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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Clean Energy Project Cuts

Environmental Policy

Piranavee Pirathiviraj

Funding cuts made by the Department of Energy to several clean energy projects demonstrated a realignment of federal policies, shifting away from renewable energy deployment toward fossil fuel dominance. The brief outlines the DOE’s May termination of 24 demonstration projects totaling $3.7 billion, followed by the October 2025 cancellation of 321 awards amounting to an estimated $7.56 billion.

Addressing Recidivism and Inequality in the U.S. Prison System

Social Policy

Lilian Tsai

This brief will analyze the debate around reforming the United States prison system, a developing conflict causing great discourse around the country. It will consider the history and tried policy of this phenomenon.

The Gen-Z Credit Paradox: Credit Instability in a Volatile Economy

Economic Policy

Avery Chang

The Gen-Z Credit Paradox describes how young adults are locked out of financial stability by the very system meant to enable it. Credit is required for essentials like housing, transportation, and affordable loans, but to access credit, you already need a credit history and financial stability. Because many Gen Z workers have irregular income, limited assets, student debt, and no co-signers, they’re denied traditional credit. Instead, they rely on alternatives like Buy Now, Pay Later or fintech loans, which increase debt without building real credit. This creates a self-reinforcing cycle: no credit without stability, and no stability without credit.

Impact of AI on Medicine

Public Health Policy

Anika Agrawal

Artificial intelligence (AI )and digital technologies are increasingly shaping the U.S. healthcare system, transforming how patients are treated, monitored, and diagnosed. From past innovations such as X-rays and antibiotics to today’s advanced AI-powered diagnostic systems, technology advancements continue to reshape modern medicine.

Infographic: State of the Union

Rapid Response

Assata Foday

In what was called to be a record-breaking convention in multiple years, President Trump delivers his annual State of the Union Speech for 2026, a declaration of a protected, strengthened, and revamped America, although met in midst of suspicion, protests, and questioning claims from audiences.

The Current Chaos of US-Latin America Relations

Foreign Policy

Kate Chu

This brief examines the current nature of relations between the United States and countries in Latin America, assessing global implications as well as potential solutions to rising tensions.