Public policy.
Definition
Public policy is a course of action taken by government to address a public problem or achieve a societal goal. It includes laws, regulations, executive orders, and government programs at the federal, state, and local levels.
How it works · 5 phases
Step by step.
- A problem is identified and placed on the government's agenda through public pressure or events.
- Policy proposals are formulated by legislators, executive agencies, or interest groups.
- The policy is adopted through legislation, executive order, or court ruling.
- Government agencies implement the policy through regulations and programs.
- The policy's effectiveness is evaluated and may be revised or terminated.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 The Affordable Care Act (2010) addressed the problem of uninsured Americans through health insurance mandates
- 2 The Clean Air Act regulates air pollution through EPA-enforced emission standards
- 3 No Child Left Behind set federal education standards and testing requirements for public schools