For this assignment, imagine that you’re an economic policy adviser for the President or a member of Congress, and you need to suggest one of the following ways to reduce income inequality and/or poverty (or both). Note that some of these may be more/less effective, so the one you comment on might not be your top recommendation. Here are the options:
Free community college
Subsidized/free child care
Broadband internet for rural/poor areas
Increase the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour
Launch a public works program (i.e., government jobs; like the WPA in the 1930s) to help provide infrastructure, low-cost housing, child/elder-care, etc.
Strengthen existing welfare programs (specify the one(s) you suggest)
Increase income taxes on the wealthy
Increase capital gains taxes
Restore inheritance taxes to historic norms (they're quite low today!)
Other ??? you’ll need to provide details
Choose ONE option and address the following:
Describe the specific policy you're recommending. Since there's a range of options for each of the above (e.g., free vs. subsidized; for everyone or just those who have financial need), describe at least some of the specifics you'd recommend.
Would it help income inequality or poverty, or both?
HOW might it help reduce inequality and/or poverty?
What are some potential downsides/complications/obstacles?
Do you see any broader impact -- good or bad -- on the economy and/or society?
Compare the relative effectiveness to another option above that you think would be less effective than your option (i.e., your option is better).
Compare the relative effectiveness to another option that you think would be comparable or better than your option (i.e., another option you might recommend).