Based upon a survey of the community and junior college state directors in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, this five-part report presents an analytical and descriptive review of state legislation affecting community colleges. Part I discusses study methodology and describes the two survey instruments--one soliciting information on relevant legislation enacted or proposed during 1979 and another requesting supplementary information on the statewide coordination of lifelong learning programs. Part II analyses findings as they relate to legislation in seven topical areas: (1) financial matters, such as appropriations and capital funds; (2) administrative affairs, including governing boards and institutional research; (3) procedures and regulations regarding physical facilities and their construction; (4) institutional expansion and name changes; (5) personnel benefits and collective bargaining; (6) student services and tuition; and (7) curriculum, accreditation, and certification. Part III analyzes the legislative intent of the bills affecting community colleges, and Part IV presents summary conclusions, noting, among other findings, the growth of legislation dealing with finance. The report concludes with an analysis of responses to the lifelong learning questionnaire. Abstracts of relevant 1979 state legislation are appended. (JP)