For its “My District” series, NCSL talks with Oregon Rep. Maxine Dexter, whose district is home to part of Portland’s annual Winter Light Festival.

A conversation with Connecticut Sen. James Maroney on the topic of portable health, retirement and other benefits for independent contractors and gig workers.

Holly Lyons, who is retiring after nearly 40 years at the Iowa Legislative Services Agency, won the prestigious Steven D. Gold Award, presented annually by NCSL to a person who has made a significant contribution to public financial management.

Jessica Geary is the executive director of Alaska’s Legislative Affairs Agency.

Maddy Oritt is a senior economist for the Utah Legislature.

Connecticut Rep. Quentin Williams, a man known for his energy, exuberance and infectious optimism, died in a head-on traffic collision on his way home from the governor’s inaugural ball in early January.