The Council of State Governments Justice Center

The Council of State Governments Justice Center combines the power of a membership association, representing state officials in all three branches of government, with the expertise of a policy and research team focused on assisting others to attain measurable results. We bring people together. With our singular ability to reach federal, state, and local leaders from all three branches of government, we gather people from both sides of the aisle and across the country to foster collaboration. We drive the criminal justice field forward with original research. Our in-depth data analyses, coupled with extensive interviews of people on the front lines of the criminal justice system, inform improvements and spur national initiatives.We build momentum for policy change. We synthesize and contextualize data to help policymakers enact and implement major reforms that address criminal justice challenges, many of which intersect with other systems, such as health, education, and housing.We provide expert assistance. Our on-the-ground training and assistance helps state and local agencies and organizations translate the latest research into policy and practice.