Competing for Private Enterprise with Public Dollars

Tax breaks and government subsidies are beloved by politicians to help cities, counties and states increase jobs and grow their economies.

But, when companies pit one place against another in bidding wars, that can raise the cost to taxpayers while cutting vital services, like public education.

When GM, Apple and other major players say, “take it or leave it,” even state governments can’t say, “no.”

Is there any way to guarantee they’ll get what they pay for? If the company shuts down or decides to go elsewhere, who’s left holding the bag?