9. Policy

Study

Chapter Summary

A common general description of the state of Texas is that it is still the land of opportunity. It is a state that enjoys relatively low taxation with a substantial and complex mixture of regressive taxes and a penchant for funding health and human services programs at rates below national averages. As the population of the state has grown, so have the rates of poverty. There are greater demands from citizens associated with the state's population growth. The legislature has had to grapple with ways to improve education quality, improve health and human services programs for the poor, improve environmental quality, improve and expand transportation infrastructure, and deal with illegal immigration, primarily a federal issue.

During the legislative session every two years, the Texas Legislature must deal with these demands within the required frugality of a balanced budget that places spending limits on the government's generosity. The legislature is further hindered by the 140-day limited regular session and increased partisanship.

Review questions

1. What kinds of taxes do Texans pay?
   



2. Should Texas change its current tax system?
   



3. What are the problems with the current education system in Texas?
   



4. How can Texans prepare for current and future transportation needs?