Explore how state agencies manage and utilize scientific evidence to address local policy challenges in this insightful conference talk from the AAAS Annual Meeting. Delve into successful initiatives such as the Missouri Science and Technology Policy Initiative and the North Carolina Policy Collaboratory. Gain valuable advice for scientists on effective implementation strategies, including adapting approaches and leveraging Performance Funding Systems (PFS). Learn how to become an advocate and get involved in bridging the gap between scientific research and policy-making at the state level.