Assistant Managing Editor, Texas Tribune
Assistant Managing Editor at the Texas Tribune, where she focuses on state agencies and social services
PROFILE
Emily Ramshaw
Guest
FROM Emily Ramshaw
Which Way, L.A.?
Should States Declare Bankruptcy? The federal deficit is disturbing, but Washington can print money. The states have to balance their budgets, and the total of shortfalls around the country is at $82 billion. Nobody wants to raise taxes, and even massive cuts aren't likely to make up the differences. As we've just heard, bankruptcy has been suggested.
To the Point
Should States Declare Bankruptcy? The federal deficit is disturbing, but Washington can print money. The states have to balance their budgets, and the total of shortfalls around the country adds up to $82 billion. Nobody wants to raise taxes and even massive cuts, which threaten the sick, public schools and infrastructure, aren't likely to make up the differences. What about bankruptcy? Currently it's against the law, and even talking out loud might disrupt the municipal bond market. Forget about any federal bailout. The conservative movement sees a chance to shrink government once and for all. We hear which states are the worst off and how their decisions might shape the United States for years to come.
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