The Action Lab (formerly known as the Health in Justice Action Lab) at Northeastern University School of Law focuses on the role of criminal law, abusive policing, and the broader criminal justice system as a structural determinant of health. We generate knowledge, translate knowledge into policy, and implement programs on the ground to improve public health through criminal justice reform. 

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As a “think-and-do” tank, The Action Lab’s research is particularly focused on the policy transformation process. Often, policy reforms are necessary, but they are not in-and-of-themselves sufficient to create change on the ground. Given this, our passion is centered in identifying and addressing the disconnect between black letter policies and the actual practices of law enforcement and other criminal justice actors.