Production of crude oil and natural gas has historically fluctuated based on many market-driven and geopolitical factors. Because the Texas Legislature collects severance taxes from this volatile production to primarily fund the state’s rainy day fund, the purpose for and use of the ESF must be worthy.
Taxes & Spending
Bill Analysis: Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying | 89th Legislature Special Session
Taxpayer-funded lobbying (TFL) refers to the practice of political subdivisions expending public monies to influence legislative or administrative actions. As a result, through taxes, Texans subsidize speech without their consent, speech that is frequently contrary to their values and interests. Estimates place total TFL expenditures as high as $98.6 million in 2023, costs ultimately borne...
July 25, 2025