Lessons for California from the History of Fiscal Constitutions

  1. Isabel Rodriguez-Tejedo 2
  2. John Joseph Wallis 1
  1. 1 University of Maryland, College Park
    info

    University of Maryland, College Park

    College Park, Estados Unidos

    ROR https://ror.org/047s2c258

  2. 2 Universidad de Navarra
    info

    Universidad de Navarra

    Pamplona, España

    ROR https://ror.org/02rxc7m23

Journal:
California Journal of Politics and Policy

ISSN: 1944-4370

Year of publication: 2010

Volume: 2

Issue: 3

Pages: 1-20

Type: Article

DOI: 10.5070/P2BG67 GOOGLE SCHOLAR lock_openDadun editor

More publications in: California Journal of Politics and Policy

Abstract

California continues to undergo a series of budget crises. This paper examines the evolution of fiscal provisions in state constitutions over time, as well as in California. The evolution of fiscal provisions across the states shows an evolution from debt restrictions to balanced budget amendments to rainy day funds and tax and expenditure limits. California shows the same pattern. We suggest that many of the constitutional changes are responses to the previous constitutional change, which is why a definite pattern emerges. We end by suggesting that California return to the intent of the original 1849 debt restriction and require voters to actually raise taxes when they authorize new borrowing.