Administrative Burden by Pamela Herd & Donald Moynihan, is an eye-opening book that delves into the often-unseen problems of bureaucratic red tape and policy design choices that affect citizens' everyday experiences with government. Written by Pamela Herd and Donald P. Moynihan, professors from Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy, the book examines how administrative burdens can happen unintentionally or be purposefully devised to limit access to rights and services, often at the expense of disadvantaged citizens who lack the resources needed to maneuver through them.
The authors offer an important perspective on the impact of public policy decisions and provide a valuable call to action for reducing unnecessary administrative burdens at all levels of government. All government officials should, from policymakers to administrators, strive to make citizen interactions with their government more transparent and user-friendly, and less time-consuming. By understanding why administrative burdens exist and how they can be reduced, we can work towards better public services for everyone.
While their book will spark important conversations about standing inequalities, the role of government in protecting rights, and the need for evidence-based policymaking, this book is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the implications of public policy on citizens’ daily lives.