Public Policymaking and Budgeting

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on public policymaking and budgeting, focusing on stages of policy development, types of policies, economic considerations, and effective policymaking strategies.

What are the five stages of public policymaking?

Agenda Setting, Framing, Policy Formation, Policy Implementation, Policy Evaluation and Feedback.

What does 'Agenda Setting' in policymaking mean?

It involves public officials recognizing an issue as a problem worthy of government attention.

What is a 'focusing event'?

A major happening that attracts widespread media attention to an issue, prompting public awareness and political action.

What is the purpose of 'framing' in policymaking?

Framing determines how issues are discussed and presented, affecting public opinion and political responses.

What is 'Policy Formation'?

The stage where policy analysis constructs measures of proposed policy costs and benefits, including cost-benefit analysis.

What is a 'policy window'?

A figurative opportunity to pass a bill in Congress or a state legislature, often influenced by political considerations.

What aspects are included in 'Policy Implementation'?

Rule making, top-down delivery, and bottom-up delivery of policies.

What is 'Cost-Benefit Analysis'?

A study comparing the projected costs and benefits of a proposed policy to determine if the benefits outweigh the costs.

What role does 'Path Dependence' play in policymaking?

It describes how past policy choices shape policymakers’ future decisions and options.

What are the three questions used to determine if a policy is good?

Is it feasible? Is it fair? Is it effective?

What is the difference between Fiscal Policy and Monetary Policy?

Fiscal policy relates to government taxation and spending for economic development, while monetary policy involves central bank actions to regulate the money supply.

What is a 'Continuing Resolution' in the budget process?

A congressionally approved act that extends spending at current levels when no national budget has been passed before the new fiscal year.

What types of social policies are mentioned in the lecture?

Fiscal Policy, Foreign Policy, and Social Policy, which affects people's well-being.

What is the main function of the Federal Reserve according to the lecture?

To regulate the money supply and promote economic balance and growth.

What is 'Medicaid'?

A federal health assistance program that helps pay for medical costs for individuals with low income.

What is 'Social Security'?

A program providing monthly living stipends to Americans aged 65 and older, financed through payroll tax.

What are 'Policy Entrepreneurs'?

Individuals who generate new ideas, help them gain attention, and work to implement them through connections and resources.

What are the eight steps to successful policy reform?

Have passion, act with speed, bring a plan, mind the symbols, have a philosophy, go public, know the rules, and learn how to lose.

What is an example of a 'focusing event' mentioned in the lecture?

The Sandy Hook School Shooting as it relates to gun regulation.

What does the term 'means tested' refer to in Medicaid policies?

Policies that provide benefits only to those below a certain income level.