The COVID-19 crisis has revealed what many of us already knew–that our current economic system does not work for most Americans. Challenges such income inequality, market consolidation, climate change, and infrastructure collapse have posed increasing threats to our economy, our social stability, and our continued leadership in the world. Too many Americans, moreover, Republicans and Democrats alike, view our current system as rigged against them.

The North Carolina Sustainable Business Council believes that this moment provides state and local governments an opportunity not only to continue leading the way through this crisis but also in solving the structural problems the federal government has too long neglected. The following policy ideas provide a blueprint for what state and local leaders can do immediately. Most of our suggested policies effectively provide not only economic stimulus but lasting social, environmental, and public benefit. Many will attract support across party lines. Some cost little or nothing.