Select ONE of the following topics to answer for Writing Assignment 1. The writing assignment should be a minimum of 750 words. You should find much of the information you need to complete the assignm

by


Select ONE of the following topics to answer for Writing Assignment 1. The writing assignment should be a minimum of 750 words. You should find much of the information you need to complete the assignment in the textbook, but you may also need to use additional sources (such as news articles or government websites). Make sure to provide a citation for all sources used in your paper. See the Writing Assignment Instructions for more information.

  • Do you think that sales taxes are a fair way for the state to generate revenue? Why or why not?  As described in The Texas Tribune article “How Texas lawmakers tax swap plan could affect Texans”, there was a proposal in the 2019 legislative session to increase the sales tax to offset a reduction in property taxes.  Do you think trading a sales tax increase for a property tax decrease is a fair approach for the majority of Texans?  Why or why not?  What happened to this proposal during the 2019 legislative session?  (Note: The Texas Tribune is a good resource for information on the legislative session.)
  • How has Texas ranked over the last 10 years in the percent of people without health insurance when compared to other states?  (Refer to Census Bureau data.)  Has the percentage of people without health insurance been increasing or decreasing?  What are some of the explanations for the differences between the current uninsured rate in Texas and the rate in other states?  Do you think this issue should be a priority for Texas legislators?  Why or why not?  Was this issue addressed in the most recent legislative session and if so, what was the outcome?  (Note: The Texas Tribune is a good resource for information on public policy issues in Texas).
  • What is a plural executive model? How does the single executive model differ from the plural executive model?  What are the arguments for and against a plural executive?  Do you believe that the plural executive is more democratic than the single executive model? Why or why not?  Do you believe the plural executive lead to more efficient and accountable government? Why or why not?  Under the plural executive system, how does the power of the governor in Texas compare to other states?  (Use specific examples)