The recent advancement of school voucher legislation in Texas has stirred significant public discourse as the Senate committee gears up for a universal education savings account program. Senate Bill 2, after undergoing extensive public testimony, suggests a transition towards a system that allows students to use state funds for private schooling. Proponents argue this step
Politics
The recent memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), which suggested a temporary halt to all federal grants and loans, has unleashed a wave of concern and uncertainty across the nation. As the White House scrambles to clarify the memo’s intentions, implications for local governments, non-profits, and various advocacy groups are garnering significant
Tax reform in the United States is a deeply complex arena, one in which the implications of scoring methods can fundamentally affect fiscal policy and public finance. As Republicans grapple with the impending expiration of key provisions under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), the methodology they choose to calculate the budgetary impact plays
The Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) is poised to address significant regulatory matters during its forthcoming board meeting scheduled for January 29 and 30, 2024. This session is particularly noteworthy as it reflects the evolving dynamics of the municipal securities landscape and the necessity for adapting regulatory frameworks in accordance with these changes. One focal
In an unexpected move just days before Nevada’s legislative session commenced on February 3, Governor Joe Lombardo took the decisive step of replacing his budget chief. Lombardo, a Republican who has been navigating the intricacies of governance since his election in 2022, appointed Tiffany Greenameyer as the new director of the Governor’s Office of Finance,
The Texas Legislature is poised for a pivotal year as budget discussions unfold, with both the House and Senate recently revealing their proposals for the upcoming biennium. The state’s robust financial position, marked by a substantial $39.4 billion cash balance, forms the backdrop against which lawmakers are advancing their strategies for fiscal prudence and taxpayer
The onset of President Trump’s administration was marked by a series of Executive Orders that aimed to reshape various aspects of federal policy. Among these was a controversial order targeting federal grants intended for local transportation infrastructure projects. This action ignited significant unease among House Democrats, particularly those on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, who
The state of Louisiana has recently undertaken significant tax reform measures aimed at addressing a projected budget deficit, a move closely watched by rating agencies like Fitch Ratings, Moody’s Ratings, and S&P Global Ratings. The intention behind these reforms is clear: to bridge an anticipated fiscal gap of approximately $587 million, thereby stabilizing the state’s
In recent times, the housing crisis has emerged as a pressing issue for many Americans, with escalating prices isolating low- and middle-income families from homeownership opportunities. As the country navigates its economic landscape, it is crucial to recognize the interconnected nature of housing with broader economic health. The recent developments from governmental leadership highlight a
The municipal bond market stands on the precipice of significant change as the House Ways and Means Committee engages in discussions that could lead to the elimination of tax-exempt bonds. This potential shift comes in response to a broader examination of policies aimed at financing an expansive tax extension plan, prompting concern among stakeholders in