Since 1987 Hezel Associates has documented statewide activities in educational telecommunications and distance learning. This is the seventh edition in the series of reports. The analysis reports on telecommunications and distance learning initiatives primarily; however, it also describes the broader technology initiatives that encompass many of the telecommunications and distance learning programs. The first section, "An Overview of Educational Telecommunications and Distance Learning in the United States," provides a summary of trends and also points to particular technology development events in states. The State-by-State section contains a description for each of the 50 states. Each state description is divided into multiple sections. "Relevant Background and Brief History of the Current Programs" highlights new activities since publication of the 1996 report. "The State's Current Situation and Climate Regarding Distance Learning and Educational Technology" gives the reader the latest information about important planning groups, the forces that are driving educational technology development, and the current plans in place or in the making within the state information resources agency, the higher education agency, and the state agency. In addition, the section includes information about E-rate activities, funding, and major technology and network initiatives in the states. A new section offers comments and conclusions about activities in the state. Contains a glossary of interstate educational telecommunications providers and a glossary of terms. (AEF)