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The Center for State Policy Analysis (cSPA) provides rigorous, timely, non-partisan research on live policy issues in Massachusetts. It is housed within the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life.

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Guides to the 2026 Ballot Questions

Reports

2026 Ballot Guides

Clear, non-partisan analysis of all 9 Massachusetts ballot questions

Starter Home Question Would Modestly Boost Home Construction

The starter home ballot question would generate roughly 750 new homes per year

An Earmark for Conservation and Recreation

Nature Fund ballot initiative would create $65 million earmark

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cSPA in the News

Fix Massachusetts' unemployment system

Evan Horowitz says that providing timely and accurate unemployment benefits is “a core function of a caring state.” A 2021 report by cSPA outlining policy options for Massachusetts to overhaul its unemployment insurance system is also linked.

Boston Public Radio Full Show 9/28/26

Evan Horowitz joins this episode to discuss cSPA’s analysis of the state’s record-tying nine ballot questions voters will consider this November. (His segment begins at 59:45)

Massachusetts' tax revenue limit is stuck in 1986

This Boston Globe opinion piece cites a new analysis from cSPA of the impact of Ballot Question 5, which would reshape the tax law by setting the tax cap each year based on the actual revenue collected.

Beacon Hill leaders want the party to rage on

This Boston Globe article cites cSPA Voters' Guide research on Question 3 which would end Massachusetts's party primary system.

A pro-tax refund ballot question has a money problem

This article references cSPA's research on Question 5, which would likely make automatic taxpayer refunds a more frequent reality in Massachusetts.

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cSPA in the News