Positive Criminology Social Structure Theory

Sample Solution

  **1. ** Identify the problem. What is the problem that the policy change is intended to address? In the case of the MORE Act, the problem is the disproportionate impact of marijuana prohibition on communities of color.

Full Answer Section

  **2. ** Define the goals of the policy change. What are the specific goals of the policy change? In the case of the MORE Act, the goals are to: * Decriminalize marijuana at the federal level. * Expunge the criminal records of people who have been convicted of marijuana offenses. * Invest in communities that have been disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition. **3. ** Research the evidence. What is the evidence that the policy change will be effective in achieving its goals? In the case of the MORE Act, there is evidence that decriminalizing marijuana and expunging criminal records can have a positive impact on communities of color. For example, a study by the American Civil Liberties Union found that Black people are four times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than white people, even though they use marijuana at similar rates. **4. ** Build a coalition of support. Who are the stakeholders who are likely to support the policy change? In the case of the MORE Act, potential stakeholders include: * Marijuana reform organizations. * Civil rights organizations. * Community organizations. * Businesses that operate in the marijuana industry. **5. ** Develop a communication plan. How will you communicate the policy change to the public? In the case of the MORE Act, you might: * Hold press conferences. * Run ads. * Write op-eds. * Reach out to community leaders. **6. ** Engage in advocacy. How will you advocate for the policy change? In the case of the MORE Act, you might: * Contact your members of Congress. * Attend rallies and protests. * Write letters to the editor. * Sign petitions. **7. ** Monitor the progress of the policy change. Once the policy change has been introduced, you will need to monitor its progress to ensure that it is implemented effectively. In the case of the MORE Act, you might: * Track the progress of the bill through Congress. * Monitor the implementation of the bill by the federal government. * Evaluate the impact of the bill on communities of color. This is just a model, and the specific steps you take will depend on the specific policy change you are trying to introduce. However, following these steps can help you increase your chances of success. Additional Thoughts In addition to the steps outlined above, there are a few other things to keep in mind when introducing a policy change related to the MORE Act. First, it is important to build relationships with key stakeholders, such as members of Congress, marijuana reform organizations, and civil rights organizations. Second, it is important to be patient and persistent, as policy changes can take time to implement. Finally, it is important to be prepared to compromise, as there may be some aspects of the MORE Act that are not feasible or politically palatable.