News and perspective on public policy issues affecting Washington's economy and quality of life, brought to you by the Economic Opportunity Institute.
According to a recent report from Policy Matters Ohio, while compensation and job security often grab all the attention, public sector unions also negotiate for provisions that directly benefit the communities they serve. For example: Firefighters and police agreements outline minimum numbers of on-duty personnel to ensure rapid response times; negotiate for improved training protocols [...]
It’s no secret this year was a difficult one for Washington. Persistent unemployment, the continuing budget gap, skyrocketing tuition, high gas prices, plummeting home values and cuts to essential services – at a time when they’re needed most – have damaged our state economy and left middle class families struggling to stay in their homes. [...]
By Gary Burris, Senior Policy Associate With the current state budget shortfall, federal budget deficits and looming cuts in vital services, it’s easy to miss a few of the good things that are happening in our state legislature. Specifically, several bills currently on their way to the Governor’s desk will increase consumer protection for homeowners [...]
By Gary Burris, Senior Policy Associate The mortgage crisis has hit millions of Americans. Most recent estimates show that 23% of home owners nationwide owe more than their homes are worth – including tens of thousands of Washingtonians. Banks used unethical tactics to get people into loans that weren’t in their best interest, inflated the [...]
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