Would you like to know how your money is spent by your state government? I don=t mean just the broad categories and percentages we hear at the Capitol, but where specifically it is spent? (more…)
Unemployment benefit programs were created to help people who have lost jobs due to no fault of their own, and to help them for a short time until they could get other work. Many hard-working people still use it that way, but others see it as an entitlement program, where, for six months, they don't have to work. (more…)
Last week, a Texas official told some state legislators about his performance reviews of Texas government. A performance review evaluates government agencies and programs, with the goal of saving money, increasing efficiency, and improving service. They often identify services that are better performed by the private sector. In Texas, billions of dollars have been saved over the past decade as a result of these reviews. (more…)
What is the proper role of government in the process of rebuilding south Mississippi? Our organization has suggested, along with the governor and others, that private investment is the key to recovery. So what can the government do to attract private investment?
Usually in these commentaries, I tell you about ideas or perspectives dealing with public policy. Recently, I've been talking about ideas for rebuilding Mississippi after the hurricane. But this week, I want to tell you who we are.
Since the tax base of many communities along the Coast has been severely impacted or even decimated, it�s an opportune time for public officials to re-evaluate the purpose and priorities of local government. Here are some questions to consider.
For the first time in Mississippi history (as far as we know), the state legislature adjourned its regular session without approving a budget for the next fiscal year.
There are many reasons this occurred. Most people will say that it was because of political grandstanding. (more…)
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Medicare and Medicaid programs, and some people say we should expand these programs that pay for health care, even to the point of being like Canada, where the government pays for everything. (more…)