National Council of Nonprofit Associations

The actions of state governments, such as changes in legislation or fiscal policy, can dramatically impact how nonprofits carry out their charitable missions. Tracking and understanding the effects of these policies is critical for the health of the nonprofit sector. This page focuses on state issues, providing links to state associations' policy pages, resources and information on important issues at the state level and updates of recent policy changes at the state level.

Advocate in Response to State Budget Challenges

The economic downturn is severely affecting most state budgets. How do we as nonprofits orient our advocacy and public policy work to address state budget deficits?

• Network, unify and advocate together. Together, our voice is more powerful. Coalesce around existing intermediary organizations like our member state associations, or issue-oriented coalitions to contact your legislatiors and media at state and local levels of government.
• Monitor budget activity carefully. Use general and state-specific resources for budget analyses.
• Be vigilant about your rights to tax exemptions under state and local laws as governments may re-examine sales and use tax and property tax exemptions. Read more about what state associations in Minnesota and North Carolina have been doing in these vital areas.
• Support the National Council's work in making federal nonprofit capacity building grants a reality. Learn more about the Nonprofit Capacity Building Initiative.
• Strengthen your nonprofit's relationships with volunteer organizations as they advocate for the Serve America Act. Strategic partnering with volunteer organizations, such as Hands On Network, Civic Ventures, or Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters may lead to more effective volunteer workforce options for your nonprofit.

State Policy Links

State Associations: Our member state associations are an excellent resource for more in-depth information on public policy in their respective states.

Monthly Update

For regular updates, check out the latest issue of the Nonprofit Policy News.