FY 06 Budget wrap up (10.05)
An analysis of the enacted FY06 state budget and its impact on low-income programs.
State of Working Rhode Island (9.05)
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the trends in job growth, unemployment, wages, poverty, and work-related benefits in Rhode Island.
K-12 Education Financing in Rhode Island (5.05)
An analysis of the proposals aimed at redressing Rhode Island's education finance system. RI ranks 4th nationally in dependence on local property taxes, which amounts to a regressive burden on poor residents. Proposals include amending the state constitution, introducing a statewide property tax, and employing a foundation formula to ensure dependable and adequate funding.
Report Summary.
The Rhode Island Standard of Need
2003 Rhode Island Standard of Need calculates what it costs to live in Rhode Island and documents the importance of government programs in a family's budget.
Rhode Island is not a Welfare Magnet (5.04)
This op-ed dispels the myths that Rhode Island has not achieved success in welfare reform. Click here to read.
A Reality Check on Budget Rhetoric (4.04)
The analysis refutes complaints by policymakers that Rhode Island's spending is out of control. Click here to read analysis.
Principles for Economic Development (4.04)
An overview of job quality and accountability standards that RI should aspire to when proposing economic development policies. Click here to read anlaysis.
Is RI a High Tax State? (2.04)
Different organizations use different methodologies to rank state tax burdens. The Poverty Institute refutes the fact that RI is the "4th highest taxed state in the country." Click here to read analysis.
Moving Towards an Adult Literacy System (11.03)
This report explores models and experiences from other states and groups for reshaping Rhode Island's adult basic education system. The report includes sections on: Components, Roles and Collaborations; Accountability, Performance Measures and Program Improvement; Program and Instructional Practices; and Professional Development. Click here to download.
Where did the Money Go? (5.03)
This report documents how changes in Rhode Island's tax policies have resulted in budget shortfalls. Recent budget deficits cannot be blamed on the recession alone, but also cuts in the personal income tax, reductions in the auto excise tax, and a significant decline in corporate tax collections relative to the state's economy.
Some Options for Increasing Revenue (5.03)
Click here to read the Poverty Institute offers options for revenue enhancements and savings in response to the estimated FY03 and FY04 shortfalls.
Family Independence Program Overview (6.02)
Click here to read Frequently Asked Questions about Rhode Island's cash assistance and work preparation program.
Tax Expenditure Budget Analysis (4.02)
This report outlines mechanisms for improving Rhode Island's Tax Expenditure Report to be a more meaningful tool for oversight and evaluation of the impact and effectiveness of tax expenditures. Click here to read the report.
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