The Guide to the Federal Budget: Fiscal 2000

By Stanley E. Collender

Like most of those who have observed the constant fighting in Washington over the past three decades about how best to eliminate the federal deficit, one would assume that, once there was a surplus, the annual budget debate would be far easier, go much faster, and be far less confusing. However, assumptions are typically wrong. In The Guide for the Federal Budget, author Stanley E. Collender makes clear that despite the regular uncertainties of the nations budgetary needs and the first fiscal year with a surplus since 1969, the budget is an immense and understandable entity. Collender's ability to present the most complex and intricate budget process in the world into understandable and concise format is excellent. This book will serve as a resource to anyone trying to understand what goes into preparing the largest budget in the world.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 087078434X
• ISBN13: 9780870784347
• Release Date: March 1999
• Publisher: Century Foundation Press
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Good, but also get the budget poster!

Mr. Collender's book is good and well written. If you use this book in the classroom or teach the congressional or federal budget process, you should also look at the Congressional Operations Poster.One side of the poster covers the federal budget process, with a flowchart that is very useful when teaching about the federal or congressional budget process. (But don't take my word that the poster is useful - I have seen it hanging in federal agency offices in Washington, DC.) The publisher, TheCapitol.Net, has more information about the poster, and many useful links, on their web site: congressposter.com Best bet is to buy Mr. Collender's book and the Congressional Operations Poster.

The definitive guide to Federal budget issues.

When the media report that there are budget issues in Washington and that Congress and the President can't agree, Collender is the one to read to understand what is going on. He explains all the essential relevant economic, social, political, and legal factors that drive the Federal budget process and that result in the headlines that we see. Collender summarizes many complicated facts well, and uses clear language and illustrations to make his point. The annual versions are up to date and timely. This book comes out every year shortly after Collender presents his findings for the year in live briefings and seminars, where he uses state of the art presentation techniques. His entertaining and informative presentations transfer well to the paper medium. Unfortunately, you do have to buy it every year to keep up with developments in Washington. Things do change.