BHI State of the Household Survey

from NewsLink, Vol. 4, No. 2, Winter 2000

State of the Household Survey: Confidence in economy remains high

For the second consecutive year, BHI surveyed by mail a select group of Massachusetts fiscal conservatives for their opinions on a variety of economic and public policy issues affecting citizens in the Commonwealth.

This informal survey is part of BHI's ongoing State of the Household Project, which also includes scientific polling of Massachusetts residents. This year, BHI received more than 200 responses. The survey has a margin of error of ±7.

The Economy in `00: Three Perspectives

As we did last year, BHI asked respondents for their perceptions about the global, national and Massachusetts economies. Fifty-two percent (as opposed to 32% in 1999) believe the global economy will stay the same in 2000. This year, fewer respondents believe the global economy will take a downturn (14%) than in 1999 (38%).

Respondents are more optimistic about the national economy. As with last year, the majority think economic conditions will remain the same. And respondents this year believed conditions will improve over last year (36% as compared to 18% last year.)

There is continued optimism about the state's economy. Roughly the same number believe the good economic times will continue. This year, despite occasional forecasts about future slowdowns, a growing number of BHI respondents believe the economy will improve its stellar performance (34%).

Respondents were asked their opinions on ballot questions that are expected to appear on the November 2000 Massachusetts ballot. They indicate overwhelming support – 87% – for a proposed ballot question that would reduce the state's personal income tax rate to 5%. They also strongly support a ballot question that would offer a state tax deduction for charitable giving (81%). When asked if they agree with a ballot question that would enact universal health care coverage, more than 65% oppose the idea.

The Education Reform Act of 1993 received good grades. Fifty-six percent support a continuation of education reform at current levels beyond 2000. Meanwhile, respondents express support for the state's 39 charter schools. Twenty-one percent believe charter schools have strongly improved public education in Massachusetts; 35% believe they have improved quality moderately and 21% say they have improved quality slightly.

BHI also asked, “Do you favor or oppose redirecting funds from government to faith-based organizations that assist the poor?” Respondents have mixed opinions about this concept: 42% favor the idea while 35% oppose it. About 21% have no opinion.

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