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.
Climate Change/Energy
We monitor the state’s climate change, energy, and water policies through analysis of public opinion, local government actions, and industry trends.
Criminal Justice
We examine California’s criminal justice system and the impact of reform, focusing on costs, effectiveness, and public safety.
Economy
We track trends in economic development, employment, housing, income, and industry.
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Fiscal/Governance Reform
We analyze the effects of current and proposed reforms, focusing on the state budget, state-local realignment, and tax policy.
Health & Human Services
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.
K-12 Education
We examine equity, funding, and student achievement in California’s schools.
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.
Population
We analyze the immediate and long-term policy implications of a changing population, including factors such as immigration.
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.
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.
COVID-19
Our timely analyses examine the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and explore what steps can be taken to address them.
2020 Census
The census plays an essential role in our democracy. The stakes are huge for California.
Immigrants in California
The state is home to over 11 million immigrants—about a quarter of the foreign-born population in the US.
Poverty & Inequality
Public policies can address economic hardship and help narrow the divide between rich and poor.
FAQ
How does PPIC select its policy research topics?
Our topics address major areas of California’s budget and evaluate key long-term challenges. Ideas are generated from a variety of sources, including policymakers and other leaders, funders, and internal and external experts. An exacting internal and external review process vets each research proposal for quality, timeliness, and relevance.
How does PPIC ensure the quality of its policy research?
Our policy research relies on rigorous, state-of-the-art methods. All projects undergo an extensive, demanding internal and external review process that includes both academic and policymaking experts.
Does PPIC make specific policy recommendations?
We do not develop or recommend specific legislative proposals. However, we do evaluate policy goals and ways to meet them, offer comparative assessments of particular policy goals, and recommend policy strategies and mechanisms.
I need to talk to an expert about a particular topic. What do I do?