Lessons for California from the History of Fiscal Constitutions
Isabel Rodriguez-Tejedo and John Joseph Wallis ,
3
( 2 )
California Journal of Politics and Policy
1-19
January
2010
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.

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