School finance is one of the most complex issues in state government. Because of that complexity, much confusion exists regarding the effect on both state and local school district budgets from various forms of educational choice. This paper is intended to help illuminate this issue and explain the ‘how and why’ of fiscal effects on the state and local public schools.
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