The levels of termination: a predictive model for policy termination

This thesis examines the role that ideology plays in the policy termination process. By isolating the role of ideology, I am able to observe the limitations posed by the constraining variables of economy and efficiency. This thesis starts by expanding the dependent variable of termination beyond the conventional dichotomy of termination and nontermination. Then, I develop a predictive model using deLeon’s three determinants of ideology, economy, and efficiency to further investigate the determinants’ respective roles. The role of federalism in the termination process is also covered. Two case studies, the CEAA 2012 and the Reagan Administration’s policies at the EPA from 1981-1983, are used to test the veracity of the model. This thesis concludes with an analysis of the findings and future revisions for the model.