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May
Women-Owned Businesses in Texas: Striving and Thriving in Today’s Economy
Texas appears at or near the top of most “best of” lists for its business friendliness. But it’s also a great location for an increasing number of women-owned enterprises.
May
The Comptroller’s Audit Division: Ensuring Fair Taxation in Texas
The Audit Division works to ensure Texas taxes are administered fairly through audits conducted as efficiently as possible and with the least inconvenience to taxpayers.
April
Will an Expanded Panama Canal Increase Texas Trade? More Shipping May Favor Texas Ports
The completion of the $5.3 billion Panama Canal expansion project in 2016 has increased the canal’s capabilities to handle larger ships — and could open new opportunities for Texas ports.
April
The Criminal Investigation Division: Comptroller Cops Go After Tax Fraud
Texans may hate paying taxes, but we hate it even more when others don’t pay their fair share. CID’s officers conduct sting operations, stakeouts, inspections and make arrests.
Special Edition
Texas State Government and Long-Term Obligations
As the 2017 legislative session crafts the next state budget under tight budgetary constraints, policymakers should remain aware of lingering long-term obligations that could damage the state’s credit rating and limit the amount of revenue available for general spending.
March
Counting the Cost of Texas Health Care: Comptroller Report Examines Vital State Spending
Health care isn’t just a common human need, it’s one of the largest items in the Texas state budget. It presents a significant continuing challenge to lawmakers.
March
Will the U.S. Open Up Trade with Cuba? Warmer Relations Could Boost Texas Exports
The numbers are an exporter’s dream: 11 million consumers in a new, untapped market. So what’s the catch?
February
“Dark Store Theory” and Property Taxation: Legal Interpretation Could Cost States Millions
Texas communities depend on the property taxes generated by retail businesses. But should open, operating stores be taxed in the same way as closed ones?
February
Texas Ports, Gateways to World Commerce: Comptroller Study Highlights Economic Impacts
Texas has become a hub for international trade. And all this trade moves through one or more of Texas’ 29 official “ports of entry” — seaports, airports, border crossings and multi-modal facilities that offer train, air and roadway links to the state and nation.
December/January
Certificates of Obligation: A Flexible Funding Tool for Local Projects
Certificates of obligation (COs) provide local governments with flexibility when projects must be financed quickly. But the way COs circumvent voter approval has made them controversial, leading to 2015 legislation restricting their use.
December/January
The Fiscal Noting Process: Doing the Math on New Legislation
Texas law requires the Legislature to do the math when considering new laws by providing for a “fiscal note” that accompanies each bill.