Federal spending mandated by our major entitlement programs (Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid) today comprises the majority of the federal budget and will bankrupt the United States absent imminent structural reforms.
Not only do these entitlement programs drain federal spending dollars, but they don’t do a particularly good job of delivering promised services and benefits. Social Security provides a shameful rate of return for most recipients, especially when compared with private sector alternatives. And seniors and the poor are finding it increasingly difficult to find a doctor who will accept Medicare or Medicaid patients.
IPI has proposed specific, concrete solutions that would not only make these programs solvent and sustainable, but also deliver superior benefits. Entitlements should not be reformed solely for the benefit of the federal government, but also for the benefit of taxpayers and recipients.
Does Anyone Really Know the Number of COVID-19 Deaths?
We know COVID-19 can be deadly, but determining how deadly isn't easy—even though trillions of taxpayers dollars depend on getting it right.
What Comes AFTER a Payroll Tax Cut?
Maybe it’s time for policymakers to start focusing on real structural reforms that result in long-term prosperity, instead of constantly relying on short-term fixes.
An Easy Way to Reduce Wealth Inequality--But Democrats Won't Like It
Allowing workers to keep their Social Security payroll tax would be a huge tax cut for everyone, while dramatically increasing average workers’ wealth over time.
Got A College Debt Problem? Social Security Could Solve It.
Young Americans owe the federal government, which also owes them. And neither can easily meet their obligations. Sounds like the makings of a deal to me.
Don't Cut the Payroll Tax, Unless...
A temporary cut in payroll taxes creates a unique opportunity to implement one of our favorite pro-growth policy ideas—personal retirement accounts.
Don't Let Budget Talks Threaten Medicare Part D
Overhauling Medicare’s Part D drug benefit would be a colossal — and costly — mistake.
Democrats Would Resolve the Question of Whether Illegal Immigrants Burden Society
Immigrants may currently be a net asset to the economy, but under the Democratic presidential candidates' proposals they will surely be a net cost.
Sanders, Other Dems Want to Make College Free
“There’s just not enough money for them to pay for this. Bernie is probably on the low side in his estimates,” Merrill Matthews stated.
Louisiana Lawmakers Seek to Crack Down on Medicaid Fraud after Audit Shows Enrollment Abuse
Louisiana lawmakers are pushing forward several bills in response to an audit of the state’s Medicaid program which resulted in the removal of 30,000 people from rolls because they earned too much money. Merrill Matthews says Louisiana is doing the right thing by trying to clean up its Medicaid rolls, starting with audits.