Public Policy Analysis
Public Policy Analysis I Policy is defined as, “A definite course or method of action selected from among alternatives and in light of given conditions to guide and determine present and future decisions” (“Policy,” 2011). Policies are important for businesses to function properly, and it is most important in the criminal justice system. Criminal justice policies are essential for law enforcement to be able to adhere to and carry out the laws of the land. Within the criminal justice system, many policies are created to ensure the safety of the citizens in which they are created to protect. To gain a better understanding of the policies as it relates to the criminal justice system the following will be addressed: First, an example of a policy issue will be addressed. Second, a discussion of whether or not the policy issue is a regulatory or legislative-initiated policy. Third, a revelation of who initiated the issue or policy will be covered. Fourth, a question of whether there is a constitutional issue will be addressed. Finally, a discussion of how the issue or policy will affect the community, the accused and the victims (University of Phoenix, 2011).
Example of a Policy Issue There are many policies affecting the criminal justice system. One policy that will be discussed is the drug policy of the United States with a focus on prescription drug abuse. Prescription drug abuse is becoming the fastest growing problem in the United States because drug abusers often think that this is much safer than illicit drugs because it is dispensed by a pharmacy. On the contrary, prescription drugs are one of the most dangerous drugs out there for this same reason (Office of National Drug Control Policy, 2011). This issue of prescription drug abuse is impacting the United States because even teenagers are abusing the drugs. The creation of the policy aims to have a plan to educate, monitor, and enforce the prescription drug prevention program. By creating such a
Example of a Policy Issue There are many policies affecting the criminal justice system. One policy that will be discussed is the drug policy of the United States with a focus on prescription drug abuse. Prescription drug abuse is becoming the fastest growing problem in the United States because drug abusers often think that this is much safer than illicit drugs because it is dispensed by a pharmacy. On the contrary, prescription drugs are one of the most dangerous drugs out there for this same reason (Office of National Drug Control Policy, 2011). This issue of prescription drug abuse is impacting the United States because even teenagers are abusing the drugs. The creation of the policy aims to have a plan to educate, monitor, and enforce the prescription drug prevention program. By creating such a