Public Policy and the Michigan Budget Crisis
Loading...
Authors
Fleck, Erin
Issue Date
2009
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
This essay is a critical evaluation of the current economic situation in the state of
Michigan. This study will attempt to highlight recent failures by the government in their
attempt to reduce the economic crisis currently facing the state. It will also outline
alternative plans for the future of Lansing that take into account the public choice theory
of economics in combination with specific policy prescriptions inspired by up and
coming gubernatorial candidate Rick Snyder's outline for government reform. By
juxtaposing some of these recent government shortcomings with models provided by
public finance theory, one can begin to pinpoint the nature of the mistakes that have been
made in the past, and formulate an efficient and effective plan for government reform for
Michigan's future. A brief look at the cost-benefit analysis model will also give way to
useful insights about how a state government should go about choosing between
alternative projects and reforms in the most efficient and socially beneficial manner.
What this analysis will reveal is the need for more transparency and accountability in the
state's government institutions, particularly when discussing tax-reform. Finally, an
overview of the methods used by Ann Arbor SPARK, a public-private partnership that
facilitates local entrepreneurs and innovation-based economic development, will provide
a more specific model of what Michigan state government should strive to look like in
the future.
Description
17 p.
Citation
Publisher
License
U.S. copyright laws protect this material. Commercial use or distribution of this material is not permitted without prior written permission of the copyright holder.