Created by the Washington state government in 1983, the Washington State Institute for Public Policy conducts practical, non-partisan research for the state government.

Recent studies have included the costs and benefits of different legislative strategies in education, health, criminal justice, child welfare and adult services. The Institute is staffed by economists, policy analysts and psychologists and collaborates with public and private universities in Washington. Institute staff work closely with legislators, legislative and state agency staff, and other experts. The Institute is governed by a Board of Directors that represents the legislature, governor, and public universities.