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Current Articles & Research Resources, October 24

Oct 24

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Read about Amazon's role in state and local elections. (Reuters, October 15, 2019)
  • Review data related to vaping-associated lung injury cases in Utah. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, October 22, 2019)
  • Consider what some states are doing to address noise pollution's effect on wildlife. (Stateline, October 22, 2019)
  • Find out where to dispose of unused prescription medications properly. (Drug Enforcement Administration, accessed October 23, 2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "Pocket prairies: Natural solutions to unnatural flooding." By Henry Gass. Christian Science Monitor, October 21, 2019, pp. 18-19.
    Highlights the numerous "pocket prairies" established in Houston, and nearby native prairies, the Deer Park Prairie and the Katy Prairie Conservancy. Explains their role in handling storm water and providing wildlife habitat and park space.
  • "Total state and local business taxes: State-by-state estimates for FY18." Council on State Taxation, October 17, 2019, pp. 1-25.
    Compares state and local business taxes paid in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia, including business property taxes, sales and excise taxes, gross receipts taxes, corporate income and franchise taxes, unemployment insurance taxes, and pass-through business taxes. Finds Texas' business share of total state and local taxes was 62.3 percent in fiscal year 2018. Notes a majority of the increase in severance taxes occurred in Texas due to higher oil prices, and Texas had the largest dollar increase ($2.4 billion) in business property tax revenue.
  • "Eyes on the border wall." By Camila DeChalus. CQ Weekly, October 7, 2019, pp. 22-25.
    Details the technologies being used to supplement security at the Texas border with Mexico and the federal government's efforts to fund and deploy newer high-tech equipment. Addresses how eminent domain issues and Texas landowners' privacy rights are affected by the technological approaches to border security.
  • "Suffering in many languages." By Tanvi Misra and Camila DeChalus. CQ Weekly, September 30, 2019, pp. 20-25.
    Addresses the significant increase in people from India and other South Asian countries seeking asylum in the United States. Discusses the unique challenges encountered by non-Spanish-speaking migrants and the desperate measures they take for assistance.
  • "Self-driving cars: Autonomous ways." Economist, October 12th-18th, 2019, pp. 65-66.
    Points out China's approach to self-driving cars — heavy on infrastructure and government oversight — may surpass that of western car makers, placing the country at the forefront of an estimated $2 trillion market by 2040.
  • "Sports events pose risks for violence." By Arianna Prothero and Denisa R. Superville. Education Week, September 25, 2019, pp. 1, 14-15.
    Discusses challenges of protecting students and the public from acts of violence at school-sponsored athletic events. Focuses on school districts in Texas.
  • "The K-12 takeover: Big philanthropy's bid to privatize education." By Andrea Gabor. Harper's Magazine, November 2019, pp. 55-63,
    Looks at the influence of philanthropists on charter schools, including the Knowledge Is Power Program [KIPP], away from a "vision of teacher- and community-led schools" to centers of educational and social reform.
  • "Background checks for firearm purchases: Problem areas and recommendations to improve effectiveness." Health Affairs, October 2019, pp. 1702-1710.
    Explains why the benefits of background checks in reducing the risk of firearm violence have been seen only among those directly affected, and not at the population level. Recommends actions to remedy the design and implementation of background checks so they can better prevent violence.
  • "Linking public safety and public health data for firearm suicide prevention in Utah." By Catherine Barber, et al. Health Affairs, October 2019, pp. 1695-1701.
    Presents a case study of how firearm stakeholders, state agency representatives, legislators, and suicide researchers came together in Utah to study firearm suicide prevention and deliver actionable findings for all parties.
  • "High unintended pregnancy rate spurs efforts to ease contraceptive access." By Rita Rubin. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), October 15, 2019, pp. 1434-1436.
    Outlines approaches to improve contraceptive access that could be undertaken at the federal, state, and private industry levels, including producing an over-the-counter oral contraceptive product, permitting pharmacists to prescribe contraceptives, online resources, and addressing insurance issues.
  • "The long-term outlook for the Texas economy." By M. Ray Perryman. Perryman Report and Texas Letter, Vol. 36, No. 7, pp. 1-3, 6.
    Summarizes the latest long-term projections for the Texas economy. Considers the impact of the oil and gas sector on the state.
  • "Buying solar energy by the minute: Aligning benefits with costs." By Robert L. Borlick. Public Utilities Fortnightly, October 2019, pp. 38-40, 65.
    Focuses on the solar energy incentive programs known as Net Energy Metering. Reviews various incentives provided for residential rooftop solar photovoltaic systems in some states, including Texas.
  • "Tech giants fight digital right-to-repair bills." By Elaine S. Povich. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), October 16, 2019, pp. 1-5.
    Examines states' lack of success in passing legislation that will allow independent repair shops and consumers to gain access to manufacturers' parts, manuals, and schematics for cellphones.
  • "Legislative summary: 86th Texas legislative session." Texas Board of Nursing Bulletin, October 2019, pp. 6-8.
    Provides summaries of bills affecting the nursing profession.
  • "Vote for CPRIT." By Sean Price. Texas Medicine, October 2019, pp. 18-23.
    Highlights the achievements and contributions of the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas [CPRIT]. Urges support of the constitutional amendment to extend CPRIT's funding.

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on October 24, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 1339 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, October 17

Oct 17

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Read about rural population growth in recent years. (National Conference of State Legislatures, September 2019)
  • Consider the impact of electric scooters. (Council of State Governments, September 2019)
  • Explore how Texas' economy compares with other states. (Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, accessed October 16, 2019)
  • Get current information about the upcoming elections. (Texas Secretary of State, accessed October 16, 2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "Fort Worth asks: Can a Klan hall become a place of healing?" By Henry Gass. Christian Science Monitor, September 30, 2019, pp. 8-9.
    Highlights the move to transform a former Fort Worth Ku Klux Klan hall into a shared community space focusing on dialogue and equity, while also promoting a better understanding of racist events in the city's history.
  • "Laboring against discrimination." By Samantha Sokol. Church & State, October 2019, pp. 4-5.
    Highlights the United States Department of Labor's proposed rule that would expand a religious exemption available to taxpayer-funded federal contractors. Surmises the rule would allow religiously-affiliated contractors to claim a religious right when they refuse to hire or fire certain people.
  • "Borderline despair: How the U.S. is warehousing asylum-seekers." By Camila DeChalus. CQ Weekly, September 30, 2019, pp. 14-19.
    Examines the impact the Migration Protection Protocols [MPP] policy, also known as the Remain in Mexico program, is having on those who are seeking asylum in the United States. Argues these new restrictions on asylum are discouraging migrants from entering the United States legally.
  • "Texas: The magenta mammoth." Economist, October 5th-11th, 2019, pp. 21-22.
    Considers the prospects of Democrats winning Texas in the 2020 elections.
  • "High court case tests faith-based use of tax credits." By Mark Walsh. Education Week, October 2, 2019, pp. 1, 10-11.
    Provides background information on the upcoming United States Supreme Court case Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue, which addresses whether groups can receive state tax credits for private school scholarship donations. Suggests the high court's ruling could be significant for K-12 education and potentially affect state constitutional provisions in 37 states.
  • "The law and ethics of fetal burial requirements for reproductive health care." By Dov Fox, I. Glenn Cohen, and Eli Y. Adashi. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), October 8, 2019, pp. 1347-1348.
    Considers the legal and ethical ramifications of recent and historical fetal burial requirement cases that have been heard by the United States Supreme Court, with Box v. Planned Parenthood being the most recent.
  • "Patterns of telehealth use among rural Medicaid beneficiaries." By Jean A. Talbot, et al. Journal of Rural Health, Summer 2019, pp. 298-307.
    Provides information about telehealth use in 2011, including the prevalence of telehealth use among rural and urban Medicaid beneficiaries, characteristics of telehealth users, reimbursement policies, and unique rural service needs.
  • "The danger of being 'endangered.'" By Shawn Regan. National Review, September 30, 2019, pp. 21-23.
    Considers new revisions to the Endangered Species Act regulations, including the restoration of a regulatory distinction between threatened and endangered species. Suggests the new rules will encourage states, landowners, and conservationists to collaborate better on recovery efforts for threatened species.
  • "The right to make arms." By Kevin D. Williamson. National Review, September 30, 2019, pp. 41-43.
    Discusses the Remington Arms Co. v. Soto case, currently before the United States Supreme Court, and the question of whether the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act [PLCAA] exception would stop Connecticut families in their attempt to sue Remington for its Bushmaster rifle advertising.
  • "The challenges of economic growth." By M. Ray Perryman. Perryman Report and Texas Letter, Vol. 36, No. 6, pp. 1-3, 6.
    Quantifies the importance of proactive actions to address challenges associated with the demands of rapid expansion in an area's population and economy. Uses the unprecedented growth in Midland, Texas as a case study.
  • "How one school is tackling the youth vaping epidemic." By Christine Vestal. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), September 23, 2019, pp. 1-9.
    Reports school administrators are using a combination of strategies to reduce student vaping at South Portland High School in Maine: limiting suspensions, giving students behavioral health assessments, providing alternative ways to socialize, and offering mental health and addiction counseling.
  • "An abridged guide to the 86th Texas Legislature for county clerks." By Teresa Keil. Texas County Progress, October 2019, pp. 34, 38, 55.
    Lists a dozen bills passed during the 86th Texas Legislature that affect county clerks and how they perform their duties.
  • "Moving on." By Amy Lynn Sorrel. Texas Medicine, October 2019, p. 48.
    Profiles Representative John Zerwas, MD, highlighting his significant legislation relating to medicine and noting his new role as the University of Texas System's executive vice chancellor for health affairs.

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on October 17, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 1052 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, October 10

Oct 10

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Review the legal authority  behind appropriating money for border wall construction. (Congressional Research Service, October 2, 2019)
  • Consider strategies to stop or slow the spread of the flu. (National Conference of State Legislatures, October 2019)
  • Read about whether sin taxes  are a reliable source of state revenue. (Tax Policy Center, October 2019)
  • Explore how cable companies use hidden fees  to increase consumers' cable bills. (Consumer Reports, October 2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "Alarms sound on air rescues." By Mary Ellen McIntire. CQ Weekly, September 23, 2019, pp. 24-26.
    Details challenges faced by Congress and the states in their efforts to protect consumers from balance billing, a practice that can result in unexpected and exorbitant bills for air ambulance services.
  • "Electronic monitoring: Pricey tags." Economist, September 28th-October 4th, 2019, pp. 24, 26.
    Suggests the high fees and burdensome conditions associated with electronic monitoring are comparable to the type of injustices imposed by cash bail. Notes monitoring stigmatizes people who have not been convicted of a crime and drives them into debt.
  • "Taxing out-of-state sellers: New state tax laws may bring in $500 million annually." By Shannon Halbrook. Fiscal Notes, September 2019, pp. 6-9.
    Discusses state tax policy on Internet sales tax revenue after South Dakota v. Wayfair and changes in Texas law and regulations, including an amended Comptroller's rule, and HB1525 and HB2153, 86th Legislature.
  • "You down with CBD? Yea you know me – states look to incentivize and tax growing hemp industry." By Daniel G. Mudd. Journal of MultiState Taxation and Incentives, October 2019, pp. 32-34.
    Chronicles the development of the hemp industry and growth of hemp-based products such as the popular cannabidiol [CBD]. Highlights state incentive programs for hemp cultivation in Kentucky and Colorado, and state taxation of hemp in Vermont, Louisiana, and Montanna.
  • "States are depriving innocent people of their Second Amendment rights."  By Jacob Sullum, Reason, November 2019, pp. 46-51.
    Considers red flag laws used to obtain extreme risk orders to seize firearms. Reviews the history of enactment of these laws and explains problems with their application. Offers suggestions for improving the laws and due process protections.
  • "Texas' energy base drives climate concerns as renewables expand." By Jesse Thompson and Emma Marshall. Southwest Economy (Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas), Third Quarter 2019, pp. 9-13.
    Reports the state's high industrial share of carbon emissions and its leadership role in renewable energy will place Texas in the center of the debate about climate change and the reduction of greenhouse gases.
  • "Education: Learning from the best."  By Michelle Exstrom. State Legislatures, September/October 2019, pp. 12-16.
    Discusses four common elements of world-class educational systems. Considers how states can apply lessons learned from studying high-performing education systems to improve student achievement and prepare higher-skilled workers. (Report at http://www.ncsl.org/documents/educ/Edu_International_FinaI_V2.pdf)
  • "Climate change could make borrowing costlier for states and cities." By Alex Brown.  Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), October 1, 2019, pp. 1-7.
    Considers how the bond sectors' increasing attention to climate risk issues will affect the municipal bond market. Mentions Port Arthur, Texas, experienced credit downgrades after major hurricanes.
  • "Q&A with Ernesto Ballesteros: Person taked with overseeing cybersecurity matters for Texas provides a glimpse of goals, initiatives and priorities." Texas Banking, October 2019, pp. 14-16.
    Interviews Ernesto Ballesteros, state cybersecurity coordinator and chairman of the Texas Cybersecurity Council, about cybersecurity matters generally, recent ransomware attacks in rural Texas communities, and cybersecurity awareness for the Texas banking industry. Discusses the composition and charge of the Texas Cybersecurity Council, established in 2013 (SB1102, 83rd Legislature, R.S.) and expanded in 2017 (HB8, 85th Legislature, R.S.).
  • "Battling over the past." By Christopher Hooks. Texas Monthly, October 2019, pp. 82-85, 154-158.
    Contrasts recent trends in Texas history to correct the historical record and be more inclusive with efforts to maintain traditional accounts. Discusses legislation to replace Confederate Heroes Day with Civil War Remembrance Day (HB1242, 84th Legislature) and to restrict the removal or alteration of certain monuments from public property (SB1663, 86th Legislature). Mentions Senator Brandon Creighton..

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

 

This entry was posted on October 10, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 1074 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, October 3

Oct 3

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Track traffic safety laws state by state. (National Conference of State Legislatures, September 18, 2019)
  • Compare prescription drug prices in the U.S. to prescription drug prices in other countries. (U.S. House Ways & Means Committee, September 2019)
  • Read about federal funding designated for reimbursing Texas health care providers for charity care. (Texas Health and Human Services Commission, October 1, 2019)
  • Explore free access to case law. (Harvard Law School, ©2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "New federal loan-forgiveness program still rejects 99% of applicants." By Michael Vasquez. Chronicle of Higher Education, September 20, 2019, p. A21.
    Highlights problems with the United States Department of Education's college loan forgiveness program for individuals going into public service.
  • "Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac: Home truths." Economist, September 14th-20th, 2019, pp. 67-68.
    Discusses United States Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin's plan to reform the federal housing finance system.
  • "Fiscal highlights from the 86th Legislature: Legislative session tackled public education, property taxes." By Ramona Reeves. Fiscal Notes, September 2019, pp. 1, 3-5.
    Provides an overview of the 2020-2021 state budget and details legislation passed by the 86th Legislature on school finance (HB3), local property taxes (SB2), teacher retirement (SB500 and SB12), online sales taxes (HB1525 and HB2153), and investment of the Rainy Day Fund into the Legacy Fund (SB69).
  • "The 'green rush,' CBD businesses flourishing under new law." By Neetish Basnet. Fort Worth Business Press, September 16-22, 2019, pp. 26-27.
    Discusses the new industrial hemp law and its impact on businesses in Texas. Quotes Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller.
  • "Serving rural America: Health insurance providers at work." Internet Resource, September 2019, pp. 1-6.
    Presents five case studies featuring health insurance providers' various approaches to delivering quality health care in rural America, while addressing the problem of rural hospital closings and mergers.
  • "Toolkit: State strategies to support older adults aging in place in rural areas." By Neva Kaye and Kristina Long. Internet Resource, September 2019, pp. 1-23.
    Provides examples of strategies states are using to support aging in place for older adults in rural areas. Highlights SB670, 86th Legislature, and SB1107, 85th Legislature, R.S., as examples of legislation removing the barriers to the use of telehealth and telemedicine.
  • "Federalism as an antidote to polarization over health care policy." By Stuart M. Butler. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), September 24, 2019, pp. 1131-1132.
    Recounts how federalism historically has helped to resolve policy impasses by allowing states to opt in — or out — with regard to disputed programs such as welfare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act.
  • "Understanding Wayfair: A user-friendly guide to the biggest state tax case in 30 years." By Rick Najjar and Ted Kontopoulos. Journal of MultiState Taxation and Incentives, October 2019, pp. 6-17.
    Discusses the fundamental concepts and state tax ramifications of South Dakota v. Wayfair, in which the United States Supreme Court held that physical presence is no longer required for sales tax collection on remote or online sellers. Addresses textualism versus intentionalism in enactment of state tax statutes, substantial nexus, and the greater importance of due process.
  • "The new trustbusters are coming for big tech." By Thomas Hazlett. Reason, October 2019, pp. 20-27.
    Considers the economic school of thought known as "new structuralism," or "hipster antitrust," which advocates for regulation and antitrust action. Argues "nondiscrimination" regulations aimed at providing equal access favor legacy technologies at the expense of startups and innovation and do not protect consumers as intended.
  • "The potential pitfalls of combating surprise billing; Comment." By Ike Brannon, David A. Hyman, Benedic Ippolito, and David Kemp. Regulation (CATO Institute), Fall 2019, pp. 40-47.
    Discusses three plans Congress is considering to address surprise medical billing: benchmarking payments, mandated in-network guarantee, and independent dispute resolution [IDR]. Suggests IDR is the best mechanism to limit surprise bills, while commentators believe a contract-based approach would outperform IDR.
  • "Texas K-12 education spending set to rise, but who will pay?" By Jason Saving. Southwest Economy (Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas), Third Quarter 2019, pp. 17-21.
    Comments on the education reform package passed by the 86th Legislature (HB3, SB2). Examines why the latest school finance fix may not fully provide a long-term solution to meeting local school districts' needs.
  • "School finance: Moving mountains." By Daniel Thatcher. State Legislatures, September/October 2019, pp. 17-19.
    Draws lessons from the experiences of states that successfully updated or replaced their school funding formulas.
  • "Bridge to nowhere." By Gus Bova. Texas Observer, September-October 2019, pp. 26-31.
    Investigates three companies' plans to build liquefied natural gas [LNG] facilities in South Texas and the local communities' opposition to them. Argues the proposed construction site for the Rio Grande Valley LNG plants will result in the destruction of fragile ecosystems and will pose health and safety risks for nearby residents. Mentions Senator Eddie Lucio and Representative Alex Dominguez.
  • "Inside the dangerous rise of JUUL." By Jamie Ducharme. Time, September 30, 2019, pp. 40-47.
    Profiles e-cigarette maker Juul, a mostly unregulated company that has been linked to the sharp rise in teenage and young adult vaping and nicotine addiction.

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on October 3, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 1137 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, September 26

Sep 26

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Explore statistics and data about the U.S. Hispanic population. (Pew Research Center, September 16, 2019)
  • See which states incorporate citizen input into the redistricting process. (National Conference of State Legislatures, September 2019)
  • Consider the FDA's role in regulating e-cigarettes. (Health Affairs Blog, September 17, 2019)
  • Check to see whether a motor carrier business is properly licensed in Texas. (Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, ©2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "When Medicaid takes everything you own." By Rachel Corbett. Atlantic Monthly, October 2019, pp. 72-79.
    Examines the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program, which allows states to seek repayment for Medicaid debt by seizing assets, including houses from the estates of Medicaid recipients. Argues this program strips property from people who can least afford the loss, thereby pushing displaced families back into the welfare system.
  • "Why insurtech startups are flourishing." By Will Anderson. Austin Business Journal, September 13, 2019, p. 22.
    Profiles insurtech companies relocating to Austin, companies that construct technology platforms aiming to lower health insurance costs while decreasing risks for self-employed freelance workers and small businesses.
  • "Drug shortages." Economist, September 14th-20th, 2019, pp. 57-58.
    Examines the causes and consequences of an increasing worldwide shortage of medicines and medical supplies.
  • "Are schools required to be trauma-sensitive?" By Sarah D. Sparks. Education Week, September 4, 2019, pp. 1, 18-19.
    Discusses three active lawsuits that challenge how public schools are addressing student disabilities resulting from trauma.
  • "Quality counts 2019: Educational opportunities and performance in Texas." Education Week, September 4, 2019, pp. 1-7.
    Assesses the educational opportunities and performance of Texas and compares them with the national average. Grades and ranks Texas in three categories: chance for success, school finance, and K-12 achievement.
  • "Post-Harvey auto sales back on track: Texans are on the road again." By Jackie Benton. Fiscal Notes, September 2019, pp. 1-2.
    Discusses the effect of Hurricane Harvey on automobile sales. Charts Texas motor vehicle sales tax collections from fiscal years 2015-2018.
  • "The dynamics of Medicaid enrollment, employment, and beneficiary health status." By Jessica P. Vistnes and Steven C. Hill. Health Affairs, September 2019, pp. 1491-1495.
    Notes that 13.9 percent of new, nonelderly adult Medicaid beneficiaries in 2015-2016 had experienced a decline in health before enrollment, and 14.1 percent had jobs that ended before they enrolled. Advises careful design of Medicaid work requirement policies that consider exemptions, reasonable accommodations, and gaps in employment.
  • "How states can improve America’s immigration system." By John Hudak and Christine Stenglein. Internet Resource, September 10, 2019, pp. 1-14.
    Outlines the role states can play in reforming immigration policy. Includes discussion of immigration detention facilities in Texas.
  • "Should failing schools be closed? What the research says." By Marcus A. Winters. Issue Brief (Manhattan Institute), September 17, 2019, pp. 1-10.
    Relies on available research to argue that it is better for school systems to close persistently ineffective schools that do not show improvement after receiving additional resources and interventions.
  • "Prescriptions on demand: The growth of direct-to-consumer telemedicine companies." By Tara Jain, Richard J. Lu, and Ateev Mehrotra. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), September 10, 2019, pp. 925-926.
    Addresses the increasing popularity of direct-to-consumer [DTC] drug telemedicine and considers potential strengths and weaknesses of this health care model.
  • "Using telemedicine to treat opioid use disorder in rural areas." By Rita Rubin. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), September 17, 2019, pp. 1029-1031.
    Describes how telemedicine has been employed to treat opioid use disorder [OUD] patients in rural areas. Notes the regulatory and reimbursement issues that have slowed progress in implementing telemedicine for treating OUD.
  • "EIA [Energy Information Administration]: Global oil market expected to remain in balance in second half." Oil and Gas Journal, September 2, 2019, pp. 45-46.
    Summarizes the U.S. Energy Information Administration's latest Short-Term Energy Outlook.
  • "Municipal annexation reform in Texas: how a victory for property rights jeopardizes the state's financial health." By Julie Polansky Bell. St. Mary's Law Journal, Vol. 50, No. 2, 2019, pp. 711-738 (Note Length).
    Provides an overview of municipal annexation. Examines the legislative history of recent reforms enacted by SB6, 85th Legislature, 1st C.S. - the Municipal Annexation Right to Vote Act. Considers the future impact of these reforms on cities and the state.
  • "To rein in cities, Texas tries to ban their lobbying." By David Montgomery. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), September 17, 2019, pp. 1-7.
    Discusses proposed legislation from the 86th Legislature (SB29 and HB281) that would have affected lobbying activities by cities, counties, and other local governments. Explains that the legislation did not pass, but may come up in a future legislative session.
  • "State, fed authorities work on hemp regulations, information." By Jessica Domel. Texas Agriculture, September 6, 2019, p. 10.
    Outlines the responsibilities that the Texas Department of Agriculture must contend with now that the 2018 Farm Bill and HB1325, 86th Legislature, have legalized hemp cultivation. Summarizes various aspects hemp farmers must address, such as crop insurance, pesticides, and hemp in food products and supplements.
  • "Rounds: News from America's best medical society." By Amy Lynn Sorrel and Joey Berlin. Texas Medicine, September 2019, pp. 14-16.
    Notes Representative John Zerwas' retirement from the legislature and new role as executive vice chancellor for health affairs with The University of Texas System. Discusses rulemaking phase of implementing SB1264, 86th Legislature, relating to surprise billing.

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on September 26, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 887 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, September 19

Sep 19

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Track obesity prevalence state by state. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, September 12, 2019)
  • Explore the new version of the Constitution Annotated. (Library of Congress, September 16, 2019)
  • View county health data in Texas. (Episcopal Health Foundation, 2019)
  • Read about the American veteran experience. (Pew Research Center, September 10, 2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "The state of the future." By Erin Edgemon. Austin Business Journal, September 13, 2019, pp. 17-20.
    Highlights the Texas Facilities Commission [TFC], the agency that serves as the real estate management and construction group for the state. Points out TFC's role in the Capitol Complex expansion and features an interview with Mike Novak, TFC's executive director.
  • "Builders, developers, weigh benefits of balancing, cutting DFW housing rules." By Bill Hethcock. Dallas Business Journal, September 6, 2019, pp. 12-15.
    Examines the debate between companies seeking to standardize building and land-use regulations across the DFW area and local governments that want the right to control the aesthetics of new development to preserve cities' unique characteristics. Provides overview of HB2439, 86th Legislature.
  • "Shootings and gun laws." Economist, September 7th-13th, 2019, pp. 27-28.
    Highlights research indicating Republican states tend to loosen their gun laws following mass shootings.
  • "Quality counts 2019: Grading the states." Education Week, September 4, 2019, pp. 1, 8-15.
    Provides a comprehensive report card on the United States' K-12 system. Ranks each state based on a range of academic, school finance, and socioeconomic factors.
  • "Schools tackle vaping amid new health problems." By Denise R. Superville and Arianna Prothero. Education Week, August 23, 2019, pp. 1, 17.
    Discusses the health effects of vaping and the different approaches being used by school administrators to stem student vaping.
  • "Prescription drug monitoring program mandates: Impact on opioid prescribing and related hospital use." By Hefei Wen, et al. Health Affairs, September 2019, pp. 1550-1556.
    Reports that state implementation of prescription drug monitoring programs [PDMPs] was associated with reductions in the opioid prescription rate, the opioid-related inpatient stay rate, and the opioid-related emergency department visit rate. Notes significant Medicaid savings represented in these reductions and advocates for continued attention to PDMPs as a tool in tackling the opioid crisis.
  • "Education policy responses to the opioid crisis." By Alyssa Rafa. Internet Resource, September 9, 2019, pp. 1-6.
    Examines the connection between education policy and the opioid crisis. Provides examples of recent state policies and initiatives, including Texas legislation on opioid misuse education in public schools.
  • "Medical use of cannabis in 2019." By Kevin P. Hill. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), September 10, 2019, pp. 974-975.
    Asserts that evidence is lacking that indicates the efficacy of medical cannabis for most conditions for which its use is advocated. Recommends physicians exercise caution when considering cannabis for their patients.
  • "Employee contributions to public pension plans (2019)." National Association of State Retirement Administrators, September 2019, pp. 1-12.
    Examines employee contribution plan designs across states, policies, and recent trends. Includes a table of employee contribution rates by state, including the Employees Retirement System of Texas and the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
  • "Don't legalize prostitution." By Madeleine Kearns. National Review, August 26, 2019, pp. 22, 24, 26-28.
    Examines the experiences of different countries with legalized prostitution and profiles some young women working as prostitutes. Suggests legalizing prostitution would not make it safer for those involved and would not have the desired effect of decreasing sex trafficking.
  • "The message of measles." By Nick Paumgarten. New Yorker, September 2, 2019, pp. 38-47.
    Explores recent measles outbreaks in the United States, focusing on New York, the first state to pass a vaccination law with a religious exemption. Explains the state removed religious exemptions from the law this summer amid a growing number measles cases and a growing movement of vaccine hesitancy and refusal.
  • "The long-term forecast for the United States economy." By M. Ray Perryman. Perryman Report and Texas Letter, Vol. 36, No. 5, pp. 1-3, 6.
    Highlights recent trends in global trade controversies as well as expectations for long-term domestic economic performance during the 2018 to 2045 period.
  • "PDK poll of the public's attitudes toward the public schools." Phi Delta Kappan, September 2019, pp. K1-K23.
    Presents the results of the 51st annual PDK [Phi Delta Kappan] poll of the public's attitudes toward public schools. Reports Americans named the lack of financial support for public schools as the biggest problem facing their local schools.
  • "Designing better sugary drink taxes." By Anna H. Grummon, et al. Science, September 6, 2019, pp. 989-990.
    Proposes taxing the amount of sugar in a drink per gram instead of taxing by drink volume. Suggests taxing the sugar rather than the drink will encourage consumers to consume drinks with less sugar.
  • "Doctors drive new opioid laws." By Joey Berlin. Texas Medicine, September 2019, pp. 26-28.
    Summarizes new laws relating to opioids that will affect physicians' use of prescription monitoring programs [PMPs] and how physicians prescribe controlled substances.
  • "Clearing the air on cannabis." By Sean Price. Texas Medicine, September 2019, pp. 42-44.
    Highlights HB1325 and HB3703, 86th Legislature, which loosen rules on the use of cannabis oil. Considers the possible effects on physicians and health care practice.
  • "Passing oral safe harbor: How one nurse's experience changed the law." By Tonya R. Poore. Texas Nursing, Summer 2019, pp. 12-13.
    Narrates the personal experience of a nurse whose difficulty invoking "safe harbor" — a nursing peer review committee determination — inspired HB2410, 86th Legislature, which expedites the process.
  • "The battle to draw the battle lines." By Philip Elliott. Time, September 16, 2019 , pp. 44-47.
    Examines efforts by Democrats to regain control of state legislative chambers in order to shape Congress for the next decade. Considers what Republicans are doing to retain their advantage over congressional redistricting.

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on September 19, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 1264 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, September 12

Sep 12

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Explore the monthly state Revenue Watch. (Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, updated September 2019)
  • Read about the end of the Driver Responsibility Program. (Texas Department of Public Safety, August 27, 2019)
  • Get a list of party leaders in the Congress going back to 1789. (Congressional Research Service, September 4, 2019)
  • Review power-saving tips for homes. (Public Utility Commission of Texas, accessed September 12, 2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "Supreme Court report: Contentious cases." By Mark Walsh. ABA Journal: The Lawyer's Magazine, September-October 2019, pp. 18-19.
    Highlights high-profile issues the United States Supreme Court will consider during the term that begins on October 7, including LGBT rights, the future of DACA [Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals], and gun rights.
  • "Homeschooling and educational freedom: Why school choice is good for homeschoolers." By Kerry McDonald. CATO Briefing Papers, September 4, 2019, pp. 1-8.
    Presents an overview of homeschooling trends. Argues educational freedom creates momentum for families to seek alternatives to conventional mass schooling.
  • "Manufacturing in Texas: Factory of the future; How is DFW positioned for the industry's future; Incentives." By Evan Hoopfer. Dallas Business Journal, August 30, 2019, pp. 5-10, 12, 14-21.
    Questions whether Texas should be doing more to attract advanced manufacturing jobs. Mentions the state scored a "C" in manufacturing industry health.
  • "The American economy: Areas of concern." Economist, August 31st-September 6th, 2019, pp. 19-20.
    Points out weaknesses in several economic sectors, including manufacturing, construction, and energy industry employment. Mentions the present slowdown may prove politically consequential.
  • "Schools face Latino kids' fears after shootings." By Stephen Sawchuck, Denisa R. Superville, and Hector Alejandro Arzate. Education Week, August 21, 2018, pp. 5-6.
    Examines how school districts in Texas are responding to the mass shooting in El Paso, in which Hispanics were targeted. Discusses steps being taken by schools to alleviate the fears of Hispanic students and their families.
  • "Can Medicaid expansion prevent housing evictions?" By Heidi L. Allen, et al. Health Affairs, September 2019, pp. 1451-1457.
    Evaluates the possible correlation between expansion of Medicaid and lower rates of evictions. Concludes that health insurance coverage is associated with improved housing stability.
  • "Emergency department closures and openings: Spillover effects on patient outcomes in bystander hospitals." By Renee Y. Hsia and Yu-Chu Shen. Health Affairs, September 2019, pp. 1496-1504.
    Suggests high-occupancy hospitals are the most sensitive to nearby emergency department [ED] closures, while other hospitals absorb increased demand in emergency care without significant negative impact on patient outcomes. Observes that significant effects appear only when driving time to an ED changes by 30 minutes or more. Notes utilization as well as distance from neighboring EDs should be taken into account when deciding to open or close an ED.
  • "Campus sexual assault policies." By Molly Sarubbi. Internet Resource, August 26, 2019, pp. 1-6.
    Reviews 2019 state legislative activity relating to postsecondary campus sexual assault. Highlights legislation, including Texas bills, that address awareness and prevention, reporting guidelines and procedures, and assessment and accountability.
  • "Lessons learned from the opioid epidemic." By Joshua M. Sharfstein and Yngvild Olsen. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), September 3, 2019, pp. 809-810.
    Summarizes missteps made by physicians, regulators, hospitals, and other entities, that made possible the significant scale of the opioid epidemic. Calls for reflection and accountability moving forward.
  • "The rush to restrict gun rights." By Charles C.W. Cooke. National Review, August 26, 2019, pp. 14-15.
    Argues that evidence does not support the effectiveness of proposed gun-control policies and that the First and Second Amendments should be defended. Advocates for surveillance of hate groups and prosecution when warranted and for technology companies to decline to provide technical assistance and support to them.
  • "Protecting elections from social media manipulation." By Sinan Aral and Dean Eckles. Science, August 30, 2019, pp. 858-861.
    Calls for more research into how social media can affect and influence elections. Explores some of the challenges of measuring the manipulation of social media, including consumer privacy concerns.
  • "It's a wrap! How nurses advocated for their profession in the 86th legislative session." By Cindy Zolnierek. Texas Nursing, Summer 2019, pp. 8-9.
    Summarizes passed and failed legislation of interest to nursing professionals.

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on September 12, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 1117 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, September 5

Sep 5

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • See how paid sick leave by industry has changed over time in the last decade. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, August 30, 2019)
  • Track which states have smart meter opt-out policies. (National Conference of State Legislatures, August 20, 2019)
  • Review statistics related to domestic terrorism. (Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, Syracuse University, August 29, 2019)
  • Read about Texas' 10-year transportation plan. (Texas Department of Transportation, August 29, 2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "Inclusive approach to immigrants who are undocumented can help families and states prosper." By Erica Williams, Eric Figueroa, and Wesley Tharpe. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, August 21, 2019, pp. 1-22. Discusses the contributions of undocumented immigrants to state economies and finances. Includes 50-state chart of state and local taxes paid by unauthorized immigrants. Mentions the Texas law banning sanctuary cities.
  • "As white supremacists twist history, scholars seek to right the record." By Emma Pettit. Chronicle of Higher Education, August 16, 2019, p. A23.
    Explains academics are becoming more active in refuting what they consider a distortion of history being promulgated by white supremacists. Quotes one scholar as stating "our complacency becomes complicity" when academics do not speak out against the mistaken vision of medieval Europe as an all-white space.
  • "Texas and the 1115 Medicaid waiver: Action needed to ensure federal aid." By David Green, Spencer Grubbs, and Joyce Jauer. Fiscal Notes, August 2019, pp. 1, 3-5.
    Highlights the importance of renewing Texas' section 1115 Medicaid waiver, set to provide the state with up to $25 billion from 2018 to 2022, for the medically uninsured and "safety net" hospitals. Details the amounts of federal funding available under the waiver for uncompensated care and the Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment Program [DSRIP].
  • "New discipline and safety policies for Texas." By Morgan Craven. IDRA Newsletter (Intercultural Development Research Association), June-July 2019, p. 3.
    Details bills passed by the 86th Legislature that focus on school safety in response to school shootings.
  • "Success of opt-in organ donation policy in the United States." By Alexandra Glazier and Thomas Mone. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), August 27, 2019, pp. 719-720.
    Argues that the United States should build on its current opt-in organ donation policy to increase the number of registered donors. Cites data demonstrating that opt-in policies in the United States are associated with higher organ donation rates than almost every country with an opt-out policy as the legal default.
  • "Changes in opioid-involved overdose deaths by opioid type and presence of benzodiazepines, cocaine, and methamphetamine — 25 states, July–December 2017 to January–June 2018." By R. Matt Gladden, et al. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), August 30, 2019, pp. 1-8.
    Observes that opioid deaths decreased in the study time period by five percent overall and decreased for prescription opioids and illicit synthetic opioids, excluding illicitly manufactured fentanyl [IMF]. Highlights that IMF deaths increased eleven percent, noting the need for broadened outreach efforts to persons at high risk for IMF overdoses.
  • "Criminal immigrants in Texas in 2017." By Alex Nowrasteh. Policy Brief (CATO Institute), August 27, 2019,
    pp. 1-7.
    Finds that conviction and arrest rates for illegal immigrants were lower than those of native-born Americans in just about every case, including homicide, sex crimes, larceny, and most other crimes.
  • "Success of red flag laws might depend on mental health teams." By Christine Vestal. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), August 26, 2019, pp. 1-7.
    Highlights the behavioral services and threat assessment unit within the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office in Florida, which works to identify people who may pose a threat of violence and intervenes if warranted. Suggests having this type of unit in place may be necessary to make red flag laws work.
  • "Power shift." By Michael E. Webber. Texas Monthly, September 2019, pp. 100-105, 122, 127-128.
    Outlines how Texas could be a leader in the energy industry, both economically and environmentally, by supporting natural gas, wind, and solar infrastructure and markets.

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on September 5, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 1110 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, August 29

Aug 29

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Review the latest urban mobility report. (Texas A&M Transportation Institute, August 2019)
  • See what states are doing to address robocalls. (Attorney General of Texas, August 22, 2019)
  • Read about recent legislation on health care costs by state. (Health Affairs Blog, August 22, 2019)
  • Consider accountability ratings for school districts and charter schools. (Texas Education Agency, August 15, 2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "Scholars seek to revive gun studies after 20-year chill." By Steven Johnson. Chronicle of Higher Education, August 16, 2019, p. A25.
    Highlights the effects of the 1996 Dickey Amendment which prevented Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funds from being used to "advocate or promote gun control" and how it led to less research related to guns. States that a 2018 clarification of the amendment and increased awareness of mass shootings is leading to increased research.
  • "Late term abortions: Abortion war." Economist, August 24th-30th, 2019, pp. 20-22.
    Examines both sides of the abortion debate and how controversial third-trimester procedures are becoming fertile ground for political campaigns.
  • "Texas state jails: Time for a reboot?" By Patrick Graves. Fiscal Notes, August 2019, pp. 6-10.
    Discusses the history and evolution of the state jail system and questions its effectiveness in reducing recidivism. Quotes Representative James White.
  • "Accountability measures set to respond to public pressure." By Morgan Craven. IDRA Newsletter (Intercultural Development Research Association), June-July 2019, p. 4.
    Highlights three bills from the 86th Legislature and describes the changes they make to assessments and measurements of college readiness: HB3, SB213, and HB3906.
  • "Jobs or college?" By Robert Cherry. National Review, August 12, 2019, pp. 32-34.
    Argues for an increased emphasis on certificate and apprenticeship programs for students leaving high school with limited academic skills. Explains students are too often directed to degree programs which are not completed and suggests the skill-based approach will be more successful.
  • "Migrating out of the job market." By Steven A. Camarota. National Review, August 12, 2019, pp. 22-23.
    Examines the decline in labor force participation and links it partly to technological change and globalization, and partly to the education level of some workers. Suggests immigration reforms designed to limit the flow of less skilled immigrants could reinvigorate labor force participation.
  • "Reevaluating the effects of federal financing in higher education." By Veronique de Rugy and Jack Salmon. Policy Brief (Mercatus Center, George Mason University), August 13, 2019, pp. 1-13.
    Examines whether more federal aid is the correct treatment for the problem of rising tuition prices. Finds that federal student aid does not do much to make college more affordable and may actually be increasing costs.
  • "Eliminating vaping." Texas Lone Star (Texas Association of School Boards), August 2019, pp. 22-23.
    Discusses the epidemic of youth vaping and recently proposed federal legislation that would prohibit e-cigarette use in schools. Related information at: https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/One-Pager_Final.pdf.
  • "No defense." By Neena Satija. Texas Monthly, September 2019, pp. 94-99, 129-132, 138-139, 170-175.
    Argues that Texas judges have too much power, and that this imbalance in the criminal justice system, along with overloaded attorneys and inadequate funding, deprives poor and indigent people of justice. Notes Senator Rodney Ellis' work in 2001 to pass the Texas Fair Defense Act, as well as other legislation that has helped provide data on indigent cases.
  • "Parts one and two: The crisis in access to medical care." By R. Brent Cooper, et al. Texas Tech Law Review, Spring 2019, pp. 393-398.
    Outlines briefly the history of tort reform from 1977 up to 2003, when the Medical Malpractice and Tort Reform Act was passed. Provides an introduction to a special issue on tort reform and health care liability, authored by individuals associated with the Texas Alliance for Patient Access [TAPA].
  • "Preface: The crisis that was created." By Glenn W. Cunningham. Texas Tech Law Review, Summer 2019, pp. 619-625.
    Argues that the premise behind the Medical Malpractice and Tort Reform Act was faulty and that the legislation has not improved access to health care, as was intended. Introduces a special issue authored by individuals associated with the Texas Trial Lawyers Association [TTLA].

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on August 29, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 1190 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, August 22

Aug 22

posted by TexasLRL in Current Articles, Research Resources

In this weekly post, we feature helpful research tools and recent articles of interest to the legislative community.

  • Read about how certain classroom assignment policies can improve student outcomes. (Rockefeller Institute of Government, August 7, 2019)
  • Explore differences in how Republicans and Democrats view higher education. (Pew Research Center, August 19, 2019)
  • Review statistics related to federal hate crimes. (Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, Syracuse University, August 12, 2019)
  • Consider questions related to how e-scooters could be regulated. (Texas A&M Transportation Institute, August 19, 2019)

Members of the Texas legislative community may request the articles below here or by calling 512-463-1252.

  • "Coming soon: Austin's innovation district." By Erin Edgemon. Austin Business Journal, August 9, 2019, pp. 6-9.
    Reports on the growth and redevelopment on and around the defunct Brackenridge Hospital campus, the epicenter for Austin's medical and life sciences innovation district.
  • "A guide to statistics on historical trends in income inequality (2019)." By Chad Stone, et al. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, August 9, 2019, pp. 1-23.
    Details the history of income inequality in the United States and examines the widening of the gap since the 1970s. Describes commonly used statistical sources on income (including Census and IRS income data) and long-term trends in income inequality, wealth, and poverty.
  • "Are campus free-speech laws needed, or is crisis talk overblown?" By Katherine Mangan. Chronicle of Higher Education, August 2, 2019, p. A17.
    Considers the campus free-speech bills a variety of states recently passed. Mentions recent related legislation in Texas, SB18, 86th Legislature.
  • "The fertility business: Seed capital; Fertility benefits." Economist, August 10th-16th, 2019, pp. 50-51.
    Reports investors are pouring money into businesses that provide fertility treatment and related services. Points out the global fertility industry could bring in $41 billion in sales by 2026, compared to $25 billion today.
  • "Mass shootings: The definition of insanity." Economist, August 10th-16th, 2019, pp. 19-20.
    Raises questions about how police and politicians can curb the rise of domestic terrorism. Notes right-wing extremists were responsible for 70 percent of killings motivated by extremist ideology in America between 2009 and 2018.
  • "Texas Legislature concentrates on school funding." By Morgan Craven. IDRA Newsletter (Intercultural Development Research Association), June-July 2019, pp. 1-2, 6.
    Highlights HB3, 86th Legislature, aimed at funding public education and granting some property tax relief.
  • "Long-term sustainability of U.S. government debt growth." By Jorge Barro. Issue Brief (Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy), August 19, 2019, pp. 1-8.
    Discusses the risks and limitations associated with accelerating government debt growth.
  • "Trends: The surprising economics of Latino immigration." By Gonzalo Huertas and Jacob Funk Kirkegaard. Milken Institute Review, Third Quarter 2019, pp. 5-13.
    Examines the significant contributions of the Hispanic community to economic growth in the United States, as demonstrated in high school completion, entrepreneurship, and a "demographic dividend" of Hispanic labor force participation. Includes charts of high school completion rates by race/ethnicity, and share of degrees conferred by educational institutions by race/ethnicity/non-resident status.
  • "Enduring challenges: Examining the experiences of states that closed pension plans." By Tyler Bond and Dan Doonan. National Institute on Retirement Security, August 2019, pp. 1-16.
    Presents case studies of four states — Alaska, Kentucky, Michigan, and West Virginia — that closed their pension plans in favor of alternative plan designs. Discusses the effect of switching from a defined benefit pension plan to defined contribution or cash balance plans.
  • "A significant session." By Dax Gonzalez. Texas Lone Star (Texas Association of School Boards), August 2019, pp. 8-13.
    Highlights education-related legislation from the 86th Legislature. Includes discussion of school finance, property taxes, school safety, and more.
  • "Swinging for fairness." By Joey Berlin. Texas Medicine, August 2019, pp. 30-31.
    Describes how the Texas Medical Association worked to improve SB1264, 86th Legislature. Explains how the surprise-billing legislation initially favored insurers and asserts that the final bill is fairer for physicians, insurers, and patients.
  • "The terror within." By Alana Abramson, Tessa Berenson, and John Walcott. Time, August 19, 2019, pp. 22-27.
    Explores the nature of domestic terrorism in the United States and the efforts to counter it. Includes discussion of the recent mass shooting in El Paso, Texas, and how federal prosecutors are treating this incident as terrorism.

The Legislative Reference Library compiles this weekly annotated list of Current Articles of interest to the legislative community. Professional librarians review and select articles from more than 300 periodicals, including public policy journals, specialized industry periodicals, news magazines, and state agency publications. Members of the Texas legislative community may request articles using our online form.

This entry was posted on August 22, 2019 at 3:15 PM and has received 961 views. Print this entry.

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