Taxes

UNDERSTANDING TAXES & THE BUDGET 

For generations, Texans have worked together through our state and local governments to create the state we call home. Like any home, Texas has many structures and systems. The public structures-- our civil nad criminal justice systems, our public transportation systems, our health and social service systems-- have a great deal to do with determining what kind of place Texas is to live. Just as a smart builder uses good engineering principles to build a home, we should look to good fiscal principles in building Texas. A good budget is balanced. A good budget promotes future economic prosperity through investments in public structures that create opportunities for all Texans, and sets aside money when times are good for when times are tough. A good revenue system contributes to economic growth relies upon diverse sources of stablity and requires all of us to contribute based upon our own ability.

However, the state's current systems are not providing adequate funding to fulfill their necessary roles. In order to meet Texans growing needs, Texas Impact calls for the creation of a state income tax. But before we discuss why an income tax is the best solution, let's discuss the basics of who Texas is and how the revenue and budget systems work.