Patterns of reinvention: The nature of evolution during policy diffusion

Scott P. Hays

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study considers how states change policy innovations as they diffuse. This process of policy evolution during diffusion, known as reinvention, has been the focus of recent work on innovation diffusion in the states (Clark, 1985; Glick, 1992; Glick & Hays, 1991; Mooney & Lee, 1995). This manuscript focuses on differences in the patterns of reinvention for three different policy innovations with different rates of diffusion: child abuse reporting laws, crime victim compensation laws, and public campaign funding laws. Moreover, how the pattern changes after states amend their initial laws is examined. The data show evidence of reinvention during diffusion but provide only limited support for the first hypothesis that the pattern of reinvention is one of increasing comprehensiveness over time. Consistent with expectations, the data reveal little relationship between the date of adoption and the current law's comprehensiveness, including amendment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)551-566
Number of pages16
JournalPolicy Studies Journal
Volume24
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1996
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Public Administration
  • Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

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