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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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Housing & Our Community
The Western Exception: Positive Migration Trends in Colorado's Slope Region

Relative to 2015, statewide net migration (i.e., in-migration subtracted by out-migration) has declined by 52.5% as of 2025. Net migration for Garfield County is projected to rebound significantly from its

August 08, 2025 Dr. Caitlin McKennie
Education
Discipline, Absenteeism, and Achievement: A Data-Driven Look at Colorado’s Largest School Districts

In 2022, Colorado’s legislature passed HB22-1376, requiring that schools submit student-level discipline data, including behavior violations and the consequences students received. The 2023–24 school year m

August 07, 2025 Cole AndersonJudah Weir
Education
Echoes in the Halls Arizona School Districts’ Growing Problem with Empty Buildings and Empty Buses

The market value of the excess space held by Arizona district schools is $12.2B, enough to cover 10 years of capital expenditures or save $1B annually in maintenance and operations if divested.

August 07, 2025 Glenn Farley
Housing & Our Community
Colorado's Housing Affordability Mismatch

Colorado’s housing affordability concerns are deepening, and in recent years it has become clearer that many Coloradans simply cannot find housing in their income range.

August 05, 2025 Steven L. Byers, Ph.D.