Issues and Policy

The NCJA advocates for effective criminal justice policy and funding for state, local, and tribal justice assistance programs. Because our members are engaged across all aspects of the criminal justice system, we engage in a wide range of policy issues in Washington, DC on our members’ behalf. The NCJA staff supports our members by providing up-to-the-minute information about pending legislation and the federal appropriations process and by communicating with federal officials on Capitol Hill and in the Administration about how federal policy affects the delivery of services to the field. Recognizing that little gets done in Washington, DC by acting alone, the NCJA works in coalition with dozens of other stakeholder organizations which share common interests and policy goals.

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Legislation

At any one time, the NCJA is tracking dozens of pieces of federal legislation which, if enacted, could impact state and local criminal justice policy and practice. NCJA members also have access to Congressional outreach and education resources, charts tracking justice assistance funding and the status of key legislation, and newsletters providing weekly recaps on activity on the Hill. 

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Click below to view information about:

• Byrne Justice Assistance Program

• Letters to Congress

• Congressional Outreach (includes funding and legislation charts)*

• Justice Bulletin*

• Funding Opportunities*

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*Requires a member login to view. 

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Key Issues

Click below to learn more about our priority issues and work in these areas:

• Behavioral Health

• Federal Grants Management