Each year, DQC analyzes state legislation that governs the collection and use of education and workforce data in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Our latest resource details DQC’s analysis of state legislative trends in 2024 and highlights state legislative efforts to enhance state data systems. 

This year, Colorado joined eight states that have previously codified cross-agency data governance by enacting a workforce development law that sets the stage for improved policy decisions and equitable access to data. Since 2021, five new states have passed legislation codifying cross-agency data governance—the most important step toward making statewide longitudinal data systems (SLDSs) more accessible and useful for people.

Other states took concrete steps to invest in enhancing their data systems.

• Alabama legislators reinforced their commitment to supporting the recently established SLDS by allocating in the annual budget $1 million and three full-time employees; 
• New York legislators appropriated $20.4 million in first-time funding in the annual budget to support the development and implementation of an SLDS; and
• Virginia established a working group to recommend improvements to support evidence-based research and policymaking.

• Colorado, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington introduced or enacted policies that demonstrate how access to data can smooth individuals’ transitions among education, postsecondary pathways, and workforce opportunities.