American Government I
Public Policy Formation in the United States In order to solve a dilemma or dispute in the country, there is a goal oriented course of action involved known as public policy (US History). Upon starting, the general goal of interest groups and many other individuals is to persuade decision makers to act in a distinct manner to achieve their goals. They can and will use ample tactics and techniques such as educating the public on general issues of concern. It is generally a guide to action by the executive or administrative branches of the state consistent with laws and customs. Congress, the President, the Cabinet, advisors, agency bureaus, political parties, courts, interest groups and the media all play a critical role in how decisions are executed throughout the United States. Even though public policies are based on the law, they are set by many other people than legislators (US History). The result of not adhering to these policies are subject to penalization. There is a certain six step process. The first step is recognizing the problem. Medical care and unsafe work conditions are examples of problems that are first recognized and brought up however, not all problems are brought up for further review. People have to take note that the government has the ability to change and do something about the issues. The next step is agenda setting which involves a list of problems that are expected to be changed. The people bringing up the issue must understand that there are numerous other issues that can and are brought up prior to them. Pressures from lobbyists, other government agencies and interest group may help speed up the process. The re-shaping of agendas are formed when a new president takes office, a crisis and the election of a major party in Congress. Third, the President, White House aides, interest groups and more all take part in formulating the new policy. Next, the decision makers are presented with policies and accepted. Another example of policy adoption is when an Executive order is signed by the President. The fifth stage of the six step process is implementing the policy. Lastly, evaluating the policy is the final stage of the process. This lengthy process is not as