Mandatory Spending Since 1962

Open Access

Abstract

This report reviews trends in mandatory spending since 1962. CBO baseline projections of mandatory spending, which extend to 2018, as well as extended baseline projections through 2082 are used to consider the long-term consequences of current mandatory spending policies.1 The report looks at mandatory spending and how it has grown over time relative to total federal spending and to the size of the U.S. economy.