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Overview of Member Services


As the regional office of The Council of State Governments, CSG West brings together legislators and legislative staff from 13 Western states and U.S. territories to exchange ideas, develop as leaders, and address shared regional challenges. Members benefit from a wide range of programs, resources, and connections that strengthen legislative institutions and support effective governance across the West.

Through member-driven programming and a nonpartisan approach, CSG West fosters collaboration across state lines, promotes peer learning, and provides access to the information and relationships needed to navigate the region’s policy landscape.


Services Profile

A snapshot of the 2026 programs, events, and leadership initiatives available to CSG West members across the Western region.

View the CSG West Services Profile


Policy Collaboration and Regional Dialogue

Western states face interconnected challenges shaped by geography, resources, and growth. CSG West provides structured forums where legislators engage in thoughtful discussion on the region’s most pressing issues.

Policy Committees bring together lawmakers and experts to explore key policy topics, exchange best practices, and identify collaborative approaches to regional challenges. They also provide a forum for legislators to elevate priorities from their states and help shape regional policy dialogue.

These ongoing conversations ensure Western legislators have access to timely insights, emerging policy trends, and practical examples from across the region.

Learn more about serving on a CSG West policy committee, or contact westpolicy@csg.org for additional information.



Leadership and Professional Development 

CSG West offers leadership programs designed to cultivate the next generation of state leaders and strengthen legislative institutions. Leadership initiatives include:

  • Western Legislative Academy (WLA) – A flagship program for newer legislators focused on effective governance, leadership development, and institutional capacity. 

  • Legislative Staff Professional Development – Training programs that build the skills and networks of legislative staff who support policymaking.

  • In-State Training (WESTRAIN) – A customizable, in-state program that delivers expert-led, nonpartisan professional development directly to legislators and legislative staff at the request of legislative leadership.

These programs equip participants with the tools and relationships needed to lead effectively and navigate the evolving responsibilities of public service. 





Convenings and Signature Events 

CSG West convenes lawmakers throughout the year for meetings, forums, and specialized policy discussions that foster peer learning and regional collaboration.

Signature convenings include: 

  • CSG West Annual Meeting – The organization’s marquee event, bringing together legislators, legislative staff, and policy experts for multi-day discussions on major issues shaping the Western region.
  • Policy Forums and Issue Workshops – Focused convenings that explore emerging policy topics affecting Western states.
  • Regional Issue Convenings – Programs addressing shared challenges such as water management, wildfire resilience, energy systems, and emerging technologies.

These gatherings provide opportunities for policymakers to engage directly with subject-matter experts, exchange ideas with peers, and develop informed approaches to policy questions.


Member Perspectives

Hear directly from legislators about the value of CSG West convenings and regional collaboration.




Connected to a National Network

As one of four regions of The Council of State Governments, CSG West connects members to a trusted national network of expertise and resources. Members benefit from data-driven analysis through the CSG Justice Center, technical assistance from the National Center for Interstate Compacts and the Center for Innovation, and collaboration with 11 national affiliate organizations.

This integrated framework allows members to engage closely at the regional level, while also drawing on broader national research, policy insights, and developments in Washington, D.C. that impact state governments.


Together, these programs and partnerships reflect CSG West’s mission to foster a network of committed public servants and provide the experiences, connections, and learning opportunities that strengthen legislative institutions and support effective governance across the West.