US Public Interest Group Media Advisory
April 24, 2017
CONTACT: Michelle Surka, 617-747-4386, msurka@pirg.org
WHAT: U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund will release a new report, “Following the Money 2017: Governing in the Shadows”, evaluating 79 special purpose districts across the country for their spending transparency practices. The report will reveal the grade for a special district in each state, uncovering the troubling national trends for this traditionally off-budget area of local government.
With over 38,000 special purpose districts in the United States, managing over $200 billion in taxpayer dollars annually, it is increasingly vital that these government bodies meet modern standards for spending transparency. Transparency in spending increases accountability, reduces corruption, and promotes greater effectiveness and fiscal responsibility. U.S. PIRG annually releases a review of state spending transparency, and this year the report dives into an area of government that has often been overlooked but nevertheless impacts taxpayers.
WHEN: Tuesday, April 25, 2017. 10am
WHERE: Report will be available at: http://uspirg.org/reports/usp/following-money-2017-special-districts
VISUALS: The report includes a colorful map, cover art, and a table of scores.
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U.S. PIRG Education Fund works to protect consumers and promote good government. We investigate problems, craft solutions, educate the public, and offer meaningful opportunities for civic participation.