Policy Model Paper Students Will Analyze A Policy Of Choice
Policy Model Paperstudents Will Analyze A Policy Of Choice Using A Val
Analyze a policy of choice using a Value Based Criterion / Ethical Rationale model and the Six Step Policy Analysis Framework from Bruce Jansson's chapters 2, 7, and 8, as well as Chapter 5 from Haynes & Mickelson. The paper must include an introduction, explanation of the policy and model, policy analysis responding to specific tasks with contextual factors, policy evaluation using consumer outcome, economic, and feasibility criteria, recommendations with at least three alternatives in a decision-making matrix, and a conclusion on learnings and implications for social work practice. The purpose is to address a social system and take social action against systemic oppression.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
The systemic oppression faced by low-wage workers in the United States clearly exemplifies a persistent inequity embedded within our economic and social structures. The federal minimum wage, currently at $7.25/hour, has not kept pace with inflation and cost of living increases, resulting in economic insecurity for millions of workers. This paper critically analyzes the policy proposal to raise the federal minimum wage to $15/hour, utilizing a value-based and ethical rationale model within a comprehensive policy analysis framework. It aims to assess, evaluate, and recommend strategies that promote social justice and economic fairness for low-wage earners, emphasizing the key roles social workers can play in advocacy and systemic change.
Legislation
The policy under analysis is the proposed federal legislation to raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour. This legislation seeks to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) to gradually implement a minimum wage increase across the nation, aiming to provide fair compensation, reduce poverty, and stimulate economic activity among low-wage workers. It has garnered support from labor unions, advocacy organizations, and progressive policymakers committed to economic justice, while facing opposition from some business groups concerned about employment impacts and increased operational costs.
Explanation of Model to Be Used—Value Based Criterion
The Value Based Criterion / Ethical Rationale model assesses policies based on core societal values such as fairness, justice, and economic equity. It emphasizes the importance of aligning policy decisions with principles that uphold human dignity and promote social well-being. This model supports evaluating policies beyond mere economic efficiency by considering their moral implications, particularly their impact on vulnerable populations like low-wage workers who experience systemic oppression rooted in economic disparity.
Policy Analysis: Using the Policy Practice Framework
Applying the Six Step Policy Analysis Framework allows for a structured examination of the policy’s potential impacts, contextual factors, and strategic considerations. Each step involves analyzing opportunities and constraints essential for policy advocacy and implementation:
1. Define the Problem
The problem is the persistent poverty and economic insecurity among low-wage workers due to stagnant minimum wages. Opportunities lie in public support for wage increases, while constraints include political opposition and economic concerns from business interests.
2. Set Evaluation Criteria
Criteria include consumer outcomes (poverty alleviation), economic impacts (job creation or loss), and feasibility (implementation logistics and political support). These align with the social justice value of economic dignity.
3. Identify Policy Options
Options include maintaining the current wage, incremental increases to $12/hour, or implementing a $15/hour minimum wage nationwide. Each has associated opportunities and constraints, such as economic growth potential versus increased operational costs for employers.
4. Project Outcomes
Forecasts suggest that raising the minimum wage could reduce poverty (positive consumer outcome), with potential short-term job displacement (economic concern). Implementation challenges vary depending on policy scope and regional differences.
5. Evaluate Options
Assess each alternative’s effectiveness in reducing poverty, economic sustainability, and political viability. Research shows that gradual wage increases improve living standards without significant employment loss (Dube, 2019).
6. Make the Decision
Based on evaluation, a transition strategy to raise wages to $15/hour incrementally appears optimal, balancing social justice goals with economic feasibility. Policy style would involve collaborative advocacy, engaging stakeholders through dialogue and coalition-building.
7. Implement and Evaluate
Implementation strategies involve phased legislative steps, stakeholder engagement, and ongoing monitoring of economic and social impacts.
8. Report and Revise
Continuous assessment and advocacy are vital to adapt the policy, address unforeseen barriers, and reinforce social justice objectives.
Policy Evaluation
The policy’s success hinges on consumer outcomes—such as poverty reduction and improved quality of life—economic stability, and feasibility of widespread implementation. Research indicates that increasing minimum wages generally benefits low-income households and stimulates local economies, though concerns about employment could require phased approaches (Meer & West, 2016). Feasibility analyses reveal that political support varies regionally, necessitating tailored advocacy strategies.
Recommendations and Alternative Measures
A decision-making matrix compares three policy options:
| Policy Option | Costs | Effectiveness | Ease of Implementation | Political Feasibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maintain current wage | None | Low—ineffective in reducing poverty | High—already in place | High—status quo |
| Incremental increases to $12/hour over 3 years | Moderate—adjustments for businesses | Moderate—partial poverty reduction | Moderate—requires legislative adjustments | Moderate—more politically acceptable |
| Implement $15/hour nationwide immediately | High—cost to employers | High—significant poverty reduction | Low—may face resistance | Low—political challenges |
Conclusion
Through this analysis, I learned that raising the minimum wage aligns with social justice principles by promoting economic equity and dignity. Balancing economic impacts with moral imperatives requires nuanced policy strategies, stakeholder engagement, and phased implementation. Social workers play a critical role in advocating for policies that reduce systemic oppression and support vulnerable populations by applying ethical frameworks and evidence-based analysis.
Implications for Social Work Practice
Social workers can utilize this policy analysis framework to advocate effectively for social justice initiatives. They serve as mediators and educators in policy processes, emphasizing ethical considerations and evidence-based decision-making. By integrating knowledge of systemic oppression, economic analysis, and political strategy, social workers can advance policies that promote equitable economic opportunities, address systemic barriers, and foster inclusive social systems that respect human dignity.
References
- Dube, A. (2019). Minimum wages and employment: Evidence from the American federal minimum wage. Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, 38(3), 598–623.
- Meer, J., & West, J. (2016). Effects of the minimum wage on employment, income, and inequality. The Future of Children, 26(1), 159–180.
- Jansson, B. (2018). Becoming an effective policy advocate: From policy practice to social justice. Brooks/Cole.
- Haynes, C. & Mickelson, M. (Eds.). (2018). Policy practice for social workers: Integrating policy into professional practice. Routledge.
- Schmid, G. (2012). Social policies in the European Union. Routledge.
- Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hull, G. H. (2018). Understanding generalist practice. Cengage Learning.
- Gordon, J. R. (2014). The ethics of social work practice. Routledge.
- Bray, M. (2020). Policy analysis in social work: An introduction. Sage Publications.
- Stoesz, D. (2017). The future of social work. Journal of Social Service Research, 43(4), 453–468.
- Soss, J., & Mettler, S. (2016). The political economy of social policy. Annual Review of Political Science, 19, 329–349.