Final answer:
Nothing happens in the policy process until the enactment of a proposal by governmental institutions, which is the decision by elected bodies to pass a policy proposal that addresses identified issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Although an issue can get on the policy agenda and various policy stages can be debated, nothing happens until enactment of a proposal by institutions of government. Enactment refers to the decision by the elected branches of government, typically the legislative and/or executive, to pass a specific policy proposal.
This part of the policy process is critical because it represents the official approval and creation of laws or regulations that address identified issues.
The policy process involves four major phases: (1) agenda setting, (2) policy enactment, (3) policy implementation, and (4) evaluation. During agenda setting, the relevant issues are identified and become matters of discussion. Not all issues reach this stage, so those advocating for a policy must frame the issue compellingly. If a proposal has reached the enactment phase, it often indicates a significant chance of passing, following substantive debates and discussions by governmental bodies.