ABOUT THE CENTER

The Public Safety & Criminal Justice Center at Common Sense Institute is committed to advancing research and policies that promote a safe, fair, and effective criminal justice system. Our center focuses on addressing the challenges and opportunities within public safety and criminal justice, with the goal of fostering a system that protects communities, ensures justice, and supports rehabilitation.

We conduct in-depth analyses on a wide range of topics, including law enforcement practices, crime prevention, sentencing reform, and reentry programs. By providing data-driven insights and evidence-based recommendations, we aim to inform policymakers, law enforcement, and the public on the best strategies to enhance public safety while respecting individual rights and ensuring equitable treatment.

Our work emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach that reduces crime, supports victims, and offers opportunities for offenders to reintegrate successfully into society. Through collaboration and informed discourse, the Public Safety & Criminal Justice Center seeks to contribute to a more just and secure future for all.

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Research

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Crime & Public Safety
Understanding Colorado’s Crime Trends: Local Progress, National Standing
Understanding Colorado’s Crime Trends: Local Progress, National Standing Introduction Colorado’s crime trends present a mixed picture: rates have fallen from…
Education
Market Demand Assessment – University of Iowa Center for Intellectual Freedom
Introduction In 2025, the Iowa legislature enacted House File 437, directing the University of Iowa to establish a Center for…
Housing & Our Community
A High Burden The Growing Cost of Permitting Compliance in Arizona’s Home Improvement Market
Introduction  Residential construction, the professional trades, and building improvements are essential components not just of Arizona’s housing market, but also…
Jobs & Our Economy
Iowa Jobs and Labor Force Update – February 2026
Summary Iowa lost 4,400 nonfarm jobs in February, with government employment falling by 1,100 and private-sector employment declining by 3,300.…

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