Topic: Rockefeller Institute of Government

States should fold on Internet gambling

California and New Jersey, each seek more revenue, are leading the states toward Internet gambling, starting with online poker. But this all-too-easy form of gaming would come with at a high cost to society – and government.

No child left alone: Volunteers mentor children of inmates

With 2.3 million inmates behind bars in the US, the goal of volunteers in mentor programs for the 2.7 million children of prisoners is: No child left alone. Despite government cuts in funding, the programs continue.

A Bush-era victory in culture wars: faith-based initiatives

Despite federal budget cuts, faith-based initiatives appear to be a Bush victor in the culture wars. Experts say its legacy is that it overcame the cultural resistance to using religious organizations as part of social service delivery.

States' bottom line improves, but can the good news last?

States' 2011 budgets are heading in the right direction as tax revenue increases, new indicators report. But with federal support waning and local demand on programs like Medicaid up, will the good news last?

Fewer cops, more potholes: How debt deal could hit states hardest

Federal spending cuts mean fewer dollars will flow to the states for unemployment benefits, education, health care, and other state-run programs. Many states will have to cut services or raise taxes.

Washington deadlocked? States lead in cutting deficits

New Jersey, Ohio, and others have tackled tough budget deficits. They're addressing deficits by cutting spending, not hiking taxes, and looking at the long term.

State budget woes: How much will they drag down US economy?

Cutting employees, raising taxes, and delaying payments to vendors could slow economic recovery, experts say, but perhaps only slightly.

How to beat partisan politics? Ask your state government.

To avoid gridlock and partisan politics look to your state government. The states increasingly hold the power and influence over Washington in shaping American law – from safety to energy to social justice.

Home prices fall, but local property taxes rise, Census says

Local property tax revenues are up 3.6 percent, according to new census data, despite a 30 percent decline in home prices.

Economy may be rebounding, but state budgets are still hurting

All but one state (Vermont) saw tax collections and other funds fall for the second quarter in a row. Over the past year, they’ve lost more than they got in federal stimulus money.

State, local governments could cut most jobs since '80s

While the US economy struggles, ten states are doing OK

They've avoided the worst of the housing bust. Oil and gas revenues have helped too.

Are states next in line for federal bailout?

A bond sale this week will test whether private capital can meet California's shortfall.

Buzz grows over state tax holidays

Tax-free days cost states money but can prod lagging American spending.

Economic woes hit state budgets

Soaring inflation and shrinking tax revenues will make it tougher for at least 25 states to fund public services.