It’s no secret that there is a desperate need for policy reform. Whether it’s energy, economy, tax, education, or any other political arena, independent voters seek specific and effective political reform. Measures that increase transparency, enhance competition, inspire voter participation, and operate within the boundaries of strict, fiscal discipline are badly needed in a country that has become inefficient, ineffective, and paralyzed by partisan politics. This section discusses various political reform models that aim to encourage robust intellectual debate in the public forum.
On Monday, the Senate Appropriations Committee will vote on the “California Tobacco Tax Act of 2014,” a bill introduced by Senator Kevin de Leon that would increase taxes on cigarettes to pay for health care programs.
On Friday, members of the Texas Legislature agreed to a deal on the Texas State Budget that includes more money for public schools in exchange for $1 billion in tax cuts and fee rebates. The agreement comes after a tumultuous round of negotiations that was nearly derailed Wednesday
Last week, the FCC again denied a request by wired telephone companies to shut down their networks. This request comes as more Americans are moving away from switched (wired) network telephone lines in favor of the integrated broadband from cable, fiber, and mobile providers.
University of California President Mark Yudof has faced criticism during his tenure as leader of the prestigious 10-campus system. However, he explains there’s more to the role than raising tuition and cutting services.
Tuesday’s May revise budget not only highlights this year’s good financial situation, but also what future liability California is facing. One of the largest unfunded liabilities is the cost of health care for retired public employees.
Governor Jerry Brown’s revised budget projections — announced on Tuesday — painted a slightly bleaker, yet more cautious picture for the fiscal future of California. Initial figures from the Legislative Analyst’s Office foresaw about $4.5 billion in additional revenues brought in during the 2012-2013 fiscal year.
While lawmakers have taken their time in drafting regulations for a recreational system, recently passed bills are starting to paint a picture of marijuana’s future in what seems to be an already pot-friendly state.
