On Tuesday, Texas moved a step closer to implementing a universal school voucher program with the Senate Education Committee’s approval of Senate Bill 2. This decision followed extensive public hearings, highlighting a rift in opinion that underscores the contentious nature of educational funding in the state. Advocates of the program argue that it will empower
Politics
The political landscape surrounding federal funding has recently been complicated by a memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), suggesting an abrupt pause in the disbursement of federal grants and loans. This two-page document, issued on a Monday night, sparked immediate waves of concern among local governments and organizations dependent on federal assistance.
In the realm of U.S. political finance, the nuances surrounding the scoring methods for tax reforms are not just academic—they play a pivotal role in shaping legislative outcomes. As Republicans grapple with the impending expiration of key provisions from the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act (TCJA), their approach to estimating costs could significantly influence the
The Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) has long been recognized as a pivotal entity in the regulation of the municipal securities market, a vast financial landscape valued at approximately $4 trillion. Established by Congress in 1975, the MSRB’s mandate includes formulating rules and guidelines to protect both investors and the integrity of the market. This
As Nevada prepares for its legislative session commencing on February 3, 2023, the appointment of a new budget chief by Governor Joe Lombardo has elicited scrutiny from various political factions. Lombardo, the state’s first Republican governor in a decade, has argued for a substantial budget of $12.7 billion. However, his proposal is marred by predictions
The recent unveiling of budget proposals by the Republican-controlled Texas legislature has sparked a significant conversation regarding the state’s fiscal priorities and future economic stability. As Texas grapples with a burgeoning cash balance, juxtaposed against the backdrop of ongoing property tax cuts and educational funding needs, the intricate dance of government financial planning becomes apparent.
The inauguration of a new presidential administration often ushers in an era of hope and change, but it can also trigger waves of concern, especially within critical sectors such as transportation. President Donald Trump’s initial Executive Orders, notably one aimed at halting federal grants directed toward local transportation infrastructure, sparked immediate outrage among House Democrats
In a bid to counteract a looming fiscal deficit projected to exceed $587 million in the upcoming year, Louisiana has enacted significant tax reforms. The potential effectiveness of these reforms has drawn mixed reactions from credit rating agencies such as Fitch Ratings, Moody’s, and S&P Global Ratings. While they acknowledge that the changes could stabilize
The American housing landscape has long been fraught with challenges, from rising costs of homeownership to a dire shortage of affordable options. As the Trump administration readies a strategic approach to tackle these issues, the focus has intensified on expanding mortgage bonds and adjusting the parameters for Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTCs). Such movements indicate
In a developing scenario that could significantly reshape the municipal bond market, the House Ways and Means Committee has begun discussing the potential elimination of tax-exempt bonds as part of an expansive reconciliation bill. This deliberation comes amidst a broader inquiry into various federal financial policies, which has produced a comprehensive list of targeted programs,