This paper will require you to complete a policy memo on an issue of your choosing. In this assignment, you will assume the role of a policy analyst that is tasked with providing technical guidance to elected officials on an issue of public concern, as a means to guide them in their decision-making. Providing recommendations for legislators is one of the primary responsibilities of public employees in the domain of public policy.
You will select an issue based on personal interest that reflects the one of the policy domains from our course content, and you will identify a unit of government (local, state, federal) that will serve as its context. You will provide an advisory opinion to legislative boards or executives, which may include alderman/city council/mayors, state legislators/Governor, or members of Congress. It is incumbent that you understand these roles and their responsibilities, so you know the nature of their authority. You will likely need to review technical documents and scholarly works to provide recommendations that have a substantial degree of technical merit.
The structure and format of the policy memo should be crafted to effectively convey the relevant information but must include background, options, analysis (which may include potential costs, legal considerations, and public awareness efforts), and any other necessary subheadings. The memo should conclude with a recommendation and implementation suggestions.