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Published Research
In-depth and informed data from our experts
Tax increase ballot measures: How to increase voter participation
This study argues that tax increase ballot measures should be considered during November general elections rather than low-turnout special elections to ensure broader voter participation. Evidence from states such as California and Idaho suggests that consolidating elections can significantly increase turnout and improve civic engagement, especially on issues that directly affect taxpayers.
Past Election Analysis
Sawtooth Leadership Academy Studies
The Blog at MSPC
New study: When taxes are on the ballot, more voters should have a say
The study, Tax increase ballot measures: How to increase voter participation, authored by Policy Fellow Sam Cardwell, finds that local tax increases are frequently decided during special elections that attract significantly fewer voters than primary or general elections.
3 hours ago2 min read
Improving voter engagement on tax increase ballot measures
Government officials should strive to maximize voter participation on important issues, and requiring tax increases to be considered at a primary or general election does just that.
9 hours ago3 min read
Housing crisis isn't inevitable: New study offers roadmap to lower costs and expand opportunity
Authored by Senior Policy Analyst Madilynne Clark, the study finds that decades of underbuilding, restrictive regulations, permitting delays, and limited housing choices have contributed to a housing shortage estimated at 3 to 4 million homes nationwide. In Idaho, Montana, Washington, and Wyoming alone, the shortage exceeds 335,000 homes.
3 days ago2 min read
Trump Administration is right to enforce hospital price transparency rule
Hospital price transparency is not political; it’s the only fair, compassionate, and honest way to operate our healthcare system.
4 days ago3 min read
Washington’s Attorney General offers strong defense of signature gatherers’ rights
Amidst evidence of signature gatherers being harassed, Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown is offering support to prosecute those trying to interfere with the initiative and referendum process. This is a refreshing and much-needed defense of the people’s sacred constitutional rights and the rule of law.
6 days ago3 min read
What is the Declaration of Independence?
Most of us understand that the Constitution is a statement of positive law—that is, man-made law—but ask whether the Declaration is law as well.
6 days ago5 min read
Data centers aren’t draining the Mountain West
Data centers have the potential to be an economic boon to the regions in which they are built, along with laying the groundwork for advances in medicine, national defense, and other research. Slowing data center development must be done based on local context, including the consumption levels of the data center and regional water availability.
Jun 153 min read
States are getting serious about Medicaid fraud
Recently, Washington state and Idaho reported success in aggressively pursuing fraud in their respective Medicaid programs.
Jun 113 min read
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