First, introduce the policy in a clear and succinct paragraph. What are the goals of the policy? What is the rationale for it from a governmental perspective?
Second, identify the bureaucratic agency/agencies (discuss no more than 2!) that have decision-making authority over the policy. What kind of authority does the agency have: rule-making? Implementation? Be specific as you explain the kinds of power that the agency has over the policy area. What forms of oversight, if any, has the legislature (or executive decision-making authority) developed to keep the bureaucracy “in line”?
Finally, examine the level of discretion using principal-agent theory, bureaucratic drift, discretionary control, and other theories or concepts introduced in course readings and/or discussed in class.
o What is the technical/policy rationale for the level of discretion provided?
o What is the political or power rationale for that level of discretion?
o To what extent does the power of the bureaucracy reflect the level you would expect based on course readings and principles discussed in class?
