SB 1 Is in Effect: See What Every Texan Is Tracking
February 11, 2026
Budget & Taxes
We're leading the fight for fiscal fairness.
For 40 years, Every Texan has been a leader in the two-front fight for fiscal fairness. We advocate for more equitable budget and tax policy and for greater investments in the services that all Texans rely on.
Texas is fortunate to have a thriving economy- the 8th largest in the world- driven by people across the state. Unfortunately, those building wealth in our state don’t share in the prosperity they create. The “Texas Miracle” is a mirage for millions. Year after year, our state’s spending on education, health care, strong jobs, and other social services remains stagnant. While Texas leaders celebrate our state as a business-friendly, low-tax state, billions of dollars are spent on corporate giveaways and the highest tax rates are piled on the shoulders of low-income Texans.
The State Budget
Texas is fortunate to have a thriving economy, and we can afford to make the investments needed to ensure that every Texan can share in the state’s prosperity.
Our state budget is a moral document that should provide for the needs of all Texans. State budget decisions shape the Texas we live in today and pass on to future generations.
Texas Taxes
For Texans to thrive, we need a state government committed to investing in public and higher education, good jobs, and affordable health care. Those public services – plus public safety, infrastructure, parks, and more – depend on reliable tax revenue.
But not everyone is paying their fair share; NOW is the time for the state to find a more proactive revenue agenda.
Local Budgets & Services
Texas has about 5,300 local governments, including almost 1,500 general-purpose city or county governments and more than 1,200 school districts. School districts usually receive state and federal aid, but cities and counties pay for fire and public safety, streets, parks, libraries, courts, and other essential services almost entirely with locally raised revenue. They must manage their budgets accordingly.
The state budget is a moral document.
For three years, Every Texan has worked with communities across the state to build the People’s Budget, a legislative road map that presents lawmakers with data-driven, community-informed solutions for Texan’s most pressing issues.
Let's create a state budget that invests in our communities and reflects our shared values.
The Biennial Budget Cycle
The Texas budget process begins during the year prior to each regular session of the state’s Legislature, which are held in odd-numbered years. Each state agency prepares a detailed legislative appropriations request (LAR) under the guidelines of the state’s Legislative Budget Board (LBB).
State budget decisions shape the Texas we live in today and pass on to future generations. Be sure to get involved. Your voice matters!
Related Resources
Highest Tax Rates in the State Fall on Texans of Color
December 19, 2025
Austin’s Prop Q Would Provide Revenue for Essential City Services
October 24, 2025
What a Federal Government Shutdown Means for Texans
October 7, 2025
Testimony to House Ways and Means Committee Against SB 10 (89(2))
September 8, 2025
Testimony to Senate Finance Committee for SB 3
August 13, 2025
Testimony to Senate Local Government Committee Against SB 9
August 1, 2025
Your Support Makes a Difference
We believe Texas can be the best state in the United States, and our public policy work is an indispensable part of getting there. Your support improves equity in health care, food security, education, and financial stability.