The document summarizes information from a presentation on Louisiana's state budget challenges. It notes that Louisiana has high rates of poverty and low incomes compared to other states. The state relies heavily on one-time budget fixes and has underfunded education and health care as a result of budget cuts. The budget has a structural deficit because revenues have not kept up with needs, and the tax system is overly reliant on sales taxes and contains many exemptions that reduce revenues. Reform of tax exemptions and a more balanced revenue approach are needed to address the budget problems.
Why the Income Tax Cuts Hurt More Than They HelpWomen for Kansas
Presentation by Bernie Koch, director of the Kansas Economic Progress Council, given at the Taking Back Kansas convention on August 30, 2014, in Wichita, Kansas.
Have you heard about the fiscal cliff?
After the November election, Congress will make decisions about the Bush tax cuts, sequestration, and a number of other federal budget related issues. Join the webinar to learn how it could impact health, human services, and early care & education in Ohio.
Modeling Financial Eligibility for Medicaid Payment of LTSS
1) Medicaid long-term services and expenditures (LTSS) are a large and growing part of state budgets. States may restrict LTSS eligibility rules to control costs.
2) The researchers modeled LTSS eligibility rules to understand their impact and potential consequences of restricting access.
3) The model found that restricting income eligibility rules had a larger impact on reducing the number of eligible individuals than restricting asset rules. This is because income rules are more broadly applied and generous under current policies.
The document summarizes Illinois' fiscal crisis and the tax increases passed in 2011 to address a large budget deficit. It describes how Illinois has historically relied too heavily on property taxes and lacked a fair tax system. The tax increases were expected to generate $7.3 billion annually but deficits remain due to inadequate revenues and increasing costs for education, healthcare, and human services. Further reforms and revenue options are needed to structurally address Illinois' budget problems.
The document summarizes comments made by Michael Turnipseed of the Kern County Taxpayers Association during the 2011-2012 Kern County budget hearings. It addresses challenges facing the national and local economy and recommends that the county board of supervisors focus on improving outcomes in education, employment, poverty, crime, and health by prioritizing goals, developing new strategies, and encouraging collaboration between local governments. It also stresses the need for the board to advocate for policies that promote jobs and economic growth.
A webinar presentation by Geoffrey Plague, Independent Sector, to the chief development officers from National Health Council member organizations. October 3, 2011
The Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) faces challenges from shifting demographics, economic uncertainty, and political threats. It provides retirement security for over 600,000 people but faces headwinds like an aging population, a potential economic downturn, and efforts to privatize or reduce the system. The Protecting Our Wisconsin Retirement Security (POWRS) organization advocates to preserve the WRS and engages the public to counter legislative proposals that could weaken retirement security.
Why the Income Tax Cuts Hurt More Than They HelpWomen for Kansas
Presentation by Bernie Koch, director of the Kansas Economic Progress Council, given at the Taking Back Kansas convention on August 30, 2014, in Wichita, Kansas.
Have you heard about the fiscal cliff?
After the November election, Congress will make decisions about the Bush tax cuts, sequestration, and a number of other federal budget related issues. Join the webinar to learn how it could impact health, human services, and early care & education in Ohio.
Modeling Financial Eligibility for Medicaid Payment of LTSS
1) Medicaid long-term services and expenditures (LTSS) are a large and growing part of state budgets. States may restrict LTSS eligibility rules to control costs.
2) The researchers modeled LTSS eligibility rules to understand their impact and potential consequences of restricting access.
3) The model found that restricting income eligibility rules had a larger impact on reducing the number of eligible individuals than restricting asset rules. This is because income rules are more broadly applied and generous under current policies.
The document summarizes Illinois' fiscal crisis and the tax increases passed in 2011 to address a large budget deficit. It describes how Illinois has historically relied too heavily on property taxes and lacked a fair tax system. The tax increases were expected to generate $7.3 billion annually but deficits remain due to inadequate revenues and increasing costs for education, healthcare, and human services. Further reforms and revenue options are needed to structurally address Illinois' budget problems.
The document summarizes comments made by Michael Turnipseed of the Kern County Taxpayers Association during the 2011-2012 Kern County budget hearings. It addresses challenges facing the national and local economy and recommends that the county board of supervisors focus on improving outcomes in education, employment, poverty, crime, and health by prioritizing goals, developing new strategies, and encouraging collaboration between local governments. It also stresses the need for the board to advocate for policies that promote jobs and economic growth.
A webinar presentation by Geoffrey Plague, Independent Sector, to the chief development officers from National Health Council member organizations. October 3, 2011
The Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) faces challenges from shifting demographics, economic uncertainty, and political threats. It provides retirement security for over 600,000 people but faces headwinds like an aging population, a potential economic downturn, and efforts to privatize or reduce the system. The Protecting Our Wisconsin Retirement Security (POWRS) organization advocates to preserve the WRS and engages the public to counter legislative proposals that could weaken retirement security.
The document summarizes the Debt Ceiling Deal passed by Congress and its potential impacts. It establishes a bipartisan committee to cut $1.2-1.5 trillion in spending over 10 years, with automatic cuts taking effect in 2013 if no deal is reached. Many programs are exempt from these cuts, but discretionary programs and entitlement reforms are on the table. The deal could reduce funding for services like nutrition assistance and Medicaid, threatening vulnerable populations. Advocates encourage engaging with members of Congress to prioritize critical social programs in further deficit reduction efforts.
In 2003, a coalition of over 110 organizations in Philadelphia saw the need to address the city's affordable housing crisis and proposed establishing a Housing Trust Fund. The coalition made the case for the fund by presenting data on the number of cost-burdened households and lack of affordable units. In 2005, state legislation was passed allowing Philadelphia to collect fees to capitalize a fund. The city ordinance established the fund's guidelines. Since 2006, the Philadelphia Housing Trust Fund has committed over $45 million to expand affordable housing and leverage over $234 million, helping over 8,000 low-income households.
Beginning January 1, 2011, there will be significant tax increases affecting personal income taxes, health care taxes, small business taxes, and more. This combination of tax increases will result in the largest tax increase in US history. For individuals, income tax rates will rise substantially. The standard deduction and many tax credits will be reduced or eliminated. Health insurance provided by employers will become taxable income. Small businesses will see reductions in expensing and credits. The increases will reduce disposable income for most Americans and businesses, potentially limiting growth.
This document summarizes information presented at a meeting of the Grassroots St Vrain organization about Colorado's state budget challenges. It notes that Colorado's population and needs have grown significantly since 2001 while revenues have only slightly increased. This has resulted in cuts to public services like education, healthcare and public safety. The budget problem is described as structural rather than temporary as costs exceed revenues. Options discussed include reducing expenses through further cuts or generating new revenues through taxes, with voters having ultimate say over the state's fiscal future.
In recent weeks, Governor Kasich introduced a Mid-biennium Review bill (MBR) to propose budget and policy ideas to transform Ohio. It has been split into 14 different pieces of legislation and is currently being discussed in a number of House committees. Learn more about the MBR and changes to health and human services, education and workforce development in Ohio.
This document summarizes Illinois' fiscal situation and recent budget debates. It notes that while the FY2013 budget was based on one-time revenues, the FY2014 budget maintains the same spending levels. It expresses concerns that this does not prepare for lower revenues in FY2015. The document also discusses Illinois' massive pension debt and underfunding, as well as the state's poor economic growth and job losses compared to other states. It advocates pension reform and policies to promote business growth and job creation in order to address Illinois' fiscal challenges.
This document summarizes Illinois' fiscal situation and recent budget debates. It notes that while the FY2013 budget was based on one-time revenues, the FY2014 budget maintains the same spending levels. It expresses concerns that this does not prepare for lower revenues in FY2015. The document also discusses Illinois' massive pension debt and underfunding, as well as the state's poor economic growth and job losses compared to other states. It advocates pension reform and policies to promote business growth and job creation in order to improve Illinois' fiscal health.
Income and Wealth Inequality in the United StatesDavid Doney
The document discusses income and wealth inequality in the United States. It notes that income and wealth inequality have steadily worsened since 1980, with the top 1% of income earners receiving about 20% of pre-tax income in 2014 compared to 10% prior to 1980. Wealth is also distributed more unequally than income, with the top 1% owning 42% of wealth versus 24% in the 1970s. The document examines several potential causes of inequality including declines in unions, shifts in tax policy, globalization, and skill-biased technological change. Solutions proposed include policies that make the income or wealth distribution more equitable such as higher taxes on top incomes combined with transfers to lower incomes.
Adam Langley, senior research analyst at the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, explores a potential role for nonprofit payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs) in addressing fiscal stress and suggested that localities approach PILOTs in a collaborative way marked by respectful dialogue, careful use of terminology, and justification for PILOT requests.
The document discusses income inequality and the government's role in addressing it. It provides data showing disparities in income distribution in the US and how government taxes and transfers help reduce inequality. It also examines causes of inequality like differences in skills, education and household size, and debates around minimum wage laws and welfare programs.
Mary Murphy, manager of state and local fiscal health for the Pew Charitable Trusts, shares her latest research, which found that that only 22 states monitor local fiscal health.
The affects of government budgets on inequalitiesCCPANS
This presentation was part of a lunch and learn hosted by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives-NS and the Community Coalition to End Poverty NS entitled Where’s the Social and Economic Justice in Recent Government Budgets? Other panelists included Wayne MacNaughton from the Community Advocates Network and Sheri Lecker from Adsum for Women in Children.
Strengthening Community Linkages On Poverty Reduction In Ontariosettlementatwork
The document summarizes the work and progress of the 25 in 5 Network, a coalition working to reduce poverty in Ontario, Canada. Over the past few years, the Network has engaged decision-makers, proposed policy ideas and targets, organized constituencies, and framed poverty reduction as important for the economy. While measurable progress has been made through Ontario's Poverty Reduction Strategy, the economic slowdown presents challenges to maintaining momentum. The Network will focus on implementation and ensuring commitments are fulfilled during tough fiscal times.
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget published the only existing comprehensive study to detail and compare the fiscal cost of President Donald Trump and Vice President Joe Biden's campaign agendas. We estimate that both candidates would add trillions to the debt – but in very different ways.
This document summarizes a presentation about NYC's other post-employment benefits (OPEB) liabilities and potential solutions. NYC has the second largest OPEB liability in the US at over $70 billion, which is only 3.4% funded. The presentation compares NYC to other jurisdictions and finds NYC is unique in fully subsidizing retiree health premiums and Medicare Part B premium reimbursements. It proposes reducing liabilities by increasing retiree premium sharing and reforming funding mechanisms like pre-funding annual liabilities and establishing an investment strategy for the retiree health trust fund.
The discussion focused on how supporters in Ohio can communicate with conference committee members to strengthen families and communities in the final process of Ohio's 2014-15 budget.
Advocates focused on early learning, long term care, developmental disabilities, and food assistance. Speakers also talked about a possible pathway to expand healthcare coverage to Ohioans through two new Medicaid reform bills in the House and the Senate.
This document summarizes Senator Don Harmon's presentation to the Business and Civic Council of Oak Park on June 26, 2015. It discusses the state of Illinois' budget process and challenges, including Governor Rauner's proposed budget cuts and the resulting impacts. It also outlines Democratic proposals for alternative budget and reforms, including investing in education, human services, and a middle class agenda. Potential areas of compromise are identified. Background on pension reforms and Illinois' economic strengths are also provided.
The Oak Park Town Hall discussed the state budget and recent legislative progress. The state budget funds education, human services, and cuts spending and pensions to save money. Recent laws passed automatic voter registration, protected abortion access, limited cooperation with immigration enforcement, expanded sealing of criminal records, and reformed school funding. The tax increase went to paying pensions and bills, and Illinois' tax rate remains competitive. Pension debt grew as contributions lagged for decades. Officials provided contact information to discuss issues.
Fiscal Austerity & the Federal System (Paul Posner, 2013 ABFM Conf)PublicFinanceTV
"Fiscal Austerity & the Federal System" presentation by Paul Posner, George Mason Unviersity, presented during "Sequestration's Impact on State Budgets" plenary session, 2013 ABFM Annual Conference, October 3, 2013
The document summarizes the Debt Ceiling Deal passed by Congress and its potential impacts. It establishes a bipartisan committee to cut $1.2-1.5 trillion in spending over 10 years, with automatic cuts taking effect in 2013 if no deal is reached. Many programs are exempt from these cuts, but discretionary programs and entitlement reforms are on the table. The deal could reduce funding for services like nutrition assistance and Medicaid, threatening vulnerable populations. Advocates encourage engaging with members of Congress to prioritize critical social programs in further deficit reduction efforts.
In 2003, a coalition of over 110 organizations in Philadelphia saw the need to address the city's affordable housing crisis and proposed establishing a Housing Trust Fund. The coalition made the case for the fund by presenting data on the number of cost-burdened households and lack of affordable units. In 2005, state legislation was passed allowing Philadelphia to collect fees to capitalize a fund. The city ordinance established the fund's guidelines. Since 2006, the Philadelphia Housing Trust Fund has committed over $45 million to expand affordable housing and leverage over $234 million, helping over 8,000 low-income households.
Beginning January 1, 2011, there will be significant tax increases affecting personal income taxes, health care taxes, small business taxes, and more. This combination of tax increases will result in the largest tax increase in US history. For individuals, income tax rates will rise substantially. The standard deduction and many tax credits will be reduced or eliminated. Health insurance provided by employers will become taxable income. Small businesses will see reductions in expensing and credits. The increases will reduce disposable income for most Americans and businesses, potentially limiting growth.
This document summarizes information presented at a meeting of the Grassroots St Vrain organization about Colorado's state budget challenges. It notes that Colorado's population and needs have grown significantly since 2001 while revenues have only slightly increased. This has resulted in cuts to public services like education, healthcare and public safety. The budget problem is described as structural rather than temporary as costs exceed revenues. Options discussed include reducing expenses through further cuts or generating new revenues through taxes, with voters having ultimate say over the state's fiscal future.
In recent weeks, Governor Kasich introduced a Mid-biennium Review bill (MBR) to propose budget and policy ideas to transform Ohio. It has been split into 14 different pieces of legislation and is currently being discussed in a number of House committees. Learn more about the MBR and changes to health and human services, education and workforce development in Ohio.
This document summarizes Illinois' fiscal situation and recent budget debates. It notes that while the FY2013 budget was based on one-time revenues, the FY2014 budget maintains the same spending levels. It expresses concerns that this does not prepare for lower revenues in FY2015. The document also discusses Illinois' massive pension debt and underfunding, as well as the state's poor economic growth and job losses compared to other states. It advocates pension reform and policies to promote business growth and job creation in order to address Illinois' fiscal challenges.
This document summarizes Illinois' fiscal situation and recent budget debates. It notes that while the FY2013 budget was based on one-time revenues, the FY2014 budget maintains the same spending levels. It expresses concerns that this does not prepare for lower revenues in FY2015. The document also discusses Illinois' massive pension debt and underfunding, as well as the state's poor economic growth and job losses compared to other states. It advocates pension reform and policies to promote business growth and job creation in order to improve Illinois' fiscal health.
Income and Wealth Inequality in the United StatesDavid Doney
The document discusses income and wealth inequality in the United States. It notes that income and wealth inequality have steadily worsened since 1980, with the top 1% of income earners receiving about 20% of pre-tax income in 2014 compared to 10% prior to 1980. Wealth is also distributed more unequally than income, with the top 1% owning 42% of wealth versus 24% in the 1970s. The document examines several potential causes of inequality including declines in unions, shifts in tax policy, globalization, and skill-biased technological change. Solutions proposed include policies that make the income or wealth distribution more equitable such as higher taxes on top incomes combined with transfers to lower incomes.
Adam Langley, senior research analyst at the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, explores a potential role for nonprofit payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs) in addressing fiscal stress and suggested that localities approach PILOTs in a collaborative way marked by respectful dialogue, careful use of terminology, and justification for PILOT requests.
The document discusses income inequality and the government's role in addressing it. It provides data showing disparities in income distribution in the US and how government taxes and transfers help reduce inequality. It also examines causes of inequality like differences in skills, education and household size, and debates around minimum wage laws and welfare programs.
Mary Murphy, manager of state and local fiscal health for the Pew Charitable Trusts, shares her latest research, which found that that only 22 states monitor local fiscal health.
The affects of government budgets on inequalitiesCCPANS
This presentation was part of a lunch and learn hosted by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives-NS and the Community Coalition to End Poverty NS entitled Where’s the Social and Economic Justice in Recent Government Budgets? Other panelists included Wayne MacNaughton from the Community Advocates Network and Sheri Lecker from Adsum for Women in Children.
Strengthening Community Linkages On Poverty Reduction In Ontariosettlementatwork
The document summarizes the work and progress of the 25 in 5 Network, a coalition working to reduce poverty in Ontario, Canada. Over the past few years, the Network has engaged decision-makers, proposed policy ideas and targets, organized constituencies, and framed poverty reduction as important for the economy. While measurable progress has been made through Ontario's Poverty Reduction Strategy, the economic slowdown presents challenges to maintaining momentum. The Network will focus on implementation and ensuring commitments are fulfilled during tough fiscal times.
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget published the only existing comprehensive study to detail and compare the fiscal cost of President Donald Trump and Vice President Joe Biden's campaign agendas. We estimate that both candidates would add trillions to the debt – but in very different ways.
This document summarizes a presentation about NYC's other post-employment benefits (OPEB) liabilities and potential solutions. NYC has the second largest OPEB liability in the US at over $70 billion, which is only 3.4% funded. The presentation compares NYC to other jurisdictions and finds NYC is unique in fully subsidizing retiree health premiums and Medicare Part B premium reimbursements. It proposes reducing liabilities by increasing retiree premium sharing and reforming funding mechanisms like pre-funding annual liabilities and establishing an investment strategy for the retiree health trust fund.
The discussion focused on how supporters in Ohio can communicate with conference committee members to strengthen families and communities in the final process of Ohio's 2014-15 budget.
Advocates focused on early learning, long term care, developmental disabilities, and food assistance. Speakers also talked about a possible pathway to expand healthcare coverage to Ohioans through two new Medicaid reform bills in the House and the Senate.
This document summarizes Senator Don Harmon's presentation to the Business and Civic Council of Oak Park on June 26, 2015. It discusses the state of Illinois' budget process and challenges, including Governor Rauner's proposed budget cuts and the resulting impacts. It also outlines Democratic proposals for alternative budget and reforms, including investing in education, human services, and a middle class agenda. Potential areas of compromise are identified. Background on pension reforms and Illinois' economic strengths are also provided.
The Oak Park Town Hall discussed the state budget and recent legislative progress. The state budget funds education, human services, and cuts spending and pensions to save money. Recent laws passed automatic voter registration, protected abortion access, limited cooperation with immigration enforcement, expanded sealing of criminal records, and reformed school funding. The tax increase went to paying pensions and bills, and Illinois' tax rate remains competitive. Pension debt grew as contributions lagged for decades. Officials provided contact information to discuss issues.
Fiscal Austerity & the Federal System (Paul Posner, 2013 ABFM Conf)PublicFinanceTV
"Fiscal Austerity & the Federal System" presentation by Paul Posner, George Mason Unviersity, presented during "Sequestration's Impact on State Budgets" plenary session, 2013 ABFM Annual Conference, October 3, 2013
Where's the Money? State and Local Government Finance Forecast - Outlook 2015Jon Yoffie
"IT’S NOT DOING MORE WITH LESS, IT’S DOING MORE WITH THE SAME." Governing Publisher Mark Funkhouser coined this one in the "Where’s the Money?" briefing on state and local government revenues and budgets. State and local government revenues are up 3.3% overall, but spending next year will be a bit below the pre-Recession peak, and long-term growth rates are going to be lower than projected long-term liabilities (pensions, government retiree healthcare, Medicaid, etc.), even as federal-to-state and state-to-local funds decline. So while we’ve moved beyond doing more with less, the bottom line is still (and for the foreseeable future will be) the bottom line. Finding ways to cut costs, increase efficiencies and fund programs with creative revenue-generating or private-sector partnership solutions will be paramount.
EXPOSED: WI Democrats' Plan to Smear Conservative & Gov. Walker!CampaignToDefeatObama
The Campaign to Defeat Barack Obama ( http://www.CampaignToDefeatObama.com/ ) is on the ground in Wisconsin fighting the senseless RECALL campaigns being pushed by Barack Obama's minions, and we have intercepted this liberal messaging presentation that lays out the vile and inaccurate attacks they're trying to use to destroy Gov. Walker and conservatives and take over the state. You can help us fight back & spread the truth at http://bit.ly/HaKAOL
The state budget bill includes funding and policy decisions that impact all areas of health and human services, including health care and behavioral health. Big changes are proposed for programs that deliver health care to Ohioans.
Join us for a webinar about opportunities and challenges in the state budget with a highlight on behavioral health care and Medicaid.
Speakers include:
*Col Owens, Co-chair of Advocates for Ohio's Future and Senior Attorney for Legal Aid of Southwest Ohio
*Cathy Levine, Executive Director
Universal Health Care Action Network of Ohio (UHCAN Ohio)
*Teresa Lampl, Associate Director, Ohio Council of Behavioral Health and Family Service Providers
Fund Our Future Tax The Rich Invest In Our New Yorkstrongforall
This document proposes six bills as part of the "Invest in Our NY Act" to raise $51-75 billion annually. The bills would: 1) Create a progressive income tax system; 2) Tax investment income the same as wages; 3) Create an inheritance tax; 4) Tax billionaire fortunes and amend the constitution to allow a wealth tax; 5) Create a tax on financial transactions; 6) Offset corporate tax cuts from Trump. The proposals are aimed at taxing the wealthy and large corporations to generate revenue to invest in New York's economy and support services.
ACA Has Worsened Medicaid's Structural ProblemsMercatus Center
The document summarizes evidence that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has exacerbated Medicaid's existing structural problems. It notes that ACA Medicaid expansion incentives have led to higher-than-expected enrollment and spending. States receive a higher federal matching rate for expansion enrollees, creating an incentive to increase fees and payments for their care while favoring them over traditional enrollees. Open-ended federal reimbursement also makes Medicaid difficult to cut. The document also finds higher spending per expansion enrollee, a proliferation of Medicaid waste, and a lack of clear health benefits from the expansion. It calls for Medicaid reform to reduce federal spending while preserving safety nets and giving states more flexibility and control over their programs.
The document summarizes evidence that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has exacerbated Medicaid's existing structural problems. It notes that ACA Medicaid expansion incentives have led to higher-than-expected enrollment and spending. States receive a higher federal matching rate for expansion enrollees, creating an incentive to increase fees and payments for their care while favoring them over traditional enrollees. Open-ended federal reimbursement also makes Medicaid difficult to cut. The document also cites rising improper payments, crowd-out of private coverage, and lack of clear health benefits as ongoing problems. It calls for states to resist expansion and support reforms that reduce federal control over Medicaid.
The Florida Community Loan Fund is a statewide CDFI that has provided over $230 million in financing to projects totaling $768 million over its 20 year history. It has experienced significant growth, increasing its assets by 77% and the capital it manages by 50% from 2012 to 2015. The organization provides loans for housing, community facilities, and economic development throughout Florida, with a focus on low-income communities.
The document summarizes Illinois' fiscal crisis and the tax increases passed in 2011 to address a large budget deficit. It describes how Illinois had structural deficits due to over-reliance on property taxes and underfunding of services. The tax increases generated $7.3 billion annually but deficits remained over $1 billion due to inadequate revenues and increasing costs of education, healthcare, and human services. Further reforms are needed to generate additional revenue in a fair manner.
Higher education, Human Behavior and the Social Environmentzkoldys10
This document discusses historical and current policies related to higher education in the United States. Historically, higher education was limited to elite families and there were few financial policies to support students. More recently, acts like the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 increased Pell Grant amounts and student loan subsidies. Current policies like the American Opportunity Tax Credit and income-driven repayment plans aim to increase affordability but high costs continue rising faster than inflation. While these policies help some middle-class families, high debt remains an issue and the policies do not address the root causes of rising prices. Revisions are proposed to focus more on community colleges and refinancing student loans at lower rates.
The document discusses taxation and social programs in Canada, including how governments collect taxes to fund social programs. It examines different political parties' views on taxation and social spending. Canadians pay some of the highest taxes in the world, which fund services provided by both federal and provincial governments.
This document summarizes a 3-part plan to address Illinois' public pension crisis. Part 1 focuses on containing the problem through consolidating pension funds, modifying accounting practices, and increasing auditing. Part 2 aims to alleviate the crisis by reallocating 4.13% of the budget and capital outlays annually, totaling $4.36 billion, and implementing a 3-phase revenue generation program. Part 3 discusses creating sustainability by transitioning from a defined benefit to defined contribution pension plan. The plan aims to resolve Illinois' $111 billion pension funding shortfall through budget adjustments and inducing business growth.
There are three main methods for redistributing income discussed in the document:
1) In-kind transfers such as food stamps and Medicaid provide direct transfers of goods and services to lower income individuals.
2) Cash transfers like TANF provide direct cash payments but can reduce incentives to work.
3) A negative income tax provides cash payments to lower income individuals while imposing taxes on higher incomes, incentivizing work more than traditional welfare programs. However, it is politically challenging and could reduce work incentives.
Deven Ghelani, Director and founder of Policy in Practice, was invited to speak at the Neath Port Talbot Poverty Symposium on the topic of the impact of welfare reform on personal debt and financial resilience.
In his session Deven talked about the general impact of welfare policies on our living standards and how Neath Port Talbot Council is using their own household level data to identify vulnerability, target support and track change. Deven then shared Policy in Practice's new research on transitioning to Universal Credit.
For further information visit www.policyinpractice.co.uk, call 0330 088 9242 or email hello@policyinpractice.co.uk
Budgeting for Results and Paying for Success in State Government 5.6.14Greg Wass
My presentation for Big Data Week 2014 (livestreamed from Chicago on 05.06.2014) on how the State of Illinois is using data to drive governmental decisionmaking at the enterprise and individual program levels.
The document discusses the fiscal sustainability of Ontario's health care system. It notes that health care spending has been growing faster than government revenue, creating a long-term sustainability problem. It analyzes key drivers of health spending such as hospitals, physician compensation, and pharmaceutical drugs. Recent reforms aim to tie hospital funding to quality and activity levels, transition physicians away from fee-for-service payments, and reduce drug costs through generic pricing caps. However, sustaining the public health system remains an ongoing challenge.
This document discusses fiscal policy in Latin American countries. It notes that international institutions traditionally advocated fiscal consolidation through austerity measures. However, some South American governments in the 2000s abandoned neoliberal policies in favor of growth with stable public policies. Data shows that these "Pink" countries experienced higher economic growth and declining public debt compared to other Latin American nations, though inequality remained an issue. While these governments had more autonomy, international credit markets still imposed conditions that limited their fiscal policy sovereignty.
Similar to Louisiana State Budget and its Tax Giveaways (20)
This analysis compares teacher salaries in East Baton Rouge Parish to 12 other Louisiana school systems and charter schools based on years of experience. It shows that:
I) EBR teacher salaries have declined by about $1,000 (2%) since 2008 when not adjusting for inflation.
II) When adjusting for inflation, EBR teacher salaries have declined by about $8,500 (14%) since 2008 in real 2017 dollars.
The analysis includes data on average teacher salaries from 2008-2017 for Ascension, Caddo, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafayette, Livingston, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St.
TBR Food Access #1: What's a food desert? Where are they in Baton Rouge?Together Baton Rouge
The document outlines the mandate and work plan of the East Baton Rouge Parish Food Access Policy Commission. The commission was launched on February 14, 2013 at Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church. Its mandate is to examine the causes of food deserts in the parish, determine best practices for attracting food retailers, and develop policy recommendations. The commission has 16 members representing various organizations. It will analyze the problem of low food access over three phases from February to August 2013, focusing on causes, best practices, and developing solutions tailored to East Baton Rouge Parish.
Uses software that scores food retail brand compatibility by neighborhood to identify neighborhoods with the strongest market potential for particular retail grocers.
The document summarizes the work and accomplishments of an organization called Together Baton Rouge from 2015-2016. Some key highlights include: winning commitments on Medicaid expansion, food access, and tax policy; holding a joint candidate forum for governor candidates; launching a voter engagement strategy; expanding Medicaid coverage to 250,000; bringing healthcare to North Baton Rouge and Mid City areas; launching a tax fairness campaign; winning $1 million for a healthy food funding act; overhauling a corporate subsidy program; providing relief and clean up efforts in response to flooding; and helping win $500 million in flood recovery aid.
This presentation accompanied stories shared by citizens at the Together Louisiana Statewide Assembly with gubernatorial candidates Rep. John Bel Edwards and Sen. David Vitter held on Friday, November 13th. Includes stats and background on cuts to higher education, the backlog of transportation and state infrastructure projects, healthcare, Medicaid expansion, food access, the Healthy Food Retail Act and low-wage workers in Louisiana.
Includes questions asked of gubernatorial candidates.
A presentation on work, wages and economic inequality in Louisiana. Shared at the Together Louisiana Statewide Issues Conference on February 15th, 2014.
The Food Access Policy Commission was launched in February 2013 by Together Baton Rouge, Mayor-President Kip Holden and the Mayor's Healthy City Initiative, to address the lack of grocery stores in low-income communities throughout East Baton Rouge Parish. This presentation shares key findings from the Commission's Interim Report into addressing food deserts in Baton Rouge.
Presentation about food deserts in Baton Rouge and the charge for the Food Access Policy Commission, created by Together Baton Rouge. (Effort is supported by the Mayor's Health City Initiative and BlueCross BlueShield.)
The East Baton Rouge Parish transit system is facing a crisis, with a $2.1 million deficit in 2012 and the risk of shutting down. A Blue Ribbon Commission proposed comprehensive reforms, including a dedicated funding source, and an election will be held on April 21st to decide this issue. Currently, traffic congestion in Baton Rouge is much worse than average cities due to the outdated transit system, but dedicated funding could help modernize routes and reduce congestion like other cities have done.
The East Baton Rouge Parish transit system is facing a crisis, with a $2.1 million deficit in 2012 and the risk of shutting down. A Blue Ribbon Commission proposed comprehensive reforms, including a dedicated funding source, which will be voted on in an April 21st election. Compared to other cities, Baton Rouge's per capita funding for transit is very low, and it relies heavily on rider fares instead of other funding sources used elsewhere. A dedicated property tax of 10.6 mills is proposed, which would cost the average homeowner $14-16 per month depending on the municipality.
An astonishing, first-of-its-kind, report by the NYT assessing damage in Ukraine. Even if the war ends tomorrow, in many places there will be nothing to go back to.
Here is Gabe Whitley's response to my defamation lawsuit for him calling me a rapist and perjurer in court documents.
You have to read it to believe it, but after you read it, you won't believe it. And I included eight examples of defamatory statements/
El Puerto de Algeciras continúa un año más como el más eficiente del continente europeo y vuelve a situarse en el “top ten” mundial, según el informe The Container Port Performance Index 2023 (CPPI), elaborado por el Banco Mundial y la consultora S&P Global.
El informe CPPI utiliza dos enfoques metodológicos diferentes para calcular la clasificación del índice: uno administrativo o técnico y otro estadístico, basado en análisis factorial (FA). Según los autores, esta dualidad pretende asegurar una clasificación que refleje con precisión el rendimiento real del puerto, a la vez que sea estadísticamente sólida. En esta edición del informe CPPI 2023, se han empleado los mismos enfoques metodológicos y se ha aplicado un método de agregación de clasificaciones para combinar los resultados de ambos enfoques y obtener una clasificación agregada.
Acolyte Episodes review (TV series) The Acolyte. Learn about the influence of the program on the Star Wars world, as well as new characters and story twists.
04062024_First India Newspaper Jaipur.pdfFIRST INDIA
Find Latest India News and Breaking News these days from India on Politics, Business, Entertainment, Technology, Sports, Lifestyle and Coronavirus News in India and the world over that you can't miss. For real time update Visit our social media handle. Read First India NewsPaper in your morning replace. Visit First India.
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Essential Tools for Modern PR Business .pptxPragencyuk
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3. About Louisiana Budget Project
Provides independent, nonpartisan research and
analysis of public policy issues and their impact
on low- and moderate-income Louisiana families
Visit www.labudget.org
4. Poverty is a daunting problem
•
Compared to other states, Louisiana has:
•
3rd highest rate of poverty (nearly 20 percent)
•
4th highest rate of child poverty (28 percent)
•
8th lowest median household income (slightly less
than $43,000 a year)
•
12th lowest health insurance coverage, which also
puts families at higher financial risk
6. Workers are treading water
•
Wages have been
stagnant or falling for
years
•
Since 1979, median
wages have increased
1 percent, productivity
is up 35 percent
7. Louisiana’s Experience
•
Louisiana was in the middle of an artificial boom
that brought record surpluses when the Great
Recession began
•
Then revenues plunged by 29 percent, but
have recovered somewhat
• FY 2008: $10.1 billion
• FY 2010: $7.2 billion
• FY 2014: $8.3 billion
8. Louisiana vs. other states
•
•
Louisiana experienced 5 straight years of midyear budget shortfalls, more than most other
states. Revenue growth is still anemic
The states that took a more “balanced
approach” to the recession that included
targeted cuts and new revenues are starting to
see surpluses again
9. Why Did Revenues Drop?
The weak economy is only partly responsible for
the revenue drop between 2009-2011:
•
•
•
52 percent due to weak economy
27 percent due to tax cuts (Stelly Plan repeal)
21 percent due to mineral revenue decline
Total loss over 2 years: nearly $3 billion
Source: Legislative Fiscal Office
10. Revenues are not recovering
•
Even as the economy recovers, state revenue
growth has been sluggish at best
•
Louisiana is taking in the same amount of
revenue (adjusted for inflation) as in the late
1990s, even though the population has grown
•
State revenues as a percentage of overall
economy are at a 20-year low
11. Boom, Bust, Treading Water
State General Fund
$12.00
In billions
$10.00
$8.00
$6.00
$4.00
$2.00
$0.00
12. Budget gimmicks
•
To balance the budget, Louisiana has relied on
a number of measures:
•
•
•
•
One-time money from property sales and legal
settlements
Tuition and fee increases
Spending down various trust funds
Amnesty for delinquent taxpayers
This is not sustainable budgeting. It is clear we
have a structural budget problem.
13. The Impacts of 5 Years of Cuts
•
Four years of frozen funding for public schools
•
•
Five years of cuts for colleges and universities
•
•
$560 less per student by not funding inflation
$700million and counting, while tuition climbed 74
percent
Health care services have been cut and
charity hospitals privatized
14. How is the budget built?
Louisiana's Budget
by Source
(in billions)
Federal
Funds,
$9.89
Total Budget:
$25 billion
State
General
Fund, $8.62
Self
Statutory Generated,
Dedications, $2.45
$4.03
15. State General Fund
Most state general fund spending is “nondiscretionary,” giving legislators little flexibility
State General Fund
$8.62 billion
Discretionary
$2.76
NonDiscretionary
$$5.85
16. Discretionary General Fund By Subject Area
Everything else,
13.3%
Education,
37.7%
Health care and
social services,
49%
Discretionary SGF: $2.76 billion
Only 11% of total budget
17. Higher ed: 5-year trend
North Dakota
Illinoisb
Alaska
Montana
Texas
California
Maryland
Wyoming
Indiana
Utah
Vermont
Nebraska
South Dakota
New York
Maine
Rhode Island
North Carolina
Tennessee
New Jersey
Colorado
Mississippi
West Virginia
Georgia
Oklahoma
Connecticut
Arkansas
Kansas
Florida
Delaware
Virginia
South Carolina
Kentucky
Massachusetts
Oregon
New Mexico
Minnesota
Alabama
Iowa
Idaho
Missouri
Washington
Wisconsin
Hawaii
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Michigan
New Hampshire
Nevada
Arizona
Louisiana
-45.0%
-34.4%
-0.4%
-0.5%
-0.5%
-2.9%
-3.3%
-3.4%
-4.0%
-4.3%
-4.4%
-6.7%
-6.7%
-7.7%
-8.1%
-8.2%
-8.2%
-8.6%
-8.6%
-8.9%
-9.9%
-10.0%
-12.8%
-13.2%
-13.8%
-14.4%
-15.3%
-18.2%
-18.4%
-21.3%
-21.8%
-24.4%
-20.0%
9.4%
8.4%
8.1%
8.0%
7.7%
6.7%
6.6%
5.9%
5.6%
4.7%
4.5%
2.9%
2.8%
1.3%
0.4%
0.3%
5.0%
61.4%
35.1%
20.2%
30.0%
Source: Illinois State University
55.0%
18. Health care and education at risk
•
Legislators only have true discretion over 11%
of the $25 billion budget—and most of that
goes to health care and higher education
•
This is why critical services have faced deep
cuts since 2008
•
Without sustainable revenue, Louisiana will
continue to under-invest in human capital
19. FY 15 Executive Budget Proposal
•
Proposed budget: $25 billion ($8.6 billion SGF)
•
Decrease of $624 million from last year
(mostly federal money)
•
Fewer cuts than we have seen in recent years,
but not cause for celebration
•
The proposed budget does little to undo the
damage of the last 5 years
20. Status quo in education
•
Provides $12 million in new funding for K-12
students (also makes permanent last year’s
one-time bump of $70 million)
•
Colleges will keep funds from tuition increase
and receive a modest bump in state support
•
No new funding for early childhood education,
despite bipartisan agreement on its
importance and Act 3 reforms passed in 2012
21. Patching together health care
•
Modest expansion of home care services for
people with disabilities, many stuck on waiting
lists for years
•
Increase in funding for charity hospital private
partners, but federal approval still pending
•
No coverage expansion for low-income adults
will leave quarter of a million Louisianans
uninsured
22. Future outlook is troubling
•
Uncertain federal financing for charity hospital
partnerships
•
Bills are due:
•
•
•
•
Rainy Day Fund: $300 million (2016)
Road repair backlog: $14 billion
College infrastructure: $1.8 billion
Invest in children, expand health care access, fix
the coast…
23. The Bottom Line
•
“We’re running out of things to cut in state
government.” – Sen. Jack Donahue
The evidence is crystal clear: More revenue is
needed to fund critical services and the
investments in our people that are crucial to a
strong, 21st century economy
24. Public Reaction
•
68% say budget has been cut enough
•
89% concerned about cuts to LSU hospitals
•
80% said Louisiana residents will lose access
to health care
(Source: Southern Media & Opinion Research)
25. Where does our revenue come from?
Major Sources of State General Fund Revenue
$3,000.00
In Millions
$2,500.00
$2,000.00
$1,500.00
$1,000.00
$500.00
$0.00
27. Louisiana’s Taxes Are Low
State Rank
Total State & Local Taxes (as percent income)
1. New York
12.8
2. New Jersey
12.4
3. Connecticut
12.3
47. Louisiana
7.8
48. Tennessee
7.7
49. South Dakota
7.6
50. Alaska
7.0
Source: Tax Foundation
28. … Especially Property Taxes
State
Median Property Tax on Home (2009)
1. New Jersey
$6,579
2. Connecticut
$4,738
3. New Hampshire
$4,636
4. New York
$3,755
48. West Virginia
$464
49. Alabama
$398
50. Louisiana
$243
Source: Tax Foundation
29. But Sales Taxes are High
State
Sales tax rate (state & local avg. percent)
1. Tennessee
9.45
2. Arizona
9.12
3. Louisiana
8.85
47. Delaware
None
47. Montana
None
47. New Hampshire
None
47. Oregon
None
Source: Tax Foundation
High sales are a burden on low-income families and
are a big reason our tax system is so regressive
30. Revenues will be a central issue
•
Tax exemptions reform has been an ongoing
issue for years
•
Sales tax modernization and enforcement of
online sales tax collection is emerging
•
There is growing realization that Louisiana has
a structural deficit and inadequate revenue
•
Our tax system is regressive
31. Tax Exemption Reform
“Tax exemptions are tax dollars that are not
collected and result in a loss of state tax
revenues available for appropriation. In this
sense, the fiscal effect of tax exemptions is
the same as a direct fund expenditure.”
– Louisiana Dept. of Revenue
32. Exemptions Grew 167% in Ten Years
(figures adjusted for inflation)
2001
2011
$1.82 billion
Tax
Exemptions
$8.29 billion
State Taxes
$4.84 billion
Tax
Exemptions
$7.77 billion
State Taxes
33. Tax Expenditures Are Mostly Hidden
•
Louisiana’s tax code includes 468 different
exclusions, credits, exemptions and other loopholes
worth a combined $4.98 billion
•
Tax expenditures have the same effect as other
government spending, but receive far less scrutiny
•
Corporate tax exemptions have grown dramatically
in recent years
34. Not All Exemptions are Bad
•
Sales tax exemptions on groceries, nonprofits,
pharmaceutical drugs, and residential utilities are
broad-based and effective
•
The state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a costeffective, proven anti-poverty initiative
•
A reasonable degree of corporate tax uniformity with
other states can help keep Louisiana competitive
35. But many are in need of review and reform
•
Most exemptions have no “sunset” and are not
regularly reviewed by the legislature
•
We do not know if taxpayers a getting a good
return on investment for exemptions passed in
the name of economic development—in fact,
in some cases we know we are NOT
•
Every dollar that goes toward an exemption is
a dollar that can’t be invested in education
36. Motion picture tax incentives
•
Film productions eligible for 30% of in-state expenses,
and 5% of payroll for residents
•
After 10 years, there are fewer than 3,000 direct jobs
that often last 4 to 6 months. We’re paying roughly
$60,000 per job in subsidies
•
Louisiana spent $231 million on film subsidies last year,
and $1 billion over the last decade
Louisiana needs to phase down or cap the program
37. Tax reform is not going away
•
Revenue Study Commission (2012):
Recommended changes to exemption
process—no results
•
Gov. Jindal’s Tax Shift (2013): Parked.
•
Kleckley Blue Ribbon Commission (2014): ?
Continued engagement on this issue is critical