During the most recent recession, many state governments faced substantial budget shortfalls.State politicians often blame the fiscal crises created by those shortfalls on factors largely outside their control, such as the declining economy or reductions in federal aid. Others have suggested...

Pensions are important to government employees. In the United States, some states fund almost 100 percent of the present value of future pension obligations; while in other states, the funding is substantially lacking. Results of this study show that states with lower state expenditures per...

This handbook evaluates the persistent problems in the fiscal systems of state and local governments and what can be done to solve them. Each chapter provides a description of the discipline area, examines major developments in policy practices and research, and opines on future prospects.