Leading states are already improving outcomes for residents by defining, prioritizing and funding evidence-based policies and programs. The U.S. Office of Management and Budget recently released updated Uniform Grants Guidance and companion Reference Guides that support these efforts, providing new clarity about how states can invest federal grant dollars to expand their capacity to evaluate programs and build data systems. While individual grants still have specific requirements, the Uniform Grants Guidance lays out “least common denominator” rules, requirements and definitions that apply almost universally to new awards effective October 1, 2024.