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The debate over immigration to the U.S.

States and localities should carefully evaluate the effectiveness of the incentives they offer to attract or retain businesses. 

When considering bond financing, state and local policymakers should: 

Public retirement systems should establish a maximum vesting period of five years for DB plans and one year for employers’ matching contributions to defined contribution or hybrid plans. 

States and localities should move toward full funding of their retirement systems. 

Property tax relief should be equitable, cost-effective, and targeted to homeowners with low and moderate incomes burdened by their property tax bill.

Prior to finalizing annual budget decisions, localities should inform taxpayers of the property tax rate required to maintain revenues at the same level as the prior year. 

The federal government should require state CSBG and SSBG officials to consult with state and local agencies and organizations representing older people and other groups served by the programs.

Government workers should continue to have access to defined benefit (DB) plans. 

Modifications to retirement plans or plan formulas should hold harmless current beneficiaries and employees. They should also ensure the retirement security needs of future retirees.