HB 9 would increase contributions by taxpayers collected at the state level from 6.8 percent to 7.8 percent in 2020 (and progressively higher to 8.8 percent in 2026) to decrease the funding period from 87 years to 30 years, respectively. This increase in contributions would cost taxpayers $684 million in the 2020-21 biennium and more thereafter. While this improves the financial soundness of TRS if the assumed rate of return is met, HB 9 does not solve the structural problems of TRS and adds additional costs to taxpayers of $658 million for a 13th payment to retirees in 2020.
Affordability is the Problem. Less Government is the Solution.
Affordability is the number one issue in Texas, and it isn’t even close. Numerous polls, released both before and after Election Day, show the Texas electorate alarmed with the cost of gas, groceries, and rent—as well as everything else. One poll in particular, conducted by the University of Texas and the Texas Politics Project, illustrates...