Rather than focusing on immediate policy problems, the Tobin Project aims to generate cutting-edge research that will expand available knowledge for tackling major challenges both now and in years to come. In 2007, at a time when economic regulation was not a focus of public debate, the Tobin Project launched a research effort to better understand how regulation might serve the public good. Critical policy decisions, especially following the financial crisis of 2007-2009, have been informed by this work. In 2010, Tobin-seeded research contributed to key elements of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and in 2011, Tobin Project research helped shaped both the Administration’s approach to regulatory review and its response to the oil spill crisis, detailed below.
Professors Michael Greenstone (MIT, Economics) and Ed Balleisen (Duke, History) write academic papers for the Tobin Project's 2008 Conference.
The Tobin Project convenes a group of leading scholars, including Professors Greenstone and Balleisen, to contribute to a compendium for policymakers.
Professors Greenstone and Balleisen complete chapters for the New Perspectives on Regulation volume.
As Chief Economist to the Council of Economic Advisors, Michael Greenstone emphasizes the conclusion of his Tobin-supported research.
The Tobin Project publishes New Perspectives on Regulation (The Tobin Project, 2009), circulating the volume in both academic and policy communities.
The Tobin Project shares Professor Balleisen’s research with the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.
The Commission issues its “Report to the President” directly citing Professor Balleisen and Eisner’s research.
President Obama signs Executive Order 13563: Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review, drawing on Professor Greenstone’s research.
Cass Sunstein (OIRA), sends out two memoranda for the heads of executive departments and agencies, directly citing Professor Greenstone’s chapter.
The White House releases final regulatory reform plans, created by agencies in response to Executive Order 13563.
