As we prepare to break for Thanksgiving, TTR has a survey of technology availability in Native communities, another idea for solving the deficit problem, the latest public opinion on immigration reform, and another take on the challenges faced by local and state governments during the recession.
- More Tech Needed in Indian Country. A new report authored by Native Public Media and the New America Foundation highlights the limited digital media access Native communities enjoy. For most tribal communities, only one-third of the families have analog phone service, broadband access is limited to a 10 percent penetration rate, and traditional radio remains the chief source of information for rural and remote native communities.The study does note that of the population engaging in digital multi-media, the utilization of new technologies are at rates higher than national norms. Given the economic and social advantages of mass access to digital information, the report recommends actions that seek to expand access, including new technology infrastructure projects and investment in human capital to increase jobs and expand Internet know-how throughout native communities. -- MZ
- A New Social Contract for the 21st Century? [PDF] The Brookings Institute released a paper suggesting that the federal deficit could be mitigated in coming years by increasing the correlation between income and the amount of benefits received. For example, individuals with higher incomes would receive less Social Security and Medicare benefits than someone with a lower income. While this solution is not ideal, the paper suggests that a more targeted safety net is more likely to survive spending cuts. Moreover, reducing benefits for the wealthy is more politically viable than raising their taxes. -- PL
- Feeling conflicted about immigrants. Though immigration reform isn't on everyone's mind right now, President Obama's planned overhaul of immigration law next year will be sure to fire up Democrats and Republicans alike. According to a new Pew Research Center report, while more people support immigration reform than in 2007, it is a more partisan issue, with support increasing among Democrats and dropping among Republicans. Further, while most Americans respect immigrants for their work ethic and cultural contributions, most believe that they weaken the economy and contribute to crime. Understanding these views will affect how Democrats gather support for reform. --LL
- Dire States. A new report from the Economic Policy Institute analyzes the effects of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act on state and local governments. While the Institute estimates the act has saved more than 1 million jobs and $219 billion worth of economic activity since February, it also warns of a prolonged economic downturn if relief isn’t extended. Over the next two years, the report predicts shortfalls of $369 billion and $100 billion for state and local governments, respectively. To counteract this, the report recommends $150 billion of additional relief for state and local governments through 2011. -- MH
-- TAP Staff
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