The number of local red-light camera contracts awarded around the country has exploded, from 155 in 2005 to 689 last year. The pitch to install the cameras is that it’s a win-win for municipalities, simultaneously saving them …
Government
In the Wake of Ugly Incidents at Sea, the Cruise Industry Is in Hot Water
When one cruise ship experiences problems at sea, it’s categorized as an isolated incident. What happens when several ships operated by the same company run into high-profile trouble?
Can the U.S. Dollar Become Almighty Once Again?
A stronger dollar could be a bellwether of an improving economy and a brighter outlook for U.S. stocks.
Why Many Americans Feel Like They’re Getting Poorer
Since the recession ended, the economy has never grown fast enough to make up for lost ground – and that’s helping to keep household income depressed for as much as half the population.
Should Credit Unions Have to Pay Income Tax?
The American Bankers Association, the lobbying group that represents America’s banking industry, has recently launched an ad campaign across Washington D.C. aimed directly at the nation’s credit unions. The print version of the campaign is to the point, reading simply:
“Today credit unions are a $1 trillion industry that pays no
…
What Happens When the Fed Really Does Run Out of Ammunition?
The Fed has no good choices. If easy money ends, the economy will slow even more. But continuing the policy risks inflation
Will High Marijuana Taxes Encourage Black Markets?
Correction appended on February 23rd at 11:40 a.m.
Opponents of marijuana prohibition had one heck of a year in 2012, as voters in both Washington and Colorado passed ballot initiatives legalizing recreational use of the drug. …
6 Weird New Taxes You Might Have to Pay (If You’re Not Already)
Why is it that government officials seem inspired to reach the heights of creativity coming up with new taxes? Who knows. But their efforts could mean you’ll be paying new taxes on everything from bicycles to bowling, 2-by-4s to marijuana.
As FCC Chief’s Term Nears End, Speculation Grows Over Possible Successor
On June 30th, Federal Communications Commission chairman Julius Genachowski’s five-year term will expire, which has led to speculation that Genachowski might soon announce his departure. Although the FCC chair is not a …
Obama’s Proposal to Boost the Minimum Wage: Will It Help or Hurt Workers?
Of the proposals in President Obama’s State of the Union address, the one that’s perhaps getting the most attention is his push to have the federal minimum wage raised from $7.25 to $9.00 per hour. There are many reasons for …
Does President Obama Really Believe in Deficit Reduction?
It should come as no surprise that President Obama began last night’s State of the Union address discussing both the economy and federal government finances. After all, much of the debate in Washington has been focused on the …
Why Can’t This Economy Really Get Going?
A host of factors outside of the government’s control will likely hold back the economy for at least another year.
