Government Relations

The advocacy mission of Government Relations is to manage the state-federal relationship and governors’ key policy priorities is to ensure that governors’ views are represented in the shaping of federal policy. The team maintains regular contact with congressional leaders and key administration officials, keeps up-to-date information on critical state–federal issues and coordinates state action on behalf of the association.

ABOUT NGA GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

NGA COMMITTEES

Executive Committee

The NGA chair, vice chair and other members of the nine-person Executive Committee, who are elected annually, supervise the association’s operations on behalf of the entire membership. NGA’s Executive Committee (EC) has general authority over all policy issues and primary jurisdiction over issues involving federalism, homeland security, the federal budget, and federal tax policy.

Legal Affairs Committee

The Legal Affairs Committee (LAC) advises the National Governors Association (NGA) Executive Committee on whether NGA should participate as amicus curiae in cases of broad interest to Governors and states before the U.S. Supreme Court, federal appellate courts, and state supreme courts.

Economic Development & Commerce Committee

The Economic Development and Commerce Committee (EDC) has jurisdiction over a broad range of issues in the areas of transportation infrastructure, telecommunications, international trade promotion, financial services regulation, science and technology development, and affordable housing.

Education & Workforce Committee

The Education and Workforce Committee has jurisdiction over issues in the area of education (including early childhood, K-12 and postsecondary) as well as in the areas of workforce development. Members of the committee ensure that the governors’ views are represented in the shaping of federal policy.

Health & Human Services Committee

The Health and Human Services Committee handles issues dealing with health care, particularly as they relate to Medicaid, and federal-state safety net programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and other social services. Members of the committee ensure that the governors’ views are represented in the shaping of federal policy.

Homeland Security & Public Safety Committee

The Homeland Security and Public Safety Committee focuses on homeland security, the National Guard and homeland defense, criminal justice and public safety and veterans affairs.

Natural Resources Committee

The Natural Resources Committee has jurisdiction over issues related to agriculture, energy, the environment and natural resources. Members of the committee ensure that the governors’ views are represented in the shaping of federal policy.