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Pre-Broken

What to Know: The U.S. health care system was broken long before the coronavirus pandemic hit.

The TPPF Take: Texans know we need a better health care system—one that doesn’t compound the mistakes of the Affordable Care Act.

“Texans are largely frustrated by the way we pay for and deliver health care services,” says TPPF’s David Balat. “Costs are skyrocketing, people are paying tens of thousands of dollars before coverage kicks in, insurance companies are failing patients, and too many communities are seeing their medical providers close up shop.”

Prison Pandemic

What to Know: Prisons and jails have become hotspots for COVID-19.

The TPPF Take: Corrections officials can take steps to save lives and prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

“Public health and public safety need not be a trade-off,” says TPPF’s Marc Levin. “We can reduce the prison population — targeting those most vulnerable to the ravages of COVID-19 — by increasing medical paroles. Releasing inmates most at risk for COVID-19 can be done selectively and safely.”

Careers and the Coronavirus

What to Know: Career and Technical education (CTE) has been especially hard-hit by the coronavirus, because many technical classes involve hands-on learning.

The TPPF Take: Now is a great time to ensure that post-coronavirus CTE courses align with the industries and jobs that need skilled workers.

“CTE at the school and district levels could be better aligned with regional workforce needs,” says TPPF’s Erin Valdez. “Partnerships between high schools and businesses can help bridge the so-called skills gap.”