With dozens of bills filed to enhance criminal penalties, lawmakers should consider many key factors involving justice, deterrence, and prioritization of resources that are outlined in this checklist before deciding to increase criminal penalties.
Will Voters Decide to Leave Austin?
Last year, the Texas Legislature passed a limited disannexation measure, House Bill 3053, that allows people unfairly captured by large cities during a particular time period to hold an election on the question of staying or leaving municipal control. The law was passed after concerns were raised that some cities had accelerated their involuntary annexation...