Policy Options for Improving Economic Opportunity and Mobility
Jun 4, 2015


America’s economic recovery is finally taking hold and current deficits are down from the record highs during the recession. At the same time, far too many American families are being left out of the recovery, and our nation still faces an unsustainable long-term fiscal outlook. Lower unemployment and improvements in growth are fueling renewed optimism, yet the nature of the recovery is uneven and the longer term trends of income stagnation are of great concern. On everyone’s minds is the questionable state of opportunity in America.
In the interest of enriching the discussion on the state of economic opportunity in America today, the Peter G. Peterson Foundation asked two experts, representing different viewpoints, to recommend policy options to foster greater economic opportunity and mobility.
In a new two-volume paper, Policy Options for Improving Economic Opportunity and Mobility, Jared Bernstein of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities and Scott Winship of the Manhattan Institute, explore policy options that foster greater economic opportunity and mobility, specifically considering what they believe to be the most effective role government can play in achieving these goals.
Further Reading
Three Reasons Why Assuming Sustained 3% Growth is a Budget Gimmick
Lawmakers are reportedly counting on 3 percent economic growth for the next decade. Here are three key reasons why that is an irresponsible budget gimmick.
Chart Pack: Corporate Taxes
A selection of key charts on corporate income taxes in the United States and how they fit within the federal budget.
What Is the Primary Deficit?
The primary deficit is the difference between government revenues and spending, excluding interest payments. Learn more about the U.S. primary deficit.