Estimated Time to Read: 4 minutes
Howdy!
The last few weeks have been a whirlwind when it comes to Texas politics. A group of Republican “reformers” met privately to select a candidate for Texas House Speaker to challenge the incumbent Speaker Dade Phelan, the State Fair of Texas looks all set to implement its gun ban at this year’s festivities, and several legislative committees are meeting to tackle their interim charges ahead of the upcoming legislative session.
All of that and more in this week’s newsletter.
For Liberty, For Texas
Jeramy D. Kitchen
President, Texas Policy Research
Featured
Texas Property Tax Relief: Why Current Efforts Fall Short and How to Fix Them
In our most recent data/research project we dive into why current property tax relief efforts fall short and what can be done to fix them. By tackling rising property values, government overspending, and ineffective tax measures, we also provide tangible solutions that lawmakers can implement in the upcoming legislative session such as freezing school M&O taxes and reducing government growth. If you are concerned about the future of property tax relief in Texas, this article provides a roadmap for sustainable change. We have also updated the property tax levy data going back all of the way to 1998, broken down by local government entity to help illustrate the growing tax burden on Texas taxpayers.
Other Recent Content
Paxton Sues Harris County to Block Guaranteed Income Program
- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit to block Harris County’s guaranteed income program, claiming it misuses public funds without proper legislative oversight. Paxton argues the program is a form of illegal wealth redistribution that violates state law.
- Harris County officials defend the program as a necessary measure to assist struggling residents, especially post-pandemic. The lawsuit could set a significant legal precedent on the extent of local government power in Texas regarding social welfare initiatives.
Regulating AI in Texas and Other U.S. States
- States across the U.S. are implementing AI regulations, focusing on areas like employment, education, and finance. Key concerns include preventing algorithmic discrimination and ensuring transparency. Texas is aligning with national trends but also emphasizes privacy protections and sector-specific regulations, aiming to foster ethical AI development.
- The Texas Legislature, through its interim report, highlights both the opportunities and risks of AI, such as innovation potential and concerns around cybersecurity and data privacy. Texas is positioning itself as a leader in AI governance with plans for legislation balancing innovation and protection of individual rights.
Ken Paxton Appeals State Fair of Texas Gun Ban to Texas Supreme Court
- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is appealing to the Texas Supreme Court, challenging the State Fair of Texas’ firearms ban, arguing it violates Texas’ constitutional carry law and Second Amendment rights.
- The outcome of Paxton’s appeal could set a significant precedent for future public events in Texas regarding firearm policies, particularly on public property.
Texas Pushes for Federal Assistance to Verify Voter Citizenship
Ahead of 2024 Election
- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has requested federal assistance to verify the citizenship status of voters ahead of the 2024 election, emphasizing the importance of election integrity. Paxton’s letter to the Texas Secretary of State highlights challenges posed by federal laws that prevent states from requiring proof of citizenship during voter registration.
- Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson followed up by formally requesting the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to cross-reference voter data with federal records to verify voter eligibility. This effort aims to ensure only U.S. citizens are registered to vote in Texas.
Legislative Countdowns
2024 General Election: 38 Days
Prefiling Legislation Begins: 44 Days
89th Legislative Session Begins: 108 Days
Bill Filing Deadline: 167 Days
89th Legislative Session Ends: 247 Days
Texas Policy Research relies on the support of generous donors across Texas.
If you found this information helpful, please consider supporting our efforts! Thank you!
