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Connecting today’s news with the research & opinion you need.

High Cost of Living

What to Know: An economist has debunked a flawed analysis that says Houston is now less affordable than New York City (the analysis, by the way, came from New York agency called the Citizens Budget Commission)

The TPPF Take: Want proof Texas is more affordable than New York? Ask any of the thousands of New Yorkers moving to the Lone Star State.

“The problems that people face in places like New York are the direct result of government policies,” says TPPF’s Chuck DeVore. “High taxes, crushing regulations and high cost of living mean that if people want freedom and opportunity, they must seek it elsewhere—in places like Texas.”

Trade Skills Needed

What to Know: As many as 400,000 welders—along with millions of other skilled trade workers—will be needed in coming years.

The TPPF Take: The “college for all” movement ignores the needs of many, many students—and our economy.

“Not every person needs, wants or should go to college,” says TPPF’s Sam Johnson. “We should help academically disinclined students find more relevant and engaging studies by exposing them to non-college pathways into profitable careers in the skilled crafts and trades, jobs that are in increasingly high demand and pay well over the median salary.”

Mental Health Matters

What to Know: Galveston County has approved a mental health court to help provide an effective alternative to incarceration.

The TPPF Take: Mental health courts can help result in better outcomes for arrestees, and also for communities.

“In too many Texas counties, the jail is still the largest mental health facility, so it’s good to see that mental health courts are increasing in number,” says TPPF’s Marc Levin. “Measures that divert suitable offenders with mental illness from lockups to effective treatment programs can produce net savings while furthering public safety and offender accountability.”