Public Policy

-Responding to public health concerns

-Planning for the public safety in the event of an act of terrorism

This list may require policy decisions by –

• Local jury

• Local government

• Local community centers

• Local church leaders

How does the media influence public opinion?

• Tells people who to vote for

• Focuses attention on certain issues

• Gives money to political parties

• Regulates the type of media people use

What is an example of a policy to protect the environment?

• Increase taxes

• Build a new school

• Protection of wildlife

• Response to global economy

John Morgan has been hired by a special interest group to try to influence legislators’ votes on their behalf.  Mr. Morgan's job title is –

• Governor

• President

• Senator

• Lobbyist

In the acronym P.E.T.E what does the P represent?

• People

• Phone

• Political Process

• Public health and safety

TRUE/FALSE: Interest groups DO NOT raise money to support candidates who share the interest group’s point of view.

• True

• False

Individuals can influence policy in all of the following ways EXCEPT —

• writing letters to government officials

• participating in a political demonstration

• lobbying and joining interest groups

• registering, but not voting

In the last election, Maggie Jones voted for a candidate who shares her views on maintaining a clean environment.  Maggie's action shows one way she

• registers to vote

• can influence public policy

• can be a lobbyist

• fulfill her civic duty

What influences public policy and informs the policymakers?

• Schools

• Mass Media

• TV

• Post offices

What are elected officials doing when they use the media to hold news conferences?

• Giving an opinion poll

• Passing laws

• Enforcing laws

• Communicating with the public