June 24 – 26, 2026

This conference brings together leading researchers to examine current tax policy and explore the future of the U.S. federal debt and what it means for tax and spending policy.

Questions should be directed to Marriner.Institute@eccles.utah.edu.

Speakers will discuss how big shifts like AI, climate change, an aging population, and globalization are changing the economic landscape and putting new pressure on public finances. Experts will consider practical proposals for building a modern fiscal system that can raise revenue to adapt to change and support priorities such as health care, national defense, and long-term economic stability.

Presentations

  • AI & The Big Picture: Ben Jones (Northwestern)
  • AI & Fiscal Implications: Karen Dynan (Harvard), Doug Elmendorf (Harvard), Louise Sheiner (Brookings)
  • Business Tax: Bill Gale (Brookings), Adam Looney (Utah), Elena Patel (Brookings)
  • Defense: Mark Cancian (CSIS)
  • Demographics: Louise Sheiner (Brookings), David Weil (Brown)
  • Energy/Environment: Joe Aldy (Harvard), Ken Gillingham (Yale)
  • Health Cost Growth: David Cutler (Harvard)
  • Health Spending and the Budget: Berna Demiralp (CBO), Tami Hayford (CBO), Julie Topoleski (CBO)
  • Politics: Ian Berlin (Brookings), Bill Gale (Brookings), Vanessa Williamson (Brookings)

Expenses

Covered Expenses
Includes food, lodging, and local bus transportation between venues, as portions of the program will take place in Park City.

Not Covered
Non-academic or recreational activities. While the agenda will include free time for options such as hiking, biking, or visiting Park City, we will not be covering costs associated with guided experiences, equipment or gear rentals, lift tickets, or similar activities.

“Free time” blocks are intended for attendees to explore independently or in informal groups at their own expense.

2026 Agenda

Wednesday, June 24
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Reception Kahlert Hall (4100 GARFF)

Thursday, June 25
6:30 am – 7:30 am Continental Breakfast GARFF 3120
7:30 am Load bus to Park City Library
8:30 am – 10:30 am Session One Park City Library
10:30 am – 2:30 pm Free time to hike, bike, or hang out in Park City
2:30 pm Load bus back to Marriott Hotel
3:30 pm Dropoff at Marriott Hotel
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm Session Two GARFF 3120
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm Reception & Speaker Kahlert Hall (4100 GARFF)
7:30 pm – 8:30 pm Dinner Kahlert Hall (4100 GARFF)

Friday June 26
7:00 am – 8:00 am Continental Breakfast GARFF 3120
8:00 am – 10:00 am Session Three GARFF 3120
10:00 am Free time to hike, bike, Natural History Museum, or Red Butte
1:00 pm Lunch Fort Douglas Picnic Area
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Session Four GARFF 3130
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Reception Kahlert Hall (4100 GARFF)
7:00 pm – 7:30 pm Speaker Fireside Chat
7:30 pm – 8:30 pm Dinner Kahlert Hall (4100 GARFF)