In today's world, Independence Institute has become a recurring theme that has captured the attention of society as a whole. Whether as a result of technological advances, cultural changes or historical events, Independence Institute has acquired unprecedented relevance. From its impact on the economy to its influence on politics and people's daily lives, there is no doubt that Independence Institute has generated debate and reflection in all areas. In this article, we will explore in depth the different aspects and consequences of Independence Institute, as well as the different positions that exist regarding it.
Established | 1985 |
---|---|
Chair | Catherine Shopneck |
President | Jon Caldara |
Budget | Revenue: $2,230,351 Expenses: $2,782,204 (FYE December 2017) |
Address | 727 E. 16th Ave. Denver, Colorado 80203 |
Location | Denver, Colorado, U.S. |
Coordinates | 39°44′31″N 104°58′40″W / 39.7419°N 104.9779°W |
Website | www |
The Independence Institute (II) is a libertarian think tank based in Denver, Colorado. The group's stated mission "is to empower individuals and to educate citizens, legislators and opinion makers about public policies that enhance personal and economic freedom."
The Independence Institute was founded in 1985 by John Andrews, a former Republican state legislator from Colorado. Since 1999, Independence Institute has been led by Jon Caldara.
The Independence Institute is a proponent of educational choice and charter schools, as well as the right to bear arms in accordance with the Second Amendment. II supported school board members in Douglas County, Colorado who became the majority there in 2009 and subsequently curtailed the power of the teacher's union, expanded school choice, and attempted to initiate a voucher system. However, a new school board majority elected in 2017 has promised to reverse many of these policies.
Prior to winning election to the United States House of Representatives as a Democrat, Jared Polis wrote a white paper for the institute about privatizing the U.S. Postal Service.
Because of the Institute's pro Second Amendment stance, it supports gun rights, including the right of concealed carry.
In 2013, II opposed Amendment 66, an unsuccessful ballot measure which would have increased the state's income tax by $950 million (which would have begun the hollowing out of Colorado's Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR)). The organization supported the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR), which was passed by Colorado voters in 1992.
II opposed the Affordable Care Act. The Institute supports the use of fossil fuels.