The NCSL Criminal Justice Program tracks state legislative interests and actions on a wide range of topics that reflect the many aspects and functions of criminal justice systems. Most crimes fall under the jurisdiction of states, making criminal justice a significant responsibility and expenditure item for state and local governments. State legislatures are responsible for putting in place the policies that define what constitutes a crime, the procedures for responding to crime, sentencing structures and penalties, and funding and oversight of many of the government agencies that deal with criminal offenders and victims. NCSL research and publications address many crime issues, and our staff offers states customized assistance and training on key topics like corrections, juvenile justice, pretrial and others.