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OUR FOCUS IS ON THE FACTS.

Our Mission

It's Just Common Sense.

CSI’s mission is to examine the fiscal impacts of policies, initiatives, and proposed laws so that citizens are educated and informed on issues impacting their lives. CSI employs rigorous research techniques and dynamic modeling to evaluate the potential impact of these measures on the economy and individual opportunity.

 

 

Our Impact

Common Sense Institute is a non-partisan research organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the economy. CSI is at the forefront of important discussions concerning the future of free enterprise and aims to have an impact on the issues that matter most.

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At Common Sense Institute, we strive to provide research and insights that drive effective policy solutions for the most pressing issues. Your generous donation helps us continue our work in fostering informed dialogue and crafting innovative approaches to enhance our community’s economic vitality and public safety. Join us in making a difference—donate today to support a brighter future.

 

Research
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Jobs & Our Economy
Portland’s Thanksgiving Dinner Cost

Thanksgiving Dinner is cheaper this year, with the Farm Bureau estimating the national cost at $55.18—a 5% drop driven by lower prices for key items like turkey, stuffing, dinner rolls, and cranberries. Por

November 25, 2025 Serra KirschThomas Young
Jobs & Our Economy
All’s Well That Ends Well: What Oregon Gives Thanks for This Year

Oregon closes out the year with several encouraging trends, including rising real incomes, falling poverty, a calmer wildfire season, and modest housing-supply progress. Together, these improvements highlig

November 25, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Crime & Public Safety
$1.3 Billion Gone: How Retail Theft is Draining Colorado’s Economy

Between the two, retail crime has reached record levels in Colorado. In 2024, law enforcement agencies across the state recorded 27,094 reported shoplifting incidents – a 22.4% growth rate increase over 202

Housing & Our Community