Crossing the U.S. Policy Void

Abstract

The United States of America is in the midst of an enormous demographic and economic transformation; effects are witnessed through decreased labor force participation, stagnant economic growth, and financially strained government programs. Layered within the demographic change is a system morphed through partisan interests and inequitable assumptions. The country’s social insurance programs perpetuate on guarantees that supporters receive similar benefits as needed. Academics and government officials have warned of the coming population wave for decades, yet little action has been taken to mitigate associated problems.

Safety nets are critical for developed nations to maintain minimum living standards and some forms are sustainable. U.S. social insurance programs are underfunded by $39.698 trillion dollars, net of assets and future tax revenue, if continued under the current structure. The following research is provided to raise awareness of the existing system’s insolvency, generational inequity, and long-term costs in hope of instigating the necessary discussion of realigning economic, fiscal, and social policies onto a sustainable trajectory.

Keywords: Social Insurance, Aging Demographics, United States, Fiscal Policy, Entitlements, Health Care, Education, Military, Infrastructure, Behavioral Economics