California Policy Initiatives of The Pew Charitable Trusts

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Overview

In California, The Pew Charitable Trusts focuses on evidence-based policies that address the unique needs of the Golden State and the diversity and complexity of its people, geography, environment, economy, and infrastructure. California’s pioneering spirit and innovative approaches to governing provide a model for the rest of the country. Yet, while California’s economy continues to recover and its fiscal outlook improves, challenges remain. Pew’s research and data-driven advocacy efforts can help inform policymakers and the public on critical issues facing California and the nation.

The Pew Research Center, a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts, studies unfolding global attitudes and trends and helps policymakers and the public prepare for the future. The center has conducted public opinion research in California and throughout the United States since 1991, gauging attitudes on the economy, the environment, immigration, religion, and more. It does not take policy positions.

Key initiatives

State and consumer initiatives: Throughout the U.S., Pew pursues strategies grounded in facts and research to improve public policy, foster a vibrant civic life, and enhance the well-being of communities. In California, Pew’s work has helped strengthen election administration, expand access to dental care, promote the availability of safe and healthful food, and examine the barriers people face in saving for retirement. Additionally, the Pew-MacArthur Results First Initiative supports several California counties—as well as the state’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation—in assessing their criminal justice strategies based on rigorous data and guiding funding and policy decisions to reduce recidivism. These efforts have enabled leaders to improve public safety outcomes, cut costs, and increase accountability by ensuring that taxpayer dollars are directed toward effective, cost-beneficial approaches. Across the nation, these and other endeavors are allowing states to find solutions to some of their most pressing challenges.

Environmental conservation: In California, Pew projects help preserve wilderness, restore biodiversity, increase understanding of ocean ecology, and promote energy efficiency. Pew collaborates with local organizations and stakeholders to safeguard public land and use science-based approaches to protect California’s spectacular landscapes and rich natural resources. Off the coast, Pew is leading efforts to end overfishing, rebuild depleted fish populations, and improve management of ecologically vital forage fish in California’s waters.

Our mission

The Pew Charitable Trusts is a global nonprofit founded in 1948. For more than 65 years, Pew has turned indifference into action—asking tough questions, studying problems, working with strong partners, and striving for effective solutions that bring diverse stakeholders together.

Editor's note: This document was updated in November 2016.