How to Revive Build Back Better
The most important parts of Biden’s stalled spending plan can still be salvaged. The key is making them simpler and more fiscally responsible.
Simplify, prioritize, and be clear about the cost.
Photographer: Alex Wong/Getty Images
The Democrats’ enormous tax and spending package, known as Build Back Better, has stalled in Congress with little hope of recovery in its present form. President Joe Biden said last week that he’d settle for enacting as much of it as possible. If the administration is willing to prioritize and apply sound fiscal policy, the result could be a better bill — or bills — with every chance of passing.
Although BBB identifies real problems and offers promising solutions, it’s expensive, complicated, and packed with budget gimmickry. A trimmed-down version, honestly accounted for, could improve on the original in crucial respects.