At the American States Rights Forum (ASRF), we are dedicated to empowering local governments to reclaim decision-making authority and address the unique needs of their communities. By focusing on localized solutions, we help communities achieve governance that is responsive, effective, and aligned with their values.
Education Freedom: Local Voices, Local Choices
The American States Rights Forum emphasizes vocational training and education reform to equip the next generation with skills for a competitive economy. We advocate for policies that allow communities to shape their own education systems, giving local schools the ability to implement curricula and teaching methods that reflect the needs and priorities of their students and families.
Findings at a Glance Skill Gaps: Many industries face shortages of skilled workers, highlighting the need for more focused and practical training programs. Educational Accessibility: Inner-city and rural areas often lack adequate resources and opportunities for technical and vocational education. Federal Overreach: The Department of Education's one-size-fits-all mandates stifle innovation, responsiveness, and local control, prioritizing ideological agendas over student success. Solution Framework Empower States to Innovate: Ending federal oversight would allow states to prioritize parental choice, local accountability, and tailored solutions that directly address the needs of students. Invest in Vocational Training: Establish vocational centers focused on high-demand trades like plumbing, mechanics, and welding, enabling job-ready graduates. Promote School-Industry Partnerships: Foster collaborations between schools and industries to align educational programs with workforce demands. Increase Flexibility: State-funded education fosters greater flexibility and responsiveness to community needs, encouraging innovation and reducing administrative burdens. Model Solution Florida provides a proven blueprint for state-led educational success: Universal School Choice: Implemented in 2023, Florida now funds over 377,000 scholarships, empowering parents to choose the best educational path for their children. Per-Student Investment: Achieving record funding of $8,648 per student, Florida prioritizes direct investment in student outcomes. Nation-Leading Results: Ranked first in overall education by U.S. News & World Report, Florida's students have excelled in reading and math, narrowing achievement gaps among minority groups while maintaining high standards. Workforce Readiness: By investing in technical education and partnerships, Florida prepares students for jobs in high-demand industries, addressing workforce shortages and driving economic growth.
Healthcare Autonomy for States and Communities
Promote local healthcare programs, including telehealth expansion and community clinics, to improve access and affordability while tailoring solutions to regional health challenges. Advocate for policies that protect informed consent, prohibit vaccine mandates, and empower individuals to choose holistic or alternative medical approaches that align with their personal health beliefs.
Findings at a Glance Rising Healthcare Costs: A pressing issue that burdens both businesses and individuals, demanding locally tailored solutions. Barriers to Access: Despite advancements in telehealth, care gaps persist, especially in underserved communities. Lack of Choice: Federal mandates often restrict access to holistic and alternative medicine, limiting individual health freedom. State-Led Solution Framework Expand Telehealth Services: Encourage state policies that increase access to affordable telehealth options, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Prescription Drug Pricing Reform: Advocate for state-driven initiatives to make essential medications more affordable, addressing local cost disparities. Flexible Benefits Policies: Support state regulations that empower employers to offer cost-effective benefits tailored to their workforce’s needs. Healthcare Freedom: Ensure informed consent and prohibit vaccine mandates, allowing individuals the choice of holistic and alternative medical approaches.
The American States Rights Forum advocates for policies that stimulate economic growth, strengthen domestic industries and ensure long-term prosperity for all Americans. We support localized tax reforms and small business incentives that encourage entrepreneurship and community-driven economic growth.
Economic Independence Through State Leadership
Findings at a Glance Inflation and Supply Chain Issues: Significant barriers to economic resilience. Manufacturing Dependence: Reliance on foreign production weakens U.S. competitiveness. Solution Framework Offer tax incentives for domestic manufacturing and R&D to create high-paying jobs. Invest in infrastructure for transportation, logistics, and energy distribution. Reduce corporate tax rates and eliminate unnecessary regulations to encourage business expansion. Diversify supply chains and bring critical manufacturing, like pharmaceuticals, back to the U.S. Renegotiate trade agreements to prioritize American jobs and industries.
The American States Rights Forum (ASRF) champions energy independence as a cornerstone of state sovereignty. By encouraging domestic energy production, fostering innovation in renewable and traditional energy sources, and expediting development timelines, we empower states to secure stable and sustainable energy solutions that meet the unique needs of their communities.
Energy Sovereignty: Fuelling Local Progress
Findings at a Glance Dependence on Foreign Energy: Identified as a risk to national security and economic stability. Energy Infrastructure: Bottlenecks in permitting processes delay critical projects. Solution Framework Increase state production of oil, natural gas, lithium and renewables to ensure energy stability. Streamline permitting to accelerate energy project timelines. Invest in clean energy research and innovation to lead the global energy transition. Support allies by exporting natural gas and oil boosting revenues and strengthening partnerships.