Nebraska Policymakers Reach Bipartisan Consensus on Early Childhood Legislation, Based on Scientific Findings

Abstract: A case study of Nebraska early childhood legislation, passed unanimously in 2005, shows the role of science in effective policymaking. By combining citizen advocacy, skillful work by legislators, and testimony by local experts as well as national scientists, Nebraska succeeded in producing bipartisan consensus on the importance of early childhood education and development. Legislators determined that the goals of supporting children and achieving high economic and social returns for public funds can both be served by investing in early childhood programs.

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Washington State Legislators Find Common Ground on Early Childhood Issues

Abstract: In 2006, the input of scientists, economists, and private industry representatives inspired nearly unparalleled bipartisan support in Washington state for the formation of a Department of Early Learning. This new cabinet-level department consolidates three separate agencies, provides universal preschool for all children in Washington, and establishes a ground-breaking public-private partnership in support of early childhood development. The process by which policymakers garnered bipartisan support, one currently being replicated in nearly a dozen other states, is to use science to inform lawmakers in order to guide wise decision-making.

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