Economic pundits have been referencing America’s K-shaped economy, where wealthier households (the top part of the K) are doing better financially than their lower-and middle-class counterparts (the bottom part of the K). The AP’s Christopher Rugaber reports on why the letter is an accurate symbol of the U.S. economy:
Growth appears solid, yet hiring is sluggish and the unemployment rate has ticked up. Overall consumer spending is still rising, but Americans are less confident. AI-related data center construction is soaring while factories are laying off workers and home sales are weak. And the stock market still hovers near record highs even as wage growth is slowing. It also captures ongoing concerns around affordability, which is much more of a concern for middle and lower-income households.
More money needed to tackle Louisiana’s infrastructure woes
Louisiana’s infrastructure recently received a dismal score from the American Society of Civil Engineers. The state received an overall score of “C-,” while the state’s roads and bridges received “D” and “D+” grades, respectively. A Times-Picayune | Baton Rouge Advocate editorial explains why funding issues are the biggest speed bump for tackling Louisiana’s poor infrastructure:
The common theme that has spanned administrations is that Louisiana simply doesn’t devote enough resources to fixing and maintaining roads. It’s past time for the state to look at ways to generate a sustainable revenue stream for much-needed projects — whether that means considering toll roads or raising the sacrosanct gas tax. All realistic options need to be on the table. Short of that, we’re just spinning our wheels.
Louisiana struggles to collect child support payments
Louisiana ranked near the bottom – 52nd out of 54 states and territories – in the collection of child support-payments, according to a new report from the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. The Louisiana Illuminator’s Greg LaRose reports on the factors that contribute to this low collection rate:
According to the audit, Louisiana struggles more than most states to collect current child support because of the state’s high poverty rate and its low median household income. Based on federal estimates from 2019-23, the state’s individual poverty rate was 18.9%, compared with a 12.4% national rate. Its median household income was $60,023, compared with $78,538 nationally. Louisiana also ranked 47th for collection of past-due child support, according to the auditor’s calculations, with the same reasons contributing to the delinquency.
Expanded ‘no tax on tips’ would be costly for states
The Trump administration announced on Friday that it was expanding the occupations that are eligible for a new tax break on tipped income. The move will not have a drastic effect on the federal government, which can run up budget deficits. But the expanded policy will have serious fiscal consequences for states, who are required to balance their budgets each year. Nick Johnson of the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy explains:
States that have income taxes are now in the process of deciding whether they should conform to provisions of the new federal law. States that conform to the tip provision will lose revenue, complicating their efforts to balance their budgets and potentially requiring them either to raise other taxes or to cut state-funded services like K12 education and health care. Many already were facing possible budget shortfalls. A state’s decision whether to conform depends in part on how much it would cost the state in lost revenue.
Number of the Day
9% – Increase in the use of “buy now pay later” services by U.S. consumers so far this holiday season compared to last year. (Source: Adobe Analytics via the Washington Post)