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Administrative Burden: Policymaking by Other Means

Fred Foster

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Published in Donald P Moynihan

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In our increasingly complex regulatory landscape, administrative burden has emerged as a stealthy but potent force, shaping policy outcomes in ways that often go unnoticed.

Administrative Burden: Policymaking by Other Means

by Donald P. Moynihan

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4375 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	360 pages

Administrative Burden: Policymaking By Other Means lifts the veil on this hidden agenda-setter, exposing its profound impact on businesses, individuals, and the broader economy. Through rigorous research and compelling case studies, this thought-provoking book:

Defines and measures administrative burden, quantifying its staggering costs
Examines the insidious ways in which burden can distort policymaking, undermining intended objectives
Uncovers the political and bureaucratic incentives that perpetuate excessive burden
Presents practical solutions for reducing burden without sacrificing policy goals

The Hidden Costs of Administrative Burden

Contrary to popular misconceptions, administrative burden is not simply about filling out forms or complying with regulations. It encompasses a far broader spectrum of activities, from gathering and reporting data to navigating complex bureaucratic processes.

The sheer magnitude of this burden has become a significant economic drag. Studies have estimated that administrative costs can consume up to 20% of business revenue in some sectors. For small businesses, these costs can be particularly onerous, hindering growth and innovation.

Beyond the financial toll, administrative burden also exacts a heavy toll on human capital. The time and effort spent on compliance tasks diverts resources away from more productive endeavors, leading to decreased productivity and stifled creativity.

The Distorting Impact on Policymaking

While administrative burden is often perceived as a necessary evil inherent to modern governance, the reality is far more troubling. This burden has become a powerful tool that policymakers can wield to influence outcomes in ways that may not be immediately apparent.

Excessive burden can make it difficult for businesses to comply with regulations, giving an unfair advantage to larger, well-resourced entities that can afford to navigate the regulatory maze.

Furthermore, burden can create disincentives for innovation, as businesses hesitate to invest in new ideas that may trigger additional compliance requirements.

The Roots of Administrative Burden

Understanding the origins of administrative burden is crucial for devising effective solutions. This book identifies two primary drivers:

Political incentives: Politicians often use administrative burden as a way to signal toughness on issues, appease special interests, or create the illusion of progress without having to address underlying problems.
Bureaucratic inertia: Once regulations are in place, they tend to accumulate over time, creating a complex and unwieldy system that is difficult to reform.

Solutions for a Burden-Reduced Future

While administrative burden is a complex problem, it is not insurmountable. Policymaking By Other Means outlines a comprehensive set of solutions designed to reduce burden without sacrificing policy goals:

Cost-benefit analysis: Require policymakers to conduct rigorous cost-benefit analyses before imposing new administrative requirements.
Sunset provisions: Automatically repeal regulations after a specified period of time unless they are specifically reauthorized.
Regulatory review: Establish independent bodies to review existing regulations and identify opportunities for simplification and streamlining.
Technology solutions: Leverage technology to automate compliance tasks and reduce the time and effort required for compliance.

Administrative Burden: Policymaking By Other Means is an essential read for policymakers, business leaders, and anyone concerned about the impact of excessive regulation on our economy and society.

This book offers a clear-eyed analysis of the problem, exposing the hidden costs and unintended consequences of administrative burden. It also provides a roadmap for reducing this burden without sacrificing the legitimate goals of government regulation.

By shedding light on this often-overlooked aspect of policymaking, Administrative Burden: Policymaking By Other Means empowers readers to demand better from their governments and create a more efficient, equitable, and prosperous society for all.

Administrative Burden: Policymaking by Other Means

by Donald P. Moynihan

4.5 out of 5