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This week we saw the second round of joint budget hearings take place between staff from the Texas Legislative Budget Board and various state agencies, serving as a crucial step in the broader state budget process. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick issued additional Interim Charges for Senate committees to consider ahead of the 89th Legislative Session. There are now a total of five announced candidates for Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives.
All of that and more in this week’s newsletter.
For Liberty, For Texas
Jeramy D. Kitchen
President, Texas Policy Research
Featured
Texas Senate Finance Committee Asks Whether Texas Can Eliminate Property Taxes
Recently, the Texas Senate Finance Committee held a public hearing to discuss various budgetary issues, including the potential elimination of property taxes—a topic that has ignited heated debates among lawmakers, experts, and Texans alike. During the hearing, experts provided testimony, lawmakers explored potential implications, and various options were considered for replacing the revenue currently generated by property taxes.
Other Recent Content
Texas AG Paxton Sues State Fair Over Firearm Ban: A Landmark Battle for Gun Rights
- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the City of Dallas and the State Fair of Texas, challenging their policy banning firearms on public land leased by a private entity, arguing it violates Texas’ constitutional carry law.
- The lawsuit centers on whether the State Fair, operating on publicly leased property, can enforce a firearms ban that conflicts with state law, potentially setting a significant precedent for gun rights and local governance in Texas.
Texas House Speaker Selection: Inside the Process & Republican Caucus Rules
- The process of selecting the Speaker of the Texas House involves a series of steps, including candidate announcements, campaigning among House members, and securing pledges of support, followed by an official House vote.
- The Texas House Republican Caucus has established specific rules, including a caucus vote and binding agreements, to ensure party unity in selecting a Speaker nominee, significantly influencing the election process.
Texas State Representative Takes on Smithville’s Proposed Tax Hike
- Texas State Rep. Stan Gerdes is opposing Smithville’s proposed property tax increase, arguing it would place an undue financial burden on residents and businesses, especially during economic uncertainty.
- Lawmakers can address this issue, as it is but just one example of the many other local governments pursuing the same avenue, in the upcoming 89th Legislative Session.
Texas SCOPE Act Blocked: Federal Court Grants Injunction as Legal Saga Continues
- A federal court granted a preliminary injunction against the Texas SCOPE Act (HB 18), halting its enforcement due to concerns that it infringes on First Amendment rights by overly restricting access to online content.
- The ruling challenges state regulation of digital service providers and emphasizes that parental control, rather than government mandates, should determine online content access for minors.
Legislative Countdowns
2024 General Election: 52 Days
Prefiling Legislation Begins: 58 Days
89th Legislative Session Begins: 122 Days
Bill Filing Deadline: 181 Days
89th Legislative Session Ends: 261 Days
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