The development of modern public relations is traced in this paper. The opposition of James Madison and his colleagues to involving the federal government in projects of "public interest" because they had seen the system abused by British authorities is explained, and the efforts of nineteenth century leaders within the railroad industry…

National goals demand a continuing high rate of research and development activities by individuals and private firms. Support for such activities should be part of the overall policy of local and Federal agencies. (Author/RA)

Liability waivers do not fully protect public agencies from litigation, but they may discourage lawsuits and enhance legal defenses by increasing participant awareness. This article examines the practicality and enforceability of public agency liability waivers. (DF)

The amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) in 2004 reiterate the significance of producing real postsecondary education, employment, and independent living outcomes. However, current employment data continue to show widespread unemployment and very limited access to inclusive community environments and…

Looking back over the past 40 years, one can observe at least seven trends in public policy substance and in the study of public policy: (1) There is a trend toward higher goals for society in economic, social, political, and science policy. (2) Major changes in almost all fields of public policy have resulted in increased benefits for the less…

This paper provides information to public officials, state legislators, and the general public regarding the Institute's policy and initiatives on the development of environmental education legislation or regulation. It supports state legislation to establish environmental education programs at all levels of public and private education. Included…

Outlines historical development of the concept of children of alcoholics as a high-risk population in need of protection. Highlights recent efforts on the behalf of such children by public and private agencies. (CMG)

Highlights the importance of early intervention for children with disabilities and describes early childhood education for children with disabilities in Botswana. The role of non-governmental organizations and the missionaries in providing services, the inaction of the government, and the lack of integration of children with disabilities is…

Privatization is one way the Reagan Administration is restructuring the welfare state. Intervention in the economy was historically conceived to modify the market in behalf of social justice. In contrast, privatization channels public dollars into private hands, strengthens the two-class welfare state, and reproduces the inequalities of the free…

At a 2-day meeting in October 1982, the Library of Congress Network Advisory Committee (NAC) members discussed the complex issues involved in public and private sector interactions and their relationship to networking activities. The report, "Public Sector/Private Sector Interaction in Providing Information Services," prepared by the…

Discusses a move by the Office of Management and Budget to move the 43-year-old National Technical Information Service (NTIS) out of the government. Describes some of the pros and cons of such a change. (TW)

A comprehensive review of current refugee policy and program issues is provided in this paper, which is intended to serve both as a status report and a guide to developing an agenda for the future. Chapter I deals with early warning as to potential refugee movements, mass asylum, and interim assistance. Chapter II discusses and analyzes four types…

This project undertook the following: (1) examination of the scope and structure of the private, nonprofit sector in the United States; (2) analysis of the patterns of spending by Federal, State, and local governments in fields where nonprofit organizations are active; and (3) evaluation of the impact of changes in government policy on the…

Proposed health manpower legislation is described as an example of increasing government control of medical education. The assistant secretary for health, U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, calls for bold and cohesive private action in articulating a national health policy participated in but not controlled by the federal…

The question of whether foundations should engage in activities having a bearing on public policy development is discussed. Tax exempt private foundations have had a long, controversial history of participation in public policy formation. They contribute to policy development by means of various techniques that include support of established…