Number: RL32747
Title: The Economic Implications of the Long-Term Federal Budget Outlook
Authors: Marc Labonte, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: The United States is projected to undergo a demographic shift as the aging of the baby boomers causes an unprecedented increase in the fraction of the population that is retired. Coupled with rising life expectancy, this means, under current policy, a steady increase in the portion of the population that is both out of the workforce and receiving social insurance benefits from the government. If left unattended, this situation poses serious challenges for the government's fiscal position and the economy as a whole.
Pages: 31
Date: August 27, 2008