Citizens Jury

The Citizens Jury process, the flagship program of The Jefferson Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, allows decision makers to hear thoughtful citizen input from a group that is both informed and representative of the public. A Citizens Jury provides an opportunity for citizens to learn about an issue and deliberate together to find a common ground solution. Decision-makers who watch a Citizens Jury in action or listen to a jury's recommendations are able to learn what an informed public wants, and why.

In a Citizens Jury, a randomly selected and demographically representative panel of citizens meets for four or five days to carefully examine an issue of public significance. The jury of citizens, usually consisting of 18 individuals, serves as a microcosm of the public. Jurors are paid a stipend for their time. They hear from a variety of expert witnesses and are able to deliberate together on the issue. On the final day of their moderated hearings, the members of the Citizens Jury present their recommendations to the public and policy makers.

Since 1974, Juries have tackled national health care reform, budget priorities, environmental issues, local school district facility needs, and other topics.

Contact information:
Phone: 612-926-329.
E-mail: mail@jefferson-center.org

Visit The Jefferson Center's Web site for more information on Citizens Juries.