The Economic Policy Institute released two studies this week that shed light on how federal economic policies are affecting both the economy and the personal finances of Americans. One study, released on October 19th, is a book titled “Exceptional Returns: Economic, Fiscal, and Social Benefits of Investment in Early Childhood Development.” This study argues that increased investment in Early Childhood Development programs (ECD’s) will have financial payoffs for society in the future.

The House Judiciary Committee convened in mid-September to consider a constitutional amendment to balance the budget but failed to make headway on the proposal. When the committee met Sept. 22 to debate and vote on the measure, Democrats clearly demonstrated their opposition and offered several amendments, including one by John Conyers (D-MI) to exempt Social Security. The committee adjourned before voting on the amendment, and upon reconvening did not have a quorum, and thus could not complete the vote. There was brief speculation that the amendment would go straight to the House floor; however, it appears House Republicans have dropped their work on the amendment for now.