The Weakening of the States

Abstract:

The role of the states in American government is weakening, according to this report released at the Institute's first national conference on states' long-term budget gaps. There are three main causes: The Great Recession has strained states' finances, while increasing the need for services. Medicaid continues to put pressure on states' finances. And the information revolution has de-emphasized states by creating the false impression that more domestic government can be micromanaged from Washington.