Policy Briefs

YIP's policy briefs provide clear, nonpartisan summaries of key national issues and policies. Designed for accessibility, they distill complex topics into concise, understandable analyses, bridging the gap between intricate policy debates and a broad audience. These briefs embody our commitment to informed, unbiased discourse, crucial for fostering a well-informed public and encouraging active engagement in policy discussions.

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Briefs harmonize diverse political perspectives in policy teams of 4-6 for insightful policy solutions.

Recent Policy Briefs

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Rapid Response: US House of Representatives Elections

Rapid Response

Anoushka Swaminathan

This policy brief will summarize and analyze the 2024 election in the House of Representatives, highlighting key races nationwide.

Unpacking the Impact: The US Immigration Ban and Its Effect on Particular Countries

Immigration Policy

Emily Tsai

This brief discusses the impact that Executive Order 13780, or the ‘Muslim Ban,’ had on immigration from Muslim and African countries. The brief puts this ban into historical context, discussing how the affected countries were impacted by this order, and how it came to be rescinded under the presidency of Joe Biden.

Rapid Response: 2024 Election Results Analysis

Rapid Response

Anoushka Swaminathan

This brief will summarize the 2024 concurrent U.S. elections. It will discuss the results, history, and potential policy effects of the presidential, congressional, and gubernatorial elections.

Policy analysis of the “Great Outdoors Initiative”

Environmental Policy

Brian Kim

In late August, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection proposed the “Great Outdoors Initiative,” which aimed to “expand public access, increase outdoor activities and provide new lodging options.” The proposed plans included building golf courses, pickleball courts, disc golf courses, and hotels in the parks. Multiple golf courses were pitched for Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Martin County and 350-room hotels were proposed for Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine and TopSail Hill Preserve State Park in Santa Rosa Beach. As the debate rages in Florida, this document aims to provide policy options for the future of state parks in Florida.

Barcelona's Housing Crisis

Housing Policy

Martina Jaramillo

In Barcelona, Spain, the large amount of both legal and illegal short-term rentals throughout the country has driven up housing prices. As the number of illegal short-term rentals has increased exponentially and been blamed for worsening inflation, the Mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, has announced a ban on all short-term tourist rentals throughout the city. This brief will explore the history and context of this issue, the impact of this issue on society, and policy options going forwards.

California Almonds: Weighing Economic Impact vs. Water Sustainability

Agriculture Policy

The California almond industry is a major economic driver but faces scrutiny for its high water consumption amid the state’s persistent droughts. While farmers emphasize almonds' economic benefits, environmental advocates argue that water use is excessive and threatens long-term sustainability. Current policies attempt to balance these interests, yet both sides call for further reforms. This paper examines the impact of almond farming on California’s water resources and evaluates potential pathways toward sustainable growth.