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Current Articles & Research Resources, November 1

Nov 1

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 a newly-released hate crimes website. (U.S. Department of Justice, October 29, 2018)
  • Consider legal issues related to bike lanes. (Outside Online, October 27, 2018)
  • Track weekly flu activity. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, accessed October 31, 2018)
  • Explore charts related to various sectors of the Texas and United States economies. (Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, accessed October 31, 2018)

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

  • "A new way to work." By Mike Cronin. Austin Business Journal, October 26, 2018, pp. 4-6.
    Explains how professionals in several industries, including manufacturing and health care, could be doing business differently once a 5G wireless network is established in Austin.
  • "Leaving bench marks." By Henry Gass. Christian Science Monitor, October 22, 2018, pp. 24-30.
    Examines whether judges' personal views can be separated from their legal rulings. Highlights the case of Arkansas Judge Wendell Griffen and his personal anti-death penalty beliefs. 
  • "It's been 2 years since scandal erupted at Baylor: Yet the allegations continue." By Sarah Brown. Chronicle of Higher Education, October 12, 2018, pp. A18-A19.
    Summarizes the latest developments in the Baylor sexual assault scandal, including serious allegations against former regent chair, Richard Willis, and a letter from the NCAA providing notice of wrongdoing.
  • "All the president's men and women." By Rob Boston. Church & State, October 2018, pp. 9-11.
    Claims the president's Evangelical Advisory Board, which plays a significant role in administrative policies, is not in compliance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act [FACA]. Explains FACA requirements for presidential advisory committees.
  • "American shale oil: Peering into the Permian." Economist, October 20th-26th, 2018, pp. 57-59.
    Examines whether the American shale industry can deliver both profits and production. Notes that despite its growth, the industry still faces constraints — bottlenecks in the pipeline infrastructure, a long-term labor shortage, and rising equipment costs due to tariffs on steel imports.
  • "The world economy: The next recession." Economist, October 13th, 2018, pp. 3-12.
    Suggests a toxic political environment and constrained central banks will present the greatest stumbling blocks to managing a new global downturn.
  • "State strategies to meet the needs of young children and families affected by the opioid crisis." By Becky Normile, Carrie Hanlon, and Hannah Eichner. Internet Resource, September 2018, pp. 1-18.
    Explores strategies used by child-serving agencies in Kentucky, New Hampshire, and Virginia to respond to the opioid epidemic. Offers information about funding sources and key considerations for states working to improve services for families affected by opioid use disorder.
  • "Regulating gene-edited crops." By Jennifer Kuzma. Issues in Science and Technology, Fall 2018, pp. 80-85.
    Explores policy implications of the second generation of genetically modified crops. 
  • "Year of the strike." By Frederick M. Hess. National Review, October 29, 2018, pp. 20-22.
    Highlights recent teacher strikes and advocates for higher pay for talented teachers. Proposes paying for pay increases by trimming bureaucracy, overhauling benefits and getting pension funds on a solvent path. 
  • "School colors." By Hua Hsu. New Yorker, October 15, 2018, pp. 48-56, 58-59.
    Discusses the current affirmative action case alleging discrimination against Asian Americans by Harvard University. Profiles the involvement of Texan Edward Blum and includes a history of affirmative action policies.
  • "Broadband gap — rocket science?: Ending the disparity." By Steve Goodman. Public Utilities Fortnightly, October 2018, pp. 80-81.
    Identifies issues regarding disparity in broadband deployment, particularly in rural areas. Discusses ways the Federal Communications Commission [FCC] is trying to address this problem. Related information at: https://www.fcc.gov/5G and https://www.fcc.gov/reports-research/reports/broadband-progress-reports/2016-broadband-progress-report
  • "Who has the best 'cyber hygiene'?" By Laura Fodor. State Legislatures, September/October 2018, p. 33.
    Highlights a report addressing states' security practices. Includes state ratings for residents' cyber preparedness and vulnerabilities to cyber attacks. Related information at: https://www.ponemon.org/blog/the-cyber-hygiene-index-measuring-the-riskiest-states
  • "If parents get deported, who gets their children?" By Teresa Wiltz. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), October 25, 2018, pp. 1-7.
    Reports immigration advocates are calling for greater resources from federal, state, and local officials to assist "grandfamilies" — grandparents, extended family members, or close family friends who are stepping in to care for or raise children separated from undocumented parents who have been arrested or deported. Report at: https://www.gu.org/app/uploads/2018/10/Grandfamilies-Report-SOGF2018.pdf
  • "'Keep them from harm and injustice'?" By Robert Van Boven. Texas Medicine, October 2018, pp. 4-5.
    Examines barriers to transparency of hospital errors in Texas. Outlines physicians' concerns about discretionary abuse of Texas Medical Board policies and procedures.
  • "Guns in America: The search for common ground begins with listening — to everyone." By Abigail Abrams, et al. Time, November 5, 2018, pp. 26-30.
    Explores the history, culture, and controversies surrounding guns in the United States. Includes an interactive feature that presents the views and experiences of 245 different people, including Representative Jonathan Stickland, who represent a wide range of voices on the debate over guns.

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 November 1, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 1362 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, October 25

Oct 25

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. 

  • Examine redistricting laws state by state. (National Conference of State Legislatures, October 1, 2018)
  • Review protections from financial harm for older consumers. (Federal Trade Commission, October 18, 2018)
  • Consider the drawbacks of medical crowdfunding. (Health Affairs Blog, October 23, 2018)
  • Explore the national shortage of poll workers. (Stateline, October 22, 2018)

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

  • "Prescription for profit." By Jen Skerritt. Business Week, October 15, 2018, p. 17.
    Points out that several countries have legalized medical marijuana. Observes that pharmaceutical companies are exploring ways that medical marijuana could curb the use of opiates or replace opiates for pain management.
  • "Expanding access to health care, from bedside to webside." By Debra Miller. Capitol Ideas, September/October 2018, pp. 24-26.
    Describes four types of current telehealth applications: live video, store-and-forward, remote patient monitoring, and mobile health.
  • "After #MeToo, state legislatures make changes." By Rebecca Asoulin. Christian Science Monitor, October 8, 2018, pp. 18, 20.
    Charts the progress state legislatures have made in protections against sexual misconduct through enhanced training, improved policies, or legislation.
  • "AT&T's service for first responders sees strong demand as effort ramps up." By Brian Womack. Dallas Business Journal, October 12, 2018, p. 28.
    Discusses AT&T's role in building FirstNet, America's first nationwide public safety broadband network. Related information at: https://firstnet.gov/.
  • "Democratic policies: Universal pictures." Economist, October 13th-19th, 2018, pp. 27-28.
    Considers whether Medicare could become a workable single-payer system for all health insurance claims. Notes the obstacles, including lack of agreement as to what Medicare for all actually means.
  • "Long-term obligations and the Texas Legacy Fund." Fiscal Notes, September-October 2018, pp. 1-16.
    Provides an overview of Texas' long-term financial obligations in state employee pensions (ERS), health care benefits for retired teachers and TRS-Care solvency, prepaid tuition, and deferred maintenance on state buildings. Proposes creation of an endowment fund from a portion of the Economic Stabilization Fund ("Rainy Day Fund"), to be known as the Texas Legacy Fund, which would be used for investment in higher returns and to retire long-term obligations.
  • "Assessing the impact of state policies for prescription drug monitoring programs on high-risk opioid prescriptions." By Yuhua Bao, et al. Health Affairs, October 2018, pp. 1596-1604.
    Analyzes three approaches to state policies on prescription drug monitoring programs [PDMPs]. Supports comprehensive use mandates and delegate laws to optimize prescribers' use of PDMPs.
  • "Harvard's discrimination problem." By Robert Verbruggen. National Review, October 15, 2018, pp. 34-36.
    Reviews the legal reasoning in Fisher v. University of Texas and similar United States Supreme Court cases. Describes some of the legal arguments and principles that come into play in the case currently in federal district court dealing with whether Harvard University is disfavoring Asian Americans, an overrepresented minority group. Related information at: https://www.clearinghouse.net/detail.php?id=14188.
  • "Melting pot or civil war?" By Reihan Salam. National Review, October 15, 2018, pp. 23-26.
    Argues the United States immigration system needs a greater emphasis on skill-based immigration and lesser emphasis on extended family ties. Suggests that is the only way to build a middle-class, multiracial community and egalitarian economy.
  • "Waters of U.S. rule blocked in Texas, two other states." By Justin Walker. Texas Agriculture, October 5, 2018, p. 33.
    Reports that the Waters of the United States [WOTUS] rule has been blocked by a federal judge for Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Explains that WOTUS allows the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate ponds, streams, and other bodies of water on private land.
  • "EPA proposed to replace Clean Power Plan with new rule." By Paul Ciampoli and Ethan Howland. Texas Public Power, September 2018, pp. 3, 6, 9.
    Discusses the Environmental Protection Agency's proposed rule to replace the Clean Power Plan. Includes the American Public Power Association's response, as well as a summary of a report, addressing this proposal. Report at: https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2018-08/documents/utilities_ria_proposed_ace_2018-08.pdf. Related information at: https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2018-08-31/pdf/2018-18755.pdf.

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 25, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 1187 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, October 18

Oct 18

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. 

  • Find information about early voting in Texas. (Texas Secretary of State, accessed October 17, 2018)
  • Examine analysis of Trump administration proposals to restructure and reform government. (Congressional Research Service, July 25, 2018)
  • Consider public opinion on social media bots. (Pew Research Center, October 15, 2018)
  • Read about water quality in Texas freshwater and at beaches. (Environment Texas Research & Policy Center, August 2018)

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

  • "Too old to execute?" By Mark Walsh. ABA Journal: The Lawyer's Magazine, October 2018, pp. 20-21.
    Discusses a case before the United States Supreme Court, Madison v. Alabama, which questions whether a state can execute a person whose mental disability, such as dementia, leaves the person with no memory of committing the capital offense. Related information at: http://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/madison-v-alabama/.
  • "There's an (updated) app for that." By Courtney Daniel. Capitol Ideas, September/October 2018, pp. 10-13.
    Explores how technological innovations, including cloud computing and drone deployment, help state and local governments improve services to citizens. Notes the use of AirMap's drone technology in Texas in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.
  • "Student leader quits over funds from Turning Point." By Michael Vasquez. Chronicle of Higher Education, October 5, 2018, p. A18.
    Highlights the recent resignation of Texas State student body president, Brooklyn Boreing, amid allegations of improperly taking campaign donations from Turning Point USA. Explains this conservative group is actively pursuing influence with student body presidents and that Texas State has rules against accepting funds from outside organizations.
  • "Trying times." By Liz Hayes and Kate Perelman. Church & State, October 2018, pp. 12-13.
    Provides a timeline of the Trump administration's stances on the separation of church and state.
  • "Rising vaper pressure." By Andrew Siddons. CQ Weekly, September 24, 2018, pp. 21-24.
    Discusses the harsh penalties the vaping industry is facing if it does not develop plans to prevent the underage use of flavored e-cigarettes. Addresses the complexities of regulating vaping products, which are also seen as promising smoking cessation devices.
  • "Ending gerrymandering: Mad scrap." Economist, October 6th-12th, 2018, pp. 26, 28.
    Reports on four states' efforts to use the ballot initiative process to remove control of legislative redistricting from legislators. Reviews Michigan's proposal for an independent redistricting commission. Related information at: https://ballotpedia.org/Michigan_Proposal_2,_Independent_
    Redistricting_Commission_Initiative_(2018)    .
  • "North American trade: NEWFTA." Economist, October 6th-12th, 2018, pp. 31-32, 34.
    Discusses the biggest changes in the re-negotiated version of the North American Free Trade Agreement [NAFTA], re-named the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement [USMCA]. States the USMCA does not eliminate all the uncertainties related to trade relations and may face obstacles in getting Congress' approval.
  • "Basic economic security in the United States: How much income do working adults need in each state?" By Joo Yeoun Suh, et al. Fact Sheet (Institute for Women's Policy Research), October 2018, pp. 1-8.
    Measures how much income working adults of different family types need to be economically secure in each state. Shows 67 percent of working adults in Texas are economically secure.
  • "Addressing maternal mortality and morbidity in California through public-private partnerships." By Elliott K. Main, Cathie Markow, and Jeff Gould. Health Affairs, September 2018, pp. 1484-1493.
    Details the cooperative work of the California Department of Public Health and the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative to investigate maternal deaths and improve maternity care. Notes that while the national mortality rate has worsened in the 2010s, by 2013 California's rate had been cut in half.
  • "School funding: The role of the courts." By Michael A. Rebell. Internet Resource, September 2018, pp. 1-6.
    Examines the role judicial intervention has played in states' efforts to achieve adequate and equitable funding in education. Highlights legal challenges in Texas.
  • "Drones, AI, IoT, and the brave new world of cybersecurity." By Elisa Wood. Public Power, September-October 2018, pp. 16-18, 20-23.
    Considers potential cybersecurity-related threats utilities face from drones, artificial intelligence [AI], and the Internet of things [IoT].
  • "This way out." By Devika Subramanian, Robert M. Stein, and Leonardo Dueñas-Osorio. Scientific American, October 2018, 74-79.
    Discusses the evolution of a detailed risk map developed for the Houston area to inform people of risks of flooding, wind damage, and storm surge, and whether they should evacuate during a weather event.
  • "Texas property taxes soar as homeowners confront rising values." By Jason L. Saving. Southwest Economy (Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas), Third Quarter 2018, pp. 7-11.
    Explores a "precipitous rise" in property taxes in Texas, along with large increases in property tax valuations.
  • "'A sea of blood and smoking ruin': Reflections on Sam Houston and slavery." By Randolph B. Campbell. Southwestern Historical Quarterly, October 2018, pp. 134-142.
    Describes Sam Houston's evolving beliefs on slavery through his personal history and speeches. Addresses Houston's stance in light of today's moral standard where slavery is concerned.
  • "Halting harassment." By Jon Griffin. State Legislatures, September/October 2018, pp. 22-23, 25.
    Reports the #MeToo movement has prompted state lawmakers to review sexual harassment policies and to rework training programs and investigative processes. Notes states have introduced more than 125 bills in 2018 relating to sexual harassment issues. Related information at: http://www.ncsl.org/research/about-state-legislatures/2018-legislative-sexual-harassment-legislation.aspx.
  • "Advanced education?" By Joey Berlin. Texas Medicine, October 2018, pp. 28-31.
    Recommends that Texas increase its regulation over advanced practice registered nurse [APRN] training. Notes that unlike the state's authority over registered nurse and licensed vocational nurse programs via the Texas Board of Nursing, the Higher Education Coordinating Board does not have the ability to set specific education standards for APRN programs.
  • "Rounds: News from America's best medical society." Texas Medicine, October 2018, pp. 14-16, 18.
    Discusses Texas Medical Association [TMA] advocacy concerns, including updates to the state's prescription process for certain controlled substances, proposed state rules for chiropractors and informed consent, maternal morbidity and mortality study recommendations, and support for vaccinations.

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 18, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 1088 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, October 11

Oct 11

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. 

  • Consider the amicus brief joined by Texas related to the Second Amendment. (Attorney General of Texas, October 9, 2018)
  • Read about how the USMCA could improve on NAFTA. (National Conference of State Legislatures, October 4, 2018)
  • Examine the economic impact of breweries by state. (U.S. Census Bureau, October 3, 2018)
  • Explore how common it is for teachers to have additional summer employment. (National Center for Education Statistics, October 2018)

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

  • "Losing the democratic habit." By Yoni Appelbaum. Atlantic Monthly, October 2018, pp. 74-77.
    Argues that historically, civic participation has been the norm with United States citizens joining mostly apolitical, democratically-governed associations. Explains we are "no longer a nation of joiners" and public faith in democracy has eroded due to this.
  • "A $250M pill to ease Austin's housing ills?" By Daniel Salazar. Austin Business Journal, September 28, 2018, pp. 4-6.
    Describes Austin's affordable housing bond proposition — one of seven bond proposals on the city's November 6 ballot. Notes the 2018 bond package is 285 percent larger than the $65 million housing package in 2013.
  • "Possible effects of border wall policy take shape." By Daniel Salazar. Austin Business Journal, October 5, 2018, p. A6.
    Reports the latest developments associated with an Austin City Council resolution [No. 20180201-067] directing the city manager to review the economic effects a border wall would have on Austin and to develop a policy requiring companies seeking to do business with the city to disclose their ties to the proposed border wall on the United States–Mexico border. Related information at: http://www.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=292709.
  • "Stops along the way to driverless trucks." By Sean Slone. Capitol Ideas, September/October 2018, pp. 40-43.
    Discusses recent Wisconsin and Mississippi legislation allowing driver assistive truck platooning technology, in which the lead truck controls the other trucks following behind, in a step toward autonomous or "driverless" trucks. Considers the implications of automation in the trucking industry.
  • "Violence against women in rural communities: What we know and what we don't know." By Walter DeKeseredy. Criminal Justice Research Review, Fall 2018, pp. 2-4.
    Explores the study of violence against women in rural communities.
  • "Texas Supreme Court asked to decide 'Jarndyce v. Jarndyce' boundary dispute." By Janet Elliott. Dallas Business Journal, September 14, 2018, p. 69.
    Highlights SB2242, 85th Legislature, R.S., a local bill that gave the Texas Supreme Court original jurisdiction to determine the outcome of a tax boundary dispute that began in 1972, as well as the allocation of property tax refunds.
  • "Teachers running for office show strength in primaries." Education Week, September 26, 2018, pp. 1, 13.
    Discusses what is behind the surge in teachers competing for state legislative seats this election year, which is being referred to as the "year of the teacher."
  • "California's drug transparency law: Navigating the boundaries of state authority on drug pricing." By Katherine L. Gudiksen, et al. Health Affairs, September 2018, pp. 1503-1508.
    Analyzes California's drug transparency bill, comparing it to other states' efforts to address pharmaceutical pricing trends. Considers the political and legal boundaries of state action to rein in drug prices. Related information at: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201720180SB17.
  • "Math pathways: Expanding options for success in college math." By Elizabeth Ganga and Amy Mazzariello. Internet Resource, October 2018, pp. 1-9.
    Reviews three math pathway models, including one developed in Texas, that allow college students to study math relevant to their academic or career pursuits.
  • "Everything you know about state education rankings is wrong." By Stan J. Liebowitz and Matthew L. Kelly. Reason, November 2018, pp. 20-25.
    Argues traditional school rankings are riddled with methodological flaws. Presents new rankings which concentrate on student performance, not educational funding, and disaggregate students by age, subject, and race to produce a new quality score. Lists Texas as ranking fifth in quality and second in efficiency.
  • "Opioid bill expands treatment options." By Christine Vestal. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), October 4, 2018, pp. 1-4.
    Highlights proposed federal legislation that would give states more options to expand access to opioid addiction treatment and invests in new law enforcement efforts to curb illicit drugs. Related information at: https://votesmart.org/bill/25268/64254/opioid-crisis-response-act-of-2018#.W74djehKi71.
  • "The battle over biometrics." By John G. Browning. Texas Bar Journal, October 2018, pp. 674, 676.
    Examines variations in laws relating to the collection, storage, and use of biometric data, focusing on the three states that have adopted such laws: Illinois, Texas, and Washington.
  • "The cost of going to law school." By Angela Morris. Texas Lawyer, October 2018, pp. 22-24, 26.
    Provides important data metrics about Texas law schools to help prospective applicants analyze the affordability of law school and to envision their finances after graduation.
  • "Something is wrong with the sex offender registry, and deregulation is the only tool we have to fix it." By Matthew Ferrara and Emma Hamilton. Voice for the Defense, September 2018, pp. 20-30.
    Reports that the vast majority of studies measuring the impact of the registration and community notification of sexual offenders have found that there has been no impact on the number of sexual re-offenses, and that registries might even increase the chance of recidivism by isolating the offender from the community.

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 11, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 1220 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, October 4

Oct 4

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 economic and social mobility in America. (U.S. Census Bureau, October 1, 2018)
  • Read about voter enthusiasm for the upcoming midterm election. (Pew Research Center, September 26, 2018)
  • Consider whether current public opinion is in favor of gambling on sports. (The Weekly Standard, October 3, 2018)
  • Check for downtown Austin street closures for upcoming events. (Downtown Alliance, accessed October 3, 2018)

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

  • "Whose land is it?" By Simon Montlake. Christian Science Monitor, September 10, 2018, pp. 25-30.
    Considers the tribal sovereignty claims brought forth in Royal v. Murphy, a current Oklahoma case before the United States Supreme Court, and the potential for claims by Native Americans across the country. Related information at: https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/17/17-1107/34619/20180206172951133_17-__PetitionForAWritOfCertiorari.pdf.
  • "Timing helped Texas resolve its statue controversy." By Cailin Crowe. Chronicle of Higher Education, September 21, 2018, p. A18.
    Examines the removal of the Jefferson Davis statue from the University of Texas at Austin campus and its relocation to a permanent exhibit, "From Commemoration to Education" at the Briscoe Center for American History. Suggests this action might serve as a model for other schools.
  • "A university broke a promise to 62 students — and tested an entire profession's ideals." By Eric Hoover. Chronicle of Higher Education, September 28, 2018, pp. A12-A17.
    Highlights the problem caused by the University of Texas at Tyler revoking scholarships to 62 Nepali students and how various counselors came together to find other scholarships for these students.
  • "Does too much credit recovery inflate graduation rates?" By Catherine Gewertz. Education Week, September 26, 2018, p. 6.
    Details study on high school credit-recovery programs and their impact on graduation rates.
  • "Jeff Bezos' pre-K move sparks wary reactions." By Michele Molnar. Education Week, September 26, 2018, pp. 1, 10.
    Discusses Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos' plan to launch and operate a network of "Montessori inspired" preschools in low-income neighborhoods. Addresses concerns of education experts.
  • "True impact of immigrant, Hispanic community relies on accurate 2020 Census." Houston Business Journal, September 13, 2018, p. 46.
    Proposes that with the addition of a citizenship question on the 2020 Census questionnaire, immigrants may be wary of providing any information. Argues the importance immigrants have on the local Texas economy.
  • "Reducing maternal mortality in the United States." By Michael C. Lu. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), September 25, 2018, pp. 1237-1238.
    Considers the challenge of addressing maternal mortality in the United States. Calls for analysis of every maternal death, ensuring quality and safety of maternity care, and working to improve women's health throughout their lives.
  • "State limits on property taxes hamstring local services and should be relaxed or repealed." By Iris J. Lav and Michael Leachman. Journal of MultiState Taxation and Incentives, October 2018, pp. 18-32.
    Examines property tax revenue caps adopted in the states beginning in the 1970s, and the resulting reductions in funding for education and local government services. Focuses on property tax limits in four states: Michigan, Massachusetts, Oregon, and New York.
  • "Consider the dusky gopher frog." By Shawn Regan. National Review, October 1, 2018, pp. 18-19.
    Reviews the history of the Endangered Species Act and discusses some of the land-use and recovering species issues being considered in attempts to modernize and reform the act.
  • "Mobile technology expands emergency water treatment options." By Rick Moro. Opflow, August 2018, pp. 8-9.
    Identifies steps that facilities can take to respond effectively to an emergency situation. Includes an example of implementing a mobile water unit in Cisco, Texas, during flooding in 2016.
  • "The regressive effects of child-care regulations." By Ryan Bourne. Regulation (CATO Institute), Fall 2018, pp. 8-11.
    Examines the unintended consequences of child-care policies that give little thought to prices, parental preferences for care, and the availability of care for the poor.
  • "Pulling equal weight." By Irin Carmon. Time, October 8, 2018, pp. 34-41.
    Explores whether Sweden's model for gender equality is a plausible method for closing the gender gap in the United States.

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 4, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 953 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, September 27

Sep 27

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 the fiscal impact of Hurricane Harvey on state agencies. (Legislative Budget Board, September 11, 2018)
  • Review recent oil and gas production statistics from across the state. (Railroad Commission of Texas, September 25, 2018)
  • Be ready to vote by registering or confirming your registration. (Texas Secretary of State, September 7, 2018)
  • Find hunting, fishing, and boating regulations in TPWD's Outdoor Annual. (Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 2018-2019)

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

  • "Military bets on Austin's big ideas." By Mike Cronin. Austin Business Journal, September 21, 2018, pp. 4-7.
    Discusses how landing the Army Futures Command and the increase in defense spending will impact the Austin region's business community and the developing national security industry.
  • "Final opioid package should include several Medicaid provisions that improve access to care: But one remains a serious concern." By Anna Bailey, et al. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Updated September 18, 2018, pp. 1-7.
    Provides a status update on federal legislation to address the opioid epidemic, including Medicaid access to substance abuse treatment. Related information at: https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/6.
  • "Does it matter if a political candidate has huge student-loan debts? Georgians will decide." By Dan Bauman. Chronicle of Higher Education, September 7, 2018, p. A55.
    Considers how voters might weigh significant student-loan debt when deciding on candidates to support. Highlights the case of Stacey Abrams, Democratic candidate for Georgia governor.
  • "Animal harm." By Jacob Holzman. CQ Weekly, September 17, 2018, pp. 22-25.
    Describes environmental implications of the border wall, particularly for animal and butterfly habitat. Discusses 2010 flooding along the existing border wall on the Rio Grande River.
  • "Narrow banking: A hornets' nest." Economist, September 22nd-28th, 2018, p. 69.
    Reports on a complaint against the Federal Reserve Bank of New York for stalling the creation of a bank with a novel business model — a bank that restricts itself to receiving deposits but does not make loans to companies or individuals. Considers the operation risks associated with narrow banking. Related information at: https://faculty.chicagobooth.edu/john.cochrane/research/papers/Complaint%20(filed).pdf.
  • "DNA testing seeks answers for dyslexia." By Sarah D. Sparks. Education Week, September 12, 2018, pp. 1, 9.
    Details Yale University study that could lead to the development of a genetic screening tool for early identification of students with dyslexia. Addresses benefits and concerns of using DNA testing in a school environment.
  • "Quality counts 2018: K-12 assessment and change for success." By Alyson Klein, et al. Education Week, September 5, 2018, pp. 1, 16-26.
    Compares performance among the 50 states on several accountability measures, including test scores, high school graduation rates, poverty gaps, and student achievement. Grades Texas an overall C- on K-12 achievement, C on chance for success, and D+ on school finance.
  • "Checkpoint nation: Border agents are expanding their reach into the country's interior." By Melissa del Bosque. Harper's Magazine, October 2018, pp. 35-42.
    Explores the powers of Customs and Border Protection to set up security checkpoints and conduct search and detention operations within the "border zone," defined as 100 miles from any land or coastal boundary of the United States.
  • "The price of health care: Why is the United States an outlier?" By Tal Gross and Miriam J. Laugesen. Journal of Health Politics, Policy, and Law, October 2018, pp. 771-791.
    Examines and deconstructs various explanations why the United States spends more than any country on health care. Argues that since policy makers cannot adjust provider reimbursement rates down, they need to rework the nature of reimbursement all together.
  • "Cities getting smarter." Public Utilities Fortnightly, September 2018, pp. 36-40.
    Features an interview with the CEO of CPS Energy, Paula Gold-Williams, regarding how the municipal utility is adapting to the evolving industry.
  • "Fiscal decentralization and financial condition: The effects of revenue and expenditure decentralization on state financial health." By Akheil Singla and Samuel B. Stone. State and Local Government Review, June 2018, pp. 119-131.
    Analyzes several economic, political, and demographic indicators to explore the relationship between fiscal decentralization to the local government level and long-term state financial condition.
  • "Drop in Mexican-born immigrants attributed to hostility here, opportunity there." By Tim Henderson. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), September 20, 2018, pp. 1-5.
    Discusses factors that have reduced the number of Mexican-born immigrants living in the United States. Includes Texas among the states with the largest drop in Mexican immigrant population.
  • "Financial squeeze." By Sean Price. Texas Medicine, September 2018, pp. 23-24, 26-27.
    Examines the firing of physicians and closure of seventeen Children's Health Pediatric Group clinics in the Dallas area. Highlights the problems of low Medicaid payment rates, relying on nurse practitioners and physician assistants to provide the majority of medical care, and the possibility of reduced access to care for Medicaid patients.
  • "The life of the American teacher." By Katie Reilly. Time, September 24, 2018, pp. 26-33.
    Examines the current experience of public school teachers, including declining teacher salaries and benefits, education budget cuts, and a record-high pay gap between teachers and other comparably educated professionals. Notes teacher walkouts and demonstrations in states from Arizona to Oklahoma this year.

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 27, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 770 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, September 20

Sep 20

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 draft State Flood Assessment. (Texas Water Development Board, September 17, 2018)
  • Read a multi-state report on the legal challenges of social media for employers. (Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s Social Media Practice Group, 2017-2018 edition)
  • Consider the scam call epidemic and the increase in scam calls to consumers' mobile phones. (CNET, September 14, 2018)
  • Explore an online edition of the Congressional Research Service's U.S. Constitution Annotated. (Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School, accessed September 19, 2018)

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

  • "Occupational perfection: Identifying the careers high in volume and pay." By G. Scott Thomas. Austin Business Journal, September 7, 2018, pp. 4-5.
    Points out how Austin compares nationwide in occupations that are highly represented and highly compensated.
  • "NYU's free medical school has lessons for higher ed." By Beckie Supiano. Chronicle of Higher Education, September 7, 2018, pp. A46-A47.
    Examines New York University's decision to offer full-tuition scholarships to all current and future students in the doctor-of-medicine program. Reports the school hopes this will bring more socioeconomic diversity to the school and allow graduates to choose practices in health care in parts of the country that are currently underserved.
  • "Charter partnerships could bring changes for teachers." Classroom Teacher (Texas Classroom Teachers Association), Summer 2018, pp. 20-22.
    Discusses benefits and risks of charter partnerships, which allow school districts to partner with charter schools or other approved entities to assist failing campuses.
  • "America's housing market: Fixer-uppers." Economist, September 15th-21st, 2018, pp. 72-73.
    Reports how technology companies such as Opendoor are replacing real estate agents by buying and selling homes directly, speeding up and simplifying the home sales process.
  • "The financial crisis: Unresolved." Economist, September 8th-14th, 2018, pp. 20-22.
    Explains how the financial system has changed since the collapse of Lehman Brothers ten years ago. Questions whether policymakers have learned the right lessons to prevent another financial crisis.
  • "Safety burden looks at start of new school year." By Evie Blad. Education Week, September 5, 2018, pp. 1, 15.
    Discusses school safety challenges and security measures, school violence rates over time, and how school districts are responding. Notes consideration of 261 new school safety bills in state legislatures across the country since the school shooting in Parkland, Florida.
  • "The US training system for physicians — Need for deeper analysis." By S. Claiborne Johnston. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), September 11, 2018, pp. 982-983.
    Calls for increased data collection and analysis efforts on undergraduate and graduate medical education. Suggests topics to be considered such as the physician shortage and the role of osteopathic schools and physicians.
  • "More immigration, less teen employment." By Steven Camarota. National Review, September 10, 2018, pp. 14-16.
    Discusses research on the decline of teen summer employment and suggests immigrants have displaced teens in the labor market. Related information at: https://cis.org/Report/2018-Shaping-Be-Another-Bad-Summer-Teen-Employment.
  • "Back to the blackboard." By Jill Lepore. New Yorker, September 10, 2018, pp. 86-88, 90-93.
    Focuses on the history and legal reasoning of Plyler v. Doe, a case beginning in Tyler, Texas and ending with a 1982 United States Supreme Court opinion, holding the state cannot deny students a free public education, regardless of immigration status.
  • "What Netflix and Amazon pricing tell us about rate design's future." By Lon Huber and Richard Bachmeier. Public Utilities Fortnightly, September 2018, pp. 60-63.
    Explores the possible benefits and criticisms of applying a subscription service business model to energy utilities. Report at: https://www.navigantresearch.com/reports/defining-the-digital-future-of-utilities.
  • "The evolution of dual credit." By Amy Magee. Texas Lone Star (Texas Association of School Boards), September/October 2018, pp. 26-29, 43.
    Presents information on the dual credit program in Texas. Discusses the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's current study of dual credit effectiveness. Related information at: http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/index.cfm?objectid=D455C380-7BA9-11E8-AE230050560100A9. 
  • "Capitol matters." By Joey Berlin. Texas Medicine, September 2018, pp. 32-35.
    Lists the Texas Medical Association's recommendations for addressing Texas' Medicaid managed care problems; offers next steps to take in developing telemedicine programs.
  • "Coming of age." By Joey Berlin. Texas Medicine, September 2018, pp. 14-21.
    Extols the benefits of HJR3 and HB4, 78th Legislature, R.S., the Medical Malpractice and Tort Reform Act. Correlates the legislation's limits on medical liability suits with the record numbers of physicians settling in Texas and specialists filling voids in rural areas.

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 20, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 1088 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, September 13

Sep 13

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. 

  • Be prepared in the event of a hurricane. (Office of the Texas Governor, accessed September 13, 2018)
  • Explore state regulation of short-term rentals. (National Conference of State Legislatures, September 2018)
  • Read about the benefits of walking. (Outside Online, September 10, 2018)
  • Review the process for appointments to the U.S. Supreme Court. (Congressional Research Service, September 7, 2018)

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

  • "Center court." By Mark Walsh. ABA Journal: The Lawyer's Magazine, September 2018, pp. 20-21.
    Discusses how United States Supreme Court justices rate on an ideological scale that does not rely exclusively on past votes.
  • "A new way to Uber." By Joshua Brustein. Bloomberg Businessweek, September 2, 2018, pp. 23-24.
    Profiles Uber's investment in the electric scooter market. Mentions how electric scooter businesses are navigating city ordinances and permitting restrictions.
  • "Contraception challenge." By Rokia Hassanein. Church & State, September 2018, pp. 4-5.
    Reports on a lawsuit challenging a settlement between the Trump administration and Notre Dame that allows the university to use religion to deny students and staff access to birth control. Related information at: https://nwlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Complaint.pdf.
  • "Silicon Valley: A victim of its own success." Economist, September 1st-7th, 2018, pp. 19-22.
    Explains why Silicon Valley's preeminence as the epicenter of technology is on the wane, due in part to the technology industry's geographical diversification.
  • "Post-Wayfair options for states." By Joseph Bishop-Henchman, Hannah Walker, and Denise Grabe. Fiscal Fact (Tax Foundation), August 29, 2018, pp. 1-21.
    Reviews the United States Supreme Court's recent decision in South Dakota v. Wayfair and discusses a "Wayfair checklist" of how state laws on sales tax collection would be considered constitutional under the Court's standard. Categorizes Texas as a "steady yellow light," meaning the state should proceed only after making legislative changes, including membership in the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Agreement. Related information at: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/17pdf/17-494_j4el.pdf.
  • "Current eminent domain laws are fair for landowners." By Thure Cannon. Houston Business Journal, August 30, 2018, p. 42.
    Argues that the Texas pipeline industry has treated landowners fairly in cases of eminent domain. Suggests both sides need to work together to avoid costly litigation.
  • "Community health workers: Key partners in improving children’s health and eliminating inequities." By Sinsi Hernandez-Cancio, Shadi Houshyar, and Maria Walawender. Internet Resource, September 2018, pp. 1-16.
    Proposes the deployment and sustainable financing of community health workers [CHWs] into maternal and child health care delivery. Provides examples of ways CHWs have driven health equity for children and improve health outcomes for children of color.
  • "Hospitals and the unexpected impacts of Hurricane Harvey." By Wendy Lyons Sunshine. Internet Resource, July/August 2018, pp. 1-2.
    Recaps lessons learned by hospital administrators about where their medical facilities and staff were well-prepared for a disaster like Harvey and where they need to improve.
  • "Can't hardly wait – Cryptocurrency and state tax legislation." By Charlie Kearns and Dennis Jansen. Journal of MultiState Taxation and Incentives, September 2018, pp. 6-11, 48.
    Explains the basics of bitcoin and blockchain technology and explores recent trends in state cryptocurrency legislation, focusing on Vermont's "Blockchain-Based LLC" regime. Related information at: https://legislature.vermont.gov/assets/Documents/2018/Docs/ACTS/ACT205/ACT205%20As%20Enacted.pdf.
  • "Credits and incentives update: How does the economic policy of tax reform impact economic development in the United States?" By Michael Eickhoff. Journal of State Taxation, Fall 2018, pp. 19-20, 44.
    Discusses the effect of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on economic development initiatives, including creation of the Opportunity Zone program to incentivize capital investment in low-income areas.
  • "Nexus news: Quill's physical presence nexus requirement is gone: What now?" By Jane Summers Haas and Daniel L. Stanley. Journal of State Taxation, Fall 2018, pp. 5-10.
    Describes the effect of the United States Supreme Court's June 21 decision in South Dakota v. Wayfair overturning the physical presence standard for sales and use tax collection on remote and out-of-state sellers. Highlights reactions to the decision in the states, and various state initiatives to establish economic thresholds, rather than physical presence, for sales and use tax collection. Related information at: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/17pdf/17-494_j4el.pdf.
  • "The future of hours of work?" By John Pencavel. Policy Brief (Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research), September 2018, pp. 1-4.
    Considers whether American employers are likely to follow other countries' experiments with shorter, more accommodating work hours and whether shorter hours would affect the structure of earnings.
  • "Keeping pace with emerging technologies." By R. K. Pendergrass. Public Power, July/August 2018, pp. 16-23.
    Provides three examples of utilities, including Bryan Texas Utilities, that have turned to new technologies to keep up with the changes the industry faces.
  • "The impact of tax and expenditure limitations on municipal revenue volatility." By Tucker C. Staley. State and Local Government Review, June 2018, pp. 71-84.
    Finds that more stringent tax and expenditure limitations [TEL] at the state level result in greater volatility of municipal revenues, using data from the Fiscal Policy Space project that includes data from Texas cities. Discusses the history and general impact of TELs in the states.
  • "States see energy booms along with economic expansion." By Tim Henderson. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), September 11, 2018, pp. 1-5.
    Reports rising oil and gas prices over the past two years are boosting many states' economies. Notes Texas and New Mexico had the largest recent increases in oil production.
  • "Active shooters: FBI reviews behaviors that may signal impending violence." By Barry Thompson. Texas Banking, September 2018, pp. 13-15.
    Discusses demographic characteristics, firearms acquisition, and planning behaviors of active shooters, as identified in a June 2018 FBI report, A Study of Pre-Attack Behaviors of Active Shooters in the United States Between 2000 and 2013. Report at: https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/pre-attack-behaviors-of-active-shooters-in-us-2000-2013.pdf/view.
  • "Speaking out: State Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst." Texas Builder, July/August 2018, pp. 28-29.
    Interviews Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst about tree mitigation, regulatory restrictions, transportation and water infrastructure funding, and the response to Hurricane Harvey.
  • "Safety, security strategies." By Dax Gonzalez. Texas Lone Star (Texas Association of School Boards), August 2018, pp. 28-29.
    Summarizes discussion on school emergency plans addressed in the House Committee on Public Education, which met on June 27, 2018.

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 13, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 1063 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, September 6

Sep 6

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 President Trump's adjustments to federal pay increases. (The White House, August 30, 2018)
  • Read about the importance of natural light in the workplace. (Harvard Business Review, September 3, 2018)
  • Explore election laws related to alcohol. (National Conference of State Legislatures, August 23, 2018)
  • Consider the role convention centers play in communities. (Fiscal Notes, August 2018)

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

  • "Dual-credit classes serve some students in Texas well. But not all." By Katherine Mangan. Chronicle of Higher Education, August 17, 2018, p. A21.
    Highlights the Texas experience with dual-credit college classes. Presents the findings of studies by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the University of Texas System that show many students are well served but results may be dependent upon other factors. Report at: http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/index.cfm?objectid=D455C380-7BA9-11E8-AE230050560100A9.
  • "Immigration: Crossing continents." Economist, August 25th-31st, 2018, pp. 16-18.
    Reviews the immigration policies and experiences of Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, and America. Proposes four policies that can help maximize the benefits of immigration, minimize its costs, and boost public support for it.
  • "Hate in schools." By Francisco Vara-Orta. Education Week, August 22, 2018, pp. 1, 16-20.
    Examines how hate-related and bias incidents are affecting students, educators, and school climate in K-12 schools. Notes most students targeted by hate incidents attend schools in suburban areas.
  • "Labor's last stand: Unions must either demand a place at the table or be part of the meal." By Garret Keizer. Harper's Magazine, September 2018, pp. 23-32.
    Discusses recent United States Supreme Court rulings on organized labor and the political debate about public-sector labor unions. Considers current challenges in the labor movement in the Trump era, and the economic relationship between capital and labor.
  • "Medicaid/CHIP participation reached 93.7 percent among eligible children in 2016." By Jennifer M. Haley, et al. Health Affairs, August 2018, pp. 1194-1199.
    Reports that children's participation in Medicaid/CHIP rose between 2013 and 2016 to reach 93.7 percent, but that growth has slowed since 2016.
  • "One year after the storm: Texas Gulf Coast residents’ views and experiences with Hurricane Harvey recovery." By Liz Hamel, et al. Internet Resource, August 2018, pp. 1-53 (Note Length).
    Measures Gulf Coast residents' challenges with housing, financial assistance, health care, and mental health after Hurricane Harvey, and examines views on priorities and preparedness moving forward. Notes that most affected residents say they have not received financial assistance, or that the financial help they have received will cover very little of their losses.
  • "Work requirements for health coverage." By Andy Slavitt. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), August 28, 2018, pp. 746-747.
    Argues that Medicaid work requirements will harm three groups of people: those who work but cannot consistently maintain the required hours, individuals whose disabilities are not recognized by the state, and those who would get lost in the administrative paperwork requirements. Advocates for Montana's approach of linking Medicaid with job training resources.
  • "Supreme Court abandons physical presence standard: An in-depth look at South Dakota v. Wayfair." By Sarah Horn, et al. Journal of MultiState Taxation and Incentives, September 2018, pp. 12-17.
    Considers the practical effects of South Dakota v. Wayfair on state sales tax authority and revenue collection. Discusses state "economic nexus" laws in South Dakota, Florida, and New York, and state reporting and notice requirements for out-of-state sellers. Related information at: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/17pdf/17-494_j4el.pdf.
  • "'More important than motorcycles'." By Kevin D. Williamson. National Review, August 27, 2018, pp. 26, 28-29.
    Profiles reality star Jesse James and his move from California to Texas and his new gunsmithing business. Compares the regulatory climates of California and Texas and explains how the gun culture has evolved to a new focus on precision marksmanship popularized by late Navy SEAL Chris Kyle and by craftsmen such as James.
  • "The truth about the Second Amendment." By Charles C.W. Cooke. National Review, August 27, 2018, pp. 32, 34-36.
    Reviews the various interpretations of the Second Amendment, from a collective right of states to an individual's right to bear arms, by examining a variety of historical sources.
  • "States make more progress rebuilding rainy day funds." By Barb Rosewicz. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), August 29, 2018, pp. 1-9.
    Compares states' progress in rebuilding and expanding their rainy day funds since the last recession.

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 6, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 1287 views. Print this entry.

Current Articles & Research Resources, August 30

Aug 30

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. 

  • Consider election security issues related to the 2018 midterm elections. (Congressional Research Service, August 16, 2018)
  • Explore safe bicycle passing laws by state. (National Conference of State Legislatures, August 2018)
  • Review the updated Certification Revenue Estimate. (Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, July 2018)
  • Sign up for the Capitol Complex plan newsletter for updates on construction and parking around the Capitol. (Texas Facilities Commission, accessed August 29, 2018)

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

  • "21st century cures for the opioid crisis: Promise, impact, and missed opportunities." By Leo Beletsky. American Journal of Law & Medicine, 2018, pp. 359-385.
    Analyzes the impact of the opioid crisis response elements of the 21st Century Cures Act. Includes examination of the Opioid State Targeted Response [STR] grant mechanism and its implementation by different states.
  • "How Medicaid work requirements will harm rural residents – and communities." Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, August 22, 2018, pp. 1-2.
    Outlines briefly the potential effect of Medicaid work requirements on rural health coverage and access to rural health care.
  • "Improving customer service in health and human services through technology." By Sonal Ambegaokar, Rachael Podesfinski, and Jennifer Wagner. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, August 23, 2018, pp. 1-29.
    Examines the new phase of "client-facing technology" to streamline state and local government administration of eligibility, enrollment, and case management of programs supporting low-income families. Describes best practices by technology, including web-based tools, mobile-based technology, and call center tools.
  • "Carmaking in America: Rocky road ahead." Economist, August 25th-31st, 2018, pp. 51-52.
    Examines how the automobile industry is coping with the Trump administration's ongoing trade wars and President Trump's threats to impose a 25 percent tariff on all car imports.
  • "Construction technology: A bridge too far." Economist, August 18th-24th, 2018, pp. 67-68.
    Reports concerns that many bridges around the world that use reinforced concrete are deteriorating faster than expected. Report at: https://www.artbabridgereport.org/.
  • "Florida to create new database to stop school shootings." By Benjamin Herold. Education Week, August 22, 2018, p. 13.
    Addresses a new centralized database created by lawmakers in Florida as a means to prevent school shootings. Argues the law, which includes information from social media accounts, is vague and lacks adequate safeguards to protect the privacy and civil liberties of people.
  • "The deportation racket: Con artists are preying on undocumented immigrants in detention." By Micah Hauser. Harper's Magazine, September 2018, pp. 59-65.
    Describes the problem of notario fraud, including a legal scam perpetrated by a couple in Texas and the subsequent investigation by the Texas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. Notes Texas has been particularly aggressive in pursuing notario fraudsters under the Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
  • "Direct primary care: One step forward, two steps back." By Eli Y. Adashi, Ryan P. Clodfelter, and Paul George. JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), August 21, 2018, pp. 637-638.
    Explores the pros and cons of direct primary care [DPC], in which patients contract directly with a primary care physician to pay a recurring out-of-pocket fee in exchange for a defined set of primary care benefits. Argues that while the premises of DPC are good, it is not a scalable model to achieve systemic cost savings in health care payment reform.
  • "Senate GOP bill would amend key section of the Clean Water Act." By Nick Snow. Oil and Gas Journal, August 6, 2018, pp. 22-23.
    Describes recently introduced federal legislation, the Water Quality Certification Improvement Act of 2018, that would affect individual states under the Clean Water Act. Related information at: https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3303.
  • "Shipping, market constraints poised to slow US crude export growth." By Christopher E. Smith. Oil and Gas Journal, August 6, 2018, pp. 53-56.
    Identifies current projects contributing to the accelerated growth of domestic crude exports, such as the expansion of the Port of Corpus Christi.
  • "Water quality: Data tools improve nutrient monitoring." By Karlin Danielsen, et al. Opflow, August 2018, pp. 16-19.
    Argues that real-time nutrient systems offer a way for communities to address algal blooms. Provides a case study of the application of this kind of technology to Lake Erie.
  • "FAA reauthorization: A step toward improving utility drone use." Public Power, July/August 2018, p. 42.
    Summarizes the drone provisions from introduced legislation related to the Federal Aviation Administration, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, which would affect how utilities use drones. Related information at: https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/4.
  • "Public health vs. private property in war on lead." By Rebecca Beitsch. Stateline (Pew Charitable Trusts), August 23, 2018, pp. 1-8.
    Explains that conflicting rules regarding what can be done on public versus private property — and who can pay for it — present challenges for cities seeking to eliminate lead infrastructure within their water systems.

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 30, 2018 at 3:15 PM and has received 1175 views. Print this entry.

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