Number: RL34349
Title: Economic Slowdown: Issues and Policies
Authors: Jane G. Gravelle, Senior Specialist in Economic Policy; Thomas L. Hunderford, Specialist in Public Finance; Mark Labonte, Specialist in Macroeconomic Policy; N. Eric Weiss, Specialist in Financial Economics; Julie M. Whittaker, Specialist in Income Securi 
Abstract: This report first discusses the current state of the economy, including measures that have already been taken by the monetary authorities, and assesses the need for and potential consequences of fiscal stimulus. The second part of the report reviews the proposals discussed during debate on the fiscal stimulus enacted in 2008, both those adopted and those considered but not adopted. The various stimulus packages differed somewhat, and the report briefly describes those differences. This section also includes a discussion of the potential elements of a second stimulus proposal, and concludes with a discussion of the macroeconomic effects of the proposals. The final section of the paper discusses recent and proposed financial interventions.
Pages: 36
Date: January 2, 2009