The Texas Public Policy Foundation recently commissioned Stephen Moore, Donna Arduin, and Arthur B. Laffer to evaluate the state’s fiscal health. This synopsis summarizes the serious problems diagnosed by the economists as well as the prognosis for a healthier Texas economy.
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