ISBN: 9780742551411

America''s Priorities explains how the Federal Budget touches the lives of every American-and people around the world-in profound and often unnoticed ways. Starting from the fam… Plus…

America''s Priorities explains how the Federal Budget touches the lives of every American-and people around the world-in profound and often unnoticed ways. Starting from the familiar scene of the State of the Union, Konigsberg looks back in time to the preparation of the President''s annual budget request and then forward in time at the congressional budget process-both of which are explained in down-to-earth, non-technical terms. The core of the book presents an overview of how the U.S. government spends nearly $3 trillion per year, with concise summaries of key programs, ''myths and facts'' about federal programs, and references to the best sources to consult for further information. Konigsberg then turns to the revenue side of the budget, describing how the tax burden is distributed and comparing U.S. taxes to those of other nations. He examines ''tax expenditures,'' which are really ''spending programs on the revenue side of the budget,'' and key federal credit programs, such as student loans, farm loans, and home loans. Drawing on his careful analysis of the federal budget, Konigsberg closes America''s Priorities by discussing the causes of recent rapid shifts from deficit to surplus and back again. Students of American Government will welcome Konigsberg''s clear descriptions of a complex process, while policymakers will benefit from his thoughts on straightening our priorities and restoring fiscal responsibility. Charles S. Konigsberg, Books, Social and Cultural Studies, America's Priorities: How the U.S. Government Raises and Spends $3,000,000,000,000 (Trillion) Per Year Books>Social and Cultural Studies "Unlocking the Mysteries of the Federal Budget" explains how the Federal Budget touches the lives of every American - and people around the world - in profound and often unnoticed ways. Starting from the familiar scene of the State of the Union, Konigsburg looks back in time to the preparation of the President's annual budget request and then forward in time at the congressional budget process - both of which are explained in down-to-earth, non-technical terms. Students of American Government will welcome Konigsburg's clear descriptions of a complex process, while policymakers will benefit from his thoughts on straightening our priorities and restoring fiscal responsibility.<