PLI Bulletin

Gig Workers, Small Claims, Proactive Policy and More

Posted on September 20, 2023

Fair Small Claims Court Modernization Act: In 45 states, the small claims courts have monetary limits of $10,000 or less, which is woefully low considering today’s costs. The Small Claims Court Modernization Act increases the monetary limit for small claims court jurisdiction to $15-$25,000.

Six reasons to fight for proactive policy even in red and purple states: If there’s one thing that the Public Leadership Institute stands for, it’s proactive strategy and policy. Instead of being mostly reactive and defensive, we urge lawmakers and advocates to create a strategic policy agenda and try to change the terms of debate. For more, see the latest IdeaLog, our blog intended to raise eyebrows and engage minds.

Latest research in criminal justice: The federal Bureau of Justice Statistics hosts a periodic Justice Today Podcast which explores how funding, technology and innovation affect public safety.

States and Cities Eye Stronger Protections for Gig Workers: One in six adults have been gig workers. Generally, they lack basic employee protections, so many states and localities are considering laws to help them, according to an article in Stateline.

Local elected officials are more popular than statewide or federal officials: According to a July 2023 poll by the Pew Research Center, 56 percent of Americans rate the job performance of local elected officials as “good” with only 26 percent saying “bad.” In contrast, members of Congress are perceived unfavorably by a 3-to-1 margin.

How to build relationships with the media: News coverage is an urgent need for both policymakers and advocates, and it’s Chapter 12 of our advocacy book, Preparing to Win.