In order to curb the growth of government spending, Texas’ constitutional tax and expenditure limit (TEL) must be improved. This perspective examines some ways the Legislature can strengthen the state’s TEL and bring greater fiscal discipline to Texas government.
Local Government
Reinvigorating Federalism and Fiscal Discipline in Texas: Establishing the Office of State Sovereignty
Texas governments received $84.3 billion in federal funding in 2023, raising concerns over financial dependency and regulatory consequences. Creating an Office of State Sovereignty to monitor the application, receipt, and conditions of this aid could mitigate fiscal risk and improve transparency. Key points: Texas lacks a centralized system to oversee federal grants potentially flowing to...
September 9, 2026