With the Texas legislature now in session, calls for increased taxes are being sounded by the advocates of numerous programs. Taxes are being proposed on businesses, “the rich,” and other sources. But because all taxes are shared, everyone is negatively affected.
Taxes & Spending
Austin’s rising utility fees are taxes by another name
Rising utility bills are one of many factors exacerbating Austin’s well-documented affordability crisis. When Austin utility bills went up last winter, many residents probably didn’t even notice — mostly because the increase in fees was hidden by reductions in other costs. But here’s the truth: The city of Austin is squeezing its customers more than they know....
April 2, 2026