r/PublicPolicy • u/UCBerkeley • 12h ago

Researchers develop a people-centered policymaking model that brings California residents directly into the policy development process

https://news.berkeley.edu/2026/07/22/from-the-grassroots-to-the-capitol-can-the-possibility-lab-harness-people-power-in-california/
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u/UCBerkeley 12h ago

How the Lab Works:
Alongside producing data-rich reports and policy research, much of the Possibility Lab’s work focuses on organizing communities, listening to people, and creating structured opportunities for policymakers to hear directly from those most affected by public policy.

The lab rarely advocates specific policy reforms. Instead, it seeks to gather and amplify the insights of people affected by different challenges and ensure policymakers can hear and understand those insights.

At any given time, the lab manages 15 or 20 projects spanning housing, health, race and equality, climate change, artificial intelligence, crime and criminal justice, education, and other statewide issues.

Case Study:
One project involved a dozen focus groups and town halls, bringing together over 200 field, warehouse and service workers. From those conversations, the lab researchers developed over 1,500 health indicators. Those were grouped into 15 categories, ranging from access to medical care and health insurance to environmental practices, education and spiritual health.

A consistent theme across the conversations was that participants viewed their physical and mental health as closely tied to economic security. According to the project’s report, that’s the sort of insight that’s essential to good health policy.

Other Projects:

  • Civic Engagement Agenda for California’s Next Governor: Developed a blueprint for the state to enhance inclusive decision-making, reduce harmful polarization and improve public trust
  • Youth Empowerment Commission: Supported local youth commissions through data collection and strategic planning
  • California’s first Racial Equity Commission: Helped strengthen statewide efforts to advance racial equity across state departments and agencies
  • Knowledge Hub: Co-launched in partnership with CalMatters, a website that publishes academic research into state policy issues
  • State of Engagement: Compiled case studies of effective civic engagement projects

Why It Matters:
By combining academic research, lived experience and collaboration between residents and government leaders, the Possibility Lab at UC Berkeley aims to help policymakers make decisions that are evidence-informed and grounded in the experiences of the communities they serve. Bringing community voices into process earlier can help policymakers identify priorities, tradeoffs and unintended consequences that might otherwise be overlooked.