- Fixing Michigan's Budget
by Shikha Dalmia.
Originally published in the Detroit Free Press on January 18, 2007.
Rework Medicaid, suspend merit scholarships, trim government
- Scary Truth Amid Government Accountability
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published by the Georgia Public Policy Foundation on January 12, 2007.
Local governments have opportunities to shrink government and taxpayer commitments
- Happy Bill of Rights Day!
by Adam Summers.
Originally published on Reason.com on December 15, 2006.
Today marks the 215th anniversary of the first ten amendments
- Time for a "Citizens Initiative"
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in on Bacon's Rebellion on November 6, 2006.
Virginia needs constitutional and procedural safeguards to keep spending in check
- An Unhealthy Policy Prescription
by Shikha Dalmia.
Originally published by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy on September 4, 2006.
Why Gov. Mitt Romney's universal health care plan isn't right for Massachusetts, Michigan or elsewhere
- The Croesus Trap
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in on Bacon's Rebellion on August 7, 2006.
More money won't fix a broken transportation system. But the combination of privatization and tolls can build a lot of roads in Virginia.
- Managed Competition in Florida
by Jack Furney.
Originally published on Reason.org on July 20, 2006.
During his tenure, Jeb Bush has brought fiscal solvency to the state, reduced taxes, and eliminated wasteful, non-essential government functions by continually challenging state entities to identify and focus on their core functions.
- Betting on Republican Values
by Shikha Dalmia.
Originally published on Reason.org on July 20, 2006.
Internet gambling and the GOP campaign to protect us from freedom.
- Privatization and Devolution Keys to Solving Federal Budget Mess
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published on Reason.org on July 19, 2006.
A recent Government Accountability Office report highlights what the future will hold if our elected officials don't change their spending habits. Taxing more is not the answer. Rather, a serious effort at privatization and devolution of federal assets and programs is needed.
- Bottom-Line on Indiana Toll Road Deal
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in the Indiana Policy Review on July 10, 2006.
Now that the dust has settled on the lease of the Indiana Toll Road, Hoosiers should be all smiles. To put it simply, Indiana got a great deal. Last week when Macquarie-Cintra took over the road they handed the state a check for $3.85 billion. If nothing else, this will finance the ambitious 10-year transportation investment plan called "Major Moves."
- Failure is OK - When It's Cheap
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in on Bacon's Rebellion on June 26, 2006.
The answer to meeting Virginia's future transportation needs and reducing congestion is the same answer we have for nearly every other product and service in America unleashing the power and opportunity of our free market system. There is no shortage of funds to invest in better highwaysnew funds from investors, not taxpayers.
- Government Lags as Hurricane Season Starts
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published on Reason.org on June 1, 2006.
Congress should refocus the Corps on their central mission: "to protect citizens and their property from flood and storm damage" and get them out of the others. Furthermore, competition and the private sector should be fully embraced. Until the Corps achieves better agency focus and uses the private sector, hurricane season will continue to threaten property and life at levels it need not to.
- Republicans and Gas Prices: Look in the Mirror
by Samuel Staley.
Originally published on Reason.org on April 26, 2006.
The saber rattling over high gas prices is taking political chutzpah to another level. Republicans are asking oil companies to financially disembowel themselves over a supply disruption they largely created. And that's why the politics surrounding oil and gas prices is so bizarre.
- Detroit Can't Afford to Stall Privatization
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in the Detroit News on April 20, 2006.
Unfortunately for Detroit's taxpayers, Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick is closing the door on a proven tool: applying competitive pressures to government services. But countless cities of all sizes have used competition and privatization to save millions of dollars. Why? Because competition makes people work harder and more creatively.
- Detailing Foreign Management of U.S. Infrastructure
by Leonard Gilroy and Adam Summers.
Originally published on Reason.org on March 15, 2006.
It is interesting how foreign involvement in international ocean-borne shipping has generated so much hostility, given that we have long since come to rely on products made by foreign companies that much more directly affect our health and daily lives. Every day, Americans drive foreign cars, drink water distributed by foreign-owned water systems, strap our children into foreign-made car seats, and take medicines made by companies from around the world.
- Show of Independence
by Jacob Sullum.
Originally published on Reason.com on March 15, 2006.
The good news is Republican members of Congress finally stood up to President Bush. The bad news is they picked an issue where he was right and they were wrong.
- Foreign Ownership Is Not a Threat
by Ronald Bailey.
Originally published on Reason.com on March 15, 2006.
The recent eruption over the Dubai Ports World deal sent me down memory lane to another such episode of national hysteria that occurred nearly two decades ago.
- Public-Sector Pension Crisis Worsens
by Adam Summers.
Budget & Tax News March 1, 2006.
While private-sector pension terminations and freezes are grabbing headlines, the situation is every bit as grave for government pension systems. Like many of the remaining traditional defined-benefit pension plans in the private sector, government pension plans are swimming in red ink.
- Consumer-Driven Health Care
by Ronald Bailey.
Originally published on Reason.com on January 31, 2006.
In other sectors of the economy where consumers get to choose, one usually sees falling costs and increasing productivity. Why not open up health care to the same beneficial influences? Give consumers incentives to shop around for medical care and insurance and let them balance costs and quality to fit their desires.
- Euthanize Federal Mission Creep
by Shikha Dalmia.
Originally published on Reason.org on January 26, 2006.
Oregon's assisted suicide law saved by Supreme Court's liberal justices.
- Euthanize Federal Mission Creep
by Shikha Dalmia.
Originally published on Reason.org on January 25, 2006.
Mission creep is something that conservatives typically worry about. But it is the liberals and moderates on the Supreme Court who foiled one of the worst instances of federal mission creep last week by refusing to void Oregon's physician assisted suicide law.
- Deep in the HR of Texas
by Leonard Gilroy.
Originally published on Reason.org on January 25, 2006.
The recent media buzz in Texas over a state auditor's report illustrates a key point: results matter in the private sector. It's too bad for taxpayers that the same thing isn't true in government.
- Don't Put Undue Burden on Governor's Efficiency Efforts
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in the Indianapolis Star on January 15, 2006.
State Sen. Timothy Lanane has introduced legislation that he claims will provide greater transparency into Indiana's privatization initiatives. In reality, the bill establishes a set of bureaucratic hurdles that state agencies would have to jump through before privatizing functions.
- Rebuild New Orleans Smarter, Not Harder
by Adrian Moore.
Originally published in Costco Connection on January 11, 2006.
We have to ask ourselves is it fair to make people living in Pennsylvania or Ohio pay billions for massive engineering projects so that some of the people of New Orleans can go back to the way things were and avoid the hard choices that nature presents them?
- Government Failure in the Loan Market
by Adam Summers.
Originally published on Reason.org on January 4, 2006.
According to an inspector general's report issued last week, the eligibility of applicants for guarantied loans in the wake of the September 11, 2001, attacks could not be verified in 85 percent of the cases reviewed. The report castigated the SBA for its complete lack of oversight, and for statements made by SBA officials that encouraged lenders to offer loans to businesses that had suffered little or no adverse impacts from the 9/11 attacks.
- Congress Sets Out to Fix College Football
by Adam Summers.
Originally published on Reason.org on December 29, 2005.
Congress' plate has been full lately. Important things are going on across the nation and around the world. Thus, it was only fitting that the House Committee on Energy and Commerce decided to conduct a hearing on . . . college football?
- Managing Sexual Harassment Risks in Government Agencies
by ArLyne Diamond.
Originally published on Reason.org on December 12, 2005.
It's been said that "My rights end at the bridge of your nose." This is a great defining statement about physical rights and property rights. But what about your rightor should I say expectation?of emotional and psychological safety in the workplace? Harder to define, isn't it?
- The Real Sandy Springs Effect
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published on Reason.org on December 2, 2005.
At 12:01 am on December 1st, a vision took reality for a large group of citizens in Sandy Springs, Georgia. After fighting Fulton County for over 30 years, their dream became a reality and Sandy Springs became the first new city in Georgia in 50 years. What makes Sandy Springs relatively unique is what the new city looks like today. Rather than create an entire new bureaucracy, they privatized virtually every city function.
- Gov. Kaine: You've Won, Now What?
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in on Bacon's Rebellion on November 21, 2005.
Congratulations are due to Governor-elect Tim Kaine. He ran a long and hard race, but now that the campaigning is over the hard work begins. It's time to deliver on your campaign promises and make your mark over the next four years. Hopefully, he'll leave the Commonwealth in a better place.
- Ranking Governors on Effectiveness, Not Tax Increases
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published on Reason.org on November 21, 2005.
While Time's "five best governors" should be honored to receive recognition, it unfortunately is meaningless and somewhat undeserving. Furthermore, Time glosses over the broad accomplishments of one the celebrity governors and totally misses the mark on one of the "worst" governors.
- Shackling the Executive, Again
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published on Reason.org on November 21, 2005.
It was a good week for taxpayers in Connecticut. Governor Jodi M. Rell has vetoed a flawed contracting "reform" bill that was passed by the General Assembly in response to the public corruption scandals that landed former Gov. John Rowland in federal prison and drew guilty pleas from his former co-chief of staff Peter Ellef and contractor William Tomasso last month.
- Outing Government from Marriage
by Adam Summers.
Originally published on Reason.org on November 11, 2005.
Gay marriage has been one of the most explosive and divisive issues across the nation in recent years. But while the current debate has focused mainly on definitions of "marriage" and "civil unions" and which benefits gay couples should be eligible to receive, it really misses the larger issue, namely, whether or not government should be involved in marriage at all.
- Using Scare Tactics to Drum Up Spending
by Geoffrey Segal and Adam Summers.
Originally published on Reason.org on October 28, 2005.
Proponents of Referenda C and D are painting some truly frightening pictures of what "would" happen should Colorado taxpayers say no to new spending on November 1st. While fear mongering may be a brilliant communications and public relations strategy, it is not an accurate depiction of the situation.
- More Than 25,000 Private Drinking Water Systems in US
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published on Reason.org on October 28, 2005.
If signed into law, HB1333 would require all private operators of water and sewer systems to divest their assets, at cost, to their host communities. What's next? Where will the Commonwealth stop? What business is safe from the reach of government? Whose property is protected from seizure if the government can just decide it doesn't want you around any longer?
- California Needs Better Laws, Not More Government
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the Antelope Valley Press on October 23, 2005.
Gov. Schwarzenegger just vetoed a bill to create a new Sex Offender Management Board that would recommend how to manage, treat, and track more than 100,000 registered sex offenders in California. Vetoing the bill seems like political suicide. But the Terminator hasn't gone soft on crime; he's vetoed the very type of legislation that has enabled our state government to spiral and grow out of control in recent years.
- Virginia's Budget Mess, Performance Measures Missing
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in on Bacon's Rebellion on October 17, 2005.
The Council for Virginia's Future can dramatically increase its impact by shoring up the performance based budgeting piece of its proposal. It would be a shame if the Council missed this opportunity to offer real change.
- First Woodshed on the Moon
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published on Reason Online on October 4, 2005.
When he spoke with USA TODAY's editorial staff last week, NASA Administrator Michael Griffin didn't blame himself for his agency's woes, but he did something perhaps even more startling. He agreed that most of what NASA has been doing for the past few decadesthe shuttle program and the International Space Stationhas been a mistake.
- You Don't Save What You Don't Own
by Jeff Taylor.
Originally published on Reason Online on September 14, 2005.
What if the buses in New Orleans had been privately owned, and the gasoline supply had been a nationalized, government-run quasi-utility?
- Escape from FEMAville
by Kerry Howley.
Originally published on Reason Online on September 13, 2005.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, federal and local authorities have proven themselves incapable of reacting to dire predictions of destruction, learning from previous catastrophes, or letting more capable organizations lend a hand.
- Sandy Springs Redefines How Government Should Look
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in the Fauquier Times Democrat on August 30, 2005.
Sandy Springs residents were upset with dismal service, a lack of local control, and the skyrocketing costs of public services. Now that they've wrestled control away, the new city has a unique opportunity to redefine how municipal government should look, function, and interacts with citizens. City leaders are starting with a blank slate, enabling them to ask the fundamental questions about what role government should play.
- San Diego Pension Proposals Don't Do Enough
by George Passantino.
Originally published by the San Diego Union-Tribune on August 23, 2005.
San Diego's staggering pension shortfall of at least $1.3 billion plus another $1 billion in unfunded retiree health benefits should be in forefront of voters' minds when they cast their ballots for mayor.
- What Can Maine Learn From Oliver Porter?
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published in the Bangor Daily News on August 10, 2005.
Sandy Springs residents were upset with dismal service, a lack of local control, and the skyrocketing costs of public services. Now that they've wrestled control away, the new city has a unique opportunity to redefine how municipal government should look, function, and interacts with citizens. City leaders are starting with a blank slate enabling them to ask the fundamental questions about what role government should play.
- Bond Rejection Paves Way For Pension Reform
by Adam Summers.
Originally published in the Charleston Gazette on August 8, 2005.
West Virginia's pension problem stems from decades of underfunding and mismanagement. Unfortunately, the bills racked up by previous politicians must be paid. West Virginia can lessen the blow to taxpayers, however, by adopting responsible fiscal management practices and implementing reforms to prevent the state from repeating its mistakes in the future.
- Reviving the Reform
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on August 3, 2005.
From seven Mr. Olympia titles to his role as "Conan the Barbarian" to his fleet of Humvees, Arnold Schwarzenegger has always been larger than life. This grand persona was even evident as he unveiled his massive California Performance Review plan a year ago today. Sadly, his follow-through on government reform has been less than Herculean.
- Spending Limits -- or Your Property?
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Fauquier Times-Democrat on July 5, 2005.
If ever the need for serious spending reform (at every level of government) was needed, it is now. There's a new beast on the horizon. While curbing future tax increases remains a laudable goal, a critical Supreme Court ruling has elevated the need for reform. Simply, we must limit the growth of government to protect our property.
- How to Keep Pension Promises on the Road to Solvency
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the San Francisco Chronicle on June 21, 2005.
Until fundamental reform of the government pension system is achieved, our state and local governments will continue to rack up billions of dollars in pension debt that will crowd out investment in other quality-of-life priorities such as schools, roads and law enforcement.
- Government Can Innovate
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published on Bacon's Rebellion on May 9, 2005.
National experts on government reform, performance based budgeting and competitive sourcing recently spent the day with over 100 Virginia officials talking about how to make the Commonwealth work more efficiently and effectively. The challenge now is to make positive change happen. Not yet known is whether those in positions of authority will take the necessary steps and support employees who have the courage and the creativity to step forward with ideas.
- The Politics of Budget Surplus
by Geoffrey Segal.
Originally published on Bacon's Rebellion on April 11, 2005.
Certainly, Virginia's budget surplus is good news. The Commonwealth's economy has fully rebounded and seems as strong as ever. However, despite notable strides made toward long-term structural reform, we have not changed the spending mindset in Richmond.
- The President Plays the Simon Part; Congress, alas, is Paula
by Lisa Snell.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on April 10, 2005.
Unfortunately, while Bush tries to play the role of brutally honest Simon Cowell - sending failing education programs packing and sticking to his cuts - it is likely that Congress will be much more like Paula Abdul, saying kind words and keeping ineffective programs alive. True to form, the Senate recently added $5.4 billion in education spending to its budget.
- Billions of Reasons to Reform
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on April 7, 2005.
The retirement costs of California state workers now total over $2.6 billion, a 1,500 percent increase over the last five years. And by 2009, the taxpayer bill for state retirement costs is projected to hit $3.5 billion per year. Despite the obvious fiscal dangers of this explosive growth, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's efforts to reform the pension system have run into a buzzsaw of opposition from angry public employee unions.
- Ending CA Gridlock Requires Compromise
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the Los Angeles Daily News on April 1, 2005.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and legislative Democrats have recently offered answers to the state's congestion problem. Schwarzenegger is focused on the state's long-term needs, building new highways and adding new capacity through public-private partnerships and tolls. But the governor also continues to raid much-needed Proposition 42 transportation funds.
- Covering Up Naked DSL
by Jeff A. Taylor.
Originally published on Reason Express on March 24, 2005.
The FCC this week is expected to underscore its continued commitment to the telecom status quo by rescuing the Bells from state regulators trying to give consumers a way to avoid paying for services they do not want. The old bugaboo of access charges and service fees is at the heart of the matter.
- Compete, Improve Government
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally distributed by United Press International on March 1, 2005.
Governors of both parties around the country have embraced the power of competition to find savings, improve services, and balance budgets. It's a trend that has caught fire in the last few years. The post 9-11 economic slowdown that cut into state revenues opened the doors to more competition. Result: governors and legislators either expanded current competitive initiatives or created new ones.
- Let Private Sector Pave the Way
by William E. Simon.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on February 22, 2005.
It is time for lawmakers to ensure that California has the tools to build a 21st-century transportation system and to recapture the state's legacy of innovation. A critical component will be legislation that enables state and local governments to partner with the private sector to build new highway capacity.
- State Outsourcing: The sky isn't falling
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Tallahassee Democrat on February 2, 2005.
Recent developments - including Gov. Jeb Bush's concession that some of the state's outsourcing initiatives have encountered problems - have led to renewed calls for greater legislative oversight of the process, or even for an end to all outsourcing. However, any fair assessment will conclude that getting rid of all outsourcing is out of the question, and interjecting intrusive legislative review may do more harm than good.
- Should We Save Jobs?
by Walter E. Williams.
Originally published on Townhall.com on January 26, 2005.
Now that the elections are over, there's little political gain for demagoguery about jobs, but let's prepare ourselves for the next time. Job destruction and job creation through natural market forces are enriching. Calling for Congress to save or create jobs is to court disaster.
- The Time is Now
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published on Bacon's Rebellion on January 17, 2005.
Virginia's recent financial crisis brought only a modicum of reform to state spending and budgeting. Maybe a $918 million surplus will give lawmakers the breathing room they need.
- The Florida Model: Competing to raise efficiency, lower costs
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Indianapolis Star on January 16, 2005.
With Gov. Mitch Daniels, Indiana has a governor well aware of the powers of competition. Like Daniels, Florida Gov. Jeb Bush believes competition leads to better, more efficient state government. Bush has successfully used private sector competition, initiative and innovation, where appropriate, to reform how Florida's government operates. In the process he has drastically reduced its size, scope and cost.
- Turmoil at Santee Cooper Puts Public Utilities Under Microscope
by Ken Silverstein.
Originally published in Utilipoint's Issue Alert on January 12, 2005.
The competition between investor-owned utilities and publicly-owned utilities has entered a new phase. The controversy swirls around South Carolina-owned Santee Cooper, which could be sold to private investors. Inner turmoil there has caused a major credit rating agency to downgrade the entity's outlook from stable to negative.
- Opponents of Education Outsourcing Seek to Discredit Private Sector
by Lisa Snell.
Originally published in The Heartland Institute's School Reform News on January 4, 2005.
Two recent examples illustrate how teacher unions and other education advocacy groups often present their members with a negatively biased view of the private sector and its involvement in education. This approach leaves educators unexposed to the larger body of evidence that shows competition and privatization have improved service in almost every business sector, including education.
- Noah Circa 2005
by Author unknown.
Published on RPPI.org on December 29, 2004.
If Noah had lived in the United States in the year 2005, then the story may have gone something like this.
- The Red-tape Blues
by Lisa Snell.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on December 26, 2004.
With more and more parents seeking alternatives to failing public schools, many private schools are filled to capacity, offering long waiting lists and increasingly high tuition prices - the result of high demand and low supply. But entrepreneurs interested in launching new private schools are guaranteed to be engulfed in red tape and bureaucracy.
- Uncle Sams Christmas Special
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published on RPPI.org on December 23, 2004.
New laws that take effect just after the holiday season allow Uncle Sam to take more money come tax time. The extra money comes from those who donate their cars to charity, but discover that the amount they can deduct has shrunk dramatically. According to Reason's Ted Balaker, the truly humbug twist is who will get hurt by the grab - charities that generate income from donated cars and the needy people they help.
- Sticker Shock: One-size-fits-all education is not halal
by Will Wilkinson.
Originally published on Reason.com on December 21, 2004.
One simple solution to education conflicts like the one regarding the treatment of evolutionary theory in biology is to give more control to parents through a system of vouchers. Parents would then be free to put their childrens education in the hands of schools that reflect their beliefs, not the beliefs of school boards, curriculum committees, and the teachers unions.
- The Reluctant Planner: Reason Interviews FCC Chairman Michael Powell
by Drew Clark, Nick Gillespie, and Jesse Walker.
Originally published on Reason.com on December 21, 2004.
FCC Chairman Michael Powell claims that he is a Reagan-era child eager to lighten the governments burden on the communications industries, but critics counter that he has actually made the government more intrusive. Which view is closer to reality? In this wide-ranging Reason interview, Powell comments on indecency, innovation, consolidation, and competition.
- Permission to Fly: Granted!
by Rick Tumlinson.
Originally published by the Space Frontier Foundation on December 13, 2004.
Culminating an incredible 18 month effort by a tenacious group of New Space companies, grass roots groups and individuals, the Senate finally passed bill HR5382, which for the first time acknowledges and lays out a regulatory roadmap for a new generation of firms eager to fly paying passengers into space.
- A New Light on Some Economic Myths
by Cliff Slater.
Originally published in the Honolulu Advertiser on December 7, 2004.
Three persistent economic myths are the prevailing reasons that voters continue to approve of elected officials increasing business regulation, increasing government spending to "prime the pump" and keeping taxes high.
- Privatization: It's Working in Florida
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Tallahassee Democrat on December 6, 2004.
Despite assertions that privatization of government services in Florida has led to outsourcing, the Governor's Center for Efficient Government found that none of the state's privatized work was being done outside the United States and fully 91 percent was being conducted in Florida.
- New Report Highlights Continued Growth of Privatization
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in The Heartland Institute's Budget and Tax News on December 3, 2004.
A new report from the Los Angeles-based Reason Foundation shows 2004 has been a banner year for privatization at the state level. A slowing economy and fewer new revenues opened the doors to more privatization as governors and legislatures across the country either expanded current initiatives or created new ones.
- Competition Works In Taxpayers' Favor
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Tampa Tribune on December 2, 2004.
Governments often operate as other monopolies do, doing little to restrain costs and passing along higher costs to taxpayers. The notion of improving efficiency by bringing competition's influence to bear upon the government was often deemed impossible. Yet Gov. Jeb Bush has made Florida a national leader in using competitive sourcing to improve efficiency and hold down the cost of government.
- The Bodybuilders Guide to Government Reform
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the California Political Review, a publication of the California Public Policy Foundation on November 20, 2004.
Getting on the treadmill is uncomfortable particularly when you are so comfy on the couch. But by applying the key lessons of bodybuilding, we can build a leaner, healthier, more efficient state government.
- Taking PART
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published on Bacon's Rebellion on November 15, 2004.
If Virginia wants to promote efficiency in state government, it should adopt the Performance Assessment Rating Tool that President Bush is using to tame the federal bureacracy.
- Vetoing the Legislation Against Outsourcing in California
by Greg Short.
Originally published at Outsourcing Law on November 15, 2004.
In the last days of the states 2003-04 legislative session, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger faced a number of proposed bills that were aimed at controlling the off-shoring of California jobs and services and that would become law without the Governors veto.
- Kerry, Edwards Love Outsourcing
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published on RPPI.org on November 1, 2004.
John Kerry and John Edwards love outsourcing. That is, they love talking about it. The Kerry-Edwards rhetorical strategy is that simple: oppose outsourcing and youre the American workers best friend.
- Growing Jobs in Space
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published on RPPI.org on October 28, 2004.
Government has always dominated manned space exploration, and most people never thought to question the status quo. Yet, it took a small team only three years and $25 million to send a private astronaut into space twice within one week. As we celebrate the birth of private space exploration, perhaps its time for the presidential candidates to pay attention to what makes innovation blossom and reconsider the government's role in space flight.
- Regulation Rollback
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published on Bacon's Rebellion on October 19, 2004.
Burdensome regulations cost consumers money in the form of higher prices, fewer choices, or less quality. Some states are begining to address this regulatory tax on small business. In Virginia, Del. Chris Saxman is promoting a flexibility-in-regulation law that should curtail the spread of useless, job-killing regulations.
- Privatization Produces Gains in Philadelphia
by Lisa Snell.
Originally published in The Heartland Institute's School Reform News on October 18, 2004.
Competition between public and privately managed schools in Philadelphia over the past two years has allowed all public school students to benefit from best practices and has led to overall student achievement gains that are dramatically above the state average.
- More Competition in Corrections Department Will Lead to Additional Savings
by Geoffrey F. Segal and Kelly McCutchen .
Originally published by the Georgia Public Policy Foundation on October 8, 2004.
With Georgia facing a budget shortfall, it will take some creative thinking to balance the budget. The key is to do so without cutting services or raising taxes. New research shows that not only do private prisons themselves save money, but they also put external pressure on the public prison system further constraining the escalation of costs a win-win for Georgians as legislators try to balance the state budget.
- You May Already Be A Winner: Who really benefits from the Bush tax cuts?
by Nick Gillespie and Mike Snell.
Originally published on Reason on October 8, 2004.
Critics of the Bush income tax cuts argue that the cuts push platefuls of cake to well-connected millionaires while reserving only a few crumbs for the vast majority of Americans. But an analysis by Reason finds that the Bush tax cuts have in fact put real money in the pockets of typical American families.
- What Schwarzenegger Didn't Do
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the Los Angeles Times on October 6, 2004.
Clearly, Gov. Schwarzenegger has fought hard to attract jobs and economic development to California. He has traveled to other states to recruit businesses, vetoed a number of bills that would have further undermined the state's still-recovering economy, and he resisted tax increases. However, efforts to restore the state's fiscal stability have not been as successful.
- Invariably, Blame Government's Poor Pricing Policies
by Cliff Slater.
Originally published in the Honolulu Advertiser on September 30, 2004.
There is one word that we in Hawaii use far too loosely and that is, shortage. For example, we talk about shortages of water, teachers, parking, and nurses. But the reason that we never have shortages of underwear, jewelry, or aloha shirts, is because these items do not have their prices either controlled or influenced by government.
- L.A. to O.C. -- Resist the NFL's Siren Call
by Samuel R. Staley.
Originally published in the Los Angeles Times on August 30, 2004.
The NFL, upset with its inability to get a new stadium built in Los Angeles, is now encouraging Anaheim to construct a stadium and chase the NFL dream. While taxpayers across the country continue to be fleeced by leagues and team owners demanding new stadiums, Los Angeles' mantra should continue to be 'build it yourself.'
- California is Killing Jobs, Not Saving Them
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on August 26, 2004.
The Democrat-controlled Senate just passed a bill that would forbid California from sending government work to foreign lands. Offshore outsourcing often saves governments money, but many in our Legislature - even in the face of record deficits - see no need to slim our beefy government.
- Make Government Compete
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published on Bacon's Rebellion on August 23, 2004.
Virginia can once again be the recognized leader in making government more efficient by taking a look at Florida and California and then stepping forward with its own exciting 'competitive government' program.
- Immediate Action Needed to Improve City Finances
by Carl DeMaio.
Originally published in the San Diego Union-Tribune on August 13, 2004.
This week brought yet another reminder that the City of San Diego needs to take immediate action to fix its troubling finances. Moodys Investment Service downgraded the City of San Diegos credit rating for the second time this year, citing concerns over accounting irregularities, rising debt levels, continued structural budget imbalance, and a failure to adequately address a $2 billion unfunded pension liability.
- How Sheriff Can Ease Budget Shortfall With Private Jail
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published by the Indianapolis Star on August 13, 2004.
Facing severe budget cuts this year, the Marion County, IN Sheriff's Department is considering returning 345 inmates currently housed at a private jail back to the county. Rather than reduce the number of inmates at the private facility, the county should explore ways to take further advantage of the private jail and the savings associated with privatization.
- Privatize Prisons, Unlock Savings
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally Published by the Bluegrass Institute on August 11, 2004.
Research shows that states that use private prisons also tend to see costs fall in their government-run penal institutions. Competition drives prices down - whether youre talking about grocery stores or prisons.
- Our Unfocused Legislature
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the San Jose Mercury News on August 10, 2004.
When California shifted to a full-time Legislature in 1966, it was supposed to offer professionalism and allow for more focus on complex issues. But with a history of one government crisis after another, what has a professional Legislature actually produced? Why pay a full-time $99,000 salary plus several thousand more in yearly expenses for less than part-time results?
- Lighting a Fuse to Blow Up the Boxes
by George Passantino.
Originally published by the Orange County Register on August 8, 2004.
Gov. Schwarzenegger lit the fuse on his promise to blow up the boxes of state government with the release last week of the massive, 2,500-page California Performance Review report. Many Sacramento insiders, including legislators and advocacy groups opposed to the reforms, are already frantically trying to stamp out that fuse.
- State Review Deserves Serious Consideration
by David Nott.
Originally published in the Los Angeles Daily News on August 6, 2004.
Just as the 2,500-page California Performance Review was released, some California state legislators immediately declared the report was "dead on arrival" and had no chance of being implemented. Here's guessing they hadn't read the epic report containing more than 1,200 recommendations cover to cover just yet.
- The State's Backward Ways
by Lisa Snell.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on August 4, 2004.
The state budget deal contains some devastating compromises, including one that will hit California's kids hard: Republicans agreed to drop their demand to revise a 2002 law that largely prohibits schools from hiring private firms for food, transportation, and janitorial and landscaping services.
- Screener Concerns Raise Issue of TSA Conflict of Interest
by Robert W. Poole, Jr..
Originally published in Reason's Aviation Security Newsletter on July 27, 2004.
Several recent news stories critical of TSA airport screeners provide more evidence that combining the provision of airport security services with the regulation of security is a built-in conflict of interest.
- Realizing the President's Management Agenda
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published on Tech Central Station on July 26, 2004.
Upon entering office, President Bush issued the President's Management Agenda -- a dramatic reform effort to put performance ahead of patronage in the federal government. While some progress has been made in recent months, many federal agencies fail to fully open up to competition by continuing to provide services that are readily available in the market.
- Results-Based Government
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published on Bacon's Rebellion on July 26, 2004.
Taxpayers should insist that government programs accomplish what they're set up to do. Measuring results is a powerful tool for holding agencies accountable.
- Price Discrimination
by Walter E. Williams.
Originally published on Townhall.com on July 22, 2004.
Should price discrimination be outlawed? According to the tyrants we are allowing to attack our liberties, the answer is yes.
- TSA Opt-Out Guidelines Fall Short
by Robert W. Poole, Jr..
Originally published in Reason's Aviation Security Newsletter on July 21, 2004.
As many airport directors have been quick to point out, TSA guidelines inadequately address their three most important concerns regarding potential improvements from opting out of TSA-provided passenger and baggage screening.
- Economics Lessons are Needed
by Cliff Slater.
Originally published in the Honolulu Advertiser on July 19, 2004.
Thomas Sowell's recent book on economics turns out to be a fascinating discussion about the real outcomes of legislators' good intentions.
- Shaqsourcing
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published in Reason Online on July 16, 2004.
Shaquille O'Neal's move to the Miami Heat teaches us more about the realities of outsourcing than a thousand campaign stump speeches.
- States Tap Private Prisons
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally Published in the Heartland Institute's Budget and Tax News on July 7, 2004.
Prison privatization remains an attractive option for governors and state legislators seeking to control spending and balance budgets.
- Civil Service Rules Force Bad Hires
by John O'Leary.
Originally published by the Boston Globe on July 7, 2004.
The civil service laws that govern public sector hiring in Massachusetts are broken. Taking a look at how other states are dealing with this issue would go a long way toward telling us how to fix them.
- Tyranny of Taxes Limits Our Freedom
by Cliff Slater.
Originally published in the Honolulu Advertiser on July 7, 2004.
Few of todays Independence Day celebrants even know that to gain our independence the Founding Fathers fought the British over a tax burden that was a tiny fraction of what it is now.
- Outsourcing Not the Evil It's Made Out To Be
by Cliff Slater.
Originally published in the Honolulu Advertiser on June 22, 2004.
We must stand back a little from the anecdotal fear mongering about job losses and look at the full range of employment effects over time. We are in a global economy now and virtually everyone is better off for it.
- Give Lower-Skilled Workers a Chance
by Dr. Shawn Ritenour.
Published on RPPI.org on June 22, 2004.
Those who claim that an increase in the minimum wage will help the working poor should have the decency to tell the full story. An increase in the minimum wage will help only some poor people at the expense of others. If the price of any good increases, people will want to buy less.
- The Furniture Tax
by Jeff A. Taylor.
Originally published on Reason Express on June 22, 2004.
The only sure thing about the Bush administration's decision to slap nearly 200 percent tariffs on Chinese-made furniture is that the American consumer is the loser.
- Privatize... for the Kids, of Course
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published on Bacon's Rebellion on June 21, 2004.
Schools provide a host of services that bear no relation to their fundamental role of educating students. Functions such as transportation, food services, and cleaning and maintenance, can be delegated to private firms allowing school officials to focus on their core mission educating Virginias youth.
- Virginia Passes $1.6 Billion Tax Hike: Voters May Not Forget
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in The Heartland Institute's Budget and Tax News on June 15, 2004.
After more than 100 days of a bitter legislative session, Virginia lawmakers on April 28 approved a two-year budget totaling $60 billion. The budget includes a record tax increase of $1.6 billion, nearly 38 percent higher than what Governor Mark Warner had originally sought from the Republican-controlled legislature.
- Ronald Reagan and the Privatization Revolution
by Robert W. Poole, Jr..
Originally published on RPPI.org on June 8, 2004.
Reagan is often associated with the global privatization revolution that took off during the 1980s, but that is largely a misconception. While he was generally positive about privatization, he viewed it mostly as a remedy for fixing what was wrong with socialist countries, not as a key pillar of economic reform in the USA.
- Big Savings Seen From Streamlining in California
by Gary Delsohn.
Originally published in the Sacramento Bee on May 22, 2004.
An architect of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plan to reorganize and streamline state government said that the effort will cost at least $100 million up front but save "billions" within the next year or two. And Reason's George Passantino and Carl DeMaio are playing a key role in the Governor's efforts to institute operational reforms.
- Offshoring: Is It a Win-Win Game?
by McKinsey Global Institute.
Originally published by the McKinsey Global Institute on May 21, 2004.
Many businesses have turned to offshoring as a way to boost profits while many politicians see the gain only at the unacceptable cost of American jobs. But according to the McKinsey Global Institute's latest research and analysis, offshoring is as beneficial to the U.S. as it is to the destination country, probably more so.
- Offshore Outsourcing is Here to Stay
by Dennis Cronin.
Originally published in the Connecticut Law Tribune on May 17, 2004.
While offshore outsourcing is often referred to as a trend, subcontracting work is not a new concept. Offshoring is here to stay and will continue to shape our economy as technologies improve and a young, enterprising workforce continues to evolve overseas.
- Another City Hall Budget Shell Game
by Carl DeMaio.
Originally published in the San-Diego Union-Tribune on May 14, 2004.
Last week, San Diego released its 2005 budget proposal. Unfortunately, a close look at the city's plan reveals more of the same bad budgeting behaviors and misleading math that produced the present budget crisis.
- Florida Reforming Its Privatization Efforts
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Published on RPPI.org on May 4, 2004.
The creation of the Center for Efficient Government signals a commitment to privatization in Florida. But more importantly, it also signals a serious commitment to providing the best services at the best cost for Florida taxpayers. The standards, processes, and framework that will be created over the next few months likely will serve as templates for other states to use.
- Goal: Help California Run a Tight Ship
by Alexa H. Bluth.
Originally published in the Sacramento Bee on May 3, 2004.
Sequestered in the depths of the state's now-defunct Technology, Trade and Commerce Agency offices, more than 250 state workers and others are quietly and quickly working on one of Gov. Schwarzenegger's most ambitious projects yet. The workers are attempting to reinvent the bureaucracy to trim costs and cut waste in virtually every corner of state government, all by June 30.
- Best-seller Changed History
by Cliff Slater.
Originally published in the Honolulu Advertiser April 15, 2004.
Sixty years ago this month, Nobel laureate F.A. Hayek published The Road to Serfdom and set off a reversal of the then prevailing trend towards socialism when social and economic planning was seen as the antidote to the chaos of capitalism.
- 'OutFORCING': Pennsylvania's Real Job Loss Culprit
by Matthew J. Brouillette.
Originally published by the Commonwealth Foundation on April 12, 2004.
"Outsourcing" has become a convenient excuse for politicians avoiding the real culprit driving jobs out of Pennsylvania and the nation - over-taxation, over-regulation, and a legal system run amok.
- Work Ethics
by Jacob Sullum.
Originally published on Reason Online on April 2, 2004.
If offshore outsourcing is unfair, so is obsolescence. Economic progress requires a constant shifting of resources to their most productive uses, and inevitably that means disrupting people's lives.
- Outsourcing: A Closer Look at the Political Stakes
by Bruce Bartlett.
Originally published by the National Center for Policy Analysis on March 29, 2004.
NCPA's Bruce Bartlett suggests outsourcing legislation--such as Sen. Chris Dodd's amendment to prohibit states or federal contractors from outsourcing--would ironically destroy more jobs and may even make the situation worse.
- Outsourcing is a Natural Force in Free Markets
by Dr. Jeffrey A. Singer.
Originally published by the Arizona Republic on March 29, 2004.
Jeff Singer, surgeon and adjunct scholar with Reason, points out how outsourcing has benefited health care and why we can expect similar benefits in the whole economy.
- Cities Eye Munis for New Revenues
by Ken Silverstein.
Originally published in Utilipoint's Issue Alert on March 24, 2004.
Cash-strapped state and local governments are forced to look for revenues where they can get them. While municipal utilities typically provide payments in lieu of taxes to city coffers, some are now under pressure to give more. This issue is most pronounced in California.
- The 'Wal-Martization' of America (AUDIO)
by Ted Balaker.
Originally broadcast on KPCC's AirTalk on March 24, 2004.
Is Wal-Mart doing a good thing by planning to build 40 superstores in California? Or will Wal-Mart have a negative impact on the U.S. retail industry, economy and labor market? Jacobs Fellow Ted Balaker debates this issue on the KPCC syndicated show AirTalk. (RealPlayer format)
- War Against the Machines
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published on Reason Online on March 19, 2004.
From the save-our-jobs perspective, the new protectionists have more to fear from machines. After all, those soulless slaves to efficiency have stolen more American jobs than any foreigner. Hollywood visionaries use films like The Terminator and The Matrix to warn us of the coming war against the machines. Well, the war is here. Actually, it's been here for a long time.
- California Study Says Public Housing Costs More Than Private
by John Skorburg.
Originally published in Budget and Tax News on March 12, 2004.
The road to state-subsidized housing may be paved with good intentions, but it's marked by an unavoidable fact: It actually costs more to build housing that costs less.
- Propositions Signal No End to Big Government, Financial Mess
by Adam B. Summers.
Published exclusively on RPPI.org on February 29, 2004.
The March 2nd primary election ballot is a disappointing one for those who champion the limitation of government and the maximization of individual liberty. Sadly (or should I say with pride), I have cast my absentee votes in opposition to every one of the propositions. Allow me to explain why.
- Best Prison Reform: Privatization
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on February 24, 2004.
By shifting to private prison companies and putting the government in the role as independent monitor with the power to fire poor-performing companies, states have a more powerful hand in making significant improvements.
- Bush Shares Blame for Pork-barrel Bill
by Adam Summers.
Originally published in the Los Angeles Daily News on February 13, 2004.
If Bush is truly concerned about being such a good steward of taxpayer dollars, he might consider dusting off that unused veto pen that has been taking up space in his Oval Office desk these past three years.
- Unlikely Hope for Deficit Hawks
by Ted Balaker.
Published exclusively on RPPI.org on February 10, 2004.
Instead of continuing to watch cost and ridership trail off in different directions, we should give transit agencies the freedom to produce a better deal for taxpayers and a better product for transit riders.
- The States and Outsourcing
by Radley Balko.
Originally published on Tech Central Station on February 9, 2004.
When we look at the states attracting and retaining jobs, and we compare them to states losing jobs, we find that the states doing well are those with tax and regulatory schemes most friendly to doing business in the state.
- Privatization of Marinas May be the Way
by Ray Pendleton.
Originally published in the Star Bulletin on February 5, 2004.
Will Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources contract out the management of our state marinas to the private sector anytime soon?
- Economic Education: Skyrocketing College Costs
by Julian Sanchez.
Originally published in Reason on January 31, 2004.
It doesnt take a Ph.D. to see that college tuition costs are skyrocketing. Government has attempted to help families foot the bill through a combination of subsidies and tax credits. But is this purported solution really part of the problem?
- Multitudes In the Valley of Decision
by Ronald Bailey.
Originally published in Reason on January 28, 2004.
Sheena Iyengar's research seems to lead to the conclusion that people prefer more choices to fewer and simultaneously find it more difficult and frustrating to sort through those choices. Why is it difficult and frustrating?
- Competitive Contracting for Highway Maintenance: Lessons Learned from National Experience
by Geoffrey F. Segal and Erick Montague.
Washington Policy Center's Policy Brief January 28, 2004.
Reason Foundation's Director of Privatization and Government Reform, Geoffrey Segal, and Eric Montague of the Washington Policy Center released the critique of the Washington Department of Transportation report "Synopsis of WSDOT's Review of Highway Maintenance 'Outsourcing' Experience"
- Education: Let Reforms Begin
by Cliff Slater.
Originally published in the Honolulu Advertiser on January 20, 2004.
The two core features of the Edmonton model -- the Weighted Student Formula to allow total school choice and decentralization to allow the individual schools to control the education budget -- is what reform must be.
- Virginia Needs to Evaluate, Consolidate, and Divest
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in Virginia Viewpoint on January 14, 2004.
Rather than prescribing, once again, the annual placebo of more spending and higher taxes, perhaps Virginia's politicians should consider asset divestiture as a means of relieving the bloating and discomfort caused by budgetary pressures.
- A Lean and Fit State Government
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the San Diego Union Tribune on January 13, 2004.
The key message of Schwarzenegger's plan is that we must control spending or risk collapsing into bankruptcy.
- Keep Oregon's Quality of Life Without New Taxes
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Published exclusively on RPPI.org on January 13, 2004.
A fiscally sound budget proposal must protect Oregons high quality of life priorities without imposing taxes that undermine the states vulnerable economy.
- California State Deficits: The Day of Reckoning is Here
by George Passantino.
Originally published in the San Diego Union Tribune on December 22, 2003.
Borrowing may be a necessary tool for Gov. Schwarzenegger and the Legislature as they confront California's ever-growing budget crisis, but only if that borrowing is pursued in conjunction with steps to tackle longer-term spending challenges.
- Don't Water Down Efficiency, Productivity
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Stockton Record on December 12, 2003.
The issue is whether Stockton officials had considered environmental concerns properly when they decided to outsource water and wastewater services to OMI-Thames Water.
- Foiling Sacramento's Green Goblins
by George Passantino.
Originally published in CPR Online on November 19, 2003.
With fiscal crisis as his justification, Schwarzenegger should press forward with
an ambitious reform agenda designed to solve the states spending problems once
and for all.
- A Firefighting Alternative
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on November 19, 2003.
We should avoid getting cornered into a choice between higher taxes and periodic
wildfire devastation. Contracting out offers a third way that would ensure a large,
highly skilled pool of firefighters at less cost than hiring more public employees.
- War on Red Ink
by William D. Eggers.
Originally published in the Orange County Register on November 18, 2003.
Balancing the budget without tax hikes or cutting state services to the bone wont
be easy, but it can be done. How? By stealing. That is, by stealing the best ideas
used by other states to reduce expenditures.
- Private Prisons Save Money, Boost Productivity, Studies Find
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Budget and Tax News on November 17, 2003.
Florida passed in 1995 a law requiring all prison inmates to serve at least 85 percent of their sentences. Since then, the amount of time most inmates spend behind bars in the Sunshine State has increased dramatically, putting privatization on the table for Florida policymakers.
- Public-Private Ventures Answer to Gridlock
by Ted Balaker.
Originally published in The Daily News on November 14, 2003.
The transit strike has made highway congestion even worse, but even after the strike ends, San Fernando Valley commuters will still be stuck in traffic. The political process that funds highways will make sure of that.
- Private Firefighters Battle the West's Wildfires
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in Privatization Watch on October 30, 2003.
Private firefighters are helping out with wildfires throughout the westalmost 2,000 from Oregon alone. Of the 121 Oregon-based crews dispatched to fires in Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and Nevada, 98 were contracted from private companies.
- Repealing Regulations, Sort of
by Adam Summers.
Published exclusively on RPPI.org on October 20, 2003.
The nation is clearly in desperate need of regulatory relief. The administrative costs of federal regulations will total approximately $30 billion this year, up 59 percent just since 2000!
- Putting Offshore Outsourcing in Perspective
by Michael F. Corbett and Associates, Ltd..
Published on RPPI.org on October 20, 2003.
In this commentary, see how competition and the work ethic of workers in foreign countries can combine to create an offshore cost advantage.
- Huge Savings Through Human Resources Outsourcing
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Virginia Viewpoint on August 28, 2003.
We can't blame our state's fiscal challenges on declining tax revenues. Rather, our state government has overspent. Now is the time to reel in state spending, especially if there are opportunities to do so without cutting vital services.
- Air-Traffic Improvements Will Ensure Friendly Skies
by Robert W. Poole, Jr..
Originally published in the Orlando Sentinel on August 18, 2003.
Will air-traffic control remain chronically short of funds and lagging in technology? Or will it become a high-tech service business, facilitating the growth of aviation in the best interest of air travelers?
- Air-Traffic Control Reform Newsletter (Issue 15)
by Robert W. Poole, Jr..
Published exclusively on RPPI.org on August 15, 2003.
Bob Poole discusses various air traffic control topics including NATCA's losing battle over ATC "privatization", flight service station reform, FAA's decision to put on hold a highly successful controller-pilot-data link communications program, and more.
- Tour de Farce
by Ted Balaker.
Published exclusively on RPPI.org on August 6, 2003.
The U.S. Postal Service exemplifies the bureaucratic spiritsluggish, dreary, and frightened of competition. Which makes it all the more ironic that the postal service would use Lance Armstrong as its spokesman. Have sponsor and spokesman ever epitomized such differing values?
- Outsourcing Can Help Maryland Measure Up
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Baltimore Sun August 6, 2003.
Like all cash-strapped governments, Maryland is looking for ways to maintain core services while reducing enough costs to balance the budget. Already, cuts have been made in a number of agencies, with higher education taking one of the most significant hits. For the 2004 fiscal year, reductions have been proposed in funding for child care assistance, local school aid and transportation. There are smarter ways to save money, and one of the best of them is outsourcing.
- Privatization and Competition in Corrections
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published by the Heartland Institute on August 4, 2003.
New research shows private prisons remain a viable alternative for addressing state budget concerns. Not only do private prisons themselves save money, but they also put external pressure on the corrections system, further constraining the escalation of costs.
- Reality Check on Connecticut Prisons
by Adrian T. Moore.
Originally published by the Hartford Courant on July 30, 2003.
Private prisons are held to higher standards. By competing with government prisons and each other, private prisons raise the bar for what we expect from our correctional system.
- Six Myths of Competitive Sourcing
by Jaques S. Gansler.
Originally published in Government Executive on July 8, 2003.
The private sector increasingly has found that outsourcing-through competitive processes-has resulted in both improved performance and lower costs.
- Networked Government
by William D. Eggers and Stephen Goldsmith.
Originally published in Government Executive on July 8, 2003.
The government bureaucracy isn't dead yet, but it is steadily giving way to a fundamentally different approach in which government executives redefine their core responsibilities from managing people to coordinating resources for producing public value.
- Backwards Budgeting
by Ted Balaker.
Published exclusively on RPPI.org on July 1, 2003.
Privatization supporters often note that privatizing allows public agencies to focus on their core missions. For example, why should the military dump time and money into laundering clothes or developing software? Better to outsource those tasks and focus on fighting.
- Congress and Bush Split on Privatizing the FAA
by Matthew L. Wald.
Originally published in the New York Times on June 20, 2003.
Air traffic control has become a flashpoint of the Bush administration's effort to contract out hundreds of thousands of federal jobs to the private sector.
- Increased Competition in Department of Corrections Will Lead to Additional Savings
by Geoffrey F. Segal.
Originally published in the Virginia Viewpoint on June 17, 2003.
New research shows that not only do the private prisons themselves save money, but they also put external pressure on the public prison system further constraining the escalation of costs-a win-win for Virginians as our legislators in Richmond try to balance the budget.