Texas Senate Passes $336 Billion Budget Plan

The Texas Senate has unanimously approved a $336 billion budget for the next two years, which now awaits consideration by the House. This budget includes $153 billion in state taxpayer funds and $99.2 billion in federal funds, focusing on teacher pay raises, border security, property tax cuts, and workforce development. A separate bill is expected to allocate funds from the state's $23 billion budget surplus. Significant allocations include $5 billion to strengthen the state's electrical grid, $2.5 billion for water needs, and $3 billion for property tax relief. The proposal also outlines the creation of a Dementia Prevention and Research Institute and a school voucher-like program, with an emphasis on fiscal conservatism and sustainability. The House is expected to debate its version soon, with final negotiations to follow before the legislative session concludes.