How can Texas reduce expenditures for the new public school employee health program while protecting and improving benefits? The Texas 78th Legislature faces this key question as members confront a $9.9 billion revenue shortfall. The health care program is targeted for legislative cuts. Funded for its first year only, the program was financed by revenues taken from a “one time” source; additional blows were delivered by a sagging state economy and rising insurance costs, estimated in the range of $2.5 billion for the 2004-2005 fiscal year.
Taxes & Spending
Supermajority Solutions for Texas Taxpayers
Texas bond elections often pass with low voter turnout and simple majorities, driving up local debt as a result. Raising voter approval thresholds could protect taxpayers and ensure a stronger consensus for public spending. Key points: Even though tax relief has been funded at the state level, increased debt at the local level has led...
February 3, 2026