Texas should adopt the defined contribution reform plan that offers state and local government workers the choice of a defined contribution retirement plan in place of their current defined benefit plans. Such a plan offers great advantages for both workers and taxpayers. Over the past 20 years, private sector employers have shifted sharply towards “defined contribution” pension programs. The number of private sector employees in such plans soared from 11 million in 1975 to 43 million in 1995, an increase of about 300%.
Taxes & Spending
Just the Facts: Local Government Spending
Despite billions in property tax relief provided by recent state legislatures, Texans’ property tax bills continue to increase due to unrestricted spending at the local level. Key points: City and county government spending continues to outstrip increases in both population and inflation. While the state government has constitutional and statutory spending limits, local governments do...
August 10, 2026