Work

Should Government Go It Alone or With a Partner? A Comparison of Outcomes from a Work Release Program Using Different Policy Tools

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: This article compares labor market outcomes from two different approaches to a work release program in Illinois: direct provision by a government and a purchase‐of‐service (POS) contract between government and a public charity. Significantly better employment and earnings outcomes were associated with the POS contract. To better understand the reasons for the success of the POS contract, the authors further examined the specific terms of the contract, organizational expertise, and the political context of POS contracts. The results are organized according to the main theoretical assertions. Findings add to the weight of evidence that contractors, like public charities, can be valuable government partners for addressing challenging social policies and programs.

Source: Public Administration Review

DOI: 10.1111/puar.12948

Authors: Haeil Jung, Deanna Malatesta, Robert J. LaLonde

Institutions: Korea University, Indiana University, University of Chicago

Language: English

Topic: Public Policy and Administration Research

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, No poverty

Open Access status: green

Funders: Chicago Community Trust, Bureau of Justice Assistance