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Introduction

State economic, demographic, and social trends are related to one another and, in turn, affect government policies on spending and taxation.   A strong economy, for example, attracts more people to the state, which in turn boosts state tax collections.   At the same time, however, increases in population also put additional pressure on such areas of state responsibility as public schools, prisons, and social services.   Social developments, such as crime rates and the incidence of teenage pregnancies, also contribute to demands on public resources. The purpose of Washington Trends is to chart these elements which shape public and private life in Washington.

Budget Drivers

• State Government FTEs Compared to Population
• K-12 Enrollment
• Public Higher Education Enrollment
• Income Assistance (AFDC/TANF) Caseload
• State-Supported Child Care
• State-Supported Nursing Home Caseload
• Medical Assistance Caseload
• Prison Inmate Population
• Juvenile Rehabilitation Institutional Population
• Projected Change in Budget Driver Populations
• Change in Medical Costs