As Texas lawmakers unveil their budget proposals for the upcoming biennium, the balance between property tax cuts and educational funding continues to be a focal point of concern and debate. The state is currently sitting on a historic cash balance of $39.4 billion, providing a unique opportunity to navigate budgetary allocations. However, stakeholders warn that
Politics
The inauguration of a president often signals a shift in political priorities, and President Trump’s initial Executive Orders exemplified this reality, particularly concerning transportation infrastructure funding. The focus on halting federal grants directed towards local infrastructure projects elicited fierce reactions from Democrats and state officials alike. This discourse reveals significant concerns about the implications of
In an effort to rectify a concerning fiscal deficit of over $587 million projected for the upcoming year, Louisiana has recently implemented significant tax changes. While the adjustments have garnered cautious optimism from major credit rating agencies such as Fitch Ratings, Moody’s, and S&P Global Ratings, the overarching question remains: will these changes genuinely stabilize
In the wake of housing challenges that plague the United States, the Trump administration is signaling a potential shift in policy aimed at addressing the acute need for affordable housing. Key stakeholders within the municipal finance community are abuzz with discussions on how to enhance mortgage bond options and improve access to Low Income Housing
The landscape of municipal finance is currently facing substantial upheaval as the House Ways and Means Committee deliberates on a sweeping list of tax modifications, potentially signaling the end of tax-exempt bonds. A leaked document comprising 51 pages lays out the proposals under consideration for a future reconciliation bill, inciting concern among municipal bond markets
As the fiscal landscape of New York City evolves, Mayor Eric Adams has put forth a bold $114.5 billion budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year beginning July 1. On the surface, this budget reflects a significant increase—more than $2.5 billion—over the current year’s expenditures. It suggests a newfound confidence in the city’s fiscal health,
The House Ways and Means Committee is delving into a critical discussion during the 119th Congress, centering on the trajectory of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). This debate is particularly charged, pitting the relationship between rising national debt and economic growth against one another. As advocates for municipal finance voice their concerns, worries
In a significant legal development, the Goldwater Institute has filed a lawsuit against the town council of Gilbert, Arizona, asserting that their recent decision to increase taxes violates the state constitution. This case underscores a growing tension between local governments seeking to manage infrastructure needs and the legal boundaries set by state law. The lawsuit,
The battle over the state and local tax (SALT) deduction has resurfaced with renewed vigor, as recent legislative proposals seek to address the challenges posed by the existing cap. This cap, established by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), has been a source of frustration for lawmakers representing high-tax states, particularly New York,
As the United States progresses into an era marked by transformative leadership changes and innovative projects, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is poised to redefine its approach to federal infrastructure funding. With the winds of political change on the horizon, the DOT, under the guidance of U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, has recently announced a