As Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Italy and other financially impoverished countries continue with major austerity measures to climb out of debt, some observers are asking what steps the United States may be forced to take to control its soaring federal debt ($19 Trillion and counting). Individual states, led by California, are already taking desperate steps to balance their budgets. So…assume you were put in the position of balancing the budget, what would you do?
As an individual and as a tax payer, what specific federal government services would you be willing to do without? Further, in what areas would you agree to pay higher taxes to help pay for the services you and your family have come to expect?
Be specific. Fully explain the service(s), providing a complete explanation of the service, the benefits of such a service, and to whom the service generally benefits. Defend your answer – why and how can you do without the specific service(s)? What impact will it have on you, your family, and those that may rely on such a service? This is not a question that can be quickly answered. It requires careful thought, research, and analysis of government resources and services presently provided and generally expected, as well as self-reflection of the potential impact on you, your family and your community due to the loss or serious reduction in such resources and services.
All work must be submitted in writing, using APA format, and uploaded to the appropriate folder under “Assignments” on the course home page.
