Government Accountability
Does Legislative Size Matter?
Good morning. I am Nathan Benefield, Director of Policy Research for the Commonwealth Foundation. We are a nonprofit, independent public policy research and educational institute based in Harrisburg. I…
Testimony
Read More: Does Legislative Size Matter?Public Union Democracy
Cost-Saving Ideas for Pennsylvania State Budget
Testimony of Nathan A. Benefield, Director of Policy Research, Commonwealth Foundation to the Pennsylvania Senate Government Management and Cost Study Commission, April 12, 2010 Good morning; I am Nathan…
Testimony
Read More: Cost-Saving Ideas for Pennsylvania State BudgetEducation
Ten Tips to Balance the Budget
Contrary to Gov. Rendell's rhetoric, there are a plethora of reforms and cuts that can balance the budget without taking more from the pockets of Pennsylvania taxpayers. Here are ten…
Commentary
Read More: Ten Tips to Balance the BudgetRegulation
Illinois Passes Pension Reductions
While the Pennsylvania General Assembly is holding hearings to assess our public pension crisis is really bad, or really-really bad, Illinois is acting to reduce state pension benefits…
Media
Read More: Illinois Passes Pension ReductionsGovernment Accountability
The Case for a Part-Time Legislature
There is a direct link between our full-time legislature and our state economy. A Commonwealth Foundation analysis shows a strong connection between legislative professionalization and higher spending per capita, a…
Commentary
Read More: The Case for a Part-Time LegislatureTaxes & Economy
New Jersey Has Lessons for PA?
Yes, New Jersey does have lessons for Pennsylvania. Governor Chris Christie proposed a plan to reduce some unemployment benefits. Employers were about to see an increase in their unemployment…
Media
Read More: New Jersey Has Lessons for PA?State Budget
The True Cost of Unemployment Compensation
Pennsylvania's unemployment compensation fund is bankrupt. Beginning in March 2009, the Keystone State borrowed over $2 billion from the federal government to keep it solvent. Unfortunately, unemployment continues to grow,…
Commentary
Read More: The True Cost of Unemployment CompensationGovernment Accountability
Hyperbole and Hypocrisy on Campaign Finance Ruling
A must read article about the Citizen’s United case and the supposed destruction of democracy. Many states, including Illinois and Maryland, allow corporate contributions to state candidates. As…
Media
Read More: Hyperbole and Hypocrisy on Campaign Finance Ruling