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Independent, objective, nonpartisan research

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At the Public Policy Institute of California, we believe in the power of good information to build a brighter future for the state. We are committed to providing high-quality research and analysis—encouraging productive dialogue and inspiring the search for sustainable policy solutions in Sacramento and around the state.

Criminal Justice

We examine California’s criminal justice system and the impact of reform, focusing on costs, effectiveness, and public safety.
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Economy

We track trends in economic development, employment, housing, income, and industry.
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Health & Safety Net

We assess the implementation of child welfare, health care, and other safety net programs as well as their impact on poverty, opportunity, and economic well-being.
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K-12 Education

We examine equity, funding, and student achievement in California’s schools.
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Political Landscape

We track elections, voter behavior, the effects of partisanship, and shifts in public opinion. The PPIC Statewide Survey provides a voice for the public and likely voters on key policy issues facing the state.
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Population

We analyze the immediate and long-term policy implications of a changing population, including factors such as immigration.
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Centers

PPIC Higher Education Center

The PPIC Higher Education Center advances practical solutions that enhance educational opportunities for all of California’s students—improving lives and expanding economic growth across the state.
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PPIC Statewide Survey

The PPIC Statewide Survey provides a voice for the public and likely voters—informing policymakers, encouraging discussion, and raising awareness on critical issues of the day.
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PPIC Water Policy Center

The PPIC Water Policy Center spurs innovative water management solutions that support a healthy economy, environment, and society—now and for future generations.
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Trending

2022 Election

PPIC provides timely, independent insights on the state’s electorate and important ballot choices.
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2020 Census

The decennial census plays an essential role in American democracy. The COVID-19 pandemic complicated the 2020 Census and its aftermath. PPIC provides insights into the 2020 count and its implications for elections, political representation, and federal funding in California.
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COVID-19

The coronavirus outbreak poses a tremendous challenge to California, the nation, and the global community. PPIC’s analyses examine the impacts of COVID-19 and how policy choices and other actions can help address them.
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Drought

Droughts are a regular feature of California’s variable climate, affecting cities, farms, and the environment. They test water management systems and signal areas needing improvement.
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Housing

The high cost of housing poses a threat to the state’s economic future and widens inequality. Not surprisingly, Californians identify housing affordability and homelessness as among the most important issues facing the state. PPIC examines current and emerging housing needs and highlights the role of public policies in addressing the state’s housing crisis.
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Immigrants in California

California is home to nearly 11 million immigrants, accounting for a quarter of the foreign-born population in the US. PPIC’s research builds understanding of important immigration trends in California and highlights key issues in immigration policy at the state and federal levels.
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Poverty & Inequality

More than one in three Californians live in or near poverty, and the longstanding divide between rich and poor poses a major challenge for our state and nation. PPIC builds understanding of what economic disparities mean for households and communities, while highlighting policies that can broaden opportunity and increase well-being.
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Wildfire

A prohibition on indigenous burning, wildfire suppression, and a warming climate have made California’s headwater forests more susceptible to extreme wildfires, but improved management practices can help.
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