An Economy That Works
Robert Borosage and Eric Lotke — Sun, 12/02/2007 - 15:44
Problem addressed: This economy isn't working for ordinary families or the nation
Summary of the Solution:
We need policies that put people first, invest in our future and help us get out of the hole we are in. We have to empower employees and hold executives accountable. We need help for hard-pressed families, and we need a global strategy that works for the nation not just for multinationals and that benefits Main Street not just Wall Street. The progressive solution begins with the following priorities:
- Put People First. We need to invest in areas vital to our future: in modern schools and affordable college; in world-class communications and transport systems; and, in alternative energy and energy efficiency. We need to roll back the welfare-like tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations, and use that money to invest in America. That will create more jobs here now and less debt in the future.
- Make Work Pay. We need an economy that rewards work. Increase the minimum wage to lift working families out of poverty and strengthen the middle class. Enforce labor laws and remove barriers to workers organizing so they can bargain collectively for a fair share of the profits they create.
- Make the Economy Work for Working Families. In most families both parents work; it's time to recognize that. Paid family leave allows parents to care for newborns or sick parents without risking their jobs. Affordable preschool and after-school programs provide children safe learning environments while parents are at work. Universal health care would relieve parents? worries about getting good health care for their kids if they lose their jobs.
- Create a Global Strategy for Main Street not Wall Street. We must end the corporate dominance over our nation's tax, trade and energy policies, and recognize that in a global economy what's good for America's multinational corporations isn't necessarily good for America's working families. Corporations can't be allowed to use our tax code to park profits offshore and send jobs overseas. Government investment can spearhead the renewal of America's productive might. With $300 billion over 10 years, the Apollo Project could create 3 million jobs, develop new technologies and end our dependence on imported oil.
- Pass progressive tax reform. The tax code is now a swamp of corporate tax dodges and exemptions. We need a simplified and far more progressive tax code. With globalization generating Gilded Age inequality, those who benefit most should contribute most to the public investments we need.
This solution adapted from The Campaign for America's Future book “Straight Talk 2007: Common Sense for the Common Good." You can read or download the full book here.