Government spending articles
Get unbiased data and visuals on federal budgets, state and local governments, foreign aid, disasters relief, and other government programs.
How many Americans voted in 2024?
According to the Census Bureau, 65.3% of US citizens voted in the 2024 election, the third-highest turnout in the past 34 years. Turnout increased by 13.1 percentage points since the most recent mid-term elections in 2022, but decreased by 1.5 percentage points since the 2020 presidential election.
Jun 18, 2025Is Social Security running out?
The federal government spent $1.5 trillion on Social Security in fiscal year 2024. This accounted for 22.4% of the total federal budget. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides financial support for people of retirement age, people with disabilities, and survivors of family losses including spouses and children. In 2024 Social Security spending included: $1.3 trillion (86%) went to retirement benefits $155 billion (11%) went to disability benefits $54 billion (4%) covered other benefits How many people receive Social Security benefits? The SSA projects that nearly 69 million people will receive benefits monthly in 2025. In December 2024, nearly 90% of people ages 65 and older were enrolled in the program. That amounted to 68.5 million people, including: 51.8 million retired workers and their 2.6 million spouses and dependents 7.2 million disabled workers and their 1.1 million spouses and dependents 5.8 million survivors
Jun 18, 2025What does the Customs and Border Protection do?
The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a subdivision of the US Department of Homeland Security responsible for safeguarding the nation's borders and facilitating lawful international trade and travel. The agency enforces immigration laws, prevents the illegal entry of goods and individuals, and ensures the security of the US border. It also works to prevent the trafficking of drugs, weapons, and other contraband. It was established in 2003.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Immigration and Customs Enforcement do?
The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a subdivision of the US Department of Homeland Security responsible for enforcing immigration laws, investigating criminal activities, and ensuring national security. ICE conducts investigations, detains and deports individuals who violate immigration laws, and works to dismantle criminal organizations involved in human trafficking, drug smuggling, and other illegal activities. It was established in 2003.
Updates annuallyWhat does it cost the IRS to collect taxes?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) spent $16.1 billion to collect $4.7 trillion in taxes in 2023. In other words, it cost the agency 34 cents to collect $100. Collecting trillions of dollars from a population of 336 million people and around 35 million businesses is no small project. The IRS’s staff of 82,990 people collects and evaluates returns, issues refunds, offers taxpayer assistance, oversees tax-exempt organizations, and enforces tax law. How much money does the IRS collect? The IRS is responsible for collecting internal revenue — mostly in the form of taxes — from individuals and businesses across the US. In fiscal year 2023, the agency collected nearly $4.7 trillion, a 26% increase over the previous 10 years. That total included: $4.1 trillion from individual income taxes and other individual payroll contributions $457 billion from corporate income taxes $74 billion from excise taxes $35 billion from estate and gift taxes
Jun 13, 2025Just the Facts about the federal budget
Steve talks about the federal budget, including how the government makes money (namely, income taxes) and how revenue collection and spending decisions impact the US federal deficit and debt, military spending, and American daily life.
What does the Department of Homeland Security do?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for protecting the United States against potential threats. Its primary functions include anti-terrorism efforts, border security, immigration and customs enforcement, cybersecurity, and disaster prevention and management. It was established in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and began operations in 2003.
Updates annuallyWhat does the State Department do?
The Department of State (State Department, DOS) is an executive branch agency responsible for conducting US foreign policy and diplomatic relations. Its functions include negotiating treaties, representing the US in international organizations, issuing passports and visas, coordinating refugee and humanitarian assistance, and overseeing foreign aid and embassy operations. It was established in 1789.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Commission on Civil Rights do?
The US Commission on Civil Rights (USCCR) is an independent, bipartisan federal agency responsible for informing national civil rights policy and monitoring enforcement of federal civil rights laws. It investigates voting rights complaints and studies issues related to discrimination and unequal treatment based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin. It also collects and shares information on civil rights issues to support public understanding and policy development. It was established in 1957.
Updates annuallyHow universities spend billions in government funds
Aside from student financial aid, the federal government funds universities with grants and contracts. One major way universities use this funding is for research and development (R&D). In FY 2023, federal dollars supported $59.6 billion of university R&D expenses. The fields that received the most funding in 2023 were life sciences and engineering. Life sciences programs, the study of the nature and function of living things, received $33.9 billion, or 56.9% of federal grant and contract funding. Enginering applies math and physics to solve practical problems by designing, building, and improving structures, systems, and processes. Engineering R&D received $10.9 billion, or 18.3% of federal funding.
May 6, 2025Where do tornadoes do the most damage?
Texans have coped with the highest death and injury tolls from tornados in recent years, while Floridians have dealt with the most property damage. Which states have the most tornadoes? Between 2020 and 2024, every state except Hawaii recorded at least one tornado, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) data. Texas, the largest state in the continental US by land area, recorded 516, for an annual average of 103.2. The states with the next-highest totals were Illinois (491) and Iowa (462) while the largest state overall, Alaska, had one.
May 2, 2025How many civilian jobs are in the US federal government?
About 2.96 million, as of May 2025. Federal jobs include all jobs ranging from janitors to air traffic controllers to nurses to postal workers and more. (Enlisted service people are considered government employees but aren’t included in this figure because they’re not civilians.) Out of the 159.6 million nonfarm jobs in the US, 1.9% are in the federal government, the nation’s largest employer. Another way to look at it: The federal government is responsible for one in every 50 jobs.
Updates monthlyData Skills for Congress returns to empower with the facts
The third year of Data Skills for Congress officially began this month, with nearly 30 congressional staffers participating in the program designed to strengthen data use on Capitol Hill.This unique course, a collaboration between USAFacts and the Goldman School of Public Policy at UC Berkeley, equips legislative staff with the tools and training needed to better access, analyze, and apply government data in their daily work — whether drafting legislation, conducting oversight, or serving constituents.Why data skills matter for congressional staffCongressional staff play a critical role in shaping and supporting legislation that affects Americans across the country. Yet many lack formal training in working with data, despite the crucial need for evidence-based policymaking.Data Skills for Congress launched in 2023 to fill this gap. It’s the first program of its kind approved by both the House and Senate ethics committees, enabling staff from both chambers to participate without cost.Over the 10-week hybrid program, participants explore federal data sources, learn how to communicate big ideas with data visualizations, are introduced to AI and cutting-edge data tools, and complete a capstone project that applies their new skills to a real-world policy issue.A growing data community on Capitol HillUSAFacts launched the program with the goal of making helping policymakers use government data in decision making, part of its broader mission to empower Americans with the facts.In its first two years, Data Skills for Congress enrolled nearly 90 congressional staff. And participants have overwhelmingly positive feedback: 84% of 2024’s alumni from the cohort said that the class helped them improve their data visualization and AI skills for congressional work.Participants strongly recommend the course to others on the Hill. Some described it as an “essential” skill set for the modern congressional office, with one student noting, “I never thought of myself as a ‘math person.’ This course taught me that I can work with data and made me feel more confident using it in my congressional work.” “We created this program because we believe that government works better when everyone — including policymakers — can easily access and understand the numbers behind it,” said Poppy MacDonald, president of USAFacts. “We’re thrilled to see it continue to grow in its third year.”What’s nextThe spring 2025 cohort began on April 18th and will run through mid-June. A condensed version of the class will run during the August recess, allowing more congressional staff to take advantage. With participants representing a range of committees and offices, the program continues to reflect bipartisan interest in data-driven policymaking.To learn more about the program — or to apply for a future cohort — visit the Data Skills for Congress page.
Apr 22, 2025Which states contribute the most and least to federal revenue?
In 2023, the federal government collected around $4.67 trillion from states and their residents through taxes on individuals and businesses and redistributed about $4.56 trillion back to states and residents through programs like Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare, food stamps, and education grants.The balance varies by state: New Yorkers paid about $89 billion more to the federal government than they received, while Virginians received about $79 billion more than they paid.
Apr 22, 2025How do marijuana laws differ between states?
While marijuana remains illegal at the federal level per the 1970 Controlled Substances Act (CSA), the US has become a patchwork of state-determined laws pertaining to the drug. Some states have legalized recreational marijuana, others allow medicinal use and/or CBD oil. A few states have decriminalized the plant, and a handful follow the federal guidelines. What does marijuana legalization mean?In the United States, marijuana legalization refers to the process of making marijuana use, possession, and sales legal under certain conditions. Adults in states that legalize the drug can use it for both medical and recreational purposes, following state laws. Legalization allows for regulated sales of products that contain cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Medical cannabis laws also fall under this category, permitting patients with conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, insomnia, and depression to use the substances for treatment. Since marijuana remains federally classified as an illegal drug, state legalization has many implications on federal income taxes filed by dispensaries, as well as the cross-border sale and transportation of cannabis products.
Apr 18, 2025Is there a shortage of air traffic controllers?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) controls 290 air control facilities. And as of September 2023, nearly half of them were understaffed. In 2023, the FAA established a 85.0% staffing goal for terminal air control facilities. One-hundred and twenty eight of them fell short of that target. Meanwhile, 162 facilities met or exceeded the staffing goal. Fifty-two had staffing levels of more than 100%; this was partially due to intentional overstaffing of new hires to account for expected attrition over the next two or three years. How understaffed were the facilities that fell short of the goal? Eighty-four had staffing ranges between 75.0% and 84.9%. The remaining 44 were staffed to 74.9% capacity or less.In 2024, the FAA employed more than 14,000 air traffic controllers.
Mar 31, 2025What is the federal government’s budget deficit?
About $1.7 trillion deficit in fiscal year (FY) 2023.. A budget deficit occurs when the federal government spends more money than it brings in through taxes, customs duties, the sale of assets, and other revenues. When the government has a deficit, it borrows money by selling bonds and other securities in order to pay for it, adding to the national debt. A budget surplus, on the other hand, occurs when the government brings in more money than it spends.
Updates monthlyHow much does the US federal government spend?
About $6.8 trillion in fiscal year (FY) 2024. This averages about $19,900 per person in the US. The amount the government can spend depends on the amount of revenue it collects (e.g., through taxes, customs duties, and other sources). If it has to spend more revenue than it brings in, it borrows the funds, creating debt.
Updates monthlyHow much money does the US federal government collect?
About $4.9 trillion in fiscal year (FY) 2024. This is about $14,600 per person in the US, however individual contributions vary based on income, spending, and other factors. Government revenue is the total amount of money received from individual and corporate taxes, and other sources that are used to pay for government spending.
Updates monthlyHow much money has the US given Ukraine since Russia’s invasion?
From Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 through December 2024, the United States allocated $182.8 billion in emergency funding for the region. But “allocated” means the money is available, not that it’s been spent: So far, the United States has actually disbursed $83.4 billion in funding and equipment, some of which Ukraine will have to repay with added interest. Aid for Ukraine goes through a cross-agency operation called Operation Atlantic Resolve (OAR), which began after Russia invaded Crimea in 2014 to deter Russian aggression against NATO. When Russia invaded Ukraine, the operation shifted focus to address the needs of Ukraine and other partners.
Mar 14, 2025USAFacts and bias: Why we care about nonpartisanship
USAFacts is here for a clear reason — to make information about the US government accessible to the public, so that people can make informed decisions on how the government is representing their interests.That Americans deserve access government data without political or corporate influence is baked into our mission. As a non-government, nonprofit organization, we are in a unique position to deliver information without the same motivations as a private corporation or a partisan advocacy organization.Ad Fontes Media, which rates media on reliability and partisanship, publishes a periodic report scoring media companies and organizations by their trustworthiness and political leaning.In the most recent version of their Media Bias Chart, released in March 2025, USAFacts earned the highest reliability rating and the lowest bias score on the entire chart. We’re proud that Ad Fontes’s methodology sees our work at USAFacts as reliable and nonpartisan.
Mar 13, 2025What does the Department of Education do?
The Department of Education (Education Department, ED) is a cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for overseeing education policy and administering funding for programs and individuals. The department's functions include supporting state and local education systems, promoting educational equity for all students, and providing grants and loans to higher education institutions and students. It was established in 1980 after the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare was reorganized into separate entities.
Updates annuallyHow much does the US spend on defense?
About $820 billion in fiscal year 2023. Defense spending includes personnel compensation, equipment, research and development (R&D), and the costs associated with operating and maintaining military efforts. The Department of Defense is responsible for most spending on national defense, along with other agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice.
What countries receive the most foreign aid from the US?
In fiscal year (FY) 2023 — the most recent fully-reported year — Ukraine received $16.6 billion, the most of any country. This amount reflects disbursements, a measure of foreign aid that captures when money is actually transferred out of US government accounts. Foreign aid is reported by more than 20 agencies within the federal government that fund foreign assistance activities.
How much foreign aid does the US provide?
About $79.5 billion in aid was promised for fiscal year (FY) 2023, the most recent fully-reported year. The United States gives foreign assistance to provide humanitarian aid and support peace, security, and economic development around the world. Investing in global security and stability serves US national security interests by creating strategic and economic connections with other countries.
Updates monthlyWhat percentage of public school funding in the US comes from the federal government?
About 13.7% or one in every seven dollars of public school funding during the 2021–22 school year. Local and state governments typically provide most school district funding, with the federal government providing the rest. Federal sources provide as little as 0% and as much as 75% of funding, depending on the district. Federal funding depends on factors such as poverty levels and other student demographics, availability of state and local revenues, and whether a district is urban, suburban, or rural. During 2021–22, which is the latest year of data available, public schools received $124.9 billion, or $2,536 in federal funds per student.
Updates annuallyHow much debt does the US have?
About $36.2 trillion as of May 2025. The federal government borrows money when its spending and investments cannot be funded by federal revenue alone; this debt enables the government to pay for programs and services when funds aren’t immediately available.
Updates monthlyHow much federal money goes toward all state and local governments?
About $1.1 trillion in fiscal year (FY) 2024. This total includes money transferred to states, tribal governments, and local governments, such as cities and counties. Federal funding helps state and local governments pay for things like infrastructure, education, and health care for low-income people. In FY 2024, these transfers made up 16.2% of all federal spending.
What does the Department of Agriculture do?
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for developing and executing federal policies on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues. Its functions include supporting farmers and ranchers, ensuring food safety, promoting agricultural trade, conserving natural resources and the environment, and addressing hunger both domestically and internationally. It was established in 1862.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Department of the Treasury do?
The Department of the Treasury (Department of Treasury, TREAS) is a cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for overseeing economic conditions and ensuring the financial security of the United States. The department's functions include advising the president on economic matters, managing federal finances, collecting taxes through the Internal Revenue Service, producing currency, and supervising national banks. It was established in 1789 and is the second-oldest department in the federal government.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Personnel Management do?
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for managing the civil service of the federal government. Its functions include coordinating the recruitment of new government employees, managing health insurance and retirement benefits programs, and providing resources for job seekers. Established in 1979, it serves as the chief human resources agency and personnel policy manager for the federal government.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Social Security Administration do?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for administering Social Security, a program that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to eligible people. Its functions include managing the distribution of monthly payments to beneficiaries, enrolling Medicare recipients, and overseeing the issuance of Social Security numbers and cards. It was established in 1935 as part of the Social Security Act.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Department of Defense do?
The Department of Defense (DOD) is cabinet-level executive branch agency tasked with maintaining and overseeing the military forces of the United States. Its primary functions include overseeing the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force; creating military policies; and managing the defense budget. It was established in 1947.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Department of Veterans Affairs do?
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for providing healthcare services, benefits programs, and access to national cemeteries for the nation's veterans and their dependents. It was established as the Veterans Administration in 1930 and elevated to cabinet status in 1989.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Department of Transportation do?
The Department of Transportation (USDOT, DOT) is a cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for overseeing national transportation systems and infrastructure. Its functions include developing and implementing federal transportation policies; ensuring the safety and efficiency of highways, railroads, air travel, and maritime transport; and administering funding for transportation projects including local transit systems. It was established in 1966.
Updates annuallyWhat does USAID do?
USAID (US Agency for International Development) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for administering foreign aid and economic development assistance outside the US. Its functions include supporting economic growth, global health, and education; providing humanitarian aid in response to crises; and advancing US foreign policy goals through partnerships. It was established in 1961 as part of the Foreign Assistance Act.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Department of Health and Human Services do?
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is a cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for overseeing public health policy and administering funding for health programs and services. The department's functions include managing national health programs like Medicare and Medicaid, advancing medical research, ensuring food and drug safety, and promoting health equity for all individuals. It was established in 1980 after the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare was reorganized into separate entities.
Updates annuallyWhat is IES and what does it do?
The Institute of Education Sciences (IES) is the nonpartisan research, evaluation, and statistics office of the Department of Education. Its main functions are funding research to test new approaches to education, evaluating federal programs for educational effectiveness, and reporting data on how well the nation is educating its students. IES is the smallest component of the Education Department. The department requested $283.8 billion of its fiscal year 2025 budget; the institute accounted for 0.29% of that. In 2024, the Department of Education was the sixth highest-funded federal agency.
Feb 20, 2025This chart tells you everything you want to know about government spending
Each year, the federal government takes in trillions of dollars in revenue and spends those trillions (and often more) to address its domestic and global objectives. Dividing this budget by revenue sources and spending programs across the branches of government provides a wealth of insight into how the federal government works, where its spending priorities lie, and how it funds programs. Government spending data is a part of USAFacts’ backbone, and we believe that American taxpayers — the shareholders responsible for providing most government resources — are entitled to information on how the federal government operates. That starts with the budget. In this data visualization — called a Sankey chart — USAFacts breaks down the most recent federal budget data:
Feb 6, 2025How many people work for the federal government?
As of November 2024, the federal government employed just over 3 million people. The number of federal employees has topped 3 million since September 2024. The last time the government could claim that many employees was in September 1994. Federal employment numbers peaked at 3.4 million in 1990 and the most recent low was in 2014, with 2.7 million. Federal government employees work at departments or agencies housed under one of the three branches of government — executive, legislative, or judicial, though most federal agencies are under the federal executive branch. Across all US industries, it’s the 15th-largest workforce overall. How has the federal workforce changed over time? Between 1929 and 1945, the United States was grappling with the Great Depression and World War II. President Franklin D. Roosevelt introduced the New Deal in 1933, and over the next five years established numerous new federal agencies – agencies requiring people to staff them. Some agencies created during this period are still around, like the Social Security Administration and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Dec 19, 2024Which government programs does the Government Accountability Office consider inefficient?
Thirty-seven government spending priorities are considered highly vulnerable to fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, according to the latest list from the independent and nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO).The GAO provides unbiased, fact-based information to save taxpayers money and encourage government efficiency. Since 1990, it has produced a list of federal programs at high risk for financial issues and in need of reform.Which government programs are vulnerable to waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement? Of the 37 programs included on the list, 26 have been designated as high-risk for at least 10 years. Five programs have been on the list since its first iteration in 1990.The 2023 list included three new areas of spending:the federal prison systemthe Department of Health and Human Services’ management of public health emergenciesthe unemployment insurance system
Dec 5, 2024USAFacts’ top 10 articles of 2024
In 2024, Americans came to USAFacts seeking information about safety and homelessness across the US, how many people are immigrating here, the 2024 election, and government spending related to foreign aid and foreign debt.Here are the 10 most-read articles of the year.10. How many voters have a party affiliation?With the presidential election on the horizon, Americans wanted to understand how many voters have a political affiliation. But such a thing isn’t on record nationwide: 32 states and Washington, DC, require party affiliation as part of voter registration.As of late September, Wyoming had the highest percentage of registered Republican voters (81%), and Washington, DC, had the highest percentage of registered Democrats (76%). Maryland had the highest percentage of registered Democrats of all states (52%).
Dec 3, 2024How many people receive government assistance?
Nearly 100 million Americans received some form of government assistance in 2019, according to a 2023 estimate from the Department of Health and Human Services.The federal government has assistance programs in place to support Americans who can’t afford food, housing, healthcare, and other needs. This is sometimes referred to as a social safety net, a system of programs designed to support people struggling economically. In 2022, around one in three Americans was enrolled in at least one of those programs, including nearly half of all American kids.
Sep 24, 2024State of the Facts 2024: Americans’ views on data, election information, and AI
Impartial, trustworthy data is a crucial component of our mission at USAFacts, and we are committed to making government data accessible to the public. But how do Americans feel about data and facts?AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research conducts the State of the Facts poll in conjunction with USAFacts to better understand how Americans feel about facts and where data is sourced. This year’s findings show that adults find it hard to tell if information is true or not. They also rely on data and transparency to verify it.Do Americans trust information they get about the government?Although social media is among respondents’ most-used sources for getting information from the government (40% report using social media to get government data), Americans also cite low levels of trust in information on social platforms.They’re also less likely to trust businesses, and artificial intelligence (AI) for accurate data. They’re most likely to trust public TV or radio, national TV news networks, and local TV news.
Sep 10, 2024Are major natural disasters increasing?
The number of natural weather disasters with damages of more than a billion dollars has increased over the last forty years, from an average 3.3 per year in the 1980s to 17+ from 2014–2023.The National Centers for Environmental Information has kept track of billion-dollar natural disasters since 1980 and cites increased exposure, vulnerability, and climate change as reasons for the increase.Are billion-dollar natural disasters becoming more frequent?Of the 10 years with the most natural disasters, nine were in the last decade.Since 1980, there have been 395 natural weather disasters in the US with total costs over $1 billion in 2024 dollars, including 201 severe storms, 63 tropical cyclones (or hurricanes), 44 floods, 31 droughts, 24 winter storms, 23 wildfires, and nine freezes. In total, these disasters cost $2.77 trillion (adjusting for inflation) and took the lives of nearly 16,500 people.The bulk of these events happened post-1990: In the 1980s, there were a total of 33 billion-dollar natural disaster events, with 2,994 deaths. In the last 10 full years (2014–2023), this number rose to 173, resulting in 5,872 deaths. All told, nearly 40% of the billion-dollar climate events that have hit the US since 1980 happened between 2017 and the present day.
Sep 6, 2024How much does the VA spend?
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the fifth-largest spender among federal agencies, accounting for 3.5% of federal spending in fiscal year (FY) 2023. Adjusting for inflation, VA expenditures increased nearly 70% over the last decade, from $180 billion in FY 2013 to $301 billion in FY 2023.
Aug 22, 2024How much money does the federal government spend to support disabled veterans?
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation provides monthly benefits to veterans with service-related disabilities. Disability compensation accounted for an estimated 43% of the VA budget in 2023. The share of veterans receiving disability compensation rose to 25% in 2020 from 9% in 2000.Disability program costs have grown to $149.4 billion in 2023.Two factors are driving this spending growth — the overall number of veterans receiving disability compensation and the number of veterans classified with the most severe service-connected disabilities, who receive more benefits.How is veteran disability determined?A veteran's disability compensation is based on a combined disability rating that measures the degree of disability from 0% to 100%. The rating, which takes multiple disabilities into account to create a single score, represents the extent to which a veteran’s disabilities decrease their overall health and ability to function.While the number of veterans with a rating between 0% to 20% has remained roughly constant in the last 20 years, the number of veterans with a rating between 70% and 100% is almost seven times higher. As the number of more severely disabled veterans has increased, so has disability compensation program spending — from $10,013 per enrolled veteran in 2000 to $16,100 in 2022.
Aug 20, 2024What is the US national debt and how has it grown over time?
The national debt is the total amount of outstanding borrowed money the federal government has accumulated over time.Every year the US spends more money than it earns results in an annual budget deficit.These deficits add up over time, creating a shortfall that the US covers, in part, by borrowing money from investors; otherwise, the government would need to cut services, increase revenues, or some combination. These loans — plus the interest owed — are the national debt.The national debt grows every year there’s a deficit, as the country borrows an increasing amount of money. The US has run a budget deficit every year for the last 20 years, during which time national debt has grown fivefold.
Aug 1, 2024Which countries own the most US debt?
The US government owes trillions of dollars in debt to foreign entities, including governments, central banks, companies, and individual investors.This debt includes US Treasury bonds and other securities, which are popular as they are considered safe investments.Many nations buy US Treasury securities (also called “Treasurys”) because they are considered one of the safest investment options available.How much US debt do foreign countries own?As of April 2024, foreign countries own approximately $7.9 trillion in Treasurys — or 22.9% of total US debt. Over the past two decades, central banks and other government entities have owned more than 50% of foreign-owned debt. Independent investors and companies held the rest.
Aug 1, 2024How much of the federal budget is discretionary spending?
The US government spent $6.2 trillion in total in 2023, with $1.7 trillion on discretionary spending, $3.8 trillion on mandatory spending, and $659 billion on net interest. Discretionary spending includes funding for defense, education, transportation, and scientific research.What is discretionary spending?Federal spending can be categorized as either discretionary spending or mandatory spending.Discretionary spending requires action from Congress to continue. In other words, Congress must establish and regularly fund discretionary programs. Otherwise, they end.This funding process, called appropriations, involves Congress passing laws and the president signing them to authorize agencies to spend a fixed amount of money for specific purposes over a set period, typically one to three years. Once these funds run out, the department cannot spend more unless Congress approves additional funding.Federal outlays, which are expenses from budget authority, can occur over short periods (such as salaries) or long periods (such as research or construction projects). Discretionary outlays each year include funds from both current and previous appropriation acts.
Aug 1, 2024How has the federal budget changed over time?
US spending has fluctuated as the government managed the budgetary implications of the COVID-19 pandemic.In 2020, spending rose 45% (after adjusting for inflation) — the largest single-year increase since at least 1980. It dropped 21% from 2021 to 2023, but 2023 spending was still higher than before the pandemic.
Aug 1, 2024How much government money does Planned Parenthood receive?
The Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization overturned the constitutional right to abortion, leaving the legality of the procedure up to state legislatures. The ruling also placed a renewed focus on abortion providers throughout the US. Some providers have had to shut down operations while others find themselves overwhelmed with new patients traveling from other states where abortion has been recently restricted.One of the main abortion providers in the US is Planned Parenthood, a nonprofit that runs clinics focused on providing reproductive and sexual health services. While abortions are about 3% of the services it provides to patients, federal restrictions on government funding of abortion have placed scrutiny on their finances. But since Planned Parenthood provides myriad other sexual health services, they still get a significant amount of funding through Medicaid reimbursements and government grants.About 43% of Planned Parenthood revenues came from government reimbursements or grants in the 2014-2015 fiscal year. Out of the $1.29 billion in total revenue, $553.7 million came from the government reimbursing Planned Parenthood for providing medical services covered by programs such as Medicaid or from government grants from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The remainder of revenues mostly come from donations (27%) and patient fees (24%).
Aug 1, 2024How much money does the government appropriate to combat the opioid epidemic?
In recent years, Congress passed three laws authorizing the appropriation of $10.6 billion in spending to combat the opioid epidemic. The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), the 21st Century Cures Act, and the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act are estimated to increase mandatory opioid response spending by $2.5 billion.Congress plans to spend these funds from 2017 and 2028. This funding is for programs that reduce the supply of opioids, the demand for them, and the harm they cause. The SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act represents 85% of this funding, almost $8.99 billion.
Aug 1, 2024The federal budget: an overview
The federal budget is a measure of how much the federal government spends and how much revenue it takes in. Typically, annual budgetary data is broken up into fiscal years, which run from October 1 to September 30.In fiscal year 2023, the US spent $6.16 trillion on public programs and generated $4.47 trillion in revenue.What is the federal deficit?The federal government runs a deficit when it spends more than it takes in as revenue. In 2023, the annual federal deficit was $1.69 trillion. To fund deficits, the government borrows money by selling assets, and this borrowing creates debt.When the government takes in more than it spends, this is a budget surplus. This last happened in 2001. There’s been a deficit in each fiscal year since.What is federal debt?The national debt is the total amount that the federal government owes to investors who it has borrowed from. Effectively, it is a summation of all the federal deficits and surpluses over the country’s history, plus the interest accumulated on that debt over time.As of June 14, 2024, the national debt totaled $34.7 trillion.As a percentage of gross domestic product, the national debt has been historically high in recent years. In 2020, that ratio reached its highest point since 1946.
Aug 1, 2024How does the government support veterans?
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) spent over $266 billion in fiscal year 2022 — accounting for about 4.3% of all federal spending — on pay and pensions, healthcare, and education for the nation’s veterans.How does the Department of Veterans Affairs spend its budget?The majority of VA expenditures fund veterans’ compensation and pensions (50.5% of VA spending) and medical care services (38.9%).A veteran’s eligibility for pensions and compensation depends on factors such as their age, service, and disability status. More than 5.9 million veterans and their families received financial support from the disability compensation program in 2022, one of the VA’s most-accessed programs.The VA also provides veterans with free healthcare for conditions related to military service, for catastrophic disabilities, and for veterans with a disability rating of at least 50%. (The VA assigns veterans a numerical rating based on the severity of their service-connected disability; this rating determines their’ eligibility for benefits and the amount of their compensation.) The department also provides financial assistance to veterans who can’t afford to pay for healthcare. In 2022, the VA spent $104 billion on veterans’ medical care.Spending per patient varies depending on the veterans’ priority group, which triages patients based on the severity of their disability or medical condition and whether the condition is related to their service.
Aug 1, 2024Can Medicare negotiate the price of prescription drugs?
The 2022 passing of the Inflation Reduction Act means that, for the first time, Medicare can negotiate the prices of some prescription drugs.Ten prescription drugs covered by the Medicare Part D benefit program are now subject to price negotiation. This program won’t affect prices until 2026 and will expand annually until 2029. Medicare can only negotiate on the price of drugs that have a high total cost to the federal government, don’t have a generic alternative, and were approved by the FDA for at least the last seven years.What’s included in Medicare Part D?People 65 and older and people with certain disabilities are eligible for Medicare, a federally sponsored health insurance program. The optional Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage for about 52 million Americans as of November 2023.Most people participating in Part D pay a small monthly premium and must pay an annual deductible before the Medicare drug benefit starts assisting with costs. How much the government assists on medication costs depends on a person’s income and the total cost of a person’s prescriptions, among other factors.Is spending on Medicare Part D drugs increasing?Part D spending depends on several things including enrollment numbers, according to the Congressional Budget Office.One contributing factor is the size and quantity of drug manufacturer price rebates. Rebates are payments that manufacturers make to Medicare; on average, rebates are equivalent to 47% of the total price for standard drugs and 12% of the price for more specialized, expensive medications.According to annual reports by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), per-enrollee spending on Medicare Part D prescription drugs has decreased in recent years, falling 14% from a recent peak in 2015 to 2022.
Aug 1, 2024What is this year’s Social Security cost of living increase?
Social security benefits typically increase year-over-year to keep up with the cost of living. The 2024 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will be 3.2%, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA).How has the cost of living adjustments changed over time?The SSA’s Cost-of-Living Adjustments were relatively high from 1975 to 1982, and again in 2021 and 2022. Between 1975 and 2023 (the period for which the SSA has COLA data) there were only three years that had no adjustment: 2009, 2010, and 2015. The highest-ever adjustment was in 1980, at 14.3%.
Aug 1, 2024How much does the US spend on the military?
In 2023, the US military spent approximately $820.3 billion, or roughly 13.3% of the entire federal budget for that fiscal year. In March 2023, the Department of Defense (DoD) requested $842.0 billion for 2024 — a 2.6% increase.With the world’s third-largest military, at nearly 1.3 million active-duty troops, the US estimates it spends more than any other nation on its national defense. Between 2014 and 2022, the US spent more than twice as much on defense as did all other NATO members, 30 nations in total.According to the 2022 National Defense Strategy, US military priorities include countering China’s military presence in the Indo-Pacific; deterring strategic attacks against the US and allies; defending against evolving threats like cyberattacks and addressing aggression from Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
Aug 1, 2024Who pays the most income tax?
The federal government generated $4.47 trillion in revenue in fiscal year 2023, nearly half of which came from taxing people on their incomes. Individual income taxes in FY 2023 totaled $2.18 trillion, or $6,499 per person.
Aug 1, 2024The national budget deficit was $1.7 trillion in fiscal year 2023
In fiscal year 2023, the federal government spent $6.13 trillion and raised $4.44 trillion, resulting in a $1.70 trillion deficit. The deficit grew by $320 billion from fiscal year 2022.What is a budget deficit?A budget deficit occurs when government spending exceeds revenue within a given fiscal year. In simpler terms, it’s when the government spends more than it collects in taxes and other revenue sources.
Aug 1, 2024How much of the federal budget is mandatory spending?
The federal government spent $6.2 trillion in fiscal year 2023 — $3.8 trillion of mandatory spending, $1.7 trillion of discretionary spending, and $659 billion in interest on outstanding US debt.What is mandatory spending?Federal spending is split into two categories: discretionary and mandatory. Mandatory spending does not require action every year, while discretionary spending does.Congress doesn't need to pass new laws each year for mandatory spending programs like Medicare and Social Security to operate; they continue automatically unless Congress changes the law. Sometimes, changes occur because Congress sets a timeline for modifications.The spending amount for mandatory programs is unpredictable at the start of the year. For instance, spending for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, or food stamps) and unemployment insurance depends on how many people qualify and claim benefits, which is influenced by factors like inflation, economic growth, and demographics.There's no spending cap on these programs, which reduces Congress and the president's flexibility in setting spending and policy priorities.
Aug 1, 2024How does US foreign aid work and where does it go?
Each year, Congress appropriates foreign assistance based on national security, commercial, and humanitarian interests. This aid is then distributed to foreign governments, international agencies, such as the United Nations or World Health Organization, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), such as Save the Children and the International Rescue Committee.These entities use foreign aid to carry out projects targeting specific goals, such as poverty reduction, humanitarian support, military assistance, and educational services. Foreign aid comes in multiple forms, including funds, goods, services, and technical assistance.How much foreign aid does the US give?The US has given out over $3.8 trillion in foreign aid (adjusted for inflation) since the end of World War II.US foreign aid has varied over time due to various geopolitical circumstances, economic conditions, and national priorities. At its height in 1949, US foreign aid totaled nearly $100 billion, while it bottomed out at just under $25 billion in 1997, both after adjusting for inflation.Between 1946 and 2022, the US has spent an average of $51.0 billion each year.
Aug 1, 2024How much revenue does the federal government collect?
The federal government collected $4.47 trillion in revenue during the 2023 fiscal year. That’s a lot (10 zeros to be exact) but it also represents a decrease of 15.5%, a drop from the 14.3% increase we saw between 2021 and 2022.
Aug 1, 2024How much money does the government collect per person?
The US collected $5.03 trillion in federal revenues in 2022, up $630 billion from the previous year, after adjusting for inflation.That equates to $15,098 collected per person, up 14% from 2021. Most revenues came from individual income tax, at $7,898 per person on average, and payroll taxes, at $4,510 per person on average.Using data from the State of the Union in Numbers, this chart visualizes how revenues have grown over the past two years.
Aug 1, 2024How much does the US spend on the Space Force?
On December 20, 2019, the United States Space Force (USSF) became the sixth branch of the US military with the passing of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020. It was the first new branch since the US Air Force was established in 1947.Nine months later, on September 1, 2020, the Space Force inducted its first class of deployed Guardians, as they are called. Twenty members of the US Air Force trained in space operations and other core space career fields transferred to the new branch, making them the first Space Force members engaged in support of combat operations.What does the Space Force do?Housed within the Air Force, Space Force operates as its own department with its own duties. They are: to protect the interests of the United States in space; to deter aggression in, from, and to space; and to conduct space operations in service of America’s national security.Just as the US Navy protects the country at sea, space is its own domain. This includes civilian, commercial, and military activity — think civilian space travel and exploration, commercial satellite technology, and cyber warfare. The Space Force is charged with protecting and defending American military capabilities and economic interests in the space realm.The Space Force is differentiated from NASA, which is the United States’ civilian space agency. NASA astronauts and scientists are dedicated to space exploration and scientific discovery. There is crossover between the military and NASA, however. Many NASA employees are veterans. For example, NASA’s first class of astronauts, the Mercury 7, were all military test pilots.Where does the Space Force spend its budget?The five-year plan for establishing the Space Force includes creating a headquarters within the Pentagon (fiscal year 2020), transferring select missions and units to the USSF (FY 2021–2022), and eventually developing new ways to organize, train, and equip its forces (2023–2024).In 2020, funding went towards the operation to establish its headquarters. This ramp up period allowed the USSF to establish the necessary “policies, procedures, and systems to operate.”In 2021, funding expanded with the transfer of missions, forces, and programs that had been planned to begin one year after its establishment. This year’s budget included procurement as well as research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E), which constituted 67% of the total budget proposal. The 2024 budget request is similarly allocated with 64% of the Space Force budget covering RDT&E.Since the Defense Department has identified China and Russia as looming threats to US space capabilities, the department plans to focus next year’s efforts on building “resilient, ready, combat-credible space forces” by “accelerating the pivot towards resilient satellite constellations, ground stations, networks and data links,” Saltzman said.The Space Force budget continues to increase. In 2020, it received $40 million for establishing operations. In 2021, as the branch became fully operational, it received $15.4 billion in total funding. Two years later, this amount was nearly doubled at $26.3 billion.
Aug 1, 2024Which states rely the most on federal aid?
In 2021, the US government provided nearly $1.3 trillion to state and local governments through federal grants. These grants made up a fifth of states’ total revenues, funding healthcare, education, social services, infrastructure, and public safety programs.Overall, federal aid to state and local governments has risen by over $400 billion since 2019 because of COVID-19's burden on healthcare and social programs.Though Office of Management and Budget data shows that while federal grants increased annually from 2013 to 2021, they fell in 2022 (when adjusted for inflation).Which states received the most money from the federal government?Federal funding comes through several overlapping programs targeting state and local governments. The proportion of state revenues attributable to federal aid is determined by combining the funding received by both state and local institutions.The five states that received the most federal aid were:California ($162.9 billion)New York ($110.2 billion)Texas ($105.8 billion)Florida ($58.8 billion)Pennsylvania ($57.1 billion)These figures largely correlate with population. To interpret state reliance on the federal government more accurately, we can look at total aid as a percentage of annual state revenues.
Aug 1, 2024Everything you need to know about a government shutdown
A shutdown of the United States government affects people, government agencies, and businesses not just here, but worldwide.Here are the answers to some of Americans’ most-asked questions about a government shutdown:What is a government shutdown?A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass or the president refuses to sign a spending bill to fund the federal government’s operations. This results in a funding gap that can cause several government functions to be temporarily disrupted. Government shutdowns are often resolved by Congress passing continuing resolutions, which provide short-term funding while negotiations for a long-term solution continue. Every shutdown since 1990 has been ended with a continuing resolution.Because the federal government’s fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 30, many shutdowns occur in September and October.
Aug 1, 2024Which states ban the abortion pill?
On June 13, 2024, in FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, the US Supreme Court unanimously reversed a lower court decision suspending the Food and Drug Administration’s approval of mifepristone, a medication used to end pregnancies in the first trimester and treat early miscarriages. The ruling allows healthcare providers to continue distributing the medication without added restrictions.As of June 2024, 14 states have near-total bans on mifepristone. The other 36 states and Washington, DC, provide some form of legal access to the abortion medication.
Jul 15, 2024How much does the average American family pay in taxes?
One of the simplest ways to think about the US standard of living is to consider how much people earn in income, pay in taxes, and receive in government transfers. A government transfer can be cash, or non-cash in the form of services like Medicaid and Medicare.In 2021, the average American family in the middle 20% of income earners paid $17,902 in taxes to federal, state, and local governments. This includes direct taxes, such as income taxes, as well as indirect taxes, like payroll taxes. Of all the taxes the middle 20% paid in 2021, $10,391 went to federal income tax.
Mar 7, 2024How much do states spend on prisoners?
States incarcerated more than 1 million people at the end of 2021, according to Bureau of Justice Statistics data. To house them, state governments spent a combined $64.0 billion (inflation-adjusted). Spending per prisoner varies more than tenfold across states, from just under $23,000 per person in Arkansas to $307,468 in Massachusetts. Spending in Massachusetts was more than double any other state; the median state spent $64,865 per prisoner for the year.
Apr 17, 2024What does the Department of Labor do?
The Department of Labor (DOL) is an executive branch agency responsible for overseeing the American labor force and working conditions. Its functions include enforcing wage and hour standards and union law, regulating workplace safety, administering unemployment benefits and workers’ compensation, collecting labor market data, and promoting workforce development. It was established in 1913.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission do?
The Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (OSHRC) is an independent federal agency responsible for resolving disputes between the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (a sub-agency of the Department of Labor) and employers over workplace safety and health citations. It serves as a neutral arbiter, providing administrative trials and appellate reviews to ensure fair outcomes under the Occupational Safety and Health Act. It was established in 1970.
Updates annuallyUSAFacts discusses facts on Capitol Hill
On Tuesday July 16th, 2019, USAFacts went to Washington DC to discuss facts on Capitol Hill.Our Founder, Steve Ballmer, held five meetings throughout the day with around 200 members of Congress, including Democrats and Republicans from both the House and Senate.These bipartisan and bicameral meetings focused on the numbers behind taxes, government spending, outcomes in areas including health, education, security, sustainability, demographic shifts, and what life looks like for taxpayers across different income groups and family types.The deep, data-driven conversations resulted in discussions among lawmakers about trends, potential improvements to government data, and insightful questions that USAFacts is working to answer.Along with copies of the 2019 Annual Report, Steve delivered the below presentation:
Dec 5, 2019What do the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) mean for small businesses?
Of the $2 trillion distributed in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES Act), $350 billion is dedicated to providing relief to small businesses, defined as having under 500 employees.The $350 billion will be deployed through the Paycheck Protection Program, which allows small businesses to borrow up to 250% of their average monthly payroll expenses, up to a maximum loan amount of $10 million. The loans are intended to cover eight weeks of payroll expenses and additional payments toward debt, and will only cover employee compensation up to $100,000 per employee. Money from that loan paid toward payroll and existing interest payments on mortgages, rent payments, leases, and utility service agreements will be forgiven—i.e., will not need to be paid back (more information on the Paycheck Protection Program here). Small businesses can apply through most banks to receive a loan. The Senate is currently debating an additional $250 billion in support for the Paycheck Protection Program.
Sep 23, 2020'Sin taxes' by state: Where do people pay the most and least in alcohol and tobacco taxes?
Drinking and smoking are two more ways that Americans pay taxes.Every state and Washington, DC, has selective sales taxes on alcohol and tobacco. And like sales tax, alcohol and tobacco taxes are paid by people who buy those items.USAFacts looked at data from the Census Bureau and the Bureau of Economic Analysis to determine where people pay the most in tobacco and alcohol taxes, as a percentage of their per capita personal income in that state. (You can read our full report on Americans’ tax burdens here.)It's important to note that the numbers below are based not just on the excise or sales tax rates in that state, but also on the population size and how much is purchased per person. So, for example, tobacco excise taxes range from 17 cents per pack in Missouri, to $4.35 per pack in Connecticut and New York, according to 2022 CDC data. And alcohol taxes can be either excise taxes (based on volume of alcohol sold at the wholesale level) or sales taxes (on the retail price of alcohol).Where do people pay the most and least in alcohol tax?
May 10, 2023What is the Supreme Court shadow docket?
For a case to appear before the Supreme Court, it must land on one of two lists, or dockets: the merits docket or the emergency docket, also known as the “shadow docket.” Each docket contains a set of cases for which the justices can issue rulings. Each docket has its own process for reaching those decisions.The shadow docket process is a faster route to a decision. Part of its purpose is enabling the high court to quickly resolve administrative-type requests from lower courts, such as extensions of time to file petitions for writs of certiorari (Parties unsatisfied with how a lower court has ruled on their case might ask the Supreme Court to grant a writ of certiorari, which is a request that the Supreme Court officially hear their case).But it is also less transparent, and recent shadow docket cases reflect a notable shift in the nature of topics appearing on that docket since 2017. They have involved border wall disputes, COVID-19 restrictions, abortion laws, and federal executions.This shift has also caused confusion for lower courts, which follow the precedent set by the Supreme Court, because unlike the merits docket, the shadow docket process does not require written or dissenting opinions.The merits docket vs. shadow docketThe Supreme Court is asked to review more than 7,000 cases each year and accepts 100 to 150 of them. Cases on the Supreme Court’s merits docket entail a scheduled and public hearing, a review of legal briefs, and oral arguments. After what is often a months-long process, the court provides its opinion and dissenting arguments in writing. This merits docket route is how the Supreme Court processes and delivers big decisions like Brown v. Board of Education or the recent Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College.Alternatively, the shadow docket functions as an accelerated route for the Supreme Court to reach decisions and has been used mostly for administrative decisions.“These cases are brought to the court by a state, or a company, or a person who has lost in the lower courts, often at an early stage, and that loser is now asking the Supreme Court to block the lower court order while the case proceeds through the lower court appeals process, which typically takes many months,” said legal scholar Stephen Vladeck in a testimony at a 2021 hearing before the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.The shadow docket also allows the court to issue opinions without the level of transparency demanded by the merits docket process. Shadow docket case opinions, court orders, and changes in stays and injunctions have been issued in the middle of the night; they’ve been issued without disclosing which justices weighed in; and they’ve been issued without a written reasoning of the ruling. Each of these elements are departures from the Supreme Court’s merits docket proceedings.How does the shadow docket impact lower courts?The extended, transparent, and more rigorous process required of cases on the merits docket serves in part to let the public in on the reasoning behind a ruling and to strengthen public trust in the judicial system.Further, it sets a precedent for lower courts to follow in their proceedings. When shadow docket rulings are issued without explanation, lower courts have less clarity on how they should proceed in similar cases.Learn more about the Supreme Court and the nation's judicial system and get explainers like this in your inbox by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.
Jul 20, 2023What does the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives do?
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is a subdivision of the US Department of Justice responsible for enforcing federal laws related to the regulation of alcohol, tobacco, firearms, explosives, and arson. The agency's primary mission is to protect communities from violent criminals, criminal organizations, the illegal use and trafficking of firearms, the illegal use and storage of explosives, acts of arson and bombings, acts of terrorism, and the illegal diversion of alcohol and tobacco products. It was established in 1972.
Updates annuallyWhat does the United States Mint do?
The United States Mint (US Mint) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for producing coinage for the United States to conduct its trade and commerce. The agency designs and manufactures domestic, bullion, and foreign coins, as well as Congressional Gold Medals and silver, gold, and platinum bullion coins. It also maintains physical custody and protection of the nation's gold and silver assets. It was established in 1792.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Forest Service do?
The Forest Service (FS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Agriculture responsible for managing public lands in national forests and grasslands. The agency's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands to meet the needs of present and future generations. It provides leadership in the protection, management, and use of the nation's forest resources, ensuring their long-term sustainability. It was established in 1905.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Management and Budget do?
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is a subdivision of The Executive Office of the President responsible for assisting the President in overseeing the preparation of the federal budget and supervising its administration in Executive Branch agencies. The OMB evaluates the effectiveness of agency programs, policies, and procedures, assesses competing funding demands among agencies, and sets funding priorities. It also ensures that agency reports, rules, testimony, and proposed legislation are consistent with the President's budget and administration policies. It was established in 1970.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Veterans Health Administration do?
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Veterans Affairs responsible for providing comprehensive healthcare services to military veterans. The agency operates a nationwide system of medical centers, outpatient clinics, and specialized care facilities, offering services ranging from primary care to specialized treatments for conditions such as PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. It also conducts research and provides training for healthcare professionals. It was established in 1930.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Postsecondary Education do?
The Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for promoting and ensuring access to quality postsecondary education. The agency administers programs that support higher education institutions, provide financial assistance to students, and promote innovation and improvement in postsecondary education. It also works to ensure equal access to education and to foster educational excellence throughout the nation. It was established in 1980.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Trade Commission do?
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is an independent federal agency responsible for protecting consumers and promoting fair competition in the marketplace. It investigates deceptive advertising, fraudulent business practices, and antitrust violations, while also providing consumer education and developing policies to maintain a competitive economy. It was established in 1914.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission do?
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is an independent executive branch agency tasked with enforcing workplace discrimination laws. Its functions include investigating charges of discrimination against employers, providing guidance and oversight on equal employment practices, and conducting outreach and education programs. Most companies with 15 or more employees are under EEOC jurisdiction. The agency was established by the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Updates annuallyUSAFacts backs House's evidence-based policy commission
A bipartisan group of House members, led by Representative Derek Kilmer, recently introduced a resolution to establish a Commission on Evidence-based Policymaking. USAFacts supports this resolution and hopes it will provide the scaffolding necessary to enable Congress to integrate data more deeply and efficiently into the policy-making process.The new commission would explore ways to create a more rigorous, evidence-driven policy-making process. Recommendations the commission would consider include changes USAFacts has supported in the past, including systems to quantitatively assess outcomes of legislation, incorporation of government data into the legislative process, and increasing the data literacy of congressional staff.Rep. Kilmer previously chaired the House Select Committee on Modernization, known as the “Fix Congress” committee, created in 2019 to improve the workings of the House of Representatives. The committee was quite successful during its tenure, making roughly 200 recommendations, many of which have been adopted or are moving in that direction.The Select Committee disbanded in early 2023 but was recreated as the Subcommittee on Modernization of the Committee on House Administration. The Subcommittee recently turned its attention to modernizing the Congressional Research Service and USAFacts gave testimony at a hearing in April 2023.What would it take to modernize Congress for data-based policy?Modernizing a 234-year-old legislative body is not easy. From upgrading databases and building APIs (or “application programming interfaces”) to support data sharing on websites or apps, to providing data alongside bill text and other process changes, to teaching staff new skills, a great deal of work goes into modernization efforts. USAFacts hopes this current resolution will establish the Commission on Evidence-based Policymaking and looks forward to supporting further modernization efforts.Poppy MacDonald, president of USAFacts, said of the proposed resolution, “USAFacts applauds any efforts to bring data-driven decision-making to the forefront, particularly one led by Congress. We’re encouraged by The Congressional Evidence-Based Policymaking Resolution and look forward to seeing legislators use government data when developing policy that impacts people’s lives.”Read about USAFacts' work with the UC Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy to create the Data Skills for Congress program. Get updates on our efforts to improve government data by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.
Jul 5, 2023How does the US Postal Service serve rural Americans?
“Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night” — while the United States Postal Service (USPS) has no official motto, this well-known refrain reflects a key aspect of the organization’s operations: the universal service obligation (USO).The USO is not contained in any one document, but has been defined through multiple statutes over the course of the past century. It outlines that the USPS is obligated to provide the American public with trusted, affordable, and universal service across multiple dimensions — including geography. Rural free delivery of mail by the USPS became a permanent service in July 1902. Today, despite being home to 16% of the US population, rural areas comprise 88% of the area served by the Postal Service, and 57% of post offices are in rural areas.A majority of rural Americans appreciate these efforts: According to the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS OIG), which tracks nationwide postal performance, 81% of rural postal customers view the Postal Service as valuable. However, the USPS faces multiple financial challenges, leading to initiatives like reduced work hours for rural mail carriers and route optimization. Although these changes are meant to cut costs, they also impact the USO — which USPS OIG has called to reevaluate.How has the USPS performed in recent years?On-time performance has improved in the past several years, recovering from lows recorded both before and during the pandemic. Three-to-five day delivery of first-class single piece mail — including letters, postcards, flat envelopes, and small packages — has improved from 54.6% on-time delivery during Q1 2021 to 86.2% in Q3 2023. Marketing mail — one of the Postal Service’s most-used service types by volume — has also improved its end-to-end performance from 59.8% on-time delivery in Q2 2018 to 95.9% in Q3 2023.
Sep 15, 2023States lag in distributing rental assistance while millions are behind on rent
Congress sent $25 billion to state and local governments in emergency rental assistance but less than 13% of the money made it into the hands of renters as of the end of June, according to data from the Treasury Department.While the Emergency Rental Assistance fund passed at the end of 2020 and money from the program went to local governments early this year, some local governments are struggling to get the funds where they’re needed. The latest data shows just over $3 billion distributed so far. Congress approved an additional $20 billion for the program in March. Data on this second round of funds is not yet available.Meanwhile, about 15% of US households could not pay rent in July, according to the US Census Household Pulse Survey. A higher proportion of Black, Hispanic, and Asian renters are unable to pay for rent; some of this population is eight or more months behind. The eviction moratorium, set by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, protects certain tenants from being evicted. It has been extended until October 3 in areas of high transmission of COVID-19
Aug 26, 2021How much does the federal government spend on SNAP every year?
About $100.3 billion during fiscal year (FY) 2024. That’s 1.5% of all federal spending. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), once known as the Food Stamp program, is administered by the Department of Agriculture providing food assistance to low-income people.
Updates annuallyState tax revenue was down 4.4% in the first nine months of 2020
Like many businesses in the COVID-19 pandemic, states took a significant hit to incomes in 2020. In the second quarter of 2020 — or April through June — state tax collections dropped 29% compared to the same quarter in 2019. One reason for this is that many states, along with the federal government, shifted their income tax filing deadlines from spring to summer of 2020 — or from the second to third quarter — in response to the pandemic. But not all second quarter losses were due to the income tax delay: states also experienced declines in revenue from sources like sales and gas taxes as a result of social distancing and lockdowns.Data from the third quarter — July through September — shows state tax collections rebounded compared to the second quarter, in part because some states collected that delayed income tax revenue. But during the first three quarters of 2020 combined, total state tax revenue was still down 4.4% compared to the same period in 2019.
Mar 19, 2021What does the Bureau of Labor Statistics do?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Labor responsible for measuring labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy. The agency collects, analyzes, and disseminates essential economic information to support public and private decision-making. It also conducts research and provides data on employment, unemployment, inflation, productivity, and other economic indicators. It was established in 1884.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of the US Trade Representative do?
The Office of The United States Trade Representative (USTR) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for developing and coordinating US international trade, commodity, and direct investment policy, and overseeing negotiations with other countries. The agency works to create trade opportunities for American businesses and workers, enforce US trade laws, and ensure that trade agreements are fair and beneficial to the US economy. It was established in 1963.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Security Council do?
The National Security Council (NSC) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for advising the President on national security and foreign policy matters. The NSC coordinates these policies among various government agencies to ensure a unified national security strategy. It was established in 1947.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Institutes of Health do?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a subdivision of the US Department of Health and Human Services responsible for conducting and supporting medical research to improve public health. The agency funds and conducts research in various fields of biomedical science, including the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. It also provides training for researchers and disseminates health information to the public. It was established in 1887.
Updates annuallyWhat do the 2017 tax bills mean for the federal budget?
Tax legislation passed by the House and Senate will change the amount of money the federal government receives in taxes and the amount that it spends on certain types of tax relief. Click below to see the impacts of the different bills on revenue, spending, and the deficit for the next five years.
Dec 4, 2019How much aid does the US give to Israel?
The United States committed over $3.3 billion in foreign assistance to Israel in 2022, the most recent year for which data exists. About $8.8 million of that went toward the country's economy, while 99.7% of the aid went to the Israeli military.Israel received the second-largest amount of US aid in 2022 after Ukraine, where the US committed $12.4 billion. The two countries received 4.8% and 18.1%, respectively, of all foreign aid granted that year.
Oct 12, 2023How many spam phone calls do Americans receive?
During fiscal year 2022, Americans made over three million complaints to the National Do Not Call Registry (NDNCR), administered and enforced by the Federal Trade Commission. While there were a record 246.8 million phone numbers in the registry in 2022, complaints about both live callers and robocalls hit five-year lows. Annual complaints decreased by more than 47% since 2018, when 5.78 million complaints were registered.What are the most common topics of reported spam calls?Between January 2019 and September 2023, 2.04 million complaints — 11.3% of the total — were related to unwanted phone calls where people or robots falsely pose as government representatives, legitimate business entities, or people affiliated with them. Other major sources of complaints were unsolicited calls about warranties and protection plans (1.04 million), reducing debt (948,032), and medical or prescription issues (895,583).
Dec 11, 2023What does the Census mean by "Some Other Race"?
In the 2020 US census, 281.5 million Americans described their race using only one or more of the five races listed on the survey: white, Black or African American; Asian; American Indian and Alaska Native; and Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander.The remaining 49.9 million Americans — 15.1% of the country — selected the “some other race” category, either on its own or in combination with other categories, to describe their racial identity.Nearly 28 million of those Americans selected “some other race” alone. The rest were multi-racial, identifying both with “some other race” and at least one of the listed racial categories.The states with the highest percentages of people categorized as “some other race” alone or in combination were along the southern border, where the Hispanic population is also at its highest. As it turns out, there’s a large overlap between the two groups.
Jan 23, 2024Why should you trust US government data?
If you've arrived here at USAFacts, it might be because you're curious about how the government works, or want the facts on a certain issue that's important to you.These were some of the biggest reasons Steve Ballmer founded this site and initiative back in 2017. He wanted to make it easier for all Americans to get the facts on how our government works, how it collects revenue, how it spends it, and what that might mean for all of our trust in government. You can read more about our mission here.These facts, and all of the articles and analysis on USAFacts, are built on data reported by the US government itself. Which naturally leads to an important question:Why should you trust US data?At USAFacts, we think it's important to not just take data at face value, but understand where it comes from, how it's collected, and how we should put that data into a broader context. And no data is ever perfect or unimpeachable. Any number on a spreadsheet is the outcome of dozens, or even hundreds, of different human decisions. And like all things involving humans, they have their strengths and weaknesses.All that being said, the US government remains one of the most reliable and widely accepted sources of data reflecting the overall health of our country, our economy, and our democracy. Each federal agency has its own process for collecting and reporting certain types of data, but overall, government data remains widely accepted as nonpartisan, transparent, and accurate.What questions should you ask when looking at the data?
Apr 27, 2023Three charts on diversity in the federal government's workforce
More than 1.5 million people work in the federal government. A new Office of Personnel Management report reveals that the proportions of white workers and men in the government are higher than their proportions of the US population overall. This is especially true at the senior level.What is the racial and ethnic breakdown of the federal government workforce?Just over 61% of the federal government workforce identifies as white, while 18.2% identifies as Black. These figures are higher than the overall percentage of Americans identifying as white (59.3%) and Black (12.6%).Hispanic Americans are the most underrepresented group in the federal workforce. Despite representing 18.9% of the US population, they are 9.5% of the federal government workforce.
Mar 28, 2023What does the Department of the Interior do?
The Department of the Interior (Interior, DOI) is an executive branch agency responsible for managing federal lands, natural resources, and cultural heritage. Its functions include overseeing national parks and other protected lands, regulating natural resource extraction, upholding tribal relations and trust responsibilities, and preserving the environment. It was established in 1849.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Labor Relations Board do?
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for safeguarding employees’ rights to unionize and preventing unfair labor practices. Its functions include conducting union elections, investigating charges of unfair practices, deciding cases, and enforcing punishment. It was established in 1935.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Merit Systems Protection Board do?
The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) is an independent federal agency responsible for safeguarding the integrity of the civil service system and protecting the rights of federal employees. It hears appeals on personnel actions such as removals, suspensions, and demotions, ensuring those decisions are based on merit and free from prohibited practices. It also conducts studies to evaluate the effectiveness of federal merit systems. It was established in 1979.
Updates annuallyWhat does AmeriCorps do?
The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), also called AmeriCorps, is an independent federal agency responsible for engaging Americans in service programs that address education, public safety, the environment, and other community needs. In 2020, it merged with AmeriCorps. It promotes civic responsibility and provides educational benefits to participants who commit to national service. It was established in 1993.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Armed Forces Retirement Home do?
The Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) is an independent federal agency responsible for providing housing, healthcare, and supportive services to retired and eligible veterans. It offers residential care, medical and dental services, and recreational activities to support the well-being and dignity of its residents. It operates two campuses—in Washington, DC, and Gulfport, Mississippi—and was established in 1991.
Updates annuallyHow many Americans have been impeached?
Since the first impeachment of a federal official in 1797, there have been a total of 21 impeachments. In eight cases, it led to removal; in another three, the official resigned. The most recent was the second impeachment of former President Donald Trump. He was acquitted by the Senate.What does impeachment mean?Impeachment means charging a public official with misconduct. Like in the justice system, charges alone do not lead to consequences. Instead, there is a trial, during which the official is convicted or acquitted.What does the Constitution say about the impeachment process?The Constitution outlines the federal impeachment process across several sections, though Article II, Section 4 describes its purpose and use: "The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors."The "sole Power of Impeachment" rests with the House, as stated in Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution. The Senate then conducts a trial and has the power to convict or acquit, according to Article I, Section 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court oversees the proceedings, and conviction occurs only if two-thirds of present senators concur with the charges. If someone is convicted, they are removed from office and barred from holding any government office. There are no criminal consequences, though the person may still be "liable and subject to Indictment, Trial, Judgment and Punishment, according to Law."Article II, Section 2 states that the president has the power to pardon "except in Cases of Impeachment."
Feb 16, 2021How many people receive SNAP benefits in the US every month?
About 41.7 million people during fiscal year (FY) 2024. That’s 12.3% of the US population. Participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is determined based on household income levels. SNAP, once known as the Food Stamp program, is administered by the Department of Agriculture providing food assistance to low-income individuals.
Updates monthlyWhat does the Food and Drug Administration do?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Health and Human Services responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, and medical devices. The agency also oversees the safety and security of the nation’s food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation. It was established in 1906.
Updates annuallyIs Congress representative of the American people?
The United States Congress consists of up to 541 individuals elected to represent a population of 335.9 million.The 118th Congress in US history convened on January 3, 2023. Here’s a look at how the demographics of this legislative body compare to those of the people it represents.What is the average age of Congress members?At the start of the 118th Congress, the average senator was 64.0 years old, and the average representative was 57.9. These averages are lower than those of the previous Congress: senators are younger by about four months and representatives by about five. This decrease is due to a relatively young class of new members — the newly elected class of both senators (50.4 years old) and representatives (47.8) were younger at the start of this session than any of the three incoming classes before them.
May 17, 2024What does the Selective Service System do?
The Selective Service System (SSS) is an independent federal agency responsible for maintaining information on individuals who could be called to military service in the event of a national emergency. It ensures the federal government has a fair and efficient process in place for conducting a draft if needed. It was established in 1940.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Transportation Safety Board do?
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is an independent federal agency responsible for investigating civil transportation accidents across the United States. It determines the causes of accidents, issues safety recommendations, conducts safety studies, and assists victims and their families. The NTSB covers aviation, highway, marine, pipeline, and railroad incidents. It was established in 1967.
Updates annuallyWhich states bring in the most non-tax revenue?
Alaska received the largest share of its general revenue — 88.5% — from non-tax sources in 2021, according to the Census Bureau. Wyoming and New Mexico received 70.6% of general revenue from non-tax sources, and Louisiana received 67.7%.The Census Bureau calculates states’ general revenue based on four categories:Tax revenueIntergovernmental revenue (money from federal or local governments)Current charges (revenue from operating airports, educational institutions, hospitals, parking facilities, and more)Miscellaneous general revenue (investment earnings, sale of property, and other general revenue)It does not include revenue from government-owned utilities, government-owned liquor stores, or social insurance trusts.How do states collect revenues outside of taxes?States receive revenue from a range of sources other than taxes, including funding from the federal government, fees, and other transactions like property sales and earnings on interest.In 2021, the federal government provided $987.7 billion to states, accounting for 36.7% of all state general revenue that year.Service charges and other non-tax sources of revenue accounted for 15.7% of states’ general revenues. These sources include any money generated by operating parking facilities, airports, hospitals, highways, parks and recreation, higher education institutions (including tuition and fees), natural resources, waste management, and more.Which states collect the highest proportion of non-tax revenue?All but eight states generated more than half of their general revenue from non-tax sources in 2021. In particular, Alaska, Wyoming, and New Hampshire had the largest proportions of non-tax revenue.
Jan 9, 2024Modernizing the Congressional Research Service: USAFacts proposes transformative reforms
In April 2023, the House Subcommittee on Modernization invited USAFacts to testify with its recommendations on modernizing the Congressional Research Service (CRS).As a nonpartisan agency within Congress, the CRS plays a crucial role in providing lawmakers with unbiased research and policy analysis, empowering them to make informed decisions.During the testimony, Richard Coffin, USAFacts' chief of research and advocacy, shared his expert insights as one of the three panelists, recommending that the CRS evolve its traditional long-form reports to include an emphasis on data provision to support policymaking.USAFacts’ recommendations include:Modernize reports with shorter content summaries that emphasize data visualizationsProduce and regularly update interactive dashboards, surfacing data on key issues of interest across Member officesPublish reports in searchable, web-friendly formats (in addition to the standard PDFs)Conduct outreach on the needs and interests of Congress, and proactively provide dataProvide training resources on finding, interpreting, and using dataThe CRS must adapt to stay relevant and effective. Making these improvements will ensure that lawmakers can easily locate and use the valuable information within the reports.
Oct 20, 2023How does the original $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act compare to the $2.2 trillion CARES Act?
H.R.1319, also known as the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, narrowly passed the Senate with an amendment on March 6 and was approved by the House on March 10. The bill as originally passed by the House on February 27, 2021 contained a host of relief packages to address COVID-19's impact on “the economy, public health, state and local governments, individuals, and businesses.” The original bill from the end of February also included several provisions less directly tied to the pandemic, such as raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025 and increased Medicaid coverage. While not all provisions made it through the Senate—the minimum wage amendment was removed and certain spending amounts were slightly reduced—many of the provisions in the original House bill remain.The Congressional Budget Office (CBO), a nonpartisan agency dedicated to estimating costs for legislation, stated that the version of the bill originally passed in the House at the end of February would cost $1.2 trillion in fiscal year 2021 and a total of $1.9 trillion over the next 10 years. The CBO has not yet released revised cost estimates for the Senate version of the bill, which eliminated the minimum wage provision, cut spending on stimulus checks, unemployment benefits, and several other items while leaving other large expenditures intact, such as assistance to state and local governments. This article explores the spending breakdown in the original $1.9 trillion version of the bill as passed by the House on February 27, 2021, though this total cost estimate and specific components may change as estimates are revised to incorporate amendments to the bill, such as the elimination of the minimum wage provision.The American Rescue Plan Act is the third major pandemic stimulus package, following the $2.2 trillion CARES act passed in March of last year and the $900 billion plan signed into law in December.What’s in the original $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act?This new bill focuses on different areas of spending than the CARES Act. Over 60% of the CARES Act funding supported four major focuses: $500 billion to support businesses through the Treasury, $350 billion to support small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program and other initiatives, $300 billion for stimulus checks, and $250 billion for unemployment insurance.
May 17, 2021What does the Food Safety and Inspection Service do?
The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Agriculture responsible for ensuring that the nation's commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. The agency conducts inspections, enforces food safety regulations, and works to prevent foodborne illnesses through rigorous testing and monitoring. It also provides guidance and education to industry and consumers on food safety practices. It was established in 1977.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Park Service do?
The National Park Service (NPS) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for managing and preserving national parks, monuments, and other historical sites across the United States. The agency's primary mission is to conserve the natural and cultural resources within these areas for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations. It also works to protect the ecological integrity of these sites while providing recreational opportunities for the public. It was established in 1916.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Drug Enforcement Administration do?
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Justice responsible for enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. The agency aims to reduce the availability of illicit controlled substances on the domestic and international markets. It also works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations and collaborates with other agencies to combat drug-related crimes. It was established in 1973.
Updates annuallyHow USAFacts created the Data Skills for Congress program
Data is central to the legislative process. It allows congressional offices to track trends, assess the results of prior legislation, and craft effective public policy. However, Congress often faces challenges in locating and working with metrics to help inform their decisions. With enhanced data literacy, Congress can craft legislation more effectively, ensuring that relevant and useful data becomes more accessible to lawmakers and the American public alike.To make this possible, USAFacts and UC Berkeley's Goldman School of Public Policy teamed up to create a novel continuing education program for congressional staff. The Data Skills for Congress program, launched in 2023, equips member and professional staff with skills to use data in policy-making and constituent services, and write legislation to improve public data. Data Skills for Congress is the first program of its kind approved by the House and Senate Ethics Committees.This free program isn’t just an education in data literacy in order to shape policies that ensure accurate, usable data flows within government. It's a catalyst for congressional modernization and a rallying cry for greater data use across Congress.
Jun 9, 2023How to use government data
From the tax data that workers submit every year, to the census data households provide every decade, to the unemployment numbers that reveal the state of the economy each month, the data the US government collects is a reflection of the lives of the American people. It speaks to the nation’s collective values and priorities and even surfaces people’s concerns.Government data is more than just a set of numbers; it’s an intimate portrait of the American people.This is part of the reason USAFacts relies on government data: these facts and figures not only reveal unbiased truths about how the US government works, they can give US residents insight into how the government affects their lives and communities.What is government data?There are over 400 US federal agencies and sub-agencies, according to the Office of the Federal Register, which keeps a full list of these organizations and publishes a daily record of the public documents issued by each group.From the largest departments (e.g., the Department of Defense employs around 2 million active duty, reserves, and civilians) to the smaller agencies (e.g., the Marine Mammal Commission employs 14 staffers), each organization collects and distributes data on how they spend their time and taxpayer dollars.Some agencies, such as the Census Bureau and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), focus on collecting and analyzing data specifically about the American people. For example, the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System is an ongoing survey of the US population regarding health-related behaviors, chronic health conditions, and use of preventative services. This data can help inform state and federal policies and ideally be a resource for helping communities promote health and wellness.Most government data is collected by career agency statisticians who work independently from one administration to the next. While no practice is perfect, we at USAFacts believe using government data is the best source for verifiable information about the United States.How should people use government data?Data can inform what actions people need to take to improve their lives, from deciding who to vote for to evaluating which nonprofit or community organization to donate to.Data-driven decision-making, both on an individual level and for policy makers, is a key part of one’s civic responsibility.But evaluating data can be intimidating. USAFacts is trying to make it easier for people to access and analyze numbers and view trends for themselves.For our part, we provide deep dives into government data to increase the likelihood that people are aware of the data, able to understand it, and better equipped to use it to inform their decision-making. USAFacts data reports and articles make government data accessible so people can incorporate trusted facts into their education, conversations, and decision-making processes.For example, the annual State of the Union in Numbers provides a clear, data-based national assessment of the most commonly addressed issues in the president’s State of the Union address. USAFacts provides topical figures spanning over a dozen pressing issues in American life with easy-to-consume text and visuals so that people can judge the US economy or the state of immigration for themselves.Americans deserve unbiased facts straight from the government to have serious, reasoned, and informed debate. The data may reveal a fact they hadn't considered. It may add context and nuance to a complex issue. It may even get them to change their minds.Why is government data so valuable?The US government has data that other entities simply can’t collect. The government is either the source of data itself or it is the most complete source of data because it collects and collates data across states and agencies.Only the government can answer a question about itself, such as: How long does it take to process a Social Security disability benefits application? The Social Security Administration, the government agency responsible for determining eligibility and administering these benefits, is the source for the answer.And when it comes to certain kinds of information, only the government has the resources to collect the most comprehensive set of data. Take crime data from police departments across the country. That data is filtered through the FBI. When processed, it can reveal trends about communities that may require action from local leaders.What role does USAFacts play in providing access to government data?USAFacts was founded to be a bridge between the public and government data. By giving people greater access to government data — presenting it using plain language with helpful visualizations — USAFacts empowers everyday Americans to act as watchdogs for the issues that affect their lives.All residents are all stakeholders in the United States. USAFacts believes if the American people want to know how the government is serving them, they have to look at the data that's coming from the source.Learn more about analyzing data by reading our five questions you should ask when looking at data and subscribe to our newsletter for weekly roundups.
Aug 10, 2023What are appropriations bills and how are they approved?
Appropriations bills are proposed laws that authorize agencies of the federal government of the United States to spend money. Appropriations bills may be for definite or indefinite sums. Each fiscal year, Congress passes 12 appropriations bills and supplemental appropriation acts to fund government operations.There are several kinds of appropriations:Annual appropriationsMulti-year appropriationsRevolving fundsExpired appropriationsCanceled appropriationsWhat are the 12 types of appropriations bills?There are 12 appropriations subcommittees. Each one produces an appropriations bill annually. Often, the dozen bills are combined and referred to as an omnibus appropriations bill.The 12 subcommittees that produce appropriations bills include:Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, And Related AgenciesState, Foreign Operations, And Related ProgramsMilitary Construction, Veterans Affairs, And Related AgenciesLegislative BranchLabor, Health and Human Services, EducationInterior, Environment, And Related AgenciesHomeland SecurityFinancial Services and General GovernmentEnergy and Water Development and Related AgenciesDefenseCommerce, Justice, Science and Related AgenciesAgriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug AdministrationHow are appropriations bills approved?The appropriations bill approval office is a lengthy one. Each fiscal year the president, via the White House Office of Management and Budget, submits a budget request to Congress. Each chamber of Congress then responds with the creation of a budget resolution. Once approved, budget resolutions move on to the appropriation committees in the House and the Senate.
Mar 25, 2024What does the Small Business Administration do?
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is an independent executive agency responsible for supporting small business owners and entrepreneurs in their business ventures. Its functions include providing small businesses access to capital, offering free or low-cost counseling and training, working with other government agencies to contract small businesses, and advocating on behalf of the small business sector in front of Congress. It was established in 1953.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Election Commission do?
The Federal Election Commission (FEC) is an independent federal agency responsible for enforcing campaign finance laws in US federal elections. Its work includes overseeing the public disclosure of campaign finance data, enforcing contribution limits, and managing public funding for presidential campaigns. It was established in 1975.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Commodity Futures Trading Commission do?
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is an independent federal agency responsible for regulating US derivatives markets, including futures, swaps, and certain types of options. It oversees these markets to reduce financial risk, protect market participants from fraud and abuse, and help ensure fair and stable trading conditions. It was established in 1974.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Department of Justice do?
The Department of Justice (DOJ, Justice Department) is an executive branch agency responsible for enforcing federal laws and ensuring public safety. Its functions include prosecuting criminal and civil cases, overseeing federal law enforcement agencies, managing federal prisons, upholding civil rights, and issuing justice-related grants. It was established in 1870.
Updates annuallyHow will the Inflation Reduction Act change the IRS?
The Inflation Reduction Act, which recently passed the House and the Senate, puts $80 billion toward expanding the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). More than half of the funds will go toward expanding the enforcement division that conducts audits on individual and corporate tax returns. Currently, corporations making over $20 billion are audited the least of any size company but make up the largest share of additional tax revenue from audits.The IRS's budgey has remained about the same since the 1990s, despite processing more returns every year. The $80 billion expansion is nearly six times the size of the IRS’s current annual operating budget and expires in 2031.
Aug 17, 2022What does the Institute of Education Sciences do?
The Institute of Education Sciences (IES) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for providing rigorous and relevant evidence on which to ground education practice and policy and sharing this information broadly. The agency conducts research, evaluates programs, and collects and analyzes education statistics to improve the quality of education in the United States. It was established in 2002.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Citizenship and Immigration Services do?
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for overseeing lawful immigration to the United States. The agency administers the nation's naturalization and immigration system, processes applications for citizenship, and manages the issuance of various immigration benefits. It also ensures the integrity of the immigration system by preventing fraud and enhancing security measures. It was established in 2003.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration do?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for understanding and predicting changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts. NOAA shares this knowledge and information with others and helps conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. It was established in 1970.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Bureau of Land Management do?
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for administering public lands in the United States. The agency manages various resources and activities on these lands, including energy development, livestock grazing, recreation, and conservation. It aims to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. It was established in 1946.
Updates annuallyHow did the midterm election affect abortion access?
The 2022 midterm elections determined the fate of abortion access in several states. Since the Supreme Court overruled federal protections to abortion access more than four months prior, it has been up to states to decide if the procedure is legal. In 2022, 18 states restrict access to abortion while 16 states protect access to the procedure in some capacity.
Mar 24, 2023What does the Nuclear Regulatory Commission do?
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is an independent executive branch responsible for regulating the use of radioactive materials for civilian purposes and ensuring public and environmental health and safety. It oversees the operation and waste management of nuclear power plants and other nuclear material uses (including medical and academic). It was established in 1974.
Updates annuallyFirearm background checks: Explained
The federal government sets gun control laws at the national level, but states and localities retain control over certain aspects of the purchase and ownership of firearms.Federal gun lawsThe Second Amendment guarantees Americans the right to bear arms while the Gun Control Act of 1968 provides federal regulation over firearm possession.Under the act, citizens and US residents must be 18 years or older to purchase shotguns, rifles, or ammunition. All other firearms — such as handguns — can only be sold to individuals 21 or older. Buying semi-automatic weapons is legal in most states.The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), a division of the Justice Department, is responsible for administering the Gun Control Act. The ATF also regulates standards for issuing licenses to gun sellers.State and local gun lawsState and local officials can implement higher age restrictions on gun ownership but cannot implement lower age restrictions on gun ownership. “Right to carry” laws that determine whether a person can carry guns in public are decided by state and local governments.
May 14, 2023Which states need to improve their drinking water systems?
What is the infrastructure of the United States? There are highly visible components, like bridges, roads, ports, railroads, or even electrical grids. But Americans interact with one essential component on a daily basis, and it’s in critical condition: the ability to access, consume, and use clean water.According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the cost of installing new drinking water infrastructure and rehabilitating, expanding, or replacing existing infrastructure over the next 20 years will total $625 billion — an increase of 32% from four years ago.How the federal government assesses drinking water infrastructureEvery four years, the EPA conducts the Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment (DWINSA). This report is used to update the infrastructure needs that are “necessary over the next 20 years for water systems to continue to provide safe drinking water to the public.”What does the latest assessment say?The financial need for drinking water infrastructure is on the rise. More than two-thirds of the $625 billion in estimated improvements is needed to distribute and transmit drinking water to homes.
Sep 14, 2023How is the middle class changing?
The middle class is one of the most talked about groups in the US. Politicians across the political spectrum bring up the middle class often when discussing potential legislation or when trying to persuade voters. But even aside from the claims made on the campaign trail, the American middle class has changed in some key ways since 2000.Since then, the middle class is older, and less likely to be married. Those in the middle class are working less and earning less money. And government programs are playing a larger role in the economic well being of those in the middle 20% of the US.
Oct 20, 2022What is the debt ceiling and why does it matter?
The debt limit, or debt ceiling, is a restriction on how much the federal government can borrow to pay its bills and allocate funds for future investments. When Congress appropriates or directs government money to be spent, the government is obligated to pay those funds, creating a bill it must pay.This bill, also known as the national debt, is the amount of money the federal government has already borrowed to cover outstanding expenses in past fiscal years. The national debt is composed of debt held by the public in the form of government securities and intragovernmental debt, debt which one part of the federal government owes to another.The debt ceiling is currently set at $31.46 trillion.
May 2, 2023What does the Bureau of Economic Analysis do?
The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Commerce responsible for providing important economic statistics including the gross domestic product (GDP) of the United States. The agency collects and analyzes data on economic performance, trade, and industry, which helps inform public policy and business decisions. It was established in 1972.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education do?
The Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education (OCTAE) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for administering and overseeing programs that prepare individuals for postsecondary education and the workforce. OCTAE focuses on improving career and technical education, adult education, and literacy, ensuring that all students and adults have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a global economy. It was established in 1966.
Updates annuallyHow much does the government spend on getting kids to school?
More than half of all students in the US use private transportation to get to school each day. And it’s not always the traditional yellow bus either.The cost of school transportation is on the rise, whether it’s a bus or not.Over the past 50 years, school transportation costs have more than doubled after adjusting for inflation. More recently, the average cost per student for transportation rose 27% from 2008 to 2018.Transportation costs added up to 3.5% of all K-12 expenditures in the 2017-2018 school year. The COVID-19 pandemic likely impacted these costs, but that data is not yet available.How do kids travel to school?Of the 50 million students ages 5 to 17 who traveled to school, 54.2% took a private vehicle, 33.2% took a school bus, and 10.4% walked, according to at 2017 National Household Travel survey — the most recent one available
Mar 1, 2022What is walkability? What does the government spend on it?
Walkability is often an intuitive concept. If cities, small towns, or neighborhoods are built with activity-friendly routes that connect people to everyday destinations, that’s a “walkable” community. This is typically a local government issue, but the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act allocated $6.1 billion for walkable communities.What is walkability and why does it matter?The National Highway Transportation Safety Board encourages people to assess the walkability of their neighborhoods through a self-assessment checklist. Questions include:Did you have room to walk?Was it easy to cross streets?Did drivers behave well?Was your walk pleasant?The Environmental Protection Agency’s National Walkability Index provides an additional framework. It scores places from most to least walkable based on the density of intersecting streets, a mix of occupied housing and businesses, and proximity to transit stops. By these metrics, cities tend to be more walkable than rural or suburban places.
Jun 18, 2024How much money do states spend on education?
The 2015 Every Student Succeeds Act required states to publish school-level per-pupil expenditure data every fiscal year. Preliminary Census Bureau data for 41 states and Washington, DC, shows a range of expenditures, from $9,670 to $27,504 per public school student in federal fiscal year 2022.How much do states spend on education per student?Among the 41 states with reported data, New York schools led the nation in per-pupil spending in 2021 and 2022, spending $26,571 in 2021 and $27,504 in 2022. Idaho spent the least, with $9,053 in 2021 and $9,670 in 2022, respectively.This data will be updated to include all states in spring 2024.
Dec 20, 2023Are US earthquakes becoming more costly?
Damages from earthquakes in the US have nearly doubled in the last five years, according to the latest data from the federal government.A 2023 report from the US Geological Survey (USGS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimates that damages from earthquakes total around $14.7 billion per year, up from the inflation-adjusted 2017 estimate of $7.5 million. The report attributes the rise to increased exposure as more people move to earthquake-prone areas and more is invested in infrastructure in those areas.Where are earthquake damages highest?Nearly two-thirds of the nation’s estimated annual losses — $9.6 billion — hit California, with another $1.2 billion in Washington and $745 million in Oregon. Aside from the Pacific Coast, damages are highest in Utah ($367 million) and Puerto Rico ($327 million).
May 30, 2024How have abortion laws changed since the Dobbs ruling?
On June 24, 2022 — the day the court issued its ruling to overturn Roe V. Wade—at least eight states carried out total or near-total abortion bans.With no constitutional right to an abortion, there were no restrictions on how individual states could regulate the procedure.Since the Dobbs ruling, state abortion laws have changed in several ways.Older laws on the books banning abortion went into effect. States with laws set to ban abortion in the case of Roe being overturned went into effect. And other states passed new laws prohibiting the practice.In Michigan, voters will decide in November on whether to amend the state’s constitution to include a right to an abortion. In Kansas, voters decided in early August against a proposed constitutional amendment removing abortion right protections. Some states passed abortion bans prior to Roe V. Wade being overturned. Abortion bans in Texas, Oklahoma, Wisconsin and Alabama have gone into effect since the ruling.
Oct 13, 2022How many rape kits are awaiting testing in the US? See the data by state.
In 2022, at least 25,000 untested rape kits sat in law enforcement agencies and crime labs across the country. This figure only accounts for data reported by 30 states and Washington, DC; the total backlog number is unknown.Untested rape kits can have significant consequences for both the criminal justice system and sexual assault survivors. Not only can rape kit testing provide crucial evidence that helps identify perpetrators and bring them to justice, it also can connect perpetrators to other assaults. Failing to test kits in a timely manner can mean missed opportunities to identify serial offenders and prevent further victimization.The failure to submit rape kits for lab testing in numerous jurisdictions has decreased community trust in law enforcement. Survivors from Houston in 2020 to Memphis in 2023 have filed class action lawsuits against city officials for their rape kit backlogs, asserting that timely testing of rape kits could have prevented their own or others’ sexual assaults.
Jul 3, 2023What is infrastructure and what does the government have to do with it?
The federal government has a long history of investing in infrastructure, dating at least as far back as 1806 when Congress authorized the construction of the National Road, the first highway built entirely with federal money.In the centuries since, federal, state, and local governments have spent trillions of dollars on the networks and facilities necessary to help the country function. There is no agreed-upon definition of infrastructure, but broadly it refers to facilities, structures, and utilities intended for long-term use.Democratic and Republican presidents have called for further investment in transportation infrastructure, including bridges, highways, and railways. Energy — including power plants and electric grids — is also considered infrastructure.Other categories of investment that may fall under infrastructure include drinking water systems, wastewater systems, broadband access, and buildings like schools.
May 12, 2021Where do people pay the most and least in sales tax?
The last time you picked up groceries or bought new clothes, you probably had to pay a sales tax. General sales taxes, which apply to most goods and services, are one of the biggest sources of tax revenue for state and local governments. These sales taxes made up 32.2% of state and local government tax revenue in 2020.To understand how these and other taxes impact Americans, USAFacts examined tax burdens across the country, looking at the proportion of a person’s income that is paid in taxes. Tax burdens can be measured in two ways: as a percentage of personal income, which is calculated by dividing the per capita tax revenue by the per capita annual income for each state, and as the per-person tax revenue.(There are also selective sales taxes, which target specific items like alcohol, tobacco, and gasoline. Learn more about how much Americans spend on alcohol and tobacco taxes here.)
Jun 5, 2023What does the Peace Corps do?
The Peace Corps (PC) is an independent federal agency responsible for sending trained American volunteers abroad to support community-led projects in areas such as education, health, agriculture, and economic development. It also fosters cross-cultural understanding between Americans and the communities they serve. It was established in 1961.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Department of Energy do?
The Department of Energy (DOE) is an executive branch agency responsible for overseeing national energy policy and managing the country’s nuclear infrastructure. Its functions include advancing energy research and innovation, promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy, regulating the production and distribution of electricity and fossil fuels, and ensuring the security of the US nuclear weapons stockpile. It was established in 1977.
Updates annuallyWhat does NASA do?
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for the nation’s civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and aerospace research. NASA conducts scientific research to understand Earth and space, develops and tests new aerospace technologies, and conducts human space exploration missions. It operates the International Space Station in partnership with other nations and is advancing plans to return humans to the Moon and explore Mars. It was established in 1958.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service do?
The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) is an independent federal agency responsible for helping resolve disputes between employers and employees in both the public and private sectors. It provides mediation during labor negotiations, offers training to improve labor-management relationships, and supports conflict resolution in workplaces and communities. It was established in 1947.
Updates annuallyWhat is the money supply, and how does it relate to inflation?
Inflation rose 9.1% from June 2021 to June 2022, the biggest increase in 40 years. To combat inflation’s rise, the Federal Reserve (also known as "The Fed") raised interest rates three times this year. Raising interest rates combats inflation in a few ways. One way is by reducing the money supply in the economy.But what is money supply? And how can it potentially lower inflation?What is the money supply?Broadly, the money supply is the total amount of money circulating through the economy. For example, cash, coins, and bank accounts are all part of the country’s money supply.The Federal Reserve defines it more specifically as a group of safe assets that households and businesses can use to make payments or to hold as short-term investments.Economists commonly use two measures for the money supply, known as M1 and M2. M1 includes very liquid assets, such as cash and checking deposits. M2 is more broad. It also includes savings deposits, money market securities, and other assets. The main distinction between M1 and M2 is how easy it is to access and use these assets. While M2 assets can easily be converted into cash, it takes a bit more effort than items included in M1.
Sep 29, 2022What does the Federal Bureau of Investigation do?
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is a subdivision of the US Department of Justice responsible for investigating and enforcing federal laws, protecting and defending the United States against terrorist and foreign intelligence threats, upholding and enforcing the criminal laws of the United States, and providing leadership and criminal justice services to federal, state, municipal, and international partners. The FBI also focuses on cybercrime, public corruption, civil rights violations, and other major crimes. It was established in 1908.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Census Bureau do?
The Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau) is a subdivision of the US Department of Commerce responsible for collecting and analyzing data about the population and economy of the United States. The agency conducts the decennial census, which provides data for government representation, allocation of federal funds, and policy making. It also conducts numerous other surveys on topics such as housing, business, and demographics. It was established in 1902.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education do?
The Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for promoting academic excellence and ensuring equal access to education for all students in elementary and secondary schools. The office administers programs that support state and local education agencies, focusing on improving student achievement, providing resources for disadvantaged students, and enhancing teacher quality. It also oversees initiatives aimed at closing achievement gaps and fostering safe and supportive learning environments. It was established in 1980.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Aviation Administration do?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Transportation responsible for regulating and overseeing all aspects of civil aviation in the United States. The agency's primary mission is to ensure the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system. It sets and enforces regulations for aircraft manufacturing and operation, certifies airmen and airports, and manages air traffic control. The FAA also conducts research to improve aviation safety and efficiency, and collaborates with international aviation authorities. It was established in 1958, originally called the Federal Aviation Agency.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency do?
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Homeland Security responsible for protecting the nation's critical infrastructure from physical and cyber threats. The agency works to enhance the security, resilience, and reliability of the nation's cyber and physical infrastructure through partnerships, information sharing, and risk management. It also provides resources, tools, and support to help organizations and individuals safeguard their systems and respond to incidents. It was established in 2018.
Updates annuallyHow a US-China trade war might impact individual states
The tariff battle between the United States and China is set to impact hundreds of billions of dollars in trade between the two countries. That impact will vary at the state level, as each state has a different trading relationship with China.In July 2019, President Trump called for 25-percent tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods after trade talks between the United States and China stalled. In response, China called for an increase in tariffs on $60 billion worth of American imports.In 2018, the United States had its largest trade imbalance ever with China. The United States imported $539.5 billion in goods from China, $419.2 billion more than the $120.3 billion it exported to China, according to figures from the U.S. Census BureauCalifornia had the biggest trade imbalance among states with China, taking in $144.8 billion more in imports than exports. In terms of proportion, Arkansas had the worst imbalance, importing more than 16 times more goods from China than were exported to China. (Washington, DC had a ratio of 82 times more Chinese imports than exports.)
Oct 5, 2023Why does USAFacts use US government data?
When Steve Ballmer founded this site and initiative back in 2017, he was trying to solve a problem: Why was it so hard for Americans to get better visibility into how their own government works?A quick look around the internet revealed an even bigger problem. Not only was it difficult to find government data online, but it was also hard to make sense of what sources and data were credible or trustworthy enough to present that information accurately and objectively.As USAFacts, we want to make it easier for all Americans to get the facts on how our government works, how it collects revenue, how it spends it, and what that might mean for all of us. You can read more about our mission here.As part of our mission, these facts — and all of the articles and reporting on USAFacts — are built on data that is reported by the US government itself.
May 26, 2023What does the Federal Communications Commission do?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent federal agency responsible for regulating communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable across the United States. It oversees competition and innovation in the communications industry, manages the radio spectrum, and sets rules to support emerging technologies. The FCC also helps protect the nation’s communications infrastructure. It was established in 1934.
Updates annuallyWhat are the top US exports to China?
China and the United States have the two largest economies in the world by gross domestic product (GDP), according to 2021 Agriculture Department data. The two nations combined to make up over 42% of global GDP.Of the $2.1 trillion in global goods exports from the US in 2022, $154 billion — or 7.5% — was sent to China. Of that, $17.9 billion was from soybeans.What are the largest US goods exports overall?The nation’s top three global goods exports were fuel-related and comprised 16.9% of the overall merchandise value: non-crude oil, crude oil, and petroleum gases and other gaseous hydrocarbons. The next highest-value categories came from the transportation industry: over $94 billion in civilian aircrafts and aircraft parts and over $58 billion in cars and transport vehicles. The US also exported nearly $52 billion in electronic integrated circuits and microassembly parts used to manufacture electronic devices.
Dec 13, 2023Right to carry gun laws: Explained
The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution provides the right to bear arms, but gun owners must still abide by laws regulating that right. State laws can cover whether — and how — a person may carry their firearms in public, whether they may bring their guns across state lines, and the conditions under which their firearms may be confiscated by law enforcement due to public safety concerns. Prospective gun owners may also be affected by regulations regarding the newer category of “ghost guns.”
Apr 4, 2023How many US children receive a free or reduced-price school lunch?
In federal fiscal year 2022, 30.1 million students — over 60% of all public school students — received a free or reduced-price lunch through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).In fiscal year 2021, the number of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch dropped to 11 million due to school closures during by the pandemic. Despite this, the percentage of all students getting meals through the program rose over the past four years. In FY 2022, 94.8% of all National School Lunch Program (NSLP) students received a free lunch, up 26.4 percentage points from fiscal year 2019. This increase is partly attributed to a pandemic waiver that allowed all students to receive free meals.
Oct 26, 2023What is the Securities and Exchange Commission and what does it do?
The Securities and Exchange Commission (or SEC) is the US government agency that oversees the trading of stocks and bonds and other investment products known as securities to maintain fair markets and prevent fraudulent dealing. The agency is responsible for identifying and investigating criminal activity in the securities industry.What is a security?The SEC governs the securities industry. Securities are tradeable financial assets used to raise capital. They include a variety of financial products, but the main categories are:StocksBondsMutual funds and exchange-traded fundsInsurance products like annuitiesWhat is an exchange?The markets where these trades happen are known as securities exchanges. National securities exchanges include major global organizations like the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq Stock Market, as well as smaller exchanges like the Miami International Securities Exchange and the Chicago Board Options Exchange. These markets are all subject to federal securities laws, which have been established over time to regulate their activities.
Jan 17, 2024How much money do federal employees make?
Civilian federal government employees earn average salaries ranging from $15,278 to $269,735, depending on their occupation. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM), which collects data on federal employee salaries, primarily accounts for civilian federal employees in the executive branch.Which federal employees have the highest salaries?Medical officers have the highest average salaries at $269,735 per year, followed by securities compliance examiners ($210,689), dental officers ($202,333), administrative law judges ($192,546), and ship pilots ($183,500).Three of the 15 highest-paying jobs in the federal government are in the medical field, and three involve working on patents. The OPM categorizes 12 of the top-paying jobs as “white-collar” and three as “blue-collar.”
Nov 28, 2023What is a defense contract?
In Fiscal Year 2020, the Department of Defense (DOD) spent about $439 billion on contracts, more than 60% of its spending for the year. It accounts for about two-thirds of all government contracts.But for the last 30 years, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has criticized the department’s handling of those contracts. The GAO has pointed out the department is improperly using contractors for essential government work. It has also admonished the DOD for insufficient oversight into whether companies receiving government contracts are based in the US or not.
Mar 17, 2023What does the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration do?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Transportation responsible for ensuring the safety of motor vehicles and road users. The agency sets and enforces safety performance standards for motor vehicles and equipment, conducts research on driver behavior and traffic safety, and provides grants to state and local governments to improve highway safety. It also oversees the recall of vehicles and equipment that pose safety risks. It was established in 1970.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Occupational Safety and Health Administration do?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Labor responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance. OSHA's mission is to prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths by issuing and enforcing rules (called standards) for workplace safety and health. It was established in 1970.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Food and Nutrition Service do?
The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Agriculture responsible for administering the nation’s domestic nutrition assistance programs. These programs include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the National School Lunch Program, and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The agency aims to provide children and low-income individuals access to food, a healthful diet, and nutrition education. It was established in 1969.
Updates annuallyWhat does the International Trade Administration do?
The International Trade Administration (ITA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Commerce responsible for promoting international trade, strengthening the competitiveness of US industry, and ensuring fair trade through rigorous enforcement of trade laws and agreements. The ITA provides data, tools, and resources to help American businesses navigate the complexities of international markets, advocates for US commercial interests abroad, and works to remove trade barriers. It was established in 1980.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Bureau of the Fiscal Service do?
The Bureau of the Fiscal Service (BFS, Fiscal Service) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Treasury responsible for managing the government's accounting, central payment systems, and public debt. The agency ensures the effective and efficient management of federal finances by providing accurate and timely financial information, promoting the use of electronic financial services, and overseeing the issuance of government securities. It was established in 2012.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity do?
The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for enforcing federal laws that prohibit discrimination in housing. The agency ensures equal access to housing and promotes inclusive communities through the administration of fair housing laws, public education, and outreach. It also investigates complaints of housing discrimination and works to eliminate discriminatory practices. It was established in 1968.
Updates annuallyHow much did NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope cost?
On July 12, NASA released images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope. The telescope, which was launched in late 2021, is currently in orbit about one million miles away from Earth.Total spending on the project eclipsed $10 billion through the 2021 fiscal year, close to 10 times the original cost estimate from NASA.The initially released images include views of a dying star, the formation of a new star, a cluster of five galaxies, and the deepest infrared image of the universe to ever exist.
Jul 21, 2022How do voting laws differ by state?
For many of us, “voting” conjures an image of people going to a ballot box on Election Day, but the way voters submit ballots varies from state to state. Some have in-person voting, others have mail-in ballots. Some states allow early voting, and others have day-of voting only.The Constitution sets some election rules, including the date of the general election, restrictions on voting rights, and the prohibition of poll taxes. Congress can also pass laws to protect the right to vote, such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which prevents discriminatory practices like race-based voting restrictions, or the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, which allows overseas military personnel and other American citizens living abroad to vote. (These are two of six congressional voting laws.)But since because elections are typically administered by counties, relevant laws are also made at the state and local level, or passed by ballot initiatives and referendums.What are the voter registration methods and timelines in each state?Most states provide at least two of three registration options: online registration, mail-in registration, and in-person registration. The requirements and timelines for each vary by state. One state, North Dakota, doesn’t require voter registration at all.Nineteen states and Washington, DC, allow same-day in-person registration. Two of the nineteen — Hawaii and Vermont — allow same-day online registration as well. Vermont is also the only state that accepts mail-in registrations received by or on Election Day. The other 31 states require would-be voters to register anywhere from one to 30+ days in advance.
Apr 1, 2024What does the US Agency for Global Media do?
The United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) is an independent federal agency responsible for overseeing media networks that provide news and information in countries where press freedom is limited. It manages outlets such as Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Radio Free Asia, the Office of Cuba Broadcasting, the Middle East Broadcasting Networks, and the Open Technology Fund. These networks deliver accurate and independent reporting to global audiences. It was established in 1994.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Maritime Commission do?
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) is an independent federal agency responsible for regulating international ocean transportation involving the United States. It's mission is to ensure a competitive and fair shipping system, protects the public from deceptive practices, and oversee agreements and rates among ocean carriers and terminal operators. It was established in 1961.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Labor Relations Authority do?
The Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) is an independent federal agency responsible for managing labor relations between federal agencies and their employees (excluding the Postal Service). It resolves disputes between agencies and unions, enforces labor laws, and offers training and guidance on labor-management relations. It was established in 1978.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Science Foundation do?
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for supporting science and engineering nationwide for the purpose of scientific progress, advancement of national health and welfare, and national security. The agency fulfills this objective primarily through making grants, funding approximately 25% of all federally supported research conducted by US colleges and universities. It was established in 1950.
Updates annuallyWho funds the FAA? You, whenever you fly
The majority of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) budget comes from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund (AATF), established by the Treasury Department in 1970 to support American aviation infrastructure. It collects revenue by taxing domestic flight tickets, international arrivals and departures, air cargo, plane fuel, and travelers’ purchases in loyalty and frequent flier programs.Passenger taxes are applied at the time of ticket purchase. Domestic passenger tickets were taxed at 7.5% in 2023. Flights between the continental US and Hawaii or Alaska added another $10.60 per passenger. These taxes contribute to the FAA’s budget.
Feb 14, 2024What is the “tampon tax”?
About a quarter of the US population are women in the 15 to 49 age group. And while not everyone in the group needs menstrual products, it’s an essential part of life for many.Menstrual products are an unavoidable cost for those who need them. So anything that makes menstrual products cost more can place an additional burden on those with lower incomes.Congress and some state governments took action to alleviate some of those costs in recent years.Starting in 2020, the federal government considers menstrual products as a qualified medical expense. And since 2016, twenty-three states exempted these products from state sales taxes, eliminating the so-called “tampon-tax." The “tampon tax” refers to sales tax applied to tampons, pads, and other menstrual products. Five other states have no sales tax at all, so the products are naturally exempt.
Oct 18, 2022Ketanji Brown Jackson is the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court
Ketanji Brown Jackson is the first Black woman confirmed to the Supreme Court. She is the third Black Supreme Court justice after Thurgood Marshall in 1967 and her Supreme Court colleague Clarence Thomas in 1991. She is now the sixth woman ever to be on the nation’s highest court.Jackson’s confirmation is the latest in a continued shift in the demographics and attributes of federal judges, including Supreme Court justices.How diverse is the federal judiciary?The courts have historically been white and male. Although the courts have slowly become more diverse, about 71% of all current federal judges are white, non-Hispanics. By comparison white, non-Hispanics are about 58% of the US population.
Apr 6, 2022What does the US Fish and Wildlife Service do?
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for managing and conserving fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. The agency works to protect endangered species, enforce wildlife laws, manage migratory birds, restore nationally significant fisheries, and conserve and restore wildlife habitat such as wetlands. It also collaborates with federal, state, tribal, and local partners to promote wildlife conservation and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources. It was established in 1940.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Emergency Management Agency do?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for coordinating the federal government’s response to natural disasters, emergencies, and other large-scale incidents. The agency provides financial assistance, logistical support, and planning resources to help individuals, communities, and governments prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. It also works to strengthen nationwide emergency management capabilities through training, partnerships, and risk mitigation efforts. It was established in 1979.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services do?
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for administering the nation’s major healthcare programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The agency ensures that beneficiaries have access to high-quality healthcare services while also working to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery. It was established in 1965.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Internal Revenue Service do?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for administering and enforcing the nation’s tax laws. It processes tax returns, collects federal taxes, issues refunds, and ensures compliance through audits and enforcement actions. The agency also provides guidance and assistance to help individuals and businesses understand and meet their tax obligations. It was established in 1862.
Updates annuallyHow many military spouses are employed by the federal government?
The federal government employs over 16,000 military, veteran, and surviving spouses as of 2023, per the White House.There were over 578,000 spouses of active-duty service members in the US military as of 2022, according to the Department of Defense (DoD). About 7.2% of them were active duty military members themselves.What is the military spouse unemployment rate?The DoD's Survey of Active-Duty Spouses found that the unemployment rate among the civilian spouses of active-duty military members was 21% in 2021. This is nearly four times the overall unemployment rate of 5.3% that year.
Feb 9, 2024Dogs with jobs: data on canine employment in the government
Thousands of dogs work for the US government, detecting explosives or narcotics or working for a range of federal agencies in law enforcement and security.How many dogs work for the federal government?As of February 2022, about 5,600 dogs work for the federal government, according to the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Most of these dogs — 5,159 of them — work for the government, in 40 federal programs across eight departments and three independent agencies, while the other 421 are contractors, working with 24 contractor programs across eight departments and two independent agencies.Which agencies employ the most dogs?Most government-employed dogs work for the Department of Homeland Security (2,943), followed by the Department of Defense (1,808), the Department of State (204), and the Department of Agriculture (148).
Nov 2, 2023What is the US credit rating, and what does its downgrade mean?
On August 1, 2023, Fitch Ratings, one of the country’s three major credit rating agencies, announced that it had downgraded the US credit rating from AAA to AA+. Fitch had been reassessing the nation’s creditworthiness over the last two months, putting the US on negative watch in May 2023.In their risk assessment, Fitch cited the expected fiscal deterioration of the US government over the next three years, growing national debt, and the erosion in standards of governance over the last 20 years as reasons behind the downgrade.The Treasury Department strongly opposes this decision to downgrade the US credit rating.What is the US credit rating?The US credit rating refers to the assessment of the creditworthiness of the US government’s debt obligations assigned by credit rating agencies. The rating indicates the likelihood that the government will repay its debts in a timely manner.The rating system is expressed through letter grades; higher grades represent lower credit risk and better creditworthiness. However, this grading system varies depending on the credit rating agency’s preferred method.How is the US credit rating different from a consumer credit rating?The US credit rating is distinct from consumer credit ratings, which pertain to the creditworthiness and default risk of individuals.Consumer credit scores, which typically range from around 300 to 850, are based on an individual’s credit history, including their past borrowing, repayment behavior, outstanding debt, and other metrics calculated by credit bureaus.While both ratings aim to assess creditworthiness and have financial implications for lenders, investors, and consumers, they are separate in their focus and scope. The US credit rating system is more appropriate for macroeconomic indicators, while consumer credit ratings only apply to specific individuals’ financial situations.What does the US credit downgrade mean for the economy?The US credit rating score, and its recent downgrade, can reflect the fiscal stability of the government.The US credit rating could potentially impact interest rates for government securities, which global investors consider a safe-haven asset. Following the first downgrade of the US credit rating in 2011 by Standard and Poor (S&P), interest rates for US securities dropped. Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen has disapproved of Fitch’s decision, calling it “arbitrary and based on outdated data.” Yellen also cited the country’s low unemployment rates, slowing inflation, and commitment towards deficit reduction as proof that “Treasury securities remain the world’s preeminent safe and liquid asset, and that the American economy is fundamentally strong.”
Aug 14, 2023How much money does the government spend per person?
The federal government spent $6.48 trillion in 2022, down $920 billion from the previous year after adjusting for inflation.Spending per person totaled $19,434 per person, a 13% decrease from 2021. Expenditures were distributed across several major categories, with the largest going toward grants to state and local governments at $3,707 per person on average, and Social Security at $3,657 per person on average.Using data from the State of the Union in Numbers, this chart visualizes how federal spending has grown over the past 40 years.
Mar 28, 2023What does the Environmental Protection Agency do?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for safeguarding human health and protecting the environment by ensuring that people in the US have access to clean air, land, and water. Its functions include developing and enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress, providing grants to support environmental programs and projects, researches environmental issues, and fostering partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, and state and local governments. It was established in 1970.
Updates annuallyHow does the government support people with Section 8 housing?
Thirty-eight million people in America were living in poverty in 2022. To reduce the risk of homelessness for millions, the federal government provides financial support for people whose incomes are below a certain threshold. Just over nine million people receive housing subsidies through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Section 8 program.
Nov 3, 2023These states received most of the $350 billion in CARES Act small business loans
The Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that as of April 16, 1.66 million loans had been approved through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) put in place by the CARES Act. Intended for businesses to cover payroll costs without paying the government back for a large portion, the loans were worth $342 billion. According to SBA leadership, the agency processed more than 14 years' worth of loans in less than 14 days.The SBA ran out of the $350 billion allotted for the program just 13 days after its establishment. As the PPP reopens with an additional $321 billion funding from Congress, here's a look at where the original $350 billion allocated by the CARES Act went.Which states received the most in SBA Loans?
Sep 23, 2020Here’s how the number of Black Americans in Congress has tripled over 30 years
The current meeting of Congress is one of the most racially diverse in history. About 11% of congressional members identify as Black. A quarter of members from the 118th Congress identify as something other than non-Hispanic white, according to the most recent data from the Congressional Research Service.Congress is a ways away from 1870, when Rep. Hiram Rhodes Revel of Mississippi was elected to serve as the first Black person in Congress. Revels filled an empty Senate seat and only served a year. It was decades until Black representation really started to grow.Here’s the current state of Black Americans in Congress and what it took to get there.
Mar 22, 2023What does the Department of Commerce do?
The Department of Commerce (DOC) is an executive branch agency responsible for supporting economic growth within the US. Its functions include promoting job creation, sustainable business development, and ensuring economic competitiveness. It was established in 1903.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Department of Housing and Urban Development do?
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is an executive branch agency responsible for national housing policy and community development. Its functions include providing affordable housing assistance, enforcing fair housing laws, supporting homeownership programs, and administering grants for urban development and disaster recovery. It was established in 1965.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Mediation Board do?
The National Mediation Board (NMB) is an independent federal agency responsible for managing labor relations in the railroad and airline industries. It mediates contract negotiations, resolves labor disputes, and conducts union representation elections to help prevent work stoppages and maintain uninterrupted transportation services. It was established in 1934 under the Railway Labor Act.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Administrative Conference of the United States do?
The Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS) is an independent federal agency established in 1964 by the Administrative Conference Act. The agency evaluates and makes recommendations to improve the administrative processes of government agencies. To do this, ACUS conducts research studies and provides recommendations to promote efficiency, participation, and fairness in the implementation of federal programs. ACUS publishes reference guides and resources, and organizes forums and roundtables to disseminate their findings and recommendations.
Updates annuallyUSAFacts presents its first-ever policy recommendations to Congress to enhance public data infrastructure
During the pandemic, the public needed actional public data — but couldn’t find it. The urgent need for granular, real-time metrics for decision-making demonstrated major pain points in government data. In a time of crisis, private actors including USAFacts had to step in to collect metrics where the federal government couldn’t, aggregating data for local public health authorities to guide public policy.Local data should easily flow up to the federal agencies to be provided to Congress in a timely manner to inform policymaking. Unfortunately, this was not the case. USAFacts has hit the same data issues as Congress — and proposes fixesUSAFacts was born out of the idea that the public deserves to be able to quickly find and use government data, particularly institutions working towards the common good. In September 2023, USAFacts published its first-ever data report for Congress.We interviewed 48 congressional staff to understand topics of interest to congressional offices to structure the report. These interviews spanned both the House of Representatives and the Senate and included Republican and Democratic offices. The report is a starting point for members of Congress and their staff to use in debates on policy.
Oct 20, 2023How are public schools funded?
Public schools in the US serve about 49.5 million students from pre-K to 12th grade. But how does it all get funded?It's primarily a combination of funding from local and state governments, along with a smaller percentage from the federal government. Here's a breakdown.Where does school funding come from?In the 2019-2020 school year, 47.5% of funding came from state governments, 44.9% came from local governments, and the federal government provided about 7.6% of school funding.
Jul 21, 2023What does the Substance Abuse And Mental Health Services Administration do?
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Health and Human Services responsible for improving the quality and availability of treatment and rehabilitative services to reduce illness, death, disability, and the cost to society resulting from substance abuse and mental illnesses. SAMHSA leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation and works to improve the lives of individuals living with mental and substance use disorders and their families. It was established in 1992.
Updates annuallyHow do runoff elections work?
Some states hold runoff elections when no candidate in an election wins more than 50% of the votes. In those cases, the two candidates who received the most votes advance to another round of voting. Voters return to the polls to choose between the two, ensuring that the winner will have earned the majority of the votes.What states hold runoff elections?Runoff elections are commonly triggered by primaries in which partisan voters are choosing between more than two candidates to decide who will represent their parties in the general elections. As of 2024, nine states schedule runoffs for their congressional primaries: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, and Texas. Most states have pre-set dates for runoffs, usually two to eight weeks after the initial election.Most of these runoffs take place automatically on the scheduled dates if no candidate clears 50% in the primary election, but some states add specific wrinkles: In North Carolina a runoff only happens when the runner-up candidate in the original primary requests it and in South Dakota, runoffs are only required if no candidate receives 35% of the vote.
Feb 28, 2024What does the Inter-American Foundation do?
The Inter-American Foundation (IAF) is an independent federal agency responsible for supporting community-led development in Latin America and the Caribbean. It provides grants to local organizations to promote sustainable development, expand economic opportunities, and strengthen civil society. It was established in 1969.
Updates annuallyWhat is the economic value of the US space industry?
According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the American space economy is a $211.6 billion industry that’s grown over 17% between 2012 and 2021. When adjusted for inflation, the space economy grew 11.4% over that period.What are the largest industries in the space economy?Four main industries drive the space economy.
Feb 1, 2024Are Americans meeting federal dietary guidelines?
Since 1980, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have jointly published science-based dietary guidelines every five years to help Americans improve their health and reduce their risk of chronic diseases. The most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans report was published in 2020.How does the government measure what Americans eat?The USDA and HHS periodically conduct the What We Eat in America (WWEIA) survey as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The survey began in 2001 and is a two-day process: an in-person interview on the first day and a telephone interview on the second. Both interviews collect diet data, such as the types and estimated quantities of foods each participant eats over 24 hours.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also runs the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Established in 1984, BRFSS conducts telephone surveys to collect information about US residents’ health risks and chronic conditions. While the survey does not focus on food or nutrition, the findings often include diet-related information.Before WWEIA and other current data collection methods, the government measured American diets by conducting various food consumption studies and distributing nationwide questionnaires.What government data says about the American dietMost Americans fall short of meeting the Dietary Guidelines recommendations. Over 50% of Americans consume at or above the recommended amount of grains and proteins but don’t meet the recommendations for each subgroup within the grain and protein food groups.The NHANES survey also indicated that over 80% of Americans have diets too low in vegetables, fruit, and dairy. A 2019 CDC report stated that 12.3% of American adults met the suggested fruit intake, and 10% met vegetable consumption goals.Fruits and vegetable consumption by state/territoryAccording to the CDC, 39.9% of adults consumed fruit less than once daily in 2021. Puerto Rico had the nation’s highest percentage of fruit-deficient adults — 51.1% of its population ate fruit less than once daily — followed by Oklahoma (48.7%) and Louisiana (48.6%).Washington, DC, residents lead in eating fruits — two-thirds of residents ate fruit once a day or more — followed by people in Vermont at 34.4% and Maine at 35%.
Dec 7, 2023What was the Lend-Lease Act?
The United States enacted the Lend-Lease Act in March 1941 to support the Allied powers in World War II without directly entering the conflict. The Lend-Lease Act law enabled the US to send weapons, ammunition, food, and equipment to the Allied forces.In exchange, the Allied powers gave the United States long-term leases at military bases around the world and promised billions in future monies.Lend-Lease Act and World War IIAfter World War I, many in the United States were wary of becoming involved in another global conflict. This was known as isolationism, and this sentiment dominated much of 1930s American politics.However, as World War II broke out and the Nazis gained control of northern Europe and France, it seemed as though Britain was left to oppose Germany almost single handedly. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill approached President Franklin D. Roosevelt and asked for assistance.Roosevelt attempted to bridge the gap between isolationism and a desire to support Britain with the Lend-Lease Act. This act allowed the US to lend cash-strapped Britain military equipment rather than enter the conflict. The Lend-Lease Act was loosely modeled on the Destroyers for Bases Agreement, in which the US transferred 50 aging Navy destroyers to the British Royal Navy in 1940. In exchange, Britain gave the US 99-year leases to territory in Newfoundland and the Caribbean, which the US would use for military bases.What is the importance of the Lend-Lease Act?The Lend-Lease Act helped shape the outcome of World War II. By supporting the Allies in this way, the US helped prevent the Axis powers from gaining further ground and laid the foundation for post-war global security.
Mar 22, 2024Which states spend the most on healthcare?
Personal healthcare spending varies by state, ranging from approximately $7,522 to $14,007.Personal healthcare expenditures, which comprise the largest share of total national health expenditures, refer to spending on goods and services relating directly to patient care. According to the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC), this includes expenses for hospital care, physicians’ and dentists’ services, prescription drugs, eyeglasses, and nursing home care. Various actors, including private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and regular citizens, often combine to pay these expenses.California spent the most on healthcare in 2020 at $405.5 billion. The state paid nearly $135 billion more than New York, the next highest state, and over 63 times the amount spent by Wyoming, the state that spent the least. However, California ranked 23rd for healthcare spending per capita.Which states have high personal healthcare spending?California spent $405.5 billion or 12.1% of total spending on personal healthcare — funds spent directly on health services — in 2020, the latest year with available data on state-level healthcare spending. New York, Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania also ranked as top healthcare-spending states in 2020, with expenditures of $270.8 billion, $246.8 billion, $214.4 billion, and $148.3 billion, respectively. However, California, Texas, Florida, and New York were also the four most populous states in 2020.
Dec 21, 2023What does the Coast Guard do?
The US Coast Guard (USCG) is a subdivision of the US Department of Homeland Security responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and stewardship of the nation's waters. The agency conducts search and rescue operations, enforces maritime law, and protects the marine environment. It also supports national defense and responds to natural and man-made disasters. It was established in 1790.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of English Language Acquisition do?
The Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for providing national leadership to help ensure that English learners and immigrant students attain English proficiency and achieve academic success. The agency administers grant programs, conducts research, and provides resources and technical assistance to support high-quality education for English learners. It was established in 1974.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Transportation Security Administration do?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for ensuring the security of the traveling public in the United States. The agency oversees security operations at airports, including passenger screening and baggage inspection, and works to prevent and respond to threats against transportation systems. It also collaborates with other federal, state, and local agencies to ensure transportation security. It was established in 2001.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Transit Administration do?
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for providing financial and technical assistance to local public transit systems. The agency oversees safety measures, helps develop new transit technologies, and ensures that transit systems are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. It was established in 1964.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Secret Service do?
The US Secret Service (USSS) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for safeguarding the nation's financial infrastructure and payment systems, as well as protecting national leaders, visiting heads of state and government, designated sites, and National Special Security Events. The agency's dual mission includes investigating and preventing financial crimes such as counterfeiting, credit card fraud, and cybercrime, while also ensuring the security of the President, Vice President, their families, and other high-profile officials. It was established in 1865.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Federal Highway Administration do?
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for overseeing the construction, maintenance, and preservation of the nation's highways, bridges, and tunnels. The agency provides financial and technical assistance to state and local governments to ensure the safety and efficiency of the national highway system. It also develops policies and guidelines to promote innovation and sustainability in transportation infrastructure. It was established in 1966.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention do?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for protecting public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability. The agency conducts research, provides health information, and supports public health efforts to respond to health threats ranging from infectious diseases to chronic conditions. It also works with state and local partners to monitor health trends and promote health equity. It was established in 1946.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services do?
The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for improving results and outcomes for people with disabilities of all ages. OSERS provides a wide array of supports to parents and individuals, school districts, and states in three main areas: special education, vocational rehabilitation, and research. It was established in 1979.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Federal Student Aid do?
The Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Education responsible for providing financial assistance to students pursuing postsecondary education. The agency administers federal grants, loans, and work-study funds to help students cover the cost of college or career school. It also offers resources and guidance to help students and families navigate the financial aid process. It was established in 1965.
Updates annually