A comprehensive and thorough examination of Connecticut’s decades-in-the-making budget crisis. Published 2017.
A legacy of debt: Connecticut standing on its own fiscal cliff
The budget that Gov. Dannel P. Malloy will present to the legislature Feb. 8, in an attempt to close $3 billion in deficits over the next two years, is only a portent of a far greater, long-term challenge facing the state. First in a series.
A legacy of debt: Squeeze on state’s priorities only getting tighter
State government’s surging retirement benefit costs are likely to have a big impact on programs and taxes over the next two decades. But they already have sapped significant funding from key priorities, including transportation, higher education, health care and social services. Second in a series.
A legacy of debt: Whether taxing or cutting, CT faces painful, contentious fiscal future
With no single solution capable of restoring Connecticut’s fiscal health, the state probably will need a multi-faceted solution that will spark fierce opposition among all constituent groups. Third in a series.
A legacy of debt: As cuts get ugly, legislators forfeit power, transparency
Legislators have left more decisions on cuts up to the governor, avoided votes on state employee raises and have accepted less information on fiscal matters. Fourth in a series.
A legacy of debt: When fiscal reality meets political spin
As state government’s fiscal challenges became increasingly daunting, politicians for years nonetheless downplayed the risk and wooed voters with unrealistic promises. Last story in a five-part series
Best, or worst, of times? The battle to frame CT’s finances is underway
As elections near, the battle to frame CT’s financial situation — as the best of times or the worst of times — is expected to intensify.