With the federal government facing immense budget pressures, the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds has emerged as a contentious issue. The potential ramifications for counties and local governments are profound, particularly concerning infrastructure financing. Emily Brock from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) emphasizes the urgency for county officials to advocate vigorously to protect this vital financial tool.

Preserving the Backbone of Local Development: Why Municipal Bonds Matter

A Pillar of National Infrastructure

The tax-exempt status of municipal bonds plays an indispensable role in financing critical infrastructure projects across the nation. With nearly $4 trillion in outstanding municipal bonds, these financial instruments underpin approximately 75% of state and local infrastructure. This vast market supports essential services like water systems, schools, hospitals, and public buildings. If Congress were to revoke the tax exemption, borrowing costs could skyrocket by up to 2%, significantly reducing the funds available for crucial projects. For instance, a water system expansion that would normally add 200 new beds to a community hospital might be scaled back to just 120 beds, impacting healthcare access and quality.Moreover, the efficiency of municipal bonds is unparalleled. For every dollar the federal government forgoes in tax revenue, counties and municipalities save roughly twice that amount. This level of fiscal efficiency is rare among federal tax programs. Additionally, the unique financial product created by tax-exempt municipal bonds attracts substantial investor demand, further enhancing their value. Investors, particularly those seeking conservative retirement investments, rely on the stability and tax certainty offered by these bonds. Removing this tool would not only disrupt local infrastructure development but also create uncertainty for investors.

Bridging Knowledge Gaps: Educating New Congressional Audiences

Since the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, significant turnover in Congress has led to a loss of institutional knowledge regarding the widespread use of municipal bonds. Many new legislative assistants and representatives may not fully understand the importance of these financial instruments. To counter this, county officials must actively engage with policymakers and provide concrete examples of how municipal bonds have transformed their communities. Brian Egan, chief policy officer for the National Association of Bond Lawyers, underscores the need for storytelling. Sharing anecdotes about specific projects—such as a nonprofit hospital expanding its capacity or a school renovation—can make a compelling case for maintaining the tax exemption. These stories help illustrate the tangible benefits of municipal bonds, making it easier for policymakers to grasp their significance.

Evaluating Alternatives: A Closer Look at Proposed Solutions

Several alternatives have been proposed to replace tax-exempt municipal bonds, including national infrastructure banks, public-private partnerships, and Opportunity Zones. However, none of these options can fully replicate the unique advantages of municipal bonds. A national infrastructure bank, while potentially beneficial, centralizes decision-making in Washington, D.C., which could lead to delays in addressing local needs. Public-private partnerships, though useful in certain contexts, cannot provide the capital required to support $4 trillion worth of infrastructure assets. Opportunity Zones, often criticized as speculative, lack the stability and reliability needed for long-term infrastructure financing.Emily Brock cautions against relying on these alternatives as substitutes for municipal bonds. While they can serve as supplementary tools, they fall short in providing the comprehensive support necessary for sustaining America's infrastructure. The tax-exempt status of municipal bonds remains the most effective and efficient means of financing critical projects, ensuring that local governments can continue to build and maintain the infrastructure that communities depend on.

Mobilizing Advocacy: The Path Forward

As the federal government considers various budget measures, the stakes for counties and local governments are high. County officials must mobilize advocacy efforts to protect the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds. By educating policymakers and sharing success stories, they can demonstrate the indispensable role these bonds play in shaping America's infrastructure. The future of countless projects hinges on the preservation of this vital financial tool. Without strong advocacy, the consequences could be far-reaching, affecting everything from healthcare to education and beyond.