Many of the challenges confronting Texas’ criminal justice system result from public policies that create incentives which are not fully aligned with the stated goals of the system–reducing crime, restoring victims, and minimizing costs to the taxpayer. This perspective provides policy recommendations for better aligning the system’s incentives and goals.
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