This course uses basic microeconomic theory to analyze the taxing, spending, and programmatic choices of state and local governments in the United States, relying on the median voter and Tiebout models. On the revenue side, the course treats property, sales, and income taxation, as well as nontax revenue sources such as lotteries and user fees. On the spending side, the course covers several topics, including privatization, Medicaid, education finance, capital projects and debt finance, and, time permitting, local economic development tools used by state and local governments.
View Recent Syllabus (pdf): Winter 2010