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

Policy Orientation 2020—Happening Now!

What to Know: The Department of Homeland Security has elevated human trafficking to a top concern—recognizing the role it plays in border security.

The TPPF Take: Border security, and its related issues, will be the topic of an important discussion today at Policy Orientation 2020.

“The crisis we have seen along the U.S. southern border has brought into stark relief the need for border security to be priority No. 1,” said TPPF’s John Hostettler. “Given the acute level of dysfunction in Washington, it is also evident that achieving an acceptable level of border security is not going to happen unless key stakeholders like the Texas Public Policy Foundation, in partnership with sister state and national organizations across the country, put necessary focus and attention to this issue.”

Energy Independence

What to Know: Something strange is happening with gasoline prices, as tensions with Iran continue—they’re not going up.

The TPPF Take: Thank U.S. innovation for the newfound stability in gas prices.

“Through new technology and balanced approaches to energy development, America is releasing itself from its historic dependence on imports,” says TPPF’s Jason Isaac. “We are laying the path to energy independence and, in turn, fortifying it for others across the globe to reach their own sovereignty through more diverse energy portfolios. And with independence comes freedom.”

Super Salaries and Bonuses

What to Know: Sweetwater ISD is paying its former superintendent more than $200,000—just to leave.

The TPPF Take: Superintendent salaries and bonuses are growing, even as student scores stagnate.

“These perks come at the expense of taxpayers and deprive teachers of the resources needed to educate our children,” says TPPF’s James Quintero. “And these bonuses are not paid on the basis of merit; they are often awarded irrespective of the school district’s academic performance. We must ensure that taxpayer money is spent responsibly and with the students’ best interest in mind."