Championing excellence in state governments, 90 years strong.

Lexington, KY
Joined October 2009
The conversations shaping the future of the states are coming to the heart of Southern California this December. Join us at the 2026 CSG National Conference in Anaheim, California, where state leaders from all three branches of government will gather to share ideas, build connections and explore solutions to complex policy issues facing the states. #CSG26 #CSGAnaheim Learn more, events.csg.org/event/17b7d8b…
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The data center boom has become a central topic in state-level policy debates. This report collects state-level findings on data center buildout, including an analysis of legislation to highlight the diverse approaches taken by the states and how they are addressing this rapidly evolving landscape. Explore more in the latest of the CSG-50 State Scan Research Series: csg.org/2026/09/18/csg-50-st…
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Statement from CSG Executive Director/CEO David Adkins on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11: "The legacy of the darkest of days is not written by the hate that fueled the heinous attacks, instead it is found in the resolve and resilience of the American people in the wake of 9/11. The courage of the first responders, the bravery of the citizens who enlisted and served, and the waves of support shown to those who were grieving loved ones lost—those are the hallmarks of the character of our nation. Let us commemorate the lives lost that day by rededicating ourselves to defending freedom, to denouncing hate and violence, to helping our neighbors in need and to exercising the full measure of our responsibilities as citizens of this great nation."
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Few people had the ability to bring people together quite like Dolly Parton. Through her music, generosity and enduring commitment to young people and literacy, she touched generations and changed millions of lives. Her Imagination Library has helped put more than 332 million books into the hands of young readers across five countries — a remarkable achievement that has inspired states to invest in childhood literacy and expand access to books in their communities. Today, 11 states provide full government funding and statewide coverage for the program, with at least 13 more providing state-backed funding through matching or shared-cost models. Dolly once wrote, “I know that I am living the all-American dream.” Her vision and dedication helped make that dream possible for millions of children. The Council of State Governments was fortunate to work with the Imagination Library at the 2023 CSG National Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, where discussions centered on childhood literacy and how state leaders can make a difference. That year, Dolly kindly added her well-wishes in support of our 90th anniversary. Her legacy will endure not only through the songs she gave the world, but through every child she encouraged to dream bigger and the example she set of what a common purpose can make possible. 📸: Leonard Kamsler/Country Music; Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library/The Dollywood Foundation; Shawn Miller/Library of Congress.
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