NCJ Number
237766
Date Published
January 2012
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This report describes Washington State's cost-benefit analysis model, which goes beyond traditional methods to guard against bias when assessing the costs and benefits of potential policy options.
Abstract
The Washington State Institute for Public Policy (WSIPP) is a nonpartisan center established by the Washington State legislature. The WSIPP model for its cost-benefit analysis in considering policy options in targeted areas first analyzes all available research in order to identify what works in the policy area under consideration. In examining the research WSIPP considers whether an evaluation was conducted independently or by those who administered a program. It also requires that evaluation research be based on real-world evidence and strong experimental designs. After examining all reliable evaluation evidence, WSIPP predicts the impacts of various policy options for conditions in Washington State, and it calculates the potential return on investment along with investment risk. Program options are then ranked based on their costs, benefits, and risks. Existing ineffective programs are identified and eliminated. Policy options are assessed as an interrelated package. WSIPP works closely with policymakers to ensure that its findings are accessible and presented with clarity and relevance. Overall, this innovative cost-benefit analysis model has helped legislators to make decisions based on evidence rather than anecdotes; transcend partisan gridlock and enact effective responses to major challenges and opportunities; and adopt a long-term perspective in deciding on cost-effective policies rather than ineffective policies that may be politically appealing in the short-term. WSIPP's board is composed of an equal number of legislators and staff from both major parties, two appointees by the governor, and high-level staff from four universities in the State. Appended monetary benefits and costs for Washington State by using evidence-based public policies