ABSTRACT
This chapter traces the development of measures of jurisdictional environment leading up the development of the Metropolitan Power Diffusion Index (MPDI). Using the same mathematics as the MPDI we reproduce a new index – the Regional Power Diffusion Index (RPDI) – using the borders of Regional Intergovernmental Organizations (RIGOs) instead of Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs). With that measure, the chapter presents a broad look at the jurisdictional environment currently experienced by RIGOs. Adjusting the unit of analysis between MSA for the MPDI and RIGO for the RPDI allows us to explore different conceptions of region in a uniform manner. The RPDI could also be an important independent variable to help explain how, when and why states and local forces combine to create RIGOs and the types of RIGOs created. Calculating RPDI using expenditure data could help us understand which services RIGOs provide to their regions.
