Let’s Get Texas Back to Work

What to Know: TPPF’s new polling shows that nearly one in three Texans now says unemployment and the economy are the most important issue in the state today.

The TPPF Take: “Texans’ perception of the crisis has evolved to the point that their economic security is now twice as important as any other issue,” said TPPF’s Brian Phillips. “As we have become more comfortable with the way our health care sector is combating the disease, the focus is now on getting our lives and livelihoods back and avoiding further economic hardship.”

Defending Your Rights

What to Know: Gun control advocates are targeting Texas in upcoming elections.

The TPPF Take: An armed society is a free society.

“Current case law rightly acknowledges the Second Amendment’s history and founding intent,” says TPPF’s Derek Cohen. “The right to keep and bear arms is a natural right, irrespective of the text of the U.S. Constitution. Natural rights cannot be eliminated, even by broad majorities.”

Unemployment Follies

What to Know: More than 35 state representatives say Texas shouldn’t check whether applicants are actually unemployed before granting unemployment benefits.

The TPPF Take: Unemployment certifications are a simple and very basic guard against unemployment fraud and waste.

“Suspending them now would be a mistake,” says TPPF’s Erin Valdez. “Government has a fundamental duty to the taxpayer to ensure that precious—and scarce—resources are used property and effectively. Now is not the time to enable fraud and abuse; eligible Texans need that money.”