This study identifies the current status of state policies on distance education in a sample of states and identifies changes in federal, state, and local roles in developing policies that may encourage more efficient and effective use of technology for distance learning. The study identifies and analyzes policies in key areas which are now, or are likely in the future, to inhibit the use of distance education techniques by school districts attempting to solve instructional problems. Such areas include certification, training, evaluation, planning, and funding. A discussion of the implications of the study findings for federal policy concludes the report, and references to eight reports on distance education and eight state-wide plans are provided. (GL)