Explain how a policy paper is a critical analysis of an important societal issue or problem that involves the research and development of a defensible plan – a policy proposal for solving the problem by formulating workable strategies to implement a new plan.
After reading Walker’s book, Sense and Nonsense you are to write a 5 page, double spaced abbreviated policy proposal on a criminal justice issue/problem of your choosing.
Examples of possible policy papers are: parole guidelines, stand your ground, mandatory minimums, civil arrest forfeiture, or police body cams.
Your paper should follow the following structure:
Title of your Policy Paper
Statement of the Problem
• What is the specific problem – define it
• Provide the reader with background information about the social problem
• What are the historical background issues related to this problem
• Why is it an important issue that needs to be addressed
• What evidence is there that suggest a change in policy is needed
• What are the major causes of the problem
Current Policy
• What are the current policies/programs
• Why haven’t those policies/programs solved, or alleviated the problem(s)
• What are the major flaws or limitations of the current policy
Policy Recommendations/Action Plan
(In this section of your paper formulate an effective policy proposal that is practical and feasible – tell us why your proposal will work)
• What are your specific policy recommendations
• How does your policy solve the problem, better than current policies
• What research/evidence can you offer that your proposal will work
• What are the most critical obstacles to implementing your proposal – i.e., financial, ethical, or political
• Why might policy makers oppose or embrace your proposal
