Overview

The National Caucus of Environmental Legislators (NCEL) empowers a nonpartisan network of legislative champions to protect, conserve, and improve the natural and human environment. NCEL staff are here to assist you with research, share policies and lessons learned from other states, and connect you with colleagues across the nation working on similar issues. Learn more about the variety of issues NCEL staff work on in our 2024 Legislator Briefing Book.

About NCEL

The National Caucus of Environmental Legislators was created by and for state legislators who believe that they are more effective when they organize, communicate, and assist each other. NCEL staff can conduct research, connect you with colleagues and experts working on similar issues, and provide examples of similar initiatives that have been introduced in other states.

NCEL at a Glance

• NCEL participants include over 1,200 legislators from all 50 states.
• There is no cost to join the caucus.
• NCEL convenes annually at national, regional, and issue-based forums.
• Members receive regular updates about state and federal issues.
• NCEL staff regularly respond to information requests from state legislators working on a variety of conservation, energy, and environmental issues.

Briefing Book Contents

This briefing book contains detailed information on our four main program areas and the issues they address complete with policy options.

Climate and Energy: NCEL members are working to reduce carbon emissions by transitioning to renewable energy, electrifying transportation and buildings, and adapting to climate change.

Conservation: As wildlife and natural areas face increasing threats from human activity and climate change, NCEL members are working to conserve wildlife, land, and water in their states.

Environmental Health: Removing toxins from our air, waters, and homes and encouraging safer, healthier alternatives.

Oceans: Oceans provide countless ecosystem services, including climate regulation, marine habitats, coastal community protection, and clean energy.