We study policies that affect the pros and cons of doing business in California. Our interests include economic trends, business location decisions, enterprise zones, and broadband availability.

Major areas of study include school finance alternatives and policies that promote student achievement in the K–12 system. We are also expanding our research into California’s public colleges and universities, as well as pre-K programs.

We analyze trends in employment dynamics, income inequality, and workforce skill needs.  The effect of policy on employment—through enterprise zones, for example—is another area of interest.

What are the tradeoffs among various, sometimes conflicting, environmental and economic goals? Current projects tackle emissions and air quality, flood risk, and institutional preparation for a changing climate.

We examine California’s governing institutions and assess their performance. Key areas of inquiry are the initiative process, state and local relations, supermajority requirements, and state bond ratings.

Health and health care are growing areas of study at PPIC, with particular emphasis on California’s diverse populations. Childhood obesity, insurance coverage, and the provision of health care are
key concerns.

Affordability, homeownership patterns, and trends in housing growth are all important areas of inquiry. We also examine the effects of state and local policies on housing growth.

We have a long-standing, major research interest in immigration policy and reform. We currently focus on unauthorized immigrants, immigrant integration, and the progress of immigrant generations.

How will California pay for its critical and widespread infrastructure needs? Current studies analyze these needs, examine the range of payment options, and consider the affordability of our infrastructure debt.

We examine civic engagement and its policy consequences in the context of our diverse state. In addition, the PPIC Statewide Survey regularly assesses the public’s political attitudes and policy preferences.

What are the policy consequences of population growth and change, today and in the future? Current research areas include immigrants, the aging population, growth in inland regions, and future workforce needs.

We analyze the state’s revenue capacity and expenditure needs. Key research initiatives include institutional constraints on budget decisions, the affordability of debt, and alternative mechanisms for financing infrastructure.

State and local policies that improve the lives of low-income families are central concerns. Currently, we are examining the Earned Income Tax Credit and policies that promote work among CalWORKS families.

Regional transportation planning, air quality goals, and climate change are key areas of interest. Other research areas include transportation investment needs and payment methods for those needs.

We have developed a major research agenda on water policy, including water marketing, conservation, and long-term planning. The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, flood management, and climate change are also important areas of interest.