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August 2023 

As we approach the end of a scorching summer in the South, we are looking forward to the completion and publication of our 2023 Southern Legislative Wrap-Up, a comprehensive analysis of key developments and trends across multiple issue areas that affect equity in the South. This report will be set to provide an insightful overview of the legislative landscape in the Southern region, shedding light on the progress made in various areas that directly impact the lives of millions. Here’s a glimpse of some of what we saw in 2023 and an idea of what you can expect to find in that report, set for publication at the end of September 2023.

Health:

The report will delve into policy issues pertaining to healthcare accessibility and initiatives aimed at addressing public health challenges. From discussions on Medicaid expansion to initiatives promoting mental health awareness, the report will identify the strides made in securing a healthier future for residents of the South.

Education:

Looming largely over discussions of education in the South are issues related to curriculum, gender identification, and mental health awareness, access, and care for students. As educators face challenges in fostering a comprehensive and inclusive curriculum, there is growing concern that these restrictions could hinder the South’s progress toward a more informed and equitable society. We will highlight these trends and identify why they are important to advancing equity in the Southern educational landscape.

Criminal Legal System:

Criminal justice measures were prevalent in the 2023 legislative sessions, ranging from efforts related to mass incarceration, implementation of fair sentencing practices, and enhanced police-community relations. In the wrap-up report, we will work to focus on an assessment of the extent to which Southern states have shifted towards a more equitable and just legal system.

Economic Equity:

Legislative initiatives aimed at narrowing economic disparities will be a focal point. Policy initiatives related to living wages, job creation programs, and support for small and green businesses contribute to fostering a more inclusive economy and were topics of discussion throughout the halls of our Southern legislatures this year.

Democracy and Voting:

We have monitored both measures related to the advancement and regression of voting rights, changes in election procedures, and measures that directly affect the strength of our democratic institutions. As we head into an important federal election year, EPU has been keenly focused on these issues and how they will impact the ability of people to exercise their fundamental and constitutional right to vote without restriction or impediment.

Environment and Climate:

Legislative responses to environmental challenges, such as climate change adaptation strategies and investments in renewable energy, will be examined. The wrap up report will also work to highlight Southern states’ commitments to sustainability and the promotion and implementation of eco-friendly policies and practices.

Infrastructure:

Many legislators across the South were focused this year on infrastructure development projects that have the potential to enhance connectivity, transportation, and overall regional growth. We have been monitoring and analyzing legislative measures that range from road and bridge repairs to advancements in broadband access.

Housing:

President Barack Obama once said that “A child’s course in life should not be determined by the zip code she’s born in, but by the strength of her work ethic and the scope of her dreams.” We have been reviewing the legislative efforts from the 2023 legislative sessions that address affordable housing shortages, tenant rights, and homelessness, and plan to take an in-depth look at policies aimed at ensuring safe and secure housing for all.

The 2023 Southern Legislative Wrap-Up Report promises to offer a high-level overview of the legislative achievements and ongoing challenges faced by Southern states. With insights from across these key issue areas, the report will be aimed to provide a well-rounded perspective on the region’s progress and aspirations and a pathway for EPU’s policy focus for 2024. Stay tuned for the release at the end of September to gain valuable insight into the legislative landscape currently shaping the Southern United States.

A more extensive list of bills in each state that EPU is tracking can be found using the interactive map on our website, which is linked below. The reports will be updated as new measures may be added and identified by EPU.