Exodus for Texas
What to know: Progressive states such as California continue to bleed residents, new numbers show. And it’s mostly because of crime and high taxes.
The TPPF take: Progressive areas have little to offer aside from soaring crime rates and a skyrocketing cost of living.
“At its very heart, government’s most important role is to keep its citizenry safe, and they’re failing,” says TPPF’s Brett Tolman. “They’re failing because they’re implementing policies that are not thoughtful. They’re not best practices that are working. And they’re not considerate of the dangers that men and women are facing as the crime rises.”
For more on the exodus from blue states, click here.
The Aging Crisis
What to know: Nearly 70% of older adults will need long-term care services, a new study shows. And most can’t afford it.
The TPPF take: 13 years ago, Chuck DeVore’s father-in-law, a World War II veteran, moved in, his dementia making it impossible to live independently. Then four years ago, he ceased being able to care for himself.
“Not everyone is equipped to care for parents who need it,” Chuck explains. “But homecare is less costly than sending a parent to a facility – and you’ll always provide better care to a loved one than will a stranger. My father-in-law was surrounded by family and pets, conveying a sense of love and security.”
For more on the coming crisis in elderly care, click here.
More Debt
What to know: New data reveals that Texas’ local governments are deeply in debt. In fiscal year 2023, the amount of debt owed by cities, counties, school districts, and special districts jumped to $461.3 billion in total.
The TPPF take: The further local governments go into debt, the larger people’s property tax bills become.
“Local government debt continues to spiral out-of-control. This year, it spiked to $461.3 billion or roughly $15,500 owed for every man, woman, and child in the Lone Star State. That’s an enormous debt burden with huge policy implications,” says TPPF’s James Quintero. “The Texas Legislature must act to instill fiscal discipline before it’s too late.”
For more on local debt, click here.