Achieving Success in Difficult Times

by Tim McFeeley, Executive Director

This issue of Alternatives highlights some notable legislative achievements from state capitals across the nation in 2002. From Hawaii to Maine, state leaders have been successful in introducing, moving and enacting significant statutory changes that make ours a more inclusive, freer and more just society for people coast-to-coast. Despite dire predictions that progressive legislative action would grind to a halt due to severe budget crises in nearly every state and the demands of the worldwide war on terrorism, many state legislators and state grassroots advocates demonstrated determination, courage and leadership in advancing legislative alternatives that improve the lives of Americans.

A few examples: Workers in 15 states will benefit from measures passed in 2002 to broaden unemployment insurance laws by increasing benefit levels, extending the number of weeks benefits are available, or expanding the number of workers eligible to collect insurance. Voters in Connecticut will henceforth have their rights spelled out, now that the state passed a law to post a Voter’s Bill of Rights at every polling place. Thanks to a pivotal reform in Washington state, non-violent drug offenders will be diverted from overcrowded jails to substance abuse treatment programs. And in 11 states, Medicaid programs and uninsured residents will pay less for vital medications as a result of legislation enacted this year.

The recurring theme throughout all these stories of success is that progress can be made even in the most difficult times and against the toughest odds, provided that there are strong leaders, innovative policies, and broad coalitions behind these efforts. The Center for Policy Alternatives is committed to the notion that change will occur when these critical elements are combined in creative problem solving. As discussed in this issue of Alternatives, our strategy is working.

The recently deceased and much lamented leader, John Gardner, wrote “one of the great functions of leaders is to help a society achieve the best that is in it.” The more arduous the times, the more this kind of leadership is required. The lives of millions of Americans are better today than they were when we started 2002, as a result of great leaders applying creative ideas through a strong and effective network of concerned legislators and activists.