LIFT Texas Task Forces

The first TCCRI State Finance Task Force was completed with the January 2003 release of the report "Roadmap to Responsible Reform," which looked at major articles of the state budget in preparation for the 78th Regular Session, which was confronted with a $10 billion budget shortfall.  The task force identified areas in which the state could be more efficient and responsible with taxpayer dollars by setting budget priorities and making necessary reforms.  A number of the TCCRI budget recommendations were ultimately included in the 2003-2004 budget.  The State Finance Task Force's report is available under Publications.

The TCCRI LIFT Task Force on Health and Human Services completed its second phase with the release of the report "Searching for the Cure" in February 2003.  Under the leadership of State Representative Arlene Wohlgemuth and the work of medical providers, health insurance providers, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and other health and human services professionals, the task force began a comprehensive review of the state's health and human services system, looking for opportunities for limited government and free market reforms.  Many of the TCCRI's recommendations from the first two phases of the task force were passed into law through House Bill 2292 authored by Representative Wohlgemuth.  Both the first and the second HHS Task Force Reports are available under Publications.

Despite conservative leadership in both the state House and Senate, it is imperative that the TCCRI continue to develop leaders for future legislatures.  Continuing to promote a principled approach to government is a priority for the TCCRI.  The RI will continue to build on the groundwork set with the conservative leadership and the implementation of many TCCRI recommendations, and continue to give a strong voice to conservative principles on every public policy issue.