Justin Theal

About Justin Theal

I’m a Senior Officer with Pew’s Fiscal 50 project, where I analyze state revenue, spending, and reserves and translate those trends into clear, actionable insights. My work focuses on helping policymakers navigate complex fiscal challenges—especially as federal tax and spending decisions increasingly shape state budget conditions.Over the past decade, I’ve helped expand Pew’s research on emerging risks to state budgets, with a focus on long-term sustainability and the structural challenges that don’t always get attention until they become immediate problems.What drives me is the role state budgets play in turning policy into reality. They shape which priorities move forward—and which don’t—and that has real consequences for people, businesses, and communities. I focus on helping policymakers build budgets that meet today’s needs while preparing for the risks and investment demands ahead.In addition to my role at Pew, I’ve served in leadership positions with the American Association for Budget and Program Analysis, including as president, and on the board of Public Financial Publications.

Experience

1. Senior Officer, Fiscal 50, State Fiscal Policy

   The Pew Charitable Trusts

   Jul 2024 — Present · Washington, DC, US

   Lead analysis of state revenue, spending, and reserve trends across all 50 states, producing data-driven insights used by policymakers and national media. Expand research on emerging fiscal risks, including the effects of federal tax and spending policy on state budgets. Advise policymakers and stakeholders on practices that support long-term budget sustainability. Translate complex fiscal data into accessible analysis to inform decision-making at the state level.

Education

• University of Maryland

  Master of Public Management - Policy Track, Public Financial Management

  2017 — 2021

• Arcadia University

  Bachelor’s Degree, International Studies, Environmental Policy

  2007 — 2011