and Virginia. By early 2025, seven more will become enforceable in Delaware, Iowa, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oregon, and Texas.

    The sudden onslaught of new privacy laws may seem daunting for businesses seeking to ensure their compliance. However, upon closer inspection, most jurisdictions are following a similar script.

    Broadly, there are two mechanisms of action for any privacy regulation: guaranteeing certain rights for individual users and requiring particular actions from tech companies. So far, most states have opted to combine aspects of these approaches in rather similar ways. 

    Generally, consumers are expected to be empowered to access, correct, delete, and opt-out of the sale of their data. Tech companies, on the other hand, are required to disclose the information they collect about users. They are also expected to provide pathways for consumers to exercise their data protection rights. 

    Where state privacy laws differ, the disparities relate to scope and enforcement.

    Virginia’s Consumer Data Protection Act (VCDPA)

    Virginia’s Consumer Data Protection Act (VCDPA) is considered by many privacy advocates to be a relatively lax and limited approach to regulation. The legislation does provide consumers with the rights to access, correct, delete, and obtain a copy of their personal data. However, the definition of “personal data” under VCDPA is rather dramatically narrowed by excluding “any information a business has reasonable grounds to believe falls within the public domain.” Given this definition, the VCDPA considers a person’s social media posts, for example, as fair game.

    Additionally, the VDCPA does not include any private right of action to individual users. This leaves the responsibility of law enforcement solely to the attorney general. Virginia’s approach to tech privacy also includes exemptions for financial institutions, entities covered by HIPAA, nonprofits, and colleges and universities.

    California’s Consumer Protection Act (CCPA)

    By contrast, California’s Consumer Protection Act (CCPA) is more robust. For example, the legislation offers greater specificity regarding the structure and contents of privacy policies, as well as the procedures through which users may notice, access, delete, and opt-out of the sale of their personal data. Further, CCPA  grants a private right of action to consumers who believe tech companies have broken the law in certain circumstances, making California the only state to offer such a provision. 

    CCPA has also set a precedent by seeking to fill some of the gaps created by the federal government’s approach to regulating privacy based on “covered entities.” Rather than granting exemptions for entire categories of organizations, California’s statute limits exemptions to particular data types. So, while a hospital system might not have to worry about CCPA requirements for its HIPAA-protected patient files, such a loophole would not apply to the other types of information it collects. 

    What Is on the Horizon for Tech Privacy Policy?

    For now, California has the toughest approach to privacy policy in the US. Other states are in the process of proposing stricter privacy laws. The Maine legislature is currently considering two competing bills: the Maine Consumer Privacy Act (MCPA) and the Data Privacy and Protection Act (DPPA). While the former is closely aligned with states like Virginia, the latter would introduce compliance dimensions that are unprecedented in any US jurisdiction. Notably, the DPPA includes “data minimization” requirements, which present a challenge to the fundamental business models of many of the largest tech companies.

    Policies like Maine’s DPPA would have likely been dismissed as completely untenable a few years ago. However, recent developments suggest that it might be time for change in the internet economy. Even in the absence of regulatory pressure, businesses are feeling the negative effects of amassing troves of personal data. In 2022, over 80% of organizations suffered a data breach. It’s projected that by 2025, cybercrime will cost the world $10.5 trillion annually. Users are also becoming less tolerant of companies that fail to take their privacy concerns seriously — 65% of consumers have indicated that “misuse of personal data” is the top reason they would lose trust in a brand. 

    Of course, the same factors encouraging states like Maine and California to push the envelope may also move the needle in Congress. In 2022, the American Data Privacy and Protection Act (ADPPA) passed the House Committee on Energy and Commerce with near unanimity. The ADPPA represented the most promising effort to regulate federal consumer data privacy to date. Opinions vary on prospects for the legislation in 2024, with a main point of contention being whether the statute will effectively undo stricter state privacy laws. 

    Monitor Tech Privacy Policy With Plural

    Plural is the legislative tracking tool of choice for policy teams seeking to monitor tech privacy policy. With Plural, you’ll:

    • Access superior public policy data 
    • Be the first to know about new bills and changes in bill status
    • Streamline your day with seamless organization features
    • Harness the power of time-saving AI tools to gain insights into individual bills and the entire legislative landscape
    • Keep everyone on the same page with internal collaboration and external reporting all in one place

    Create a free account or book a demo today!

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  • How New Voting Laws are Impacting the 2024 Elections: A State-by-State Guide

    How New Voting Laws are Impacting the 2024 Elections: A State-by-State Guide

    The 2024 presidential election is right around the corner. In the lead-up to the election, understanding that voting laws vary state-by-state is crucial. This guide offers a concise overview of the evolving landscape of election regulations.

    Each state’s unique approach to elections shapes the democratic process. Between factors like mail-in-voting and voter ID requirements, navigating voting laws is complicated. What’s more, the 2020 election raised concerns over election integrity and the security of our democracy. Heightened scrutiny on absentee and provisional ballots led many legislators to seek to modify our election process. As a response, voting rights advocates aim to break down barriers to voting.

    What’s the status of new voting laws, and how will they impact the 2024 elections? This guide aims to help Americans navigate and understand the upcoming election.

    Election Controversy in 2020

    The 2020 presidential election was marked by confusion and controversy. Following his loss, former President Donald Trump questioned the accuracy of the election. There was surprise among election experts and citizens alike that historically Republican states like Arizona and Georgia went blue. This unprecedented outcome, paired with Trump’s claims, led to a slew of recounts, lawsuits, and calls of fraudulence. 

    Scrutiny and public outcry, though largely unfounded, sowed widespread concern and unrest. On January 6, 2021, then-President Trump hosted a rally in front of the White House. On that day, Congress was set to verify the results of the 2020 election. This gathering quickly became what is now known as the “January 6th Insurrection.” Thousands of rally attendees approached the Capitol and broke into the building, killing five and leaving 174 injured.

    Since the 2020 election, lawsuits on election interference have mostly been settled. Each recount returned without evidence of fraud or election interference. Though these outcomes are positive news regarding the security of our democracy, high levels of distrust remain.

    New Voting Laws in 2024

    Election laws have been a significant focus of legislative action in the United States since the 2020 and 2022 elections. As of the fall of 2023, 14 states have enacted laws that decrease access to voting. On the other side of the issue, 23 states have enacted laws that expand access to voting. All of these bills will be in effect during the 2024 general election. 

    Efforts to Expand Access to Voting

    In 2024, 23 states enacted expansive voting laws, including Michigan, New York, Nevada, and Connecticut, among others. Learn more about new voting laws passed in these states below.

    Michigan SB 367, SB 370, HB 4697, and SB 373

    The Michigan legislature passed SB 367, SB 370, HB 4697, and SB 373 as part of a comprehensive “democracy reform” package. As part of the package, SB 367 expands access to nine days of early voting. The next bill, SB 370 provides an easier process to vote by mail. HB 4697 allows for increased access to drop boxes. Finally, SB 373 sets forth a more expansive list of accepted identifications. 

    New York A 4009, S 1733, and S 5984

    In New York, the state legislature passed A 4009, S 1733, and S 5984 in an effort to expand voting access through various avenues. A 4009 requires correctional facilities to provide voter registration forms to formerly incarcerated people. Next, S 1733 requires high schools to provide voter registration forms to students. Finally, S 5984 allows citizens to register to vote closer to election days.

    Nevada SB 327, SB 216, and AB 286

    The Nevada legislature passed SB 327, SB 216, and AB 286. The laws make it easier for certain historically disadvantaged populations to vote. In particular, SB 327 and SB 216 make it easier to vote on Native Reservations. In addition, AB 286 makes it easier for incarcerated individuals to vote from jail.The new laws also increase accommodations for people with disabilities to exercise their right to vote.

    Connecticut SB 1226

    Finally, the Connecticut state legislature became the sixth state to enact a Voting Rights Act with SB 1226. This came as a result of recent Supreme Court decisions regarding voting. It was an attempt to ensure the discrimination protections provided by the Voting Rights Act are enshrined in state law. Under the new law, municipalities with a history of discriminatory practices are subject to enhanced oversight. The law also created a higher threshold of protection against voter intimidation in the state.

    Efforts to Restrict Access to Voting

    In 2024, 14 states enacted laws restricting voting rights and access, including Nebraska, Mississippi, and Texas, among others. Learn more about new voting laws passed in these states below.

    Nebraska LB 514

    The Nebraska legislature adopted LB 514. The new law requires all mail-in ballot voters without a Nebraska ID to mail in a copy of an approved photo ID alongside their ballot. There are few expectations to this rule, of which do not include the inability to access a printer or photocopier. Therefore, the new law may prevent voters from casting their ballot if they cannot access a printer. 

    Mississippi SB 2358

    In Mississippi, the state legislature passed SB 2358. Under the new law, anyone who is not an election official, postal worker, family member, household member, or caregiver and assists a voter with turning in their ballot will receive criminal penalties. Voting rights advocates argue that the new law will make it more difficult for people with disabilities to vote by mail.

    Texas SB 924

    The Texas legislature passed SB 924, which will allow counties to consolidate polling locations. The new law increases the likelihood of long wait times for voters. It may also require voters to travel a further distance in order to reach their appropriate polling location.

    Overall, the most common forms of restrictive voting legislation include:

    • Curbing access to mail-in voting
    • Increasing voter ID requirements
    • Banning the use of ballot-drop boxes.

    It’s been proven that access to mail-in voting, ballot drop boxes, and less stringent voter ID laws make voting more accessible to low-income or otherwise disadvantaged Americans.

    Implications for the 2024 Elections

    Elections immensely impact economic, social, and political issues throughout the country. Presidential elections only increase these implications, since it’s possible that the entire Executive Branch will be transformed and guided by new priorities, strategies, and goals. Evaluating these implications is a key step in determining which candidate to vote for. Below, we summarize some of the economic, social, and political issues that the 2024 presidential election will impact.

    Economic Implications of the 2024 Election

    The Biden and Trump Administrations have very different strategies on key economic issues. Key economic issues include inflation, taxes, and corporate responsibility. The differences in these policies are crucial — they have a direct impact on job creation, the income of families, and the stability of the economy. Economic issues will play a major role in shaping how voters decide, reflecting what’s best for their own and their community’s financial health.

    Social Implications of the 2024 Election

    The 2024 election is generating significant discussion, especially when it comes to social topics. Biden and Trump have vastly different views on many social issues. They disagree on key issues like abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, affirmative action, and climate change. Social issues go beyond politics; they touch everyday life. Social issues will play a significant role in the 2024 election, as voters weigh the candidates based on their own values.

    Political Implications of the 2024 Election

    In the political arena, the outcome of the 2024 election holds significant consequences for the opposing party. The landscape of bipartisanship has grown increasingly fraught in recent years. Consequently, navigating a divided government poses considerable challenges in advancing policy initiatives. The election results could substantially influence the legislative process.

    Check Your Voter Registration and Make a Plan to Vote

    Ensuring you are registered to vote can be a complicated process. This is especially true if you are new to voting, have recently moved, or recently obtained citizenship. The best way to check your voter registration status within your state is through the U.S. government voter registration website. You’ll be directed to your state’s voter registration status website based on your address and information. 

    Many states have voter registration deadlines of 15+ days prior to the election. This means you must be registered and confirmed prior to that deadline in order to vote in the election. Further, if you have recently moved, even within the same state or district, you must update your voter registration status with your state. Many states allow voters to provide this update electronically. These rules apply to general elections, special elections, and primary elections throughout the United States.  

    Different voting methods will require a more detailed plan that differentiates between states. See our tips below. 

    In-Person Voting

    Voting in-person means you have ensured you are registered to vote within your state. If you’re voting in-person, you’ll be notified of your polling location to cast your ballot. 

    Before arriving to vote, be sure to double check your polling location for each election. It’s not uncommon that a polling location will have moved from the last election due to staffing issues, or space availability. 

    Absentee Ballot

    Absentee ballots are similar to vote-by-mail ballots in that you are able to send in your ballot through mail. There are a few circumstances in which voting through an absentee ballot are accepted. These include if you are out of state during the election or if you are military personnel and currently abroad, or on an out-of-state military base, among others. Many states require absentee voters to provide a credible reason for their need to vote in this way.

    Follow this link to find out if your state allows you to vote via an absentee ballot. 

    Mail-In Ballot

    Mail-in ballots are official programs implemented by state governments allowing people to vote by mail in any election. When voting with a mail-in ballot, voters won’t be required to provide justification as to why they are not voting in-person.

    Vote-by-mail programs have seen increases in voter turnout. They provide voters with the flexibility of mailing their ballot weeks or days ahead of the election. Vote-by-mail programs allow voters with inflexible responsibilities to vote when it works best for them.  

    Provisional Ballot

    Provisional ballots are available for people whose names do not appear on the voter registration list at the precinct. Sometimes this is the result of a mistake — the individual either appeared at the wrong precinct, or thought they were registered to vote but did not complete their registration. In these situations, the individual may cast a provisional ballot. The Registrar’s office will confirm that the individual is able to vote in the election.

    Get Started With Plural to Monitor New Voting Laws in 2024

    The 2024 elections are right around the corner — are you prepared and informed on new voting laws? Plural is the policy tracking tool of choice for those looking to monitor new voting laws in 2024. With Plural, you’ll:

    • Access superior public policy data 
    • Be the first to know about new bills and changes in bill status
    • Streamline your day with seamless organization features
    • Harness the power of time-saving AI tools to gain insights into individual bills and the entire legislative landscape
    • Keep everyone on the same page with internal collaboration and external reporting all in one place

    Interested in getting started? Create a free account or book a demo today!

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  • How to Use Policy Monitoring Tools

    How to Use Policy Monitoring Tools

    Adding Plural’s Momentum Indicator to your suite of policy monitoring tools can enhance your legislative strategy. Learn more today!

    In the dynamic world of policy work, timing is everything. The ability to anticipate legislative movement gives policy professionals a strategic edge. However, gauging the momentum of a bill is no small feat. Plural’s Momentum Indicator offers a novel way to assess a bill’s traction and potential for progress.

    The Challenge of Predicting Legislative Progress

    Identifying which bills are gaining traction is crucial for strategic planning and advocacy. Yet, without the right tools, policy professionals must rely on manual tracking and intuition. This often leads to missed opportunities and misallocated resources.

    Plural’s Momentum Indicator: Your Legislative Monitoring Tool

    Plural’s Momentum Indicator helps policy teams cut through the uncertainty. The Momentum Indicator provides a visual cue that indicates a bill’s momentum at a glance. Utilizing AI and comprehensive legislative data, the Momentum Indicator offers a predictive insight into the potential movement of legislation.

    How It Works

    Examining Historical Data

    To develop the Momentum Indicator, the Plural team began by examining data from previous sessions. This includes:

    • Which bills went up for a passage vote in one or more chambers
    • The actions on those bills
    • Whether those bills were signed by executives

    Training an AI Model

    A machine learning model was trained using the historical legislative data. The model was trained to find patterns and make predictions about which historical bills would be most likely to come up for a vote. By the end of this process, Plural developed a predictive machine learning system capable of identifying bills with potential momentum.

    Easily Find Bills With Momentum

    Plural users can filter their search results to only show bills with potential momentum. To do so, open advanced search filter options and turn on “Show Only Momentum Bills.”

    Real-Time Updates

    The Momentum Indicator is updated in real time, reflecting the latest developments. As such, it ensures that policy professionals have the most current information at their disposal.

    Where to Find It

    Plural makes identifying bills with potential momentum easier than ever. Bills with potential momentum will have a pulse icon next to the Track button and on their Bill Detail page. Plural users can evaluate a bill’s momentum without diving into the details. As such, the Momentum Indicator allows for more efficient prioritization.

    Benefits Unpacked

    Strategic Insight

    Gain an immediate understanding of a bill’s likelihood to advance. The Momentum Indicator helps inform strategic decisions and advocacy efforts.

    Efficiency in Tracking

    Save time by focusing on bills with significant momentum. With efficient tracking, policy teams avoid the pitfalls of tracking legislation that is unlikely to move forward.

    Enhanced Awareness

    Stay ahead of legislative trends by monitoring the momentum of bills across various jurisdictions and topics.

    Get Started With Plural‘s Policy Monitoring Tools

    Get ahead with Plural’s Momentum Indicator. Sign up for a demo today and start leveraging real-time legislative insights. Don’t let critical movements catch you by surprise; let the Momentum Indicator be your guide to the legislative landscape.

    book a demo

    Have Plural’s policy monitoring tools helped shape your legislative strategy? We invite you to share your experiences, highlighting how this tool has made a difference in your policy work. Your story can illuminate the path for others seeking to navigate the complexities of legislation with confidence. Share your experience at support@pluralpolicy.com.

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  • Upcoming Changes to Party Leadership in Congress

    Upcoming Changes to Party Leadership in Congress

    Every two years, a new Congressional election cycle changes the makeup of the United States federal government, including Congressional leaders. Seats in the House of Representatives and Senate may switch parties, possibly flipping the chambers from one political party’s control to the next. Aside from a shift in control, the most impactful changes in Congress may happen in its party leadership.

    Congressional leaders control which legislation comes to a vote and when, which members sit on certain committees, and the priorities of both major parties in Congress. They even influence how other members vote on major issues. Knowing who these leaders are and what they do is key to understanding who holds the power in Congress.

    For example, on March 22, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) filed a motion to vacate the Speaker of the House position. The House of Representatives likely will not take a vote on the issue unless Greene calls for it. If that happens and a majority of representatives approve it, this would remove Mike Johnson as speaker. The House is currently on recess until April 9.

    Key Positions: Congressional Leaders

    There are many congressional leadership positions in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. The most powerful are the Speaker of the House, majority and minority leaders, and whips. Of these, only the speaker is mentioned in the U.S. Constitution. The rest have been established by the traditions and rules of the political parties. Each leadership position has a different set of responsibilities.

    In a rare move, Rep. Kevin McCarthy (D-CA) was ousted as Speaker of the House in October of 2023. Photo credit: Maryland Daily Record.

    Speaker of the House

    The Speaker of the House is the presiding officer and spokesperson of the House of Representatives. The speaker maintains order on the House floor, applies House rules, decides on matters of order, and calls on members to speak. They work with other congressional leaders in the majority party to set the legislative agenda. Further, the speaker sends bills to committees and helps decide which ones come to the floor for debate and when. They may also negotiate with the opposing leader to gain minority party support for bills and budget resolutions. The speaker and House minority leader assign members to the Ethics, House Administration, and Rules committees, as well as all select committees.

    While it is not a Constitutional requirement, every speaker in history has been a sitting representative. The House elects a new speaker every two years at the beginning of a new Congress. Each party’s caucus or conference decides on a candidate, and the parties put forward their choices for a vote. Repeated votes are held until one candidate receives a majority. While uncommon, representatives are free to vote for someone other than their party’s candidate. The speaker is almost always a member of the majority party.

    Rarely, the House can elect a speaker in the middle of a congressional term if the position becomes vacant. The current Speaker of the House, Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA), was elected this way. The previous speaker, Rep. Kevin McCarthy (D-CA), took the post in January 2023 after fifteen rounds of voting and disagreement among Republicans. McCarthy became the first speaker ever removed through a motion to vacate in October of that year. A handful of Republicans and all Democrats voted to remove him from his post. This kicked off four more rounds of roll-call voting that led to Johnson’s election. McCarthy later resigned from Congress effective December 31, 2023.

    Majority Leader

    Majority leaders represent and speak for the majority party in each chamber of Congress. When multiple senators or representatives want to speak on the floor, the presiding officer will call on the majority leader first. They help set the legislative agenda, schedule bills on the calendar, and make committee recommendations. As spokespersons for their party, they may also help promote policies and gain public favor for them.

    This role works a bit differently in the House of Representatives than it does in the Senate. Traditionally, the House majority leader is the speaker’s second-in-command and will share some of the above duties with the speaker. The responsibilities of each position can change slightly with each new speaker and majority leader pair. The House majority leader in 2024 is Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA).

    In the Senate, the majority leader is effectively the leader of the chamber. The U.S. Constitution names the Vice President as the Senate’s presiding officer, but they are rarely active in proceedings. Instead, the majority leader often presides over the chamber, performing duties similar to the Speaker of the House. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is the current Senate majority leader.

    The Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference each choose new majority leaders, minority leaders, and whips before the start of a new Congress. Unlike the Speaker of the House, these positions do not need a floor vote.

    Minority Leader

    Minority leaders are the opposition leaders in the House of Representatives and the Senate. As spokespersons for the minority party in each chamber, they represent their party’s members and interests. They have second priority to speak during floor debates, behind the majority leader. Depending on their party’s strategy, they may oppose the majority’s legislation or negotiate changes to a bill. If the President belongs to the same party, the minority leader often works with the White House toward the President’s legislative goals.

    The minority leader also helps their party regain control of their chamber, often by giving campaign assistance. They criticize the majority’s policies and promote their own party’s agenda to the public.

    Party leaders often keep their roles when control of a chamber switches, so a majority leader might become a minority leader. In the House of Representatives, the former Speaker of the House and the former majority leader may compete for the minority leader role.

    Representative Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) is the House minority leader in 2024. As Democratic party leader, he serves as chair of the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. This group nominates party members for standing committee assignments and advises party leaders on policy. The current Senate minority leader is Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), the longest-serving congressional leader in the Senate with a 17-year tenure as Republican party leader. He is chair of the Republican Steering Committee, which decides the party’s committee assignments.

    Whip

    Whips help their party leaders round up votes for legislation and support for their agenda. Both the majority and minority parties have them. The name comes from “whipper-in,” an old fox hunting term for hunters who kept dogs from straying from the chase.

    In Congress, a whip’s job is to keep party members from straying from the party’s platform. They serve as communicators, negotiators, and enforcers of party discipline. They count the expected votes for important legislation and report feedback to their party leaders. If a piece of legislation needs more votes to pass, they work to persuade members to vote for it. Whips may negotiate changes to the bill or offer support for a different bill. The promise of a committee position, or the threat of losing one, can also change a member’s mind. In addition, whips inform party members about the current legislative agenda and the party’s positions on major issues.

    Both parties may contain several congressional caucuses. Caucuses are subgroups which represent different interests and legislative goals. Sometimes, different caucuses conflict with each other. Whips aim to unite these different groups behind the party’s most important goals.

    Whips may also be called “assistant majority leader,” “assistant minority leader,” “Democratic whip, or “Republican whip.” As of 2024, the current whips in Congress include:

    Upcoming Changes to Congressional Leaders

    At least some of the nation’s congressional leaders will change next year. In February 2024, Senator McConnell announced that he would step down from his position as Senate Minority Leader at the end of the year. Before the next Congress is seated in January 2025, the Senate Republican Conference will select a new leader.

    One potential candidate for Republican Senate leader is Senator John Thune (R-SD), the current minority whip. He will need to step down as whip whether he is elected as the new leader or not. He has served three full two-year terms, which is the limit that Republicans set for their Senate leaders and committee chairs. The party leader is an exception to this rule, which is why McConnell was able to stay so long in his post.

    The Speaker of the House position may also be contested at the start of 2024, if the last two speaker elections are any indication. Both took multiple rounds of voting before Republican representatives united behind a candidate.

    Meanwhile, Democrats all supported Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) as speaker in both elections. If the majority party flips in the House of Representatives, Jeffries is the most likely candidate for speaker. Democrats would choose a new House majority leader, while Republicans would lose one of their leadership positions. A change in the majority of either the House or the Senate in 2025 would also shift that chamber’s legislative priorities.

    Learn More About Congressional Leaders With Plural

    Plural is the policy tracking and stakeholder management tool of choice for public policy teams seeking to monitor changes to congressional leadership, as well as key bills and legislative developments. With Plural, you’ll:

    • Access superior public policy data 
    • Be the first to know about new bills and changes in bill status
    • Streamline your day with seamless organization features
    • Harness the power of time-saving AI tools to gain insights into individual bills and the entire legislative landscape
    • Keep everyone on the same page with internal collaboration and external reporting all in one place

    Interested in getting started? Create a free account or book a demo today!

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  • Mastering Legislative Research: The Power of Global Bill Search

    Mastering Legislative Research: The Power of Global Bill Search

    Thousands of bills are introduced in each jurisdiction throughout each legislative session. Finding the exact bills that matter to you can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The ability to quickly and efficiently find the bills that matter is the key to success in public policy work. Plural’s Global Bill Search feature offers a sophisticated search engine designed to streamline the discovery process and bring relevant legislation to the forefront.

    The Challenge of Finding the Right Bills in Legislative Research

    The task of pinpointing bills that align with your interests or impact your work is daunting. Traditional search methods are a hit or miss, often consuming hours with minimal reward. Plural is here to help.

    Global Bill Search: Your Legislative GPS

    Plural’s AI-powered Global Bill Search tool transforms the way policy professionals explore legislative data. Global Bill Search incorporates advanced search algorithms and filters to offer a targeted approach to legislative research.

    learn more about global bill search

    Where to Find It

    Within the “Related Bills” tab on a bill detail page, you will find the “Global Bill Search” option. Click on the “Begin Search” button to select the legislatures in which you would like to search. Global Bill Search scours other jurisdictions for bills similar to the one you are viewing.

    Benefits Unpacked

    Time-Saving

    Minimize the hours spent sifting through irrelevant bills by using targeted search criteria.

    Comprehensive Results

    Access a broad array of bills from various jurisdictions. Global Bill Search ensures that no stone is left unturned in your research.

    Informed Decision-Making

    Quickly find and analyze relevant legislation in order to make more informed decisions and strategies.

    Get Started With Plural for Legislative Research

    Elevate your legislative research with Plural’s Global Bill Search. Sign up for a demo today and discover how to enhance your efficiency and effectiveness.

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    Has Global Bill Search changed the way you approach legislative research? We’d love to hear about your experiences and how this tool has streamlined your workflow. Your insights could inspire others to embrace this transformative search solution.

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  • Celebrating 7 Notable Women in Nigerian Politics & Advocacy

    Celebrating 7 Notable Women in Nigerian Politics & Advocacy

    As we celebrate Women’s History Month around the world, I’m thinking especially of the women who fight for equal rights. As a Nigerian-American woman myself, I’d like to highlight seven notable women who have contributed to Nigerian politics and advocacy for women’s rights. These women have left indelible marks on Nigerian society, paving the way for more inclusive and dynamic leadership.

    Funmilayo Ransome Anikulapo-Kuti (1900-1978)

    Chief Funmilayo Ransome Anikulapo-Kuti was a pioneering Nigerian activist, educator, freedom-fighter and suffragist. Her legacy has inspired generations of Nigerians and activists worldwide. Chief Funmilayo was a trailblazer in the fight against colonialism, oppression, and gender inequality in Nigeria.

    A pioneer from a young age, Chief Funmilayo was the first girl to attend her grammar school in 1914. She later became a teacher, founding the first preschool classes in Nigeria. Chief Funmilayo also worked diligently to establish literacy programs for women. She remained a staunch advocate for girls’ education throughout her life.

    Chief Funmilayo was also involved in nationalist and women’s organizations. She founded the Abeokuta Women’s Union (AWU) in the mid-1940s as a response to oppressive tax conditions in Nigeria. The group played a key role in the Abeokuta Women’s Revolt of 1948, in which Akeokuta women protested against unjust taxation imposed by colonial authorities. The AWU successfully ended the special taxes on women and ousted the colonial leader of Abeokuta at the time.

    Later, Chief Funmilayo played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s independence movement. She was a founding member of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons Party (NCNC). Chief Funmilayo’s activism extended to politics as well. She was the first woman appointed to the Western House, and one of few women to have a position in any Nigerian House of Chiefs at the time. She also served as a board member for the Nigerian Union of Teachers.

    Kofoworola Ademola (1913-2002)

    Lady Kofoworola Ademola was a prominent Nigerian educator, author, activist, and women’s rights advocate. Born in Lagos in 1913, she was a pioneer in women’s education and gender equality. Lady Ademola founded several schools and promoted educational opportunities for girls in Nigeria.

    She was also actively involved in various social and charitable organizations, including the Nigerian Red Cross Society. Lady Ademola served as President of the National Council of Women’s Sciences in Nigeria and was a Board Member of the International Council of Women. She was also the first black African woman to earn a degree from Oxford University.

    Lady Ademola’s contributions to education and women’s empowerment have left a lasting legacy in Nigeria, inspiring future generations of women leaders.

    Margaret Ekpo (1914-2006)

    Margaret Ekpo was a pioneering Nigerian women’s rights activist and politician. She played a significant role in Nigeria’s fight for independence and the advancement of women’s rights.

    Throughout the 1940s and 50s, Chief Ekpo fought against colonialism and gender inequality. She founded the Market Women Association in the city of Aba to unionize market women. The Association promoted women’s solidarity to fight for economic and political rights.

    Later, Chief Ekpo established the Aba Township Women’s Association. By 1955, women in Aba outnumbered male voters in a citywide election. Chief Ekpo won a seat in the Eastern Regional House of Assembly of the Nigerian Parliament in 1961. As a legislator, she worked on issues related to women’s economic and political rights.

    Hajia Gambo Sawaba (1933-2001)

    Hajia Gambo Sawaba was a prominent Nigerian politician, women’s rights activist and philanthropist. Hailing from the Kano State, she dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of women and the less privileged in Northern Nigeria.

    Sawaba campaigned against under-aged marriages and forced labor. She was also an advocate for western education in the North Sawaba. Her activism also extended to politics. Sawaba was an active member of various political parties. She led the national women’s wing of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and its successor, the People’s Redemption Party (PRP).

    Throughout her career, Sawaba faced persecution and imprisonment for her activism. Despite this, she remained steadfast in her commitment to social justice and equality. Sawaba was imprisoned sixteen times for advocating against child marriage, forced and unpaid labor, and unfair taxes. As one of the most jailed women in Nigerian history, Sawaba was known for her fearless advocacy, challenging traditional norms, and advocating for women’s participation in politics.

    Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (1954)

    Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a prominent economist, diplomat, and public servant. She served twice as Nigeria’s Finance Minister. Later, she also held the position of Managing Director at the World Bank, becoming the first woman and African to do so.

    Okonjo-Iweala played a key role in negotiating Nigeria’s debt relief with the Paris Club of creditors. She’s credited for freeing up resources for social programs and infrastructure. In 2021, she made history as the first woman and African to be appointed Director-General of the World Trade Organization.

    Throughout her career, Okonjo-Iweala has been a vocal advocate for global economic development, poverty reduction, and gender equality. Her leadership and contributions to public service have earned widespread respect and recognition.

    Obiageli Ezekwesili (1963)

    Obiageli Ezekwesili is an economist, educator, and activist known for her significant contributions to governance and public policy. She served as the Vice President of the World Bank’s Africa division and as Nigeria’s Minister of Education from 2006 to 2007.

    Ezekwesili co-founded the #BringBackOurGirls movement, advocating for the rescue of the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram. She spearheaded education reforms and promoting transparent and accountable governance.

    Ezekwesili’s leadership and advocacy have earned her recognition around the world. Her contributions have cemented her as a leading voice for social change and good governance in Nigeria.

    Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi (1963)

    Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi is a prominent gender rights activist. She co-founded the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), an organization that supports women’s rights organizations across Africa.

    In her role as First Lady of the Ekiti State during her husband’s tenure as Governor, Adeleye-Fayemi led various gender rights efforts. She spearheaded campaigns to enact laws prohibiting gender-based violence, allowing for equal opportunities, and preventing stigma against individuals with HIV.

    Adeleye-Fayemi is the author of several books and publications focusing on gender issues and women’s empowerment. Her advocacy work has helped advance women’s rights and gender equality, both in Nigeria and across the African continent.

    Reflecting on Women in Politics in Nigeria

    There are so many incredible women in Nigerian history who have advocated for rights and protections for the most vulnerable members of society. I’m thankful for their work in creating a future where women have more freedom. 

    Plural: Policy Tracking In Nigeria

    Plural is the policy tracking and legislative intelligence tool of choice for teams looking to monitor public policy in Nigeria and South Africa. With Plural, you’ll:

    • Access superior public policy data 
    • Be the first to know about new bills and changes in bill status
    • Streamline your day with seamless organization features
    • Harness the power of time-saving AI tools to gain insights into individual bills and the entire legislative landscape
    • Keep everyone on the same page with internal collaboration and external reporting all in one place
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    Learn More About Plural in Africa

  • VIDEO | Enhance Your Policy Research With Plural’s Global Bill Search

    VIDEO | Enhance Your Policy Research With Plural’s Global Bill Search

    When it comes to public policy work, finding the exact bills that matter to you is like searching for a needle in a haystack. Across jurisdictions, thousands of bills are each legislative session. The challenge? Pinpointing the ones that impact your work, without wasting hours on traditional search methods.

    Plural’s Global Bill Search tool is your legislative GPS. Global Bill Search is designed to transform the way policy professionals navigate legislative data. With advanced search algorithms and filters, Global Bill Search offers a targeted approach to legislative research.

    watch on youtube

    Get Started With Plural’s Global Bill Search

    Plural helps you get and stay ahead in the public policy landscape. With Plural, you’ll:

    • Access superior public policy data 
    • Be the first to know about new bills and changes in bill status
    • Streamline your day with seamless organization features
    • Harness the power of time-saving AI tools to gain insights into individual bills and the entire legislative landscape
    • Keep everyone on the same page with internal collaboration and external reporting all in one place

    Interested in getting started? Create a free account or book a demo today!

    get started

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  • Uncovering Connections: How Related Bills Enhance Policy Analysis

    Uncovering Connections: How Related Bills Enhance Policy Analysis

    Legislative proceedings are complex and often difficult to comprehend. However, the challenge doesn’t stop at policy analysis and identifying key legislation. It extends to uncovering the network of related bills, which may impact or influence your primary areas of interest. Understanding not just individual bills, but also their connections, is vital for policy pros. Plural’s “Related Bills” feature is an indispensable tool for successful policy professionals.

    The Complexity of Legislative Analysis

    Imagine a puzzle where each piece is a bill. Focusing on a single piece, or a single bill, can provide helpful insights. However, understanding how it connects to others builds a more comprehensive picture. This holistic view of policymaking is crucial. Yet, manually mapping these connections is a daunting, time-consuming task.

    Related Bills: Your Legislative Compass for Policy Analysis

    Plural’s Related Bills feature is designed to simplify this process. Plural automatically identifies and linking related legislation using AI. Related bills go beyond illuminating the legislative landscape. They also reveal strategic insights that could otherwise be missed.

    How It Works

    Calculating Text Similarity

    Related Bill recommendations are based on the degree of text similarity between bills. Plural calculates text similarity at a sentence level. First, it removes from its analysis any “boilerplate” language that is used in most bills. It then breaks down each version of a bill into its component sentences, comparing them to versions of other bills. When two bills share at least 65% of the same substantive sentences, Plural identifies them as related.

    Labeling Relationships

    Once Plural finds bills that are related, it labels the relationship. Currently, Plural is labeling the following kinds of relationships:

    1. Companion Bills. Similar or identical legislation that are introduced in the upper and lower chambers of a legislature during the same session.
    2. Re-Introduced Bills. Bills that do not make it through the legislative process by the end of a session are often re-introduced in a later session. 
    3. Omnibus Bills. Omnibus bills consolidate various other bills — that often span a number of issues — into a single package. Plural identifies when a smaller bill has been pulled into a larger omnibus bill, and vice versa.

    Where to Find It

    Find related bills in the “Related Bills” tab of a Bill Detail page. If Plural has identified one or more related bills, you will also see an alert icon displayed to the right of the tab.

    Benefits Unpacked

    Strategic Advantage

    Discover potential allies or oppositions through related bills, enabling more informed strategy development.

    Efficiency in Research

    Save hours by instantly accessing a curated list of related legislation, rather than manually compiling connections.

    Depth of Understanding

    Gain deeper insights into the legislative ecosystem. This includes how various bills interlink and affect each other.

    Get Started With Plural

    Don’t let vital connections slip through the cracks in your policy analysis. Sign up for a demo of Plural today, and unlock the full potential of the Related Bills feature. Empower your legislative strategy with comprehensive insights and a more profound understanding of bill relationships.

    book a demo

    Have you leveraged Related Bills to achieve legislative success? We’re eager to hear how this tool has transformed your approach to policy work. Share your experiences and help inspire others to navigate the legislative web more effectively. Reach out to support@pluralpolicy.com to share your experience.

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