FISCAL NOTES is one of the ways the Comptroller's office strives to assist taxpayers and the people of Texas. The newsletter is a by-product of the Comptroller's constitutional responsibilities to monitor the state's economy and to estimate state government revenues. http://www.fiscalnotes.org/ Wed, 01 May 2013 17:00:00 -0500 Drew's Custom Code v 1.0 en-us drew.scherz@cpa.state.tx.us(Drew Scherz) http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn13Q2/freshman15.php Weight gain during the first year of college is a perennial problem that Texas colleges and universities want to prevent. Research and clinical studies are still attempting to understand the dreaded onset of the "Freshman 15," a first-year weight gain resulting largely from the availability of junk food, all-you-can-eat dining halls, alcohol consumption and academic stress. Wed, 01 May 2013 17:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn13Q2/freshman15.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn13Q1/energy.php Texas "shale plays" could propel America into a position it hasn't occupied in generations: the world's leading energy producer. Can the U.S. finally attain the long-cherished dream of true energy independence? Tue, 26 Mar 2013 17:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn13Q1/energy.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn13Q1/obesity.php Our new ReshapingTexas.org site is a central, one-stop shop that we're committed to fostering and growing, to help Texas battle the economic and personal impacts of obesity. Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn13Q1/obesity.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn13Q1/wellness.php Join Fiscal Notes as we engage Dr. Tyler Cooper in a conversation about wellness programs, and his company's efforts to help businesses control their health care costs. Mon, 28 Jan 2013 16:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn13Q1/wellness.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1211/FAST.php The annual FAST ratings measure academic progress and cost-effective operations for Texas school districts and campuses. But the website offers much more. Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1211/FAST.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1211/libraries.php Texas communities are stretching taxpayer dollars by turning empty retail space into 21st century libraries - and bringing new life to areas with empty storefronts. Thu, 15 Nov 2012 15:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1211/libraries.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1209/sister-cities.php At least 27 Texas communities have sister-city relationships with cities around the world, cultivating important benefits in business and economic development and tourism. Read about these international partners in Fiscal Notes. Wed, 10 Oct 2012 17:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1209/sister-cities.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1209/airports.php General aviation resulted in $14.6 billion in economic activity in 2010 and supported more than 56,000 jobs paying more than $3 billion in salaries and benefits. Fri, 21 Sep 2012 12:05:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1209/airports.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1208/low-cost-degree.php Texas Gov. Rick Perry challenged Texas universities to develop bachelor’s degree programs costing no more than $10,000. Texas universities have attempted to meet the challenge. Wed, 05 Sep 2012 09:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1208/low-cost-degree.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1208/best-work.php A new program will ask some of Texas’ highest-performing school districts to develop and adapt their best ideas for potential adoption throughout the state. Thu, 23 Aug 2012 17:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1208/best-work.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1205/oil-prices.php High oil prices translate into high gasoline and diesel prices, increasing costs for businesses and consumers. But for Texas, rising prices can have near-term beneficial effects as well. Wed, 13 June 2012 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1205/oil-prices.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1205/water-power.php Keeping Texans cool in summer takes a lot of power, and that power comes from plants that use water to keep their machinery cool. A hot dry summer can threaten power supplies at a time when it’s needed most. Mon, 21 May 2012 15:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1205/water-power.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1205/boom.php In the past few years, a new and unexpected oil boom has been developing in South and East Texas, driven by production in a rock formation called the Eagle Ford Shale. Tue, 15 May 2012 14:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1205/boom.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1204/water-rights.php On February 24, 2012, the Texas Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling that reaffirms the traditional right of farmers and ranchers to use the water lying beneath their land. The court's opinion in the case provides a capstone for decades of efforts by the Texas Legislature to defend and protect private real property rights. Tue, 08 May 2012 14:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1204/water-rights.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1204/euroDebt.php In our newest Fiscal Notes story, we sit down with two noted economic experts to see how the European crisis developed and what effects it may have on the Texas economy. Thu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1204/euroDebt.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1204/I35.php It’s I-35's turn to grow with Texas. In the next four to five years, the outgrown and overstressed 96-mile stretch running from Salado to Hillsboro will expand from four to six lanes, making the highway three lanes each way from San Antonio to north of Dallas-Fort Worth. Thu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1204/I35.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1202/water.php In our newest Fiscal Notes story, we look at the new Texas state water plan, which recommends strategies to ensure that Texas businesses and communities continue to have ample supplies of this precious resource. Thu, 05 Apr 2012 15:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1202/water.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1202/angel.php This Fiscal Notes article discusses the venture capital scene in Texas. We talk to Randall Crowder, a managing partner at Austin's TEXO Ventures and former executive director of the Central Texas Angel Network, a partnership of angel investors that provides investment and assistance to early-stage companies in Central Texas. Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1202/angel.php http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1111/ In this issue, we spotlight fast-growing Texas industries that pay above-average wages; the toll of the ongoing drought; Texas firefighters and the funding that supports them; tournament fishing on Texas lakes; and how cities can cultivate "green infrastructure." Fri, 18 Oct 2011 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1111/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1107/ In this issue, we report on the spiraling cost of higher education; the Comptroller’s recent follow-up report on the financial impacts of obesity; stock shows that help kids raise money for college; a new presidential library coming to Texas; and resources for budding entrepreneurs. Fri, 29 May 2011 16:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1107/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fnhome.html In this issue, read about efforts to develop additional oil from established fields; a green company that stays in the black by selling overseas; the effect of finance reforms on business; and the potential impact of a private space race on Texas. Tue, 17 Mar 2011 10:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1105/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1102/ Fiscal Notes is now a paperless publication! We're back with more Richard Garriott, a primer on the state's rainy day fund, a tip on how to make college more affordable, and a look at how social media is transforming business. Subscribe now! Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1102/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1008/ In the latest issue of Fiscal Notes, read part one of our interview with Richard Garriott, capping oil wells, recession and recovery in Texas housing, the effect of the Gulf oil spill on Texas fishermen and the Comptroller's Get A Life website for tweens. Tue, 19 Oct 2010 13:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1008/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1007/ In the latest issue of Fiscal Notes, learn about how increased fuel efficiency is affecting Texas' bottom line, the effect of entitlements on the economy, Every Chance Funds, Amarillo's Sage Oil Vac, water parks and how the 2010 census affects Texas. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 10:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1007/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1005/ In the latest issue of Fiscal Notes, learn about the impact of federal deficits, challenges facing Texas road funding and the passing and resurrection of the great American mall. Fri, 28 May 2010 10:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1005/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1003/ This month we look at innovation throughout Texas. Learn about an aircraft manufacturer that’s finding new uses for crop dusters, how cotton growers are rediscovering new markets, and how rail could help your daily commute and more ... Tue, 30 Mar 2010 10:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn1003/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0912/ Cancer is menacing, but funding the fight against it doesn't have to be. Also, see how the dollar's recent decline affects U.S. business - and why there's hope on the horizon. See the steps of a complicated dance between airlines, rising costs, and passenger satisfaction, and more ... Tue, 26 Jan 2009 05:00:00 -0500 http://www.fiscalnotes.org http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0911/ We look at Texas' energy industry, deer hunting and the economy and whether El Nino will end the drought. We also spotlight stimulus funds for child care and how the Comptroller's office is reuniting Texans with their unclaimed property. Sun, 20 Dec 2009 09:05:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0911/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0909/ This issue examines the wide variety of lifestyles in Texas, from rural living, to exurbs to cities within cities. We also look at retirement communities, low-income housing and stimulus money grants from SECO to encourage energy conservation. Tue, 20 Sep 2009 09:05:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0909/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0908/ See how Texas colleges and universities will be affected by new legislation, and how work force training and financial aid might be affected. See how auto dealers in Texas are handling the economy, and what that means to buyers. Learn why some legislation has Texas businesses celebrating, and how one Texas city is recovering from one of the nation's worst natural disasters. Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0908/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0907/ In this issue, you'll learn what some corporate leaders are saying about the Texas business climate, and how small business owners are faring during the downturn. See what implications Cap and Trade legislation will have on the Texas economy, and learn about new opportunities that benefit Texas homeowners. Mon, 27 Jul 2009 17:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0907/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0905/ In this issue, you'll learn how Texas uses incentives to keep the state's business climate healthy, and where some top economists see the state headed when we move out of recession. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0905/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0904/ In this issue you'll learn how Texas community colleges are working to groom skilled workers and what that means to some key industries. You'll also learn what some experts are saying about the Texas economy and how it will fare over the next two years, and see how educational attainment can impact Texans' annual earnings. Thu, 23 Apr 2009 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0904/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0903/ The entertainment industry historically does well during bad economic times as consumers seek an escape outlet. How is Texas positioned to take advantage of this recession-resistant industry? This issue of Fiscal Notes examines many of the industries that drive Texas' economy, and how they are expected to fare in these uncertin economic times. Tue, 16 Mar 2009 15:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0903/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0812/ Global financial markets are being wracked by turmoil of a magnitude that hasn’t been seen in decades. Texas, however, seems to be faring relatively well. This issue of Fiscal Notes examines the factors that drove the U.S. into recession, why Texas is expected to fare better than many states and some of the things the Comptroller’s office is doing to make your tax dollars go further. Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:30:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0812/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0810/ In spite of a slowing national economy, restaurants and wineries in Texas are doing record business. This issue of Fiscal Notes looks the evolution of fine dining in Texas, some favorite home-grown treats and a Texas wine industry that is coming of age. Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0810/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0809/ Texas is aging – but aging isn’t what it used to be. Seniors are living and working longer than ever before. This issue of Fiscal Notes looks at the impact senior citizens have on the Texas economy. Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0809/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0808/ Defense is one of Texas’ most important industries. This issue of Fiscal Notes focuses on the effects of the military and defence contractors on the Texas economy, as well as how some base closures have yielded surprising benefits. Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0808/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0807/ Texas has been the nation’s No. 1 exporting state since 2002, due not only to its own business activities but also to its position as a major national hub for sea, land and air transportation... Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0807/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0806/ Texas is blessed with a stable economy, abundant natural resources and some of the nation’s best infrastructure. But its biggest asset may be its dynamic and growing population. This issue of Fiscal Notes looks at the economic impact of changing demographics of Texas. Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0806/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0805/ Why have an issue of Fiscal Notes dedicated mostly to children’s issues? That’s easy. Today’s kids will have an enormous effect on tomorrow’s economy. Fri, 21 May 2008 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0805/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fnEnergy08/ A plentiful energy supply is a cornerstone of modern life. It’s also the factor that, more than any other, made Texas an important part of the world economy. The world will meet future energy demands using a wide variety of resources, and Texas is well positioned to benefit from diversification of the nation’s energy profile. Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fnEnergy08/ http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0803/ If you’re looking for a job, you stand a good chance of finding one in Texas. Texas employers led the nation in job growth last year, adding 218,600 jobs from December 2006 to December 2007. This issue of Fiscal Notes examines the fastest growing industries in Texas and how we can provide the training and education needed to keep Texas' economy vibrant. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:00:00 -0500 http://www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/fnotes/fn0803/