Influencing policy: "This has dramatically shifted what I thought I was capable of."

TL;DR

A young economist discusses the importance of focusing on local governments, specifically mentioning their involvement in a universal basic income experiment and a children savings account program.

Transcript

I think it's really important to Sieber that we both encourage the next generation of people to consider opportunities in the economic policy and more generally public policy arena before meirin even got started on this I felt like one sort of place where we were punching below our weight a bit was this area of stained local policy because a lot of... Read More

Key Insights

• 🖐️ Local governments play a vital role in shaping economic policy and should be given more attention.
• 💦 The economist's work in Stockton includes a universal basic income experiment and a children savings account program.
• 🐕‍🦺 Their experience in public service has been empowering and has shaped their future goals.
• 🇨🇫 It is important to encourage younger generations to consider opportunities in economic and public policy.
• 🤩 The economist's work with the mayor of Stockton and mentorship from key figures has been invaluable.
• 🫥 Public policy decisions will become increasingly challenging, making it crucial to have talented individuals on the front lines.
• 🐕‍🦺 The economist's experiences have convinced them that public service is their lifelong commitment.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the significance of focusing on local governments in economic policy research?

Local governments make decisions that directly impact people's lives, often more so than national policies. By understanding their challenges and opportunities, economic policy research can be improved.

Q: What role did the economist have in the universal basic income experiment in Stockton, California?

Initially, their role involved community outreach and awareness about the program. However, as data collection began, the economist's work transitioned to creating better outcomes in the cradle-to-career pipeline.

Q: What is a children savings account program, and what is its purpose?

A children savings account is a dedicated account created for a child that is invested until they turn 18. The purpose is to provide funds for education and empower children's futures.

Q: What are the future plans of the economist?

The economist plans to execute the children savings account program, hire an executive director to manage it, and pursue a master's in public policy to continue contributing to public service.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker believes that encouraging younger generations to consider opportunities in economic and public policy is crucial, particularly at the local level where important decisions are made.

• The economist has been working on a universal basic income experiment in Stockton, California, and is now also focused on developing a children savings account program.

• Their goal is to implement the savings account program, hire an executive director, and pursue a master's in public policy to further contribute to improving economic policy.