Book Description

This statement addresses 4 key points: (1) the fed. gov¿t. long-term fiscal outlook is a matter of utmost concern; (2) this challenge is driven primarily by health care cost growth; (3) reform of health care is essential but other areas also need attention which requires a multi-pronged solution; and (4) the fed. gov¿t. faces increasing pressures yet a shrinking window of opportunity for phasing in needed adjustments. The simulations of the fed. gov¿t. long-term fiscal outlook continue to indicate that the long-term outlook is unsustainable. This update combined with an analysis of the fiscal outlook of state and local gov¿ts. demonstrates that the fiscal challenges facing all levels of gov¿t. are linked and should be considered in an integrated manner. Ill.