The one-pager outlines our analysis of how a “real cuts” plan compares with scenarios of a 2.5% rollback rate excluding debt and a 4% cap including debt. The current rollback rate is 8%, but it does not include local debt increases. Additionally, a tax ratification election on rates that exceed 8% can only be held after a rigorous petition process. This publication outlines the savings Texans could realize under a new plan of lowering the trigger and making a tax ratification election automatic.
Local Government
Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying
FACT SHEET: Understanding Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying Taxpayer-funded lobbying (TFL) is a complex and unfortunate feature of state and local governance. While lobbying is typically associated with private interest groups attempting to influence government decisions, taxpayer-funded lobbying flips this model: it involves government entities themselves using public funds to influence legislative outcomes. The Texas Public Policy Foundation’s...
May 1, 2026