Policy Experiment Stations to Accelerate State and Local Government Innovation

Each year the federal government transfers approximately $1.1 trillion to state and local governments. Yet, most states and localities rarely evaluate whether these funds are actually improving their communities.

Recent research points to a powerful solution: fostering partnerships between government agencies and local universities—something we specialize in at the University of Chicago Crime Lab and the University of Chicago Education Lab.

This policy brief outlines an exciting vision for “Policy Experiment Stations.” These stations are designed to revolutionize how state and local governments leverage evidence and data to drive innovation and address critical challenges.

This memo is part of the Federation of American Scientists’ larger effort to champion bold, science-driven ideas that can help build a more prosperous, equitable, and safe future for all.