Testimony of Ricky Dobbs, PhD, before the SBOE

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,...

Fending Off Foreign Funding

On Tuesday, the Texas Public Policy Foundation had the honor of hosting Governor Greg Abbott for a press event on the future of Texas education. The Governor announced new plans to thwart the creeping influence of hostile foreign actors and radical ideological networks in Texas’ K-12 public schools. His proposals included prohibiting foreign entities from using gifts,...

TWIA’s Expanding Reach Raises Fresh Concerns 

TWIA has become the leading wind and hail insurer in the catastrophe area. Its position has direct and indirect consequences for Texans statewide. Key points: Since 2020, TWIA has steadily increased its market share in the catastrophe area, raising concerns about scope and cost. TWIA’s quasi-governmental model imposes potential costs on statewide policyholders and private...