Public Policy

What is Public Policy?

What the government decides to do in response to an issue; usually ends up becoming a law dealing with that issue.

How does the gov. know which laws to pass?

1. Public opinion

2. Many people want the issue to be dealt with = public agenda

3. If gov. decides to do something about an issue, it becomes public policy.

How can individuals influence public policy?

1. Participate in politics

2. Join a special interest group

How can interest groups influence public policy?

1. Identify issues

2. Make political contributions

3. Lobby gov. officials