Progressive Cities: A Frontier of Policy Innovation Despite State Preemption

Progressive Cities: A Frontier of Policy Innovation Despite State Preemption

October 28, 2024 @ 12:45 pm - 2:00 pm PDT @ SLS: Room 280B

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Our federal government seems to have a difficult time driving policy innovation, and our federal courts seem an uncertain line of defense for individual rights (see, e.g., Congressional gridlock, restrictions on executive power, and contemporary SCOTUS). Where do progressives turn? Local governments have the ability to innovate, particularly progressive cities. For blue cities in red states operating under the thumb of state preemption, this can be particularly challenging–and require exceptional innovation. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and General Counsel Gavriel Schreiber have firsthand experience at the frontier of progressive policy innovation, despite the roadblocks erected by the State of Missouri. Their forthcoming article, “Post-Emption and the Mayoral Toolbox: Levers and Limits of City Resistance to State Preemption” (University of Chicago Law Review, vol. 91 (Dec. 2024)), reflects upon their experiences and explores how municipal advocates need to thoroughly understand the complex bilateral relationship between cities and their states. 

Join us for a discussion with Mayor Lucas and General Counsel Schreiber, moderated by Professor Michelle Wilde Anderson, about the opportunities and challenges of effectively leading a progressive municipal government in a conservative state.