The Economic Gains to Colorado of Amendment 66

Abstract

Colorado is considering raising personal income taxes to fund a $950 million initiative. Are the increased benefits from educational attainment worth the revenue costs? This study surveys in-depth the economic literature on the impact of increased educational expenditure on future income, entrepreneurship, health care, housing, crime and business location. It discusses the economic links between educational spending and educational outcomes, and estimates the pecuniary and non-pecuniary impact of the initiative on the state.

Keywords: Education spending

JEL Classification: H52, I20