About
Famed Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis saw state governments as "laboratories of democracy," willing to tackle new and innovative approaches to meeting the needs of society. As a leading progressive thinker of his day, Brandies rightly understood that although the federal government plays an important role in addressing policy matters, “a single courageous state” can develop forward-looking solutions that directly solve social issues and help citizens.
As leaders at the federal level work to tackle the pressing issues of the 21st century, State Progress works to foster this same progressive movement at the state and local levels by: amplifying and supporting the work of state and local progressive elected officials, groups, and individuals; building connections; and facilitating communication between local, state, and federal actors in partnership to promote and develop bold, innovative ideas.
State Progress seeks to educate these influentials on policy matters including energy, environment, and climate change, economic policy, health care, science and technology, education and workforce development, national security, and more. State Progress accomplishes this work by marshalling the ideas of CAPAF’s seasoned policy experts to provide state and local leaders with timely and cutting-edge information that helps drive progressive policy development.
To learn more about the project and/or how we can help support progressive work in your state, please contact Derrick Richardson, Senior Manager of State and Regional Affairs at stateprogress@americanprogress.org or 202.741.6286.
Where We Stand on the Issues
Where We Stand on Energy and the Environment
CAPAF is pioneering progressive, 21st century policy proposals to transform our nation and our economy in ways that protect the global environment, boost global prosperity, and create sustainable sources of clean energy to reduce the world’s reliance on dirty, carbon-based energy. Our low-carbon policy priorities encourage comprehensive upgrades in the efficiency of energy production and consumption as well as environmentally safe and sustainable energy diversification. And our commitment to sound scientific energy and environmental technology innovation exemplifies progressive ideals and pragmatism at work.
Where We Stand on Domestic and Economy
CAPAF’s policy priorities for U.S. domestic and economic policymaking center on building opportunities for all Americans to share in the American Dream. Our policy work concentrates on the core engines that drive equal opportunity, economic mobility, and shared prosperity—education, health care, housing, government oversight, tax reform, and technology innovation. Our progressive domestic and economic priorities underscore our commitment to government that works for the common good.
Where We Stand on Health Care
CAPAF’s health care team develops policy solutions and analysis that will advance the cause of universally affordable and valuable coverage, playing an active role in shaping key health care debates. Beginning with CAPAF’s 2005 proposal for health insurance reform, “Progressive Prescriptions for a Healthy America,” our experts have focused on expanding health insurance coverage, controlling costs, improving value in the health care system, and making prevention a national priority.
Where We Stand on Bioethics and Science
Rather than decry progress as inherently dangerous, CAPAF embraces the promise of science to improve our lives with a critical optimism that understands that science must be guided by our values. CAP promotes human dignity by providing the social, political, and economic conditions individuals need to realize their own goals, without unduly interfering in their personal choices. We understand government must regulate science so that it proceeds within our existing ethical framework, without needlessly restricting scientific progress or ignoring the value of scientific fact.
Where We Stand on Education/Workforce Development
Our education initiatives focus on addressing the challenges of a global economy, rapidly changing demographics, and a lingering and dangerous achievement gap for minority and low-income students. We have developed innovative programs to address these issues, including expanding learning time, finding and retaining highly effective teachers and principals, and promoting national standards, accountability, and fiscal equity that prepare individuals for the 21st century economy.
Where We Stand on National Security
CAPAF’s national security approach embodies progressive traditions that have protected our nation and nurtured our democratic ideals and freedom at home and abroad. Our policy priorities secure our country from attack and protect our national security interests abroad by ensuring our military forces are capable and ready, and our democratic alliances are strong and enduring. We understand that integrated military, diplomatic, and economic power guided by progressive ideals makes us safer and more prosperous.