Policy Analyst

Taylor Luna

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All articles by the author

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Policy Briefs by the author

Ending the "War on Drugs": Highlighting Effective Treatment for Substance Abuse in the Criminal Justice System

In

Criminal Justice

On

January 23, 2024

The policy brief provides an overview of the historical trajectory of drug policies in the United States, discussing the shift from punitive measures to evidence-based, rehabilitative approaches within the criminal justice system. It highlights the effectiveness of various solutions such as cognitive therapy, medical interventions, and sustained support in mitigating recidivism and addressing the broader complexities of substance abuse and mental health within the justice system.

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Breaking the Silence: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Domestic Violence Courts

In

Criminal Justice

On

February 13, 2024

This brief explores the efficacy of domestic violence courts and how to optimize them for fair and comprehensive rulings. This brief will acknowledge the flaws within the court system and provide solutions to fix those issues and ensure justice for all.

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Betrayal Behind The Bars: Curbing Corruption in Prisons

In

Criminal Justice

On

March 1, 2024

This brief examines prison corruption on the different levels of the criminal justice system, from guard bribery to corrupt private prisons. This brief also explores solutions to minimize prison corruption on all levels.

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The Pitfalls of Surveillance Technology: Policy Analysis and Solutions

In

Criminal Justice

On

May 29, 2024

This brief analyzes the pitfalls of surveillance technology and how to counteract biased systems in an increasingly digitized world.

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Sexual Abuse in Prisons: Prioritizing Rehabilitation and Safety

In

Criminal Justice

On

May 29, 2024

This brief aims to analyze the complex issue of sexual abuse in prison, including but not limited to prison rape and abuse, sexual assault, and both inmate-inmate and inmate-staff sexual conduct. It will propose policy solutions to protect incarcerated people and minimize the effects that sexual abuse has on prisons.

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Police Actions Against Nonviolent Resistance

In

Criminal Justice

On

July 27, 2024

This brief analyzes police actions towards nonviolent forms of protests. It will consider existing guidelines on the use of force against peaceful activism.

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Rapid Response: Kamala Harris picks Tim Walz as running mate

In

Rapid Response

On

August 10, 2024

This brief will analyze Kamala Harris’ choice to make Tim Walz her running mate for the 2024 presidential election. It will consider Walz’s political history and qualifications for this role.

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A Closer Look at Drug Courts

In

Criminal Justice

On

August 25, 2024

This brief analyzes potential shortcomings in drug courts and arguments over how to improve resources and rehabilitate offenders.

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Rapid Response: Governor Newsom Advocates for Restricting Phone Usage in Schools

In

Rapid Response

On

August 29, 2024

This brief examines the ongoing debate surrounding the implementation of cell phone restrictions in California schools, prompted by Governor Gavin Newsom's recent push. It explores the historical context of cell phone usage in educational settings and evaluates potential policy options to address the challenges posed by student cell phone use in schools.

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Analyzing Sentencing Reform

In

Criminal Justice

On

October 18, 2024

This brief addresses the topic of sentencing reform, examining potential and tried policies that have changed the system.

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Rapid Response: Brazilian Government Bans X

In

Rapid Response

On

November 3, 2024

This brief will summarize the recent conflict between X (formerly Twitter) and the Brazilian government, which led to X’s banning in the country, as well as the potential next steps by Brazil and X.

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