WASHINGTON—The National Governors Association (NGA), in conjunction with 10 other state and local groups, has issued State and Local Fiscal Facts: 2017, a brief outlining the fiscal condition of state and local governments.
In particular, as states and Congress look to strengthen America’s infrastructure under the new Administration, municipal bonds remain a critical tool to financing the construction or improvement of schools, streets, highways, hospitals, bridges, water and sewer systems, ports, airports and other public works.
Between 2007 and 2016, states, counties and other localities invested $3.8 trillion in infrastructure through tax-exempt municipal bonds; the federal government provided nearly $1.5 trillion.
“Now more than ever, it remains critically important that governors have as many tools available in the toolbox to maintain and repair America’s infrastructure,” NGA Executive Director and CEO Scott Pattison said. “Governors look forward to working with the President to creating a 21st century infrastructure system that boosts the economy.”
On Tuesday, Feb. 14, Pattison will deliver the keynote address at the Municipal Forum of New York. There he will talk about the various financing mechanisms states have at their disposal to strengthen America’s infrastructure network.
