After years of prosperity, tough times have returned for state budgets.

But there is an upside. Today’s downturn presents an opportunity to attack both the current crisis and the longstanding structural problems that hobble government operations. Instead of producing “quick fixes,” tough times should be a catalyst for deeper changes that improve long-term prosperity and withstand unpredictable budget cycles and shifting demographics.

Fiscal hardship, though unpleasant, can open the door to innovation that would rarely happen during times of prosperity.

“Making the Most of the Economic Downturn” presents seven steps states can take today to seize the opportunity to tackle longstanding structural problems that leave state budgets vulnerable to economic swings and shortchange both taxpayers and benefit recipients.

1. Cut smartly
2. Consider consolidation
3. Think differently
4. Communicate realistically
5. Plan for economic ups and downs
6. Take action
7. It’s all about execution

Download the full report below.

Related Content:
Library: Driving State Transformation in an Economic Downturn
Podcast: The Wolf at the Door: Taking Aim at the Fiscal Crisis
Video: Responding to the Economic Downturn – Driving Lasting State Transformation: National Conference of State Legislatures Panel
Overview: U.S. State Government