Policy Resources for Elected Officials & Staff
FRESH IDEAS FOR REAL PROBLEMS
Too often, Americans aren’t hearing leaders talk about the pain points and frustrations in their daily lives. The Fresh Ideas Project connects real concerns with responsive policy solutions to help rebuild trust.
Built from the ground up. Every idea is sourced from real people’s experiences and matched with practical solutions that policymakers at all levels of government can embrace.
Policy Ideas
Relief for Overcharged Renters
Hidden fees and failing maintenance are driving up the real cost of renting. Here are policies that can take some pressure off and give renters more control.
Eliminating Health Care Bills
Americans are getting stuck with health care bills they can’t afford, even if they have insurance. Here are ideas for driving down out-of-pocket costs.
Earn While You Learn
Cost is the top reason people don’t pursue a degree or certificate after high school. Paid internships and apprenticeships can change that.
Boosting Paychecks by Stopping Wage Theft
Employers steal billions from workers every year. The laws already exist. Here’s how to strengthen and enforce them.
Guaranteeing the First Job Out of School
Young workers face higher unemployment rates. AI may be shrinking entry-level openings. Here’s a ready solution.
Our Method
These aren’t ivory tower abstractions. Every idea is grounded in public opinion research and grassroots input — then shaped into a policy solution that is practical and easy to communicate.
Listen First
We start with what people say is broken in their lives — not what insiders assume. We review dozens of surveys and focus group findings, and examine what people are telling grassroots organizers, journalists, and anyone who will listen.
Find the Solution
Each pain point is matched to creative, actionable policies. We look across the country for ideas that are already working somewhere. We also lift up new ideas that meet the moment.
Package for Action
Two concise pages. Ready to adapt, ready to use.
Your Feedback Matters
How can we improve an existing idea? What other problems should we tackle? Your feedback shapes what comes next.
About This Project
Behind the Fresh Ideas Project is Martha Coven, a longtime policy leader experienced in finding practical solutions for real problems.
Stay Informed
Get notified of developments, including when new ideas are added. No noise, just the ideas that matter.