The Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) filed a comment with the U.S. State Department on a proposed revision to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which threatens to outlaw a broad swath of the Internet. The revision would require anyone wishing to discuss technology necessary for the manufacture, operation, or development of a weapon to apply for a license before publishing it online. Failure to do so could result in up to 20 years’ incarceration and a fine of $1 million per violation. The rule would affect discussion on a civilian level, including discussion of engines, boat propellers, microchips, metallurgy, and basic engineering principles.
Local Government
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...
March 6, 2026