This morning, Scioto Analysis released the 2026 edition of the State Handbook of Cost-Benefit Analysis. The State Handbook of Cost-Benefit Analysis is a handbook for state analysts interested in adding cost-benefit analysis to their analytical toolkit.
Cost-benefit analysis is a tool to evaluate the social costs and benefits of public policy through an economic lens. The 2026 edition provides analysts with the history and theory behind cost-benefit analysis and it provides comprehensive guidance and examples for conducting cost-benefit analysis. Designed for administrators, policymakers, and engaged citizens, the Handbook walks through how to establish a baseline, construct alternatives, establish a standing, complete quantification and monetization, categorize costs and benefits, discount impacts appropriately, conduct sensitivity analysis, and communicate findings.
The 2026 edition focuses on the analytical process of conducting cost-benefit analysis and expands upon quantification, monetization, and communicating results. Cost-benefit analysis is a useful tool, even for administrators, policymakers, or citizens with limited analytical resources.
Cost-benefit analysis is used commonly at the federal level but is still underutilized at the state level. Analysts who are interested in promoting evidence-based decision making among policymakers and administrators should consider using the State Handbook of Cost-Benefit Analysis to adopt cost-benefit analysis in their analysis.