Reason Foundation
Search Reason
Privatization 
Recent Research and Commentary
Reason's Len Gilroy Talks TVA Privatization, Annual Privatization Report on Heartland Institute Podcast
May 23, 2013, 3:54pmEarlier this week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the Heartland Institute's Steve Stanek for an episode of their Heartland Daily Podcast, where we discussed President Obama's recent budget proposal to study a potential privatization of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).
How to Avoid Closing Washington State Parks
May 17, 2013, 1:57pmMany thanks to the Washington Policy Center for publishing my legislative memo today on how to avoid the closure of dozens of Washington State parks, as Gov. Inslee has proposed if his tax increase package fails to advance
Rethinking Washington State Parks: How to Avoid Governor Inslee’s Plan to Close 60 State Parks
Antiquated, top-down management model is unsustainable; private sector can play major role
May 17, 2013The century-old, top-down model of state parks operated and managed by state parks agencies is not sustainable and needs to be replaced by an approach in which the parks agency sets the mission for the parks system and then serves as a coordinator to arrange the right blend of public and private sector operators on a park-by-park basis.
Why is the CDC Being Anti-Science on State Liquor Privatization?
May 14, 2013, 2:26pmPolicymakers and citizens in the 17 "control" states like Pennsylvania should take the CDC's anti-privatization stance with a major grain of salt, as it rests on a dubious scientific foundation.
Louisiana Republicans Introduce Bills to Replicate Massachusetts's Pro-Union, Anti-Privatization “Pacheco Law”
May 9, 2013, 7:36pmMy latest column offers a critique of two bills introduced in the Louisiana legislature that are modeled after the Massachusetts "Pacheco Law," which is widely regarded as the most onerous and stringent anti-privatization law in the country.
Louisiana Republicans Introduce Bills to Replicate Massachusetts's Pro-Union, Anti-Privatization “Pacheco Law”
Bills would effectively shut down use of privatization, competitive contracting to lower costs of government
May 9, 2013Two proposed bills introduced in the Louisiana legislature raise serious barriers to fiscal responsibility, as the bills would effectively shut down the ability of the current and future governors to use the proven tool of competitive contracting to lower the costs of state government. Given the similarity to a 1993 law enacted in Massachusetts at the behest of government employee unions—and which has stymied privatization efforts in that state for two decades since—a more appropriate title for the proposed Louisiana bills would be the "Louisiana Government Employee Protection Act."
View Resources by Type
StudiesBlog PostsOp-EdsReason.comReason.tv
- Rethinking Washington State Parks: How to Avoid Governor Inslee’s Plan to Close 60 State Parks
Antiquated, top-down management model is unsustainable; private sector can play major role
Leonard Gilroy
May 17, 2013 - Louisiana Republicans Introduce Bills to Replicate Massachusetts's Pro-Union, Anti-Privatization “Pacheco Law”
Bills would effectively shut down use of privatization, competitive contracting to lower costs of government
Leonard Gilroy
May 9, 2013 - Are Federal Contractors Immune from Tort Suits Just Because the Government Is?
Reviewing recent developments in government contractor immunity
Alexander Volokh
May 9, 2013 - Building Jacksonville’s Public-Private Partnership Program to Drive Efficiency, Quality of Life
Interview with Renée Finley, Commissioner of Public-Private Partnerships, City of Jacksonville, Florida
Leonard Gilroy
May 7, 2013 - City of Austin Releases Surprising Outsourcing Study
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Georgia Contract Cities Continue to Evolve
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Finding New Ways to Provide Parks and Recreation Amenities
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Water and Wastewater Privatization Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Solid Waste Collection Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Non-Profit Partnerships for Animal Shelters Grow
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - ANALYSIS: Is Managed Competition Dead in San Diego?
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Adam Summers
May 6, 2013 - ANALYSIS: San Diego, San Jose Lead the Way in Local Pension Reform
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Adam Summers
May 6, 2013 - ANALYSIS: Despite Glossy Reports, Muni Broadband is Still a Net Money Loser
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Steven Titch
May 6, 2013 - 2012 Corrections Privatization Overview
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Criminal Justice and Corrections
Leonard Gilroy
May 6, 2013 - Local Government Privatization News and Notes
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - State and International Corrections Privatization Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Criminal Justice and Corrections
Leonard Gilroy and Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Public-Private Partnerships for Parking Assets
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - State and Local Correctional Healthcare Privatization Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Criminal Justice and Corrections
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Colorado, Washington State Vote to Tax and Regulate Recreational Marijuana for Adults
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Criminal Justice and Corrections
Harris Kenny and Andrew Livingston
May 6, 2013 - Recent Developments in the Federal Civil-Rights Liability of Federal Private Prisons
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Criminal Justice and Corrections
Alexander Volokh
May 6, 2013 - Mayor Rahm Emanuel Establishes Chicago Infrastructure Trust
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Yonkers, New York Pursuing Innovative School Partnership Approach
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Local Government Privatization
Harris Kenny
May 6, 2013 - Time For the Tennessee Valley Authority to Go Private
Privatization makes sense. The hard part is working out exactly how to do it.
Steve Esposito
April 29, 2013 - 2012 School Choice Roundup In the States
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Education
Katie Furtick
April 29, 2013 - School Choice Performance in 2012
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Education
Katie Furtick and Lisa Snell
April 29, 2013 - Charter School Market Share for 2012
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Education
Katie Furtick
April 29, 2013 - Charter Schools Nationally Recognized in 2012
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Education
Katie Furtick
April 29, 2013 - Public Opinion of School Choice in 2012
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Education
Katie Furtick
April 29, 2013 - High-Achieving Charter Schools Serve Diverse Demands of Their Communities
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Education
Katie Furtick
April 29, 2013 - Weighted Student Formula in the States
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Education
Lisa Snell
April 29, 2013 - The Emergence of Social Impact Bonds: Paying for Success in Social Service Innovation
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Leonard Gilroy
April 22, 2013 - California Pioneers Public-Private Partnerships for Private Operation of State Parks
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Leonard Gilroy
April 22, 2013 - Social Infrastructure Public-Private Partnerships Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Leonard Gilroy
April 22, 2013 - Higher Education Public-Private Partnerships Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Leonard Gilroy
April 22, 2013 - State Budget Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Leonard Gilroy
April 22, 2013 - State Liquor Privatization Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Leonard Gilroy
April 22, 2013 - Privatization of State Lottery Management
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Leonard Gilroy
April 22, 2013 - Child Welfare Privatization Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Lisa Snell
April 22, 2013 - State Privatization News and Notes
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: State Government Privatization
Leonard Gilroy
April 22, 2013 - BCFC Outlines $795 Billion in Federal Budget Savings
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Federal Government Privatization
Adam Summers
April 15, 2013 - Space Privatization Update
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Federal Government Privatization
Adam Summers
April 15, 2013 - Congress Takes on Postal Service Reform—Again
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Federal Government Privatization
Adam Summers
April 15, 2013 - ANALYSIS: Google, Facebook, Antitrust and the “Public Good”
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Federal Government Privatization
Steven Titch
April 15, 2013 - ANALYSIS: Private Sector is Best-Positioned to Lead Cybersecurity Policy
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Federal Government Privatization
Steven Titch
April 15, 2013 - ANALYSIS: Privatization of Financial Regulation is Not Impossible
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Federal Government Privatization
Anthony Randazzo and Victor Nava
April 15, 2013 - Federal Reauthorization—MAP-21
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Surface Transportation
Robert Poole
April 8, 2013 - State PPP Enabling Legislation
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Surface Transportation
Robert Poole
April 8, 2013 - Transportation Infrastructure Finance 2012
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Surface Transportation
Robert Poole
April 8, 2013 - Private Activity Bonds
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Surface Transportation
Robert Poole
April 8, 2013 - Major PPP Highway Projects
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Surface Transportation
Robert Poole
April 8, 2013 - Leasing Existing Toll Roads
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Surface Transportation
Robert Poole
April 8, 2013 - Managed Lanes and Networks
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Surface Transportation
Robert Poole
April 8, 2013 - Supreme Court Clarifies Standards for Qualified Immunity in Civil Rights Cases -- Or Does It?
Despite Filarsky ruling, qualified immunity in the privatization context will likely remain confusing
Alexander Volokh
April 5, 2013 - U.S. Airport Security
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Air Transportation
Robert Poole
April 1, 2013 - Airport Privatization
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Air Transportation
Robert Poole
April 1, 2013 - Air Traffic Control
Subsection of Annual Privatization Report 2013: Air Transportation
Robert Poole
April 1, 2013 - What a Recent Labor-Relations Decision Teaches Us About the Meaning of “Public” and “Private”
Alexander Volokh
March 21, 2013 - Supreme Court Antitrust Ruling Supports Public-Private Neutrality, Reduces Barriers to Privatization
Alexander Volokh
February 21, 2013 - Base California's Budget on Performance, Not Politics
To Gov. Brown, it's more responsible for the state government to just keep spending money on autopilot without wasting time measuring effectiveness or reviewing results
Leonard Gilroy
January 29, 2013 - ‘Yellow Pages Test’ Would Ease State, Local Budget Pains
Innovative governments applying competition to service delivery, public assets
John Palatiello and Leonard Gilroy
December 31, 2012 - Privatizing Lottery Management in Pennsylvania
Interview with Pete Tartline, Executive Deputy Secretary of the Budget, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Leonard Gilroy
December 20, 2012 - California, Los Angeles Drowning in a Sea of Taxes, Regulation, and Debt
Public Knows Burdensome Regulations Are Sending Jobs to Other Cities and States
Adam Summers
December 3, 2012 - Delivering Florida's 21st Century Transportation System Through Tolling, Managed Lanes and Public-Private Partnerships
Interview with Ananth Prasad, Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation
Leonard Gilroy
November 21, 2012 - A Public-Private Partnership Could Help the ABQ BioPark Zoo
Finding Ways to Address Budget Deficits and Deferred Maintenance
Katie Furtick and Harris Kenny
November 19, 2012 - Addressing Ohio's Transportation Funding Challenges Through Streamlining, Public-Private Partnerships
Interview with Jerry Wray, Director, Ohio Department of Transportation
Leonard Gilroy
November 13, 2012 - Learning to Trust the Private Sector
Contracting out helps to build the case for a larger private sector role in public service delivery
Leonard Gilroy
October 26, 2012 - The Value of the Contract Model
Incremental privatization can offer a proof of concept that works to break down societal conceptions of “traditional” government
Leonard Gilroy
October 18, 2012 - Correctional Privatization Improving Outcomes in Florida
Letter to the Editor Submitted to The Palm Beach Post
Harris Kenny
October 9, 2012 - The Incremental Approach to Privatization
Incremental advances help build the case for longer-term privatization
Leonard Gilroy
October 3, 2012 - 21st Century Schools Require 21st Century Finance
Policymakers can improve - if not reinvent - the American education system.
Harris Kenny and Leonard Gilroy
September 28, 2012 - Implementing Managed Lanes in Minneapolis-St. Paul
Brad Larsen, MnPASS Policy Manager at the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Discusses Successfully Adopting Managed Lanes
Baruch Feigenbaum
September 10, 2012 - To Avoid Massive Tax Hikes, Privatize State Lotteries
An innovative new lottery privatization model is emerging.
Leonard Gilroy and Harris Kenny
August 30, 2012 - Making Phoenix a 24-Hour City: Privatizing City Permitting to Cut Red Tape and Drive Economic Development
Interview with Phoenix City Councilman Sal DiCiccio
Leonard Gilroy
July 31, 2012 - Big City Democrats Are Embracing Privatization
Heavyweights like Chicago's Rahm Emanuel are going around public agencies and unions to improve schools, roads, parks and more
Leonard Gilroy and Harris Kenny
July 12, 2012 - Looking Back at Indianapolis’ Parking Meter Lease, One Year Later
Interview with Michael Huber, Deputy Mayor for Economic Development, City of Indianapolis, Indiana
Leonard Gilroy
June 27, 2012 - Private Sector, Local Governments Find Investment Opportunities in Municipal Parking Assets
Chicago, Indianapolis unlock value trapped in a neglected treasure
Harris Kenny and Leonard Gilroy
June 22, 2012 - Union-Propagated Red Herrings Continue to Mar Corrections Research
Meaningful reform requires an all-of-the-above strategy, including privatization.
Harris Kenny
June 13, 2012 - Washington State Approves Privatization of State Liquor Monopoly; Other States May Follow
Washington State to become first state to fully privatize state's wholesale, retail liquor monopoly
Leonard Gilroy
May 31, 2012 - Creating a Culture of Competition to Improve Corrections
Interview with Gary Mohr, Director of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction
Leonard Gilroy
May 31, 2012 - Privately Operated Zoos Now Considered the Standard
North Carolina, Los Angeles, Grand Rapids and Elsewhere Exploring Zoo Partnerships
Harris Kenny
May 29, 2012 - States and Cities Going Private With Infrastructure Investment
Leonard Gilroy and Harris Kenny
May 24, 2012 - Parking Privatization Blossomed in 2011
Several city, university parking privatization initiatives advanced in 2011
Harris Kenny
May 22, 2012 - States Exploring Private Lottery Management
Illinois launched a groundbreaking privatization of lottery management in 2011 to increase revenues. Other states eye similar deals
Leonard Gilroy
May 21, 2012 - Puerto Rico Building Robust Infrastructure Privatization Program
Puerto Rico advanced public-private partnerships in schools, highways and aviation in 2011
Leonard Gilroy
May 15, 2012 - Emanuel Administration Embracing Private Sector Competition in Chicago
New $7 billion infrastructure trust developing alongside initiatives in recycling, water and elsewhere
Harris Kenny
May 15, 2012 - Villaraigosa Administration Advocating Reform in Los Angeles
Debate over city-owned parking garages and zoo continues, progress made elsewhere
Harris Kenny
May 15, 2012 - Tulsa, Jacksonville Mayors Pursuing Public-Private Partnerships
Two first-term mayors hit the ground running in 2011
Harris Kenny
May 15, 2012 - California Library Privatization Success in Jeopardy
Meanwhile, successful partnerships thrive in Florida, Oregon and elsewhere
Harris Kenny
May 15, 2012 - Christie Administration Expanded Privatization Portfolio in New Jersey in 2011
Initiatives advanced in toll collection, road maintenance, racing facilities and more
Leonard Gilroy
May 15, 2012 - Jindal Continued Louisiana Privatization Push in 2011
Initiatives advanced in Medicaid, public employee health care and more
Leonard Gilroy
May 15, 2012 - Kasich Administration Advanced Privatization in Ohio in 2011
Initiatives advanced in economic development, asset realignment and more
Leonard Gilroy
May 15, 2012 - Competition Would Improve North Carolina's Correctional Healthcare Delivery
Letter to the Editor Submitted to The News & Observer
Harris Kenny
May 9, 2012 - Midtown Tunnel Likely Dies without Tolls
Private financing is best path forward for tunnel expansion, highway improvements
Leonard Gilroy and Baruch Feigenbaum
April 13, 2012 - Tunnel Project Needs to Move Ahead
Improvements are vital to mobility, port commerce and regional economy
Shirley Ybarra and Leonard Gilroy
April 13, 2012 - Reinventing Libraries in Osceola County, Florida: Partnering with the Private Sector to Create Standards of Excellence
Interview with Osceola County, Florida Commissioner Frank Attkisson
Harris Kenny
April 12, 2012 - The Dynamic Duo of Carrollton, Texas: Creating a Culture of Competition in City Government
Interview with Carrollton, Texas City Manager Leonard Martin and Director of Competition Tom Guilfoy
Leonard Gilroy
April 5, 2012 - USPS Is $14 Billion In the Red This Year, So It Promotes Junk Mail
Why privatization is a better tactic to save the U.S. mail
Adam Summers
March 22, 2012 - Privatize Parking, But Not for the Kings
The current arena plan is a steal for the Kings and an air ball for taxpayers.
Harris Kenny and Leonard Gilroy
March 6, 2012 - Offering State and Local Governments New Tools for Infrastructure Delivery in Texas
Interview with Texas State Rep. Jim Murphy
Leonard Gilroy
March 5, 2012 - Congress Forms 'Yellow Pages' Caucus: Goal is Smaller Federal Government, Cut Spending
How the 'yellow pages' test could curb out of control federal spending
John Palatiello
February 28, 2012 - Florida Correctional Healthcare Reform in Jeopardy
The state Department of Corrections should be encouraged for pursuing reform, not stifled.
Harris Kenny
February 27, 2012 - Competition Could Lower Costs of Prison Healthcare in Arizona
Letter to the Editor Submitted to the Arizona Republic
Leonard Gilroy
February 24, 2012 - Reforming Local Government in Colorado Springs
Interview with Chuck Fowler, CEO and Chairman of The City Committee of Colorado Springs
Harris Kenny
February 14, 2012 - Florida’s Privatization Proposal Could Drive Innovation, Performance in Corrections
Policymakers should look past political hype, consider the Senate’s proposal on its merits
Leonard Gilroy and Adrian Moore
February 10, 2012 - Will States Toast Liquor Privatization in 2012?
Reviewing the landscape for divesting state alcohol monopolies
Leonard Gilroy
February 3, 2012 - Maryland Announces $456m PPP to Redevelop and Operate I-95 Travel Plazas
Deal a win-win for taxpayers, business, state
Leonard Gilroy
January 27, 2012 - Lawmakers Should Encourage Prison Health Competition, Not Ban It
Attempt to ban privatization of prison nurses is misguided
Leonard Gilroy and Harris Kenny
January 19, 2012 - With Automatic Spending Cuts Looming, the Federal Government Should Use Contracting
The federal government is prohibiting cost-effective partnerships with the private sector
John Palatiello
January 18, 2012 - Tulsa: Open for Business
Tackling city's challenges requires willingness to embrace innovation, competition and market ideas
Dewey Bartlett, Jr.
Mayor of Tulsa, Oklahoma
January 13, 2012 - University of Kentucky Smart to Explore Private Sector for New Campus Housing
Public-private partnerships are saving taxpayers money and helping universities provide better services.
Leonard Gilroy and Harris Kenny
December 15, 2011 - Embrace Competition to Lower Costs, Improve Performance in Prisons
Private sector can drive efficiency, improve offender rehabilitation and save taxpayer money
Leonard Gilroy
October 12, 2011 - Democrats Dump on Private Libraries
Bill aims to discourage partnerships that can offset cutbacks.
Harris Kenny
September 19, 2011 - Building a World-Class Infrastructure PPP Program in Puerto Rico
Interview with David Alvarez, executive director of the Puerto Rico Public-Private Partnerships Authority
Leonard Gilroy
September 8, 2011 - Your Lying Eyes
How fallible memories send innocent people to prison
Jacob Sullum
August 31, 2011 - Injustice, In Plain Sight
The trouble with eyewitness testimony
Steve Chapman
August 29, 2011 - Reading Is Fundamentally Forbidden
Prison Legal News fights for the First Amendment at South Carolina's Berkeley County Detention Center.
Greg Beato
August 25, 2011 - Bad Boys
A rogue’s gallery of misbehaving prosecutors, plus three worth praising
Radley Balko
June 27, 2011 - The Facts about American Prisons
Separating economic myths from economic truths
Veronique de Rugy
June 24, 2011 - You’ve Got Jail
Is it time to bring America’s prisoners online?
Greg Beato
June 24, 2011 - The Golden State’s Iron Bars
How California prison guards became the country’s most powerful union
Tim Cavanaugh
June 23, 2011 - Indefensible
Public defenders are too overloaded to protect the rights of the accused.
Clay Conrad
June 22, 2011 - Rape Factories
Why is the government doing so little to end sexual assault in prisons?
Lovisa Stannow
June 20, 2011 - The Crime Rate Puzzle
Did incarceration reduce the crime rate, or did it get in the way?
Radley Balko
June 20, 2011 - Less Time, Less Crime
Conservatives lead a movement toward “tough and smart” sentencing policies.
Julie Stewart
June 15, 2011 - Florida, U.K. Innovate in Corrections Partnerships
Public-private partnerships target recidivism, rehabilitation
Leonard Gilroy
June 8, 2011 - Prison Math
What are the costs and benefits of leading the world in locking up human beings?
Veronique de Rugy
June 8, 2011 - Wrongful Convictions
How many innocent Americans are behind bars?
Radley Balko
June 7, 2011 - Shrink the Prisons
Conservatives are as wrong about prison overcrowding as liberals were about welfare reform.
Shikha Dalmia
June 7, 2011 - Locked Up, Locked Out
The social costs of incarceration
Bruce Western
June 6, 2011 - Brown v. Plata Ruling Highlights Need for Reform (Not Tax Increases)
A multi-faceted approach is necessary to finally reform California's correctional system
Harris Kenny and Adam Summers
June 2, 2011 - 10 Myths and Facts on Transportation PPPs
Leonard Gilroy
May 31, 2011 - Getting Infrastructure Partnerships Right in Ohio
Good start, but room for improvement in public-private partnership legislation
Leonard Gilroy
May 19, 2011 - Public-Private Partnerships Can Improve Corrections, Safety
Dominic M. Calabro and Adrian Moore
April 27, 2011 - Time to Eliminate the Blight of California's Redevelopment Agencies
Examples in San Jose and other areas show how redevelopment agencies fail taxpayers
Adam Summers
April 26, 2011 - Focus on Results for Smarter Government Budgeting
Budgeting for Outcomes offers a major step forward
Leonard Gilroy
April 14, 2011 - San Francisco’s Experimental Market-Based Parking Pricing Program
City officials pursue urban congestion relief
Harris Kenny
April 12, 2011 - Competition Brings Savings
Competitive contracting a powerful tool to lower costs, help governments better serve taxpayers
Leonard Gilroy
April 4, 2011 - 2010 Highlights in State Government Privatization
Reviewing privatization highlights in lotteries, child welfare, social infrastructure and more
Leonard Gilroy
March 23, 2011 - 2010 Highlights in Local Government Privatization
Reviewing privatization highlights in parking assets, zoos, libraries and animal shelters
Leonard Gilroy
January 5, 2011 - Making Parks Decent Again
How the private sector can save public parks
John Stossel
December 2, 2010 - PIRG Report Distorts Proposed Indy Parking Meter Lease
PIRG report ignores facts, offers litany of myths and errors on proposed lease
Leonard Gilroy
November 9, 2010 - Election Night a Mixed Bag for ABC Privatization
Washington State ballot measures fail, but Pennsylvania elects pro-privatization governor
Leonard Gilroy
November 5, 2010 - AZ Office of the Auditor General Releases Provocative, but Flawed, Review of the Department of Corrections
Flawed Study Skews Public vs. Private Corrections Cost Comparison
Harris Kenny
November 4, 2010 - The Other Big Debate This Election Cycle -- The 'Wets' vs. 'Drys'
State monopolies on liquor sales don't create safer societies than states with privatized sales
Anthony Randazzo and Jason Mercier
November 1, 2010 - More Democracy, More Incarceration
The devastating mix of politics and crime policy
Radley Balko
October 25, 2010 - It Can Happen Here
Government really can be cut: case studies from Canada, New Zealand, and the United States
Arnold Kling, Maurice McTigue and David Henderson
October 12, 2010 - Reform, Transportation Trump Revenue-Neutrality: The Rationale for ABC Privatization, Part 2
Streamlining the state, investing in needed transportation should be the focus, not revenue-neutrality
Leonard Gilroy
October 7, 2010 - How to Slash the State
14 ways to dismantle a monstrous government, one program at a time
October 5, 2010 - Utah Report Gets it Wrong on Hospital Privatization
Despite finding cost savings and expanded care through privatization, report relies on faulty logic to recommend against it
Leonard Gilroy
September 10, 2010 - The Confrontation
Drew Carey and Nick Gillespie clash with the Cleveland City Council over Reason Saves Cleveland.
Nick Gillespie
September 8, 2010 - Lost and Found
Taking Inventory of the Public’s Real Property Assets
Anthony Randazzo
September 2, 2010 - Obama Demagogues Private Enterprise
The president's misguided attacks on privatization
John Stossel
August 19, 2010 - Divesting Virginia’s Liquid Assets: The Rationale for ABC Privatization, Part 1
Virginia doesn't need a "public option" in liquor
Leonard Gilroy
August 19, 2010 - Private Prisons a Smart Strategy for Kentucky
Letter to the Editor submitted to the Louisville Courier-Journal
Leonard Gilroy
July 8, 2010 - Taking State Parks off the State's Books, Part 2
Do we need a public sector monopoly on the operation of public lands?
Leonard Gilroy
June 24, 2010 - Amid Fiscal Pressures, States Move to Privatize Workers Compensation Programs
Several states aiming to get government out of the workers compensation insurance business
Leonard Gilroy
June 21, 2010 - How to Save Cleveland
Turning around America’s dying cities is difficult, improbable, and necessary.
Nick Gillespie
May 24, 2010 - This Land is Your Land; This Land is My Land
Why do the feds spend so much to make our Western wilderness theirs?
Leonard Gilroy
April 26, 2010 - Taking State Parks off the State's Books
Tap the private sector to take over operations, management of state parks
Leonard Gilroy
April 14, 2010 - Cutting Costs for State's Prisons
Transferring 25,000 inmates to out-of-state private prisons would save California $1.8 billion over five years
Jon Coupal and Leonard Gilroy
April 7, 2010 - Sea Turtle Tastes Like Veal
Can eating endangered species help save them?
Ronald Bailey
March 9, 2010 - Getting Serious About Pension Reform in Atlanta
How to fix the city's massive pension problem without tax increases
Adam Summers
March 3, 2010 - Is Texas About To Execute Another Innocent Man?
State officials would rather kill a prisoner than give him a DNA test.
Radley Balko
February 22, 2010 - Education Is Too Important for a Government Monopoly
It's time to let parents choose
John Stossel
February 18, 2010 - Getting Government Out of the Parking Business
D.C., Richmond and other cities can benefit from parking privatization, as Chicago has
Leonard Gilroy
February 17, 2010 - The Presidential Commission on Birth, Death, and the Meaning of Life
Obama's new bioethics czar just wants us all to get along.
Ronald Bailey
February 16, 2010 - Let the Private Sector Compete to Provide Public Services and Watch the Savings Roll In
Outsourcing and managed competition are proven common-sense, nonpartisan strategies for reducing costs and improving services
Leonard Gilroy and Adam Summers
February 14, 2010 - Chicago's Parking Meter Lease: A Win-Win-Win for Motorists, Taxpayers and the City
Asset concession brings fiscal, operational, environmental benefits
Gene Saffold
January 29, 2010 - Public-Private Partnerships for Local Governments: The Sandy Springs Model
Imagine starting a new city of over 90,000 people with only two employees. We did it.
Oliver Porter
January 29, 2010 - Tracking Taxpayer Capital: Recovery.org vs. Recovery.gov
Private sector can step in to fill government's transparency gap
Eric Gillespie
January 29, 2010 - Streamlining Louisiana: Driving Government Reform in an Era of Fiscal Crisis
Interview with Angele Davis, Louisiana Commissioner of Administration
Leonard Gilroy
January 29, 2010 - Look Before You Leap Into Privatization: Florida's Council on Efficient Government Sets a New Standard in Transparency, Due Diligence in Privatization and Contracting Decisions
Interview with Henry Garrigo, former Director, Florida Council on Efficient Government
Leonard Gilroy
January 29, 2010 - We Have to Do Better: Fiscal Challenges Demand Creative Government
Interview with Indianapolis Mayor Gregory Ballard
Leonard Gilroy
January 29, 2010 - Proposed City Water Grab Draining Scottsdale Tax Dollars
Unnecessary move bad for taxpayers
Leonard Gilroy
January 15, 2010 - Laissez Les Bon Reforms Roulez
Government reform, Louisiana-style
Leonard Gilroy
December 16, 2009 - Was Parking Meter Privatization a Good Deal for the Windy City? Chicago CFO Gene Saffold Responds
Reason interview with Chicago Chief Financial Officer Gene Saffold
Leonard Gilroy
December 11, 2009 - Private Prisons a Smart Strategy for Arizona
Prison privatization opponents rely on myths, not facts
Leonard Gilroy
November 17, 2009 - Louisiana Provides Model for Closing Budget Deficit
Given the scale of Arizona's fiscal crisis, there's no way to avoid government downsizing
Leonard Gilroy
November 17, 2009 - Getting Virginia Off the Sauce
The Old Dominion's new governor promises to end the state liquor monopoly
Katherine Mangu-Ward
November 12, 2009 - Dave Bing's Last-Second Shot
Can the former Piston star save Detroit?
Shikha Dalmia
November 10, 2009 - IT Controversy Shouldn't Spoil Public-Private Partnerships in Virginia
Focus should be on resolving implementation issues, not politicizing them
Leonard Gilroy
October 14, 2009 - "Selling" State Buildings in Arizona, California
Sale-leasebacks can play a role in easing fiscal woes, but shouldn't replace budget cutting and government streamlining
Leonard Gilroy
September 30, 2009 - About That Detroit Renaissance
What chance is there for an artist-led revival in the midst of civic hemorrhage?
Shikha Dalmia
September 9, 2009 - Public Options Are Ill-Conceived
Government should leave commercial activities to the private sector
John Palatiello and Leonard Gilroy
August 26, 2009 - Time to Step It Up on Privatization in Virginia
Even seemingly privatization-resistant states turning to the private sector to help solve major fiscal, capital investment challenges
Leonard Gilroy
August 11, 2009 - Setting the Record Straight on Chicago Parking Meter Privatization
Early implementation challenges subside; L.A., Indianapolis and other cities consider similar proposals
Leonard Gilroy
August 7, 2009 - Policymakers Turn to Privatization Amid Prolonged Government Fiscal Crises
Privatization, public-private partnerships increasingly prominent in fiscal policy debates
Leonard Gilroy
August 6, 2009 - Virginia Needs a Fiscal Makeover
Federal stimulus dollars won't last forever
Leonard Gilroy
July 14, 2009 - (Un)Happy New Fiscal Year
States need fundamental budget/spending reforms to weather the fiscal storm
Leonard Gilroy
July 6, 2009 - How to Reduce Atlanta's Budget Deficit
Budget makeover should include outcome-based budgeting, privatization and asset leases
Leonard Gilroy
June 21, 2009 - Do the Economics of Piracy Demand the Privatization of the Sea?
Privately controlled waters would generate new solutions
Veronique de Rugy
June 16, 2009 - Put the Patients' Welfare First in Hospital Privatization Dispute
Legislature sacrificed psychiatric patients' well-being to retain legacy jobs on state payroll
Leonard Gilroy and Anthony Randazzo
May 14, 2009 - Collapse of Midway Deal "Not a Setback for Privatization"
MuniNet Guide Interview with Reason's Leonard Gilroy
Leonard Gilroy
April 30, 2009 - Hospital Privatization Isn't a Scary Proposition, Patients Should Come First
Letter to the Editor
Leonard Gilroy
April 23, 2009 - Port Privatization Trend Growing
More ports looking to public-private partnerships to fund improvements and expansion
Shirley Ybarra
April 23, 2009 - Roanoke Schools Embrace Privatization to Cut Costs, Focus on Education
Privatizing transportation will free up money for classroom
Leonard Gilroy
April 14, 2009 - Illinois Government Should Shop Around
Council on efficient government would bring common-sense budgeting to state
Leonard Gilroy and Kate Campaigne
April 9, 2009 - Even During the Recession Private Companies Are Investing In Ports
Private sector is driving modernization efforts
Shirley Ybarra
March 19, 2009 - Innovative Solutions Needed to Fix L.A.’s Budget
L.A. should follow Chicago's lead on public-private partnerships
Adam Summers
February 23, 2009 - Sharpening the Budget Saw in Virginia
Arizona bill offers a blueprint for right-sizing state government
Leonard Gilroy
February 17, 2009 - State Budget Crises Arrive Like Clockwork
Lawmakers once again turn to cigarette taxes to balance their budgets
Michael Flynn
February 11, 2009 - The Great Union Debate
Card check: unions' salvation?
Shikha Dalmia
February 6, 2009 - Government Intervention Might Delay the Economic Recovery
Every recession contains the seeds of its own regeneration
Shikha Dalmia
February 4, 2009 - Florida Benefitting from Prison Privatization
Applying competition to corrections delivers cost savings, accountability
Leonard Gilroy
January 16, 2009 - Privatization Can Transform the Delivery of State Psychiatric Services
Innovative policymakers increasingly turning to privatization to dramatically improve the quality of mental health services while holding down costs
Leonard Gilroy
December 29, 2008 - Chicago Raises the Bar in Privatization, Again
Parking meter system franchise nets $1.1 billion; will bring modern meters, improve downtown traffic
Leonard Gilroy
December 23, 2008 - The Gold-Standard and the Perfect Economic Storm
Interview with former Jersey City Mayor Bret Schundler
Anthony Randazzo
December 18, 2008 - Economic Downturn Didn't Cause State Budget Deficits
What Texas and Florida can teach other states about spending and budget shortfalls
Leonard Gilroy
November 26, 2008 - Chicago Leads the Way on Local Government Privatization
Daley initiatives generating billions of dollars to boost the city's fiscal health
Leonard Gilroy
November 19, 2008 - "Perfect Storm" Could Accelerate Privatization Trends
MuniNet Guide Interview with Reason's Leonard Gilroy
Leonard Gilroy
October 24, 2008 - The Right Way to "Sell" The Roads
Gov. Paterson's new public-private partnership commission a positive step toward reducing New York's deficit
Leonard Gilroy
October 21, 2008 - Don't Count the Private Sector Out in Infrastructure
Infrastructure PPPs remain an attractive investment in the capital "flight to quality"
Leonard Gilroy
October 21, 2008 - Innovators in Government Offer Cutting-Edge Models for Reform
Reason's Innovators in Action 2008 profiles leaders in government management, transportation, school choice
Leonard Gilroy
September 25, 2008 - Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae Were Never Privatized
Government-sponsored enterprises dealt with risk and profit differently
Anthony Randazzo
September 18, 2008 - Politicizing Privatization Isn't In Taxpayers' Best Interests
Indiana has benefited from toll road lease and could gain from Gov. Daniels' lottery plan
Leonard Gilroy
August 27, 2008 - Closing Virginia's Budget Shortfall
Virginia needs more effective tools to evaluate competition and efficiency opportunities across state government
Leonard Gilroy
August 25, 2008 - Looking at the Year's Privatization Trends
From transportation and infrastructure to state lotteries, public-private partnerships could play big role in erasing budget deficits
Leonard Gilroy
August 7, 2008 - Scottsdale Water Condemnation Proposal Leaves a Bad Taste
Exercising eminent domain to take over private water utility is fiscally irresponsible, violates private property rights
Leonard Gilroy
June 30, 2008 - Another One Bites the Dust
Another toll-road myth—that governments can access cheaper infrastructure financing than the private sector—has been demolished
Leonard Gilroy
June 23, 2008 - San Diego Can Benefit from Private Trash Collection
Private sector already handles over 75 percent of nation's garbage collection
Adam Summers
June 16, 2008 - Turnpike Lease a Better Deal for Taxpayers, Drivers
$12.8 billion Turnpike bid should be the final nail in Act 44's coffin
Leonard Gilroy
May 20, 2008 - Virginia Saving Money With Fixed-Price Interstate Maintenance Deal
Florida and international community have demonstrated there are significant savings to be had
Shirley Ybarra
May 8, 2008 - Stretching the Highway Dollar
Virginia can get more mileage out of transportation spending by prioritizing congestion relief, using performance-based planning, and outsourcing maintenance
Leonard Gilroy
May 5, 2008 - Comparing the Performance of Private and Public Prisons
If you can't win, change the rules
Geoffrey Segal
April 4, 2008 - Competition Can Solve Atlanta's Budget Crunch
Embracing competitive service delivery would reduce costs, improve service quality
Leonard Gilroy
March 19, 2008 - What Would Jefferson Think?
Private business can do it better
Leonard Gilroy and M. Royce Van Tassell
February 10, 2008 - Lottery Privatization Options for Virginia
Leasing out rights to operate the state lottery could generate a steady income stream, reduce revenue risks
Leonard Gilroy
January 28, 2008 - Reflections of a Texas Transportation Trailblazer
Reason interview with Ric Williamson, Chairman, Texas Transportation Commission
Leonard Gilroy
December 31, 2007 - Utah Should Embrace The Yellow Pages Test
Utah's state and local governments are unfairly competing with private businesses
Leonard Gilroy and M. Royce Van Tassell
December 21, 2007 - Private Solution to California's Infrastructure Problems
Schwarzenegger says state needs $500 billion
Adam Summers
December 12, 2007 - Several States Consider Privatizing Their Lotteries
Revenues should be used for infrastructure, not to increase government spending
Geoffrey Segal
February 23, 2007 - Sandy Springs Incorporates, Inspires New Wave of 'Private' Cities in Georgia
City opts to contract out nearly all government services
Steve Stanek and Leonard Gilroy
November 1, 2006 - Governments Increasingly Turning to Competition and Privatization
Privatization is a proven policy management tool
Leonard Gilroy
November 1, 2006 - Privatizing Ohio's Government Marketing...Just Do It!
Much of state's advertising and promotional work is corporate welfare
Geoffrey Segal and Jack Furney
September 15, 2006 - Managed Competition in Florida
Jeb Bush's focus on efficiency has changed state government
Jack Furney
July 20, 2006 - Privatization and Devolution Keys to Solving Federal Budget Mess
Smaller, more efficient government is the path to fiscal security
Geoffrey Segal
July 19, 2006 - Making Government Compete to Improve Services and Save Money
Hamilton County can teach Ohio's 87 other counties a lesson on results and performance
Geoffrey Segal and Jack Furney
June 29, 2006 - Government Lags as Hurricane Season Starts
Politics block private sector from helping ravaged areas
Geoffrey Segal
June 1, 2006 - Detroit Can't Afford to Stall Privatization
Other cities save millions by forcing government services to compete
Geoffrey Segal
April 20, 2006 - It's Time to Tackle California's Traffic Crisis Head On—Privately
State funding isn't needed for major projects to be built
Samuel Staley
April 10, 2006 - Getting Clean Water to the Rest of the World
Public-private partnerships can play vital role
Geoffrey Segal
March 31, 2006 - Detailing Foreign Management of U.S. Infrastructure
Numerous U.S. ports, airports, roads, water facilities already run by foreign businesses
Leonard Gilroy and Adam Summers
March 15, 2006 - Don't Put Undue Burden on Governor's Efficiency Efforts
Indiana's proposed "privatization plan" would slow reforms
Geoffrey Segal
January 15, 2006 - CA Prison System Presents Major Reform Opportunity
Schwarzenegger needs to battle powerful prison guards
Geoffrey Segal
January 12, 2006 - Private Prison Success
Study says CA private prison is delivering results
Geoffrey Segal
November 30, 2005 - Outing Government from Marriage
Privatizing marriage would be best for all sides of debate
Adam Summers
November 11, 2005 - More than 25,000 Private Drinking Water Systems in US
Why would Mass. want to ban water privatization?
Geoffrey Segal
October 28, 2005 - Growing Jobs in Space
Private space travel ready to take off
Ted Balaker
October 28, 2005 - Sandy Springs Redefines How Government Should Look
Officials decide whether to make or buy services
Geoffrey Segal
August 30, 2005 - What Can Maine Learn From Oliver Porter?
New GA town can teach a thing or two about governance
Geoffrey Segal
August 10, 2005 - Spaceflight in the Private Sector Will Eliminate Bureaucratic Drag
Rutan, Branson are future of space travel
Ted Balaker
August 1, 2005 - Outsourcing Opponents Seek to Discredit Private Sector
Lisa Snell
January 1, 2005 - Privatization: It's Working in Florida
91 percent of outsourcing stays in state
Geoffrey Segal
December 2, 2004 - Competition Works in Taxpayers' Favor
Florida is national leader in competitive sourcing
Geoffrey Segal
November 23, 2004 - Competition Saves Money
Private prisons would help Georgia cut costs
Geoffrey Segal and Kelly McCutchen
October 8, 2004 - Privatization Produces Gains in Philadelphia
District posts average gains of 10 points in reading and math
Lisa Snell
October 1, 2004 - Sheriff Can Ease Budget Shortfall With Private Jail
Marion County should look to private sector
Geoffrey Segal
August 13, 2004 - Privatize Prisons, Unlock Savings
Kentucky proposal to open private prison is good business
Geoffrey Segal
August 11, 2004 - Privatize...for the Kids, of Course
Schools save by outsourcing maintenance, transportation, and food service
Geoffrey Segal
July 21, 2004 - States Tap Private Prisons
Governors looking to save use private sector
Geoffrey Segal
July 1, 2004 - Virginia Schools Should Focus on Mission: Educating
Privatizing services could save millions
Geoffrey Segal
June 21, 2004 - Bush Is Right on Private Contracting, Just Ask the French
Outsourcing the rebuilding of Iraq
Ted Balaker
June 16, 2004 - Ronald Reagan and the Privatization Revolution
Reviewing Reagan's outsourcing legacy
Robert Poole
June 8, 2004 - Florida Reforming Its Privatization Efforts
Bush creates Center for Efficient Government
Geoffrey Segal
March 12, 2004 - Competitive Sourcing
Driving Federal Results
Geoffrey Segal
March 1, 2004 - Best Prison Reform: Privatization
CA corrections system if rife with problems
Geoffrey Segal
February 24, 2004 - Why Water Privatization Adds Up
1 in 6 Americans gets drinking water from privately owned systems
Adrian Moore
November 21, 2003 - Private Prisons Save Money, Boost Productivity
Privatization saves 5 to 20 percent
Geoffrey Segal
November 17, 2003 - A Firefighting Alternative
Oregon, Washington use specialized private sector help, why not California?
Ted Balaker
November 13, 2003 - The Real Battle Over Air Traffic Control
Privatization at small towers a sticking point
Robert Poole and Dorothy Robyn
November 3, 2003 - Huge Savings Through Human Resources Outsourcing
Florida expects to save $173 million
Geoffrey Segal
August 26, 2003 - Reality Check on Connecticut Prisons
Adrian Moore
July 30, 2003 - Federal Competition Talking Points
Competitive sourcing improves federal government
Adrian Moore and Geoffrey Segal
July 1, 2003 - Increased Competition Will Lead to Savings
Virginia could save millions
Geoffrey Segal
June 17, 2003 - The Lowdown on the New Federal Competition Circular
Guidelines encourage competitive sourcing
Geoffrey Segal
May 30, 2003 - Ambulance Controversy Astonishing, Unneeded
Contracting process doesn't need to be complicated
Adrian Moore
May 28, 2003 - Rebuilding Iraq
Privatization and the role of contract services
Adrian Moore
April 17, 2003 - Stockton: Privatize or Pay Higher Water Rates
Outsourcing would save $175 million
Geoffrey Segal
February 25, 2003 - Atlanta: Pulling the Plug on Water Deal a Mistake
City's mistake will haunt taxpayers
Geoffrey Segal
January 28, 2003 - What Can We Learn From Atlanta's Water Privatization
Lost in debate: City saving $21 million per year
Geoffrey Segal
January 21, 2003 - FAA, Controllers Mistaken on Privatization
Robert Poole
December 20, 2002 - Making Privatization Work for State Government
Outsourcing can cut costs, avoid tax increases
Adrian Moore
August 1, 2002 - Cashing In on Gov. Davis' Prison Contract
Union gets rich at taxpayer expense
Geoffrey Segal
July 24, 2002 - Federal Panel Recommends Overhaul of Federal Privatization Process
Suggestions for public-private competition, outsourcing
Adrian Moore
May 4, 2002 - Competition Yields Quality
Privatizing to cut costs, improve performance
Adrian Moore
May 1, 2002 - Why Spare Prisons From Budget Cuts?
Prison guards get special treatment from Davis
David Nott
January 21, 2002 - Crippling California Schools
New law prohibits privatization savings
Lisa Snell
January 15, 2002 - Supreme Court Rules on Private Prison Liability
Inmates at private and government-run prisons should have same rights
Geoffrey Segal
January 7, 2002 - Edison Should Get to Run Schools Its Way
Keys to success in Philly privatization
Lisa Snell
December 12, 2001 - Private Prisons Better Suited to Address Problems
Facilities are more accountable
Geoffrey Segal
October 10, 2001 - Innovative Alternatives to Traditional Municipal/County Corrections
Tested solutions to jail management needs
Geoffrey Segal
March 1, 2001 - Prison Escape Highlights System Woes
Who will correct the corrections system?
Geoffrey Segal
January 22, 2001 - Will Midway Lease Re-Start U.S. Airport Privatization?
Like toll roads, other countries are far ahead of the U.S. in airport privatization
Robert Poole
January 1, 2001 - The Facts about Wastewater, Stormwater, and Water Contract Management in the City of Stockton
Myths and facts about water privatization
Geoffrey Segal
January 1, 1999
Privatization Blog
- Reason's Len Gilroy Talks TVA Privatization, Annual Privatization Report on Heartland Institute Podcast (5/23)
- How to Avoid Closing Washington State Parks (5/17)
- Rethinking Washington State Parks: How to Avoid Governor Inslee’s Plan to Close 60 State Parks (5/17)
- Why is the CDC Being Anti-Science on State Liquor Privatization? (5/14)
- Louisiana Republicans Introduce Bills to Replicate Massachusetts's Pro-Union, Anti-Privatization “Pacheco Law” (5/9)
Related Topics
Experts: Privatization
RSS Feeds: Privatization
Media Contact
Chris MitchellDirector of Communications
Email
(310) 367-6109
Support Reason
Your tax-deductible gift can help us promote individual liberty, choice, and free minds and free markets.