Constraints on policy learning: designing the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative in Pennsylvania

Andrew Bell, Daniel J. Mallinson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Much policy diffusion and learning research examines macro-level patterns of policy spread. However, micro-level case studies can reveal nuances in how learning occurs, particularly when innovation originates within the executive branch, not the legislature. This case study of Pennsylvania’s effort to join the regional greenhouse gas initiative (RGGI) illuminates the legal constraints faced by administrators who must innovate within the bounds of existing authority. The study also shows that legal constraints can reduce an agency’s ability to maximize the political durability of major policy reform. The case yields insights for both policy designers and scholars of policy diffusion and learning.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)486-500
Number of pages15
JournalPolicy Design and Practice
Volume4
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2021

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Public Administration
  • Political Science and International Relations

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Constraints on policy learning: designing the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative in Pennsylvania'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this