As the population in Texas continues to swell, Governor Greg Abbott has recognized the pressing need to address the state’s water infrastructure and supply challenges. In his recent State of the State address, he labeled water as one of the seven critical issues requiring immediate legislative attention. Abbott’s ambitious proposal includes a staggering investment of
Politics
Recent developments surrounding the federal funding for infrastructure projects have ignited widespread concern among legislators and transportation officials alike. A temporary freeze on federal reimbursements, enacted by the White House but quickly rescinded, has left numerous stakeholders questioning the stability and reliability of infrastructure financing. This chaotic situation not only undermines bipartisan efforts from Congress
In an era marked by fluctuating economic landscapes, many states in the U.S. have found themselves grappling with budget surpluses. Virginia is no exception, and its lawmakers are currently navigating the complex waters of budgetary reform and tax policy. While this year’s surplus has stirred discussions around tax rebates — a move seen in various
Texas, known for its robust economy, is facing a projected downturn in job growth. According to the latest Texas Employment Forecast from the Dallas Federal Reserve, the state anticipates a modest employment increase of 1.6% this year, a slight dip from 1.7% in 2024 and significantly less than the 2.4% surge experienced in 2023. This
In a disheartening development for Houston’s fiscal landscape, officials have expressed grave concerns following a significant court ruling that could impose a $100 million annual burden on the city’s budget. The Texas Supreme Court, by declining to entertain Houston’s appeal against an earlier appellate court ruling, has left the city grappling with issues stemming from
The newly inaugurated Trump administration is poised to reshape the landscape of federal infrastructure funding, signaling a definitive pivot towards projects that align with the administration’s broader priorities. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), under the leadership of Secretary Sean Duffy, has released a directive that introduces considerable changes to how transportation funding will be
Connecticut has grappled with the pressing issues of climate change and extreme weather, prompting state leaders to take proactive measures to mitigate future risks. Governor Ned Lamont’s recent announcement of a comprehensive resilience plan encapsulates the urgent need for innovative public finance tools aimed at enhancing the state’s capacity to withstand climatic adversities. With the
The potential removal of tax-exempt status for municipal bonds has ignited a significant wave of concern among various stakeholders, including investors, affordable housing advocates, and municipal issuers. As discussions unfold in Congress, these groups are mobilizing to safeguard what they regard as an indispensable financial mechanism for supporting local governmental operations and infrastructure projects. The
In Oklahoma, a significant shift is poised to occur regarding the regulation of government contracts and investment practices. The introduction of Senate Bill 714 by Republican State Senator Dave Rader aims to amend a controversial provision in the state’s Energy Discrimination Elimination Act. This legislative move comes in the wake of growing concerns over the
The recent dialogue surrounding the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) and its rate card process has illuminated the complexities of municipal finance and the fee structures governing it. The diverse responses from various dealer groups and municipal advisors reflect an ongoing tension between regulatory fairness, operational sustainability, and the diverse business models employed by professionals