In a significant ruling that has reverberated through Texas municipalities, Travis County District Court Judge Karin Crump has come down in favor of several cities against the state comptroller’s office. The dispute stems from a contentious rule change initiated by Comptroller Glenn Hegar in 2020, which aimed to alter the allocation of sales tax revenue
Politics
In the intricate realm of U.S. governance, the recent legislative maneuvers in Congress not only highlight the challenges that lawmakers face but also reveal the nature of American politics—one steeped in negotiation, conflict, and contentious victories. As Congress concluded its session with a continuing resolution (CR) to temporarily fund the government until mid-March, it opened
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton recently concluded a thorough 14-month investigation into Wells Fargo, a move that initially hinted at potential consequences including a halt on the bank’s ability to underwrite governmental bonds in the state. This scrutiny emerged following the bank’s withdrawal from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), an initiative designed to steer financial
The recent breakdown of negotiations to establish a continuing resolution (CR) for government funding marks a critical juncture for the U.S. Congress. On Wednesday, the prospective deal faltered in the face of strong opposition from President-elect Trump and business mogul Elon Musk. Their combined voices amplified discontent with the proposed CR, which is vital for
The saga surrounding the Tampa Bay Rays and their push for a new stadium continues to unfold in a manner that reveals both the complexities and the tensions inherent in public-private financing of sports facilities. Recently, the Pinellas County Commission took a significant step by approving $312 million in bonds aimed at financing the construction
The recent report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has reignited the debate surrounding tax-exempt qualified activity bonds, particularly regarding their potential elimination as a means of reducing the federal budget deficit. These bonds, often referred to as Qualified Private Activity Bonds (PABs), are vital in financing crucial infrastructure projects across the United States. They
Oklahoma County finds itself entangled in litigation regarding the establishment of a bond-financed jail, a development that highlights the intersection of governmental authority, urban planning, and public welfare. This legal dispute arose following a June lawsuit by the county against Oklahoma City, triggered by the city’s refusal to grant a special use permit for a
The political landscape in the United States is continuously in flux, particularly when it comes to infrastructure spending and fiscal policy. Findings and statements from recent sessions of congressional committees reveal a strong intention to pivot towards prioritizing roads and rail systems. With significant leadership turmoil and upcoming elections influencing the direction of policy, a
As the District of Columbia gears up for significant fiscal changes, its leadership is voicing urgent security concerns while petitioning Congress for a considerable boost in funding. A proposed increase of $142 million brings the budget request to a total of $932 million for the 2025 fiscal year. This plea not only underscores the financial
The California High-Speed Rail (CHSR) project has long been known as an ambitious infrastructure endeavor designed to connect major cities in California through rapid transit. However, in recent years, it has emerged as a focal point for political scrutiny and controversy, making headlines as its costs and lengthy delays have raised serious doubts about its