Policy
Work & Opportunity
At the core of the American Dream is the belief that hard work and commitment can yield a better life, the pursuit of which is possible thanks to the American free enterprise system – the greatest engine of prosperity in the history of humanity. But too many Americans striving to escape poverty still face obstacles to realizing that dream.
Through the Work & Opportunity Initiative, Sutherland Institute seeks to remove barriers or disincentives to work and other opportunities for economic progression that affect families in Utah and beyond. Landmark research, compelling multimedia, powerful storytelling and strategic partnerships combine to advance policy reforms that make the American Dream more attainable – protecting Utah and the United States as the land of opportunity for generations to come.
Research & Events
Conversations
-
Rep. Blake Moore: Rethinking the safety net to promote upward mobility
-
How the Upward Mobility Act would work
-
The Upward Mobility Act explained
-
The Upward Mobility Act | Sen. Husted & Rep. Moore
-
How to fix America’s welfare system
-
Why the safety net can discourage work
-
A safety net without a shared vision
-
The welfare maze no one can navigate | Clarence H. Carter
-
Accountable federalism could be a pathway to better government programs
Insights & Takeaways
-
CommentaryLet states fix the welfare system that Washington broke
Read More: Let states fix the welfare system that Washington brokeThe Upward Mobility Act takes an essential step toward eliminating benefit cliffs, thus reducing government dependence and promoting self-reliance.
-
CommentaryTo restore hope for families in poverty, let states lead on welfare reform
Read More: To restore hope for families in poverty, let states lead on welfare reformAmerica’s welfare system often penalizes work and marriage through benefits cliffs. States can lead reforms that help families escape poverty.
-
CommentaryThe One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s work-based welfare reforms are just the first step
Read More: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s work-based welfare reforms are just the first stepUtah’s “one-door” model for welfare and workforce services shows how states can drive innovation in social welfare reform. Congress and the President should empower states to reduce dependence and promote…
-
TakeawaysRepresentatives Moore and Owens partake in 2025 Congressional Series
Read More: Representatives Moore and Owens partake in 2025 Congressional SeriesThe 2025 Sutherland Institute Congressional Series kicked off with Reps. Blake Moore and Burgess Owens. They discussed the One Big, Beautiful Bill and achieving one’s potential.
-
Press ReleaseSutherland releases new report on construction workforce shortages
Read More: Sutherland releases new report on construction workforce shortagesIf our state’s future rests on our ability and commitment to build – houses, families, communities, and opportunities – then we must first ensure we have willing hands to do…
-
CommentaryWhat both sides are missing about Medicaid work requirements
Read More: What both sides are missing about Medicaid work requirementsThe real question isn’t whether to link work with Medicaid; it’s how to help more Americans use safety net programs as a bridge to financial independence.
