Texans pay higher rates on the purchase of telecommunications services (except satellite) than they do on fireworks and hard liquor. In fact, only cigarettes are taxed at a higher rate. But there is some good news. The elimination of the TIF tax and changes in the USF fee has saved Texas consumers about $350 million a year.
Criminal Justice
Safer Communities Through Second Chances: The Case for Federal Expungement
When criminal records follow people forever, families struggle, employers lose workers, and communities lose productive citizens. Federal law offers almost no path to redemption, even though second chances strengthen public safety and the economy. Key Points The federal expungement system is effectively nonexistent. Permanent criminal records for non-violent federal offenses undermine work opportunities, family stability,...
September 15, 2026