Government spending crowds out private sector spending, diminishing the private economy’s rate of growth and costing Texans jobs. In other words, increased government spending makes citizens poorer because it takes their money now, while also reducing their future income and employment prospects. This fact is at the heart of the debate about whether or not Texas should accept federal stimulus money.
Examining Local Government Spending Trends From 2014 to 2023
City and county spending has outpaced growth in population and inflation, leading to an increase in the tax burden on Texan taxpayers. Key points: Local government spending continues to outstrip increases in both population and inflation. From 2014 to 2023, local government spending rose by 61.2%, whereas population and inflation increased by only 42.7%. Elevated...