Posted on 12/04/19 by Intern Writer in Justice Reform
By Colleen Gravens As Ohio considers efforts to move away from its punitive approach to criminal justice, we can learn from Oklahoma. Last month, Oklahoma took a bold step toward reforming its justice system by commuting the sentences of 462 incarcerated people. Oklahoma’s efforts started in 2016, when voters overwhelmingly approved the reclassification from felony to misdemeanor of simple drug possession and property crimes valued at less than $1,000. Early results were promising, with a 29 percent drop in felony filings and a slight decrease in the overall crime rate statewide. [image:1] Oklahoma is known for it's Buffalo - and now also it's progressive... read more
Posted on 11/27/19 by Caitlin Johnson in Basic Needs + Unemployment Insurance
On Thanksgiving, Americans everywhere gather with friends and family to eat great food, engage in awkward political debate, watch football and express gratitude. Some may be thankful for their families, some for their good health... read more
Posted on 11/26/19 by Kalitha Williams in Economic Development
Last month, I served as a panelist for a local public affairs television program. I was invited to talk about “Race in the Heartland,” a report our organization co-released with Economic Policy Institute, COWS of... read more
Posted on 11/11/19 by Caitlin Johnson in Justice Reform
I live in the tiny, picturesque village of Bratenahl. Besides Lake Erie to its north, Bratenahl is completely surrounded by the city of Cleveland. The community is perhaps best known for its sprawling lakefront estates... read more
Posted on 11/05/19 by Amy Hanauer in Revenue & Budget
Dear friends, After 20 amazing years starting, building and running Policy Matters Ohio, it’s time for me to make way for new leaders to take this phenomenal think tank forward. Policy Matters is here to stay. We... read more
Posted on 10/31/19 by Caitlin Johnson in Democracy & Government
It’s Halloween, the spookiest day of the year. At Policy Matters, we’re less afraid of things that go bump in the night than we are about some of the policies our state lawmakers want to... read more
Posted on 10/25/19 in Smart Transportation
By Joseph Glandorf Ohio’s state policymakers need to start taking public transit more seriously. This April, a study commissioned by Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA), which manages Ohio’s only urban rail network, determined that the system... read more
Posted on 10/15/19 by Amy Hanauer in Democracy & Government
Tonight’s debate outside Columbus gives the candidates a chance to focus on the challenges and assets of this state. This will provide insights that could improve lives everywhere. It’s tough for strapped moderators to choose among... read more
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