Privatization of Governmental Services is a study sponsored by the League of Women Voters of the US and will be the topic of discussion/consensus at League of Women Voters meetings all over the United States.
Federal, state and local governments own extensive assets and are major employers. Governments often consider selling assets, and outsourcing some functions and services to the private sector, including “core” government services such as providing for the safety, security and general welfare (public well-being) of citizens, the economy, and our country. Privatization of these government assets, services, and functions has been occurring for decades at all levels of government. The consequences of “privatizing” a government service or function, in particular, may enhance the function or service. Alternatively, it may reduce or alter functions and services. Government revenues may be reduced or lost and jobs may be cut. In some instances, this may have a detrimental effect on the “common good” or public well-being.
The purpose of this study is to identify policies and parameters that should be considered when any governmental entity is planning to undertake some type of privatization process.
Substantive information about the study is available on the LWVUS website, http://www.lwv.org/member-resources/privatization.
Privatization of Governmental Services.website.doc