Unit 2-GOVT 2306
The lieutenant governor is not formally a senator and cannot vote except in cases of a tie, yet he or she has great powers over the Senate. Why?
powers similar to those of the Speaker of the House Senate rules
After a gubernatorial candidate wins their party's primary election in ---, they continue campaigning until the --- general election.
March November
Since the late 1980s, the courts in Texas have become more favorable to defendants in civil cases than to plaintiffs. Why?
More Republican than Democratic justices have been elected. In general, more conservative than liberal justices have been elected. Several tort reform laws were passed during the early 2000s that limited damages against defendants.
Watch the animation about the composition of the legislatures in five major states, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
The majority of lawmakers in Texas have a graduate degree. Like the legislatures of other states in the graphic, black and Latino Texans are underrepresented in the Texas legislature.
Watch the animation on the demographics of the Texas legislature, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
The majority of legislators in both the House and Senate either have business or legal backgrounds. Compared to the Senate, the Texas House is better at reflecting the racial diversity of Texas. About half of all Texans are women, but only one-quarter of Texas legislators are women.
Watch the animation on the backgrounds of Texas judges, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
The number of male and female judges in the appellate courts is more balanced than the number of male and female judges in Texas trial courts. The Texas judiciary better reflects the backgrounds of lawyers in Texas than the population at large.
Which of the following statements about civil cases are accurate?
The plaintiff and defendant are often private parties. The dispute is detailed in a complaint against the person accused of causing harm. The final court remedy is compensation for the violation of legal rights. The accused person must file a response to invalidate the accusations.
Which of the following are arguments made against the plural executive?
The plural executive can lead to a counterproductive relationship among members of the executive branch. The plural executive is often ineffective.
Which of the following are arguments that being a member of the legislature is a full-time job even if it is technically considered part-time?
interim committee meetings special sessions constituent service
Place in order the following steps a bill must take before it becomes law.
introduction referral consideration by a standing committee floor action conference committee between House and Senate signature by the governor
Which of the following statements about sentence enhancements are accurate?
"Three strikes" provisions can result in life imprisonment. Repeat offenses can result in longer sentences than initial offenses.
Texas representatives receive an annual salary of --- and a per diem of --- when the legislature is in session.
$7200 $190
Match each antipoverty or welfare program to its correct description.
+ President Roosevelt's 1930s programs to stimulate the national economy and provide relief from the Great Depression New Deal + a state-federal public assistance program aimed at children living with parents or relatives Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) +assistance to individuals in need who have disabilities or are aged Supplemental Security Income (SSI) + a federal-state program financing medical services to low-income people. Medicaid
The budget of the state of Texas consists of five parts, representing different revenue sources and purposes. Match each budget with its correct definition and description.
+ a fund that includes grants, payments, and reimbursements received from the federal government Federal Funds budget + a budget for state funds dedicated to specific purposes General Revenue-Dedicated Funds budget + the overall budget that includes all monies flowing into the state treasury and all state spending All Funds budget + the state's primary operating fund, derived from state sources of revenue General Revenue Funds budget + a catchall budget that includes all funds flowing into the state treasury that are not included in other state budgets Other Funds budget
The legal system categorizes crimes into different levels of seriousness, and there are several kinds of punishment for those convicted of these crimes. Match each category of crime and punishment to its correct description.
+ a minor criminal offense usually punishable by a small fine or short jail sentence misdemeanor + conditional release from prison for an offender who has served some prison time parole + a serious criminal offense punishable by a prison sentence or fine; often subjects a person to state prison felony +an alternative to imprisonment in which the convicted person is subject to supervision and specified rules probation
Who does what with water in Texas? Match the governmental agency with the task it performs.
+ primary government agency for planning water resources and financing their development Texas Water Development Board + protect the air and water quality in economically sound ways Texas Commission on Environmental Quality + small local entities created to regulate the usage and conservation of groundwater resources groundwater conservation districts
Political scientists identify four main stages in the development of public policy: problem identification, policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. Match each stage of the public policy process to its best definition.
+ putting into practice the policies designed to address an implementation + developing rules, regulations, and legislation to address an issue policy formulation + developing an understanding of how to think about and address an issue problem identification + determining whether or not a policy addressing an issue has been successful or effective evaluation
Which of the following are recent ways in which the Texas criminal justice system has been reformed?
+greater emphasis on community supervision +expanded drug treatment programs +appointment of prosecutor staff to review claims of wrongful conviction +compensation for those wrongly convicted
Label each argument below as more likely to come from a supporter or an opponent of the bullet train project in Texas.
+supporter - Current air routes between Houston and Dallas are among the busiest in the nation. - The terrain between Houston and Dallas is favorable - There is rapid population growth in the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston metropolitan areas +opponent - Foreign technology enriches foreign powers.opponent - Property rights should be respected.
Label each transportation policy term to its correct definition.
+total length of a road or road segment centerline miles +total road length times the number of lanes lane miles +estimate of total road usage vehicle miles traveled
The immigration issue has been a complex one for parties and politicians, partially because immigrants are a critical part of the state economy in the following ways.
-Immigrants own businesses. -Immigrants make up more than one-fifth of the state workforce. -Immigrants spend on goods and services. -Immigrants make up large portions of important labor sectors. -Immigrants are an important source of tax revenue.
What is the role of the Texas Senate in appointments made by the governor?
-The Texas Senate confirms the governor's nominees.-The Texas Senate can remove nominees from office.-The governor gets input from the nominee's senator prior to appointment.
Most college students in Texas attend which of the following?
2-year public community and junior colleges
How many votes are needed in the Texas Senate to convict a governor under articles of impeachment?
2/3
Starting in the --- legislative session, committee chair appointment decisions became --- ended his predecessor's practice of awarding committee chairs to Democrats in --- proportion to their numbers in the Senate.
2015, more, Patrick, equal
The Texas Constitution mandates that money spent on debt service cannot exceed more than what percentage of state revenue?
5%
The Houston Police Department, with --- officers, is the largest in Texas. Twenty-five police departments in Texas have --- member police departments, such as Anton, Texas.
5200 1
What is the state portion of the sales tax rate on goods that can be purchased from retailers?
6.25%
Match each formal requirement to be a member with either the Texas Senate, Texas House of Representatives, or both.
= Texas Senate resident of Texas for at least five years at least 26 years old _ Texas House of Representatives resident of Texas for at least two years at least 21 years old - both qualified voter resident of the district for at least one year U.S. citizen
How does merit selection of judges typically work?
A blue-ribbon commission nominates judicial candidates for appointment. Judges are subject to retention elections to keep their offices. The governor appoints recommended candidates to office.
Which of the following describes the way that Joe Straus became Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives?
A coalition of moderate Republican and Democratic representatives joined together.
What is the role of a grand jury?
A grand jury determines whether or not there is enough evidence for a trial.
The following table outlines a summary of the All Funds state budget and how it is allocated to different purposes. Looking closely at the data, which of the following statements are correct for the 2016-17 state budget?
A significant portion of the state budget is dedicated to health and human services and education. In terms of actual dollars spent, allocation for education saw the biggest increase, and business and economic development received the second highest increase.
Which statements below can be taken directly from information in the chart?
Among uninsured Texans, most are adults. Among uninsured Texans, most are Latino.
Which of the following statements about indictments in Texas are true?
An indictment is often referred to as a "true bill." An indictment is the responsibility of the grand jury. Failure to return an indictment is called a "no bill."
Study the infographic below on the levels of taxation of different economic groups in Texas, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
As a portion of their income, the bottom 20 percent of Texans pay more than do the top 20 percent. In terms of dollars, the top 1 percent of Texans pay the most in taxes.
Which of the following statements about bail are accurate?
Bail usually consists of a payment of money. Bail acts as an assurance that the accused will appear at trial.
Which state has the largest immigration population?
California
Study the infographic below on taxation across America, and then determine which of the following statements are correct
Californians pay a higher state income tax than do Texans. Texas is one of seven states that do not have a state income tax.
Article 1, Section 28, of the Texas Constitution states, "Every citizen shall have the right to keep and bear arms in lawful defense of himself or the state; but the Legislature shall have the power, by law, to regulate the wearing of arms with a view to prevent crime." Which of the following belief statements about guns can be supported by this part of the Texas Constitution?
Carrying firearms can lead to crime. Carrying firearms can prevent crime. The Texas Constitution supports state regulation of firearms.
Study the table below on crime classification in Texas, and determine which classification is most appropriate for the scenario described.
Charged with a Misdemeanor a) A woman is pulled over for driving while intoxicated; she was convicted of a DWI once before. b) A seventeen-year-old is pulled over and has several bottles of alcohol in the car. Charged with a Felony c) Two men are caught with 100 pounds of marijuana packed in the trunk of their car. d) A man burns down a house to collect insurance money. e) A man uses a gun to rob a bank.
Which of the following are arguments critics make against charter schools?
Charter schools can overlook the neediest students. Charter schools divert too much funding from public schools.
Which of the following statements about charter schools are accurate?
Charter schools receive public funds from the state but not from local taxes. Charter schools operate according to different rules than other public schools, granting them greater flexibility. Charter schools divert money away from traditional public schools that already face significant financial challenges.
A related program to Medicaid is the ---, which provides medical coverage for children in families with incomes too --- to qualify for Medicaid.
Children's Health Insurance Program high
Which of the following most represents the thinking of most counties that adopt a "cite and release" policy for people in possession of small amounts of marijuana?
Cite and release policies save counties significant time and financial resources.
Which of the following reasons explain why cities are having trouble with their pension obligations?
City pension fund managers have made risky investments. Public employees may qualify for pensions at a younger age than their private sector counterparts. Voters are usually uninterested in employee pension plan viability.
Looking closely at the pie chart below, which of the following statements are accurate?
Close to half of all Texans receive their health insurance from their employer. There are about as many uninsured Texans as there are Texans on Medicaid.
Which form of government places control of the city in the hands of a hired professional, rather than elected, executive?
Council-Manager
Which public official presides over the county commissioners' court?
County Judge
Study the table below on the caseloads of various courts in Texas. According to the data, which of the following statements is true?
Courts with original jurisdiction have significantly higher caseloads than those with appellate jurisdiction.
Which of the following are true of criminal cases?
Criminal cases involve violations of penal codes. Those convicted in criminal cases may face a fine, imprisonment, or both as punishment. The government is always the plaintiff. Grand juries review evidence before charges are brought.
Watch the animation on how taxes in Texas compare to other states in America, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
Critics of states that lack state income taxes argue that the tax burden in such states is not distributed equally. Relatively few states in America do not have a state income tax. Proponents of Texas's current income tax status argue that it helps the state attract more businesses to the state.
You have been appointed to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). As the new member of the board, which of the following situations is one that you should be involved in monitoring?
Developing a new doctorate in higher education leadership at the University of Texas
Which funding structure was created as a safeguard for the state in times of financial stress?
Economic Stabilization Fund
As the Republican Party has grown in strength in Texas, judicial races have become more competitive, both within the party and against Democratic candidates. What are some of the consequences of this increased competition?
Elections are highly politicac. Elections are much more expensive.
After conviction, death penalty sentences are carried out swiftly.
False
As a consequence of the Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson, Texas maintained segregated schools but ensured that all schools received equal funding.
False
Because Texas spends a large amount of money on jointly funded state-federal programs, it receives high levels of federal matching fund
False
Because Texas spends a large amount of money on jointly funded state-federal programs, it receives high levels of federal matching funds.
False
County services are the same across Texas whether counties are large or small.
False
Even in counties in which possession of marijuana is treated rather strictly, once a defendant pays his or her fine there is little additional financial burden.
False
In civil law, the state accuses an individual of violating the law; if found guilty, the individual is subject to punishment, including prison.
False
In response to public pressure and U.S. Supreme Court rulings, in 2013, Governor Rick Perry expanded Medicaid access to comply with the Affordable Care Act.
False
Lawyers who charge a contingency fee are paid whether or not they win their case.
False
Since 2000, as Texas's population has grown, so too has the number of people in the state's prisons and substance abuse facilities.
False
Special districts are limited to only an area within a single county.
False
Texans pay one of the highest overall rates of motor fuel tax of any major U.S. state.
False
Texas has a reputation for being a "low service, high tax" state.
False
Texas uses nonpartisan elections to select state judges
False
The Permanent University Trust Fund was established to provide funding to state universities seeking to achieve national prominence as competitive research institutions. True False
False
The Texas debt burden is relatively high compared to that of other states.
False
The educational reforms of the 1980s and 1990s, such as standardized testing, "No Pass, No Play," school ratings, and extended school years, have largely been praised for their success in closing the achievement gap between students with a low socioeconomic status and their better-off peers.
False
The governor can directly grant a pardon.
False
The land commissioner is responsible for the administration of animal quarantine laws, inspection of food, and enforcement of disease- and pest-control programs.
False
When dealing with disciplinary issues involving Texas judges, the State Commission on Judicial Conduct relies on complaints from legal interest groups.
False
When dealing with disciplinary issues involving Texas judges, the State Commission on Judicial Conduct relies on complaints from legal interest groups. True False
False
Identify the factors that tend to work against rationality and efficiency in the making of public policy.
Governments tend to work incrementally. Policy makers and other politically active individuals may not behave rationally or efficiently. The policy making process is highly complex.
Which of the following are criticisms of the use of standardized testing?
Heavy emphasis on test scores led to instruction focused on getting right answers instead of building knowledge. Increased testing takes away from time spent on classroom instruction. Standardized tests are over-emphasized as a tool for assessing student achievement.
Suppose you are a county judge in rural Texas. How would your duties differ from those of a county judge living in a more urban area?
In contrast to county judges in urban areas who serve a mostly administrative function, judges in rural areas are also responsible for carrying out judicial functions.
Study the figure to determine which of the following statements are supported by the information.
In many years, Texas accounts for about one-third to one-half of all executions in the United States. Since 2000, the number of executions in the United States has declined. In the last decade, Texas has been on a downward trend in the number of executions.
Which of these resulted from the exonerations of the separate wrongful 1986 convictions of Timothy Cole and Michael Morton?
Information collected by prosecutors in discovery must be made available to the defense. A prosecuting attorney was criminally convicted for actions leading to wrongful conviction. A state-level advisory panel recommended reforms. Compensation was increased for wrongfully convicted and imprisoned individuals.
According to the findings by the American Transportation Research Institute, which are the two worst roadways in the state for commercial trucks?
Interstate 45 in the Houston metro area State Highway 610 that encircles the city of Houston
Which statements about the roads and highways in Texas are best supported by the data presented in the table?
Interstate highways in Texas receive nearly three and a half times more daily vehicle miles per mile of lane than any other form of roadway in the state. Farm or ranch-to-market roads are the largest subset of state-maintained roads and highways.
Supporters of SB 4 make which of the following arguments about the need for the law?
It ensures public safety. Local officials are flaunting federal law.
What effect did drawing county commissioner precincts to represent equal geographic areas (rather than equal population groupings) have on the representation of county voters?
It exaggerated the voting power of residents in rural areas. It undermined "one person-one vote" principles.
Study the table on contributions to judicial candidates for selected state supreme courts, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
It often costs millions of dollars for candidates to run for a state supreme court seat. Partisan elections can be associated with very expensive races.
Why is it considered significant that the standard for conviction in a criminal trial is "beyond a reasonable doubt"?
It requires jurors to reach a determination that there is no other possible way another individual could have committed the crime.
Which of the following laws requires judges to recuse themselves from a case if they have received campaign contributions from one of the parties involved in the case?
Judicial Campaign Fairness Act
Match each Texas lower court to its correct jurisdiction.
Justice of the peace courts: -local trial courts with limited jurisdiction over small claims and minor criminal misdemeanors Statutory county courts at law: -jurisdiction over less serious cases than those heard by district courts Statutory probate courts: -jurisdiction limited to probate and guardian matters
How does county size influence the variation in the number of officeholders in each county?
Larger counties typically have more officials than smaller counties. Smaller counties typically share officials with other counties. Officials in larger counties typically have more specialized roles than their counterparts in smaller counties.
Which of the following is the power of the executive to veto specific provisions of an appropriations bill passed by the legislature?
Line-Item Veto
In modern times, there is little practical reason for Texas to have so many counties. Nonetheless, county consolidation is unlikely. Why is the number of counties in Texas unlikely to change?
Many voters have a traditional loyalty to a county. Voters may fear losing control of their county government. County officeholders would fear losing their jobs. County consolidation would require a constitutional amendment.
The --- program is a --- program that primarily provides medical benefits for women and children living in poverty, while --- is a --- program to provide medical benefits for the elderly.
Medicaid state-operated Medicare federally-operated
Which of the following options explains what the prosecutor will likely do and why?
Offer plea bargains to a lesser charge with long terms of supervision.
Which of the following statements about the Texas governor's military and police power are accurate?
Only the governor can declare martial law. The governor appoints members to the Public Safety Commission. The governor can use informal powers and the prestige of the office to compel law enforcement action.
Which of the following are conditions placed on those who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits?
Parents must attend parenting classes. Children must attend school. Children must receive vaccinations. Recipients must attend programs for job skills and job placement.
Which constitutional factors affect the way the budget is made in Texas?
Pay-As-You-Go Limit restrictions on dedicated funds time limits imposed by the biennial legislature
The --- only supports the University of Texas and Texas A&M systems. The --- supports other universities and colleges in Texas.
Permanent Education Fund Higher Education Fund
Liberty Park High School has received funding from the Texas Education Agency to fund 100 digital curriculum licenses for a new career technical training program for students obtaining a certification in architecture, construction, and manufacturing. Place in order the path that the funds for the new curriculum licenses took from the state to the high school
Permanent School Fund Available School Fund Instructional Materials Fund
What are some of the incentives that encourage the use of plea bargains?
Plea bargains save money. Plea bargains help reduce overcrowded court dockets. Plea bargains allow prosecutors to maintain politically popular high conviction rates.
Which Supreme Court case endorsed racial segregation through the now infamous "separate but equal" doctrine?
Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)
Higher education policy has become a critical issue in Texas for which of the following reasons?
Policy makers have changed perspectives on what it means to be an educated population. High school diplomas aren't competitive in the job market. The modern workforce increasingly requires a technically skilled and knowledgeable labor force.
The primary arguments Attorney General Ken Paxton and other opponents of the DACA program have made against it consist of which of the following statements?
President Obama acted unconstitutionally. It is bad precedent. The program is unfair to others.
If you were to purchase a capital appreciation bond from the local school district, how would your investment be paid back?
Principal and interest payments upon bond maturity.
Public defenders and assigned counsel perform similar roles, though there are differences. Which of the following are characteristics of public defenders, assigned counsel, or both?
Public Defenders b) salaried defense lawyers funded by the state Both a) assigned to capital cases c) available to defendants who cannot afford private counsel Assigned Counsel d) The most common form of defense for poorer defendants in most counties e) private lawyers appointed by judges to offer legal representation to poor clients
Which were the most important consequences of the 2016 ruling by the Supreme Court of Texas regarding a lawsuit brought over school funding inequities?
Questions about school funding were made decidedly an issue for the legislative branch to resolve. State courts removed themselves from the school funding question.
The Economic Stabilization Fund, created by the state legislature in 1988 as a sort of state savings account, is often also referred to as what?
Rainy Day Fund
Suppose an economist argues that it would be fairer if everyone in society had to pay the same portion of their income in taxes rather than pay taxes at different rates based on income levels. The idea about paying a flat amount in taxes on income is an example of which kind of tax?
Regressive
The platforms of the two major parties differ in their positions on higher education policy. Label each of the following policies with the political party that included the policy in their platform.
Republican -create specific affordable degree plans and limit student borrowing -eliminate in-state tuition discount for all illegal aliens -prevent religious-based concessions that create "undue burdens and costs on the institution" Democratic -create programs to offer tuition -free community college to Texas high school graduates-decrease state tuition through increases in overall state financial funding -institute policies that offer culturally diverse curricula
What conclusion is best drawn from the data below about the differences in priorities of Texas voters?
Republican and Democratic voters in Texas are prioritizing issues that belong to the national government more than state-level issues.
The policy of transferring funds from wealthy school districts to poorer ones is commonly referred to as which of the following?
Robin Hood
Looking closely at the figure below on the sources of state tax revenue, which of the following statements are accurate?
Sales taxes make up a significant portion of Texas's revenue. The motor fuel tax and the franchise tax are about the same in their contribution to the state's revenue.
The first of a series of Normal Colleges established by the state to help meet the need of educating and training primary and secondary teachers across the state is today called what?
Sam Houston State University
Looking closely at the bar chart below, which of the following statements are correct?
Seventy-seven percent of those on Medicaid are age 20 or younger. Most Medicaid recipients are African American or Latino. Slightly more females than males are recipients of Medicaid.
Match each fund to its intended purpose(s).
State Highway Fund -used to purchase rights of way to relieve congestion -a fund to support the construction, maintenance, and policing of roadways Permanent School Fund -created in 1854, the largest source of funds for primary and secondary schools -managed by the State Board of Education and distributed on basis of attendance levels Available School Fund -a dedicated fund, supplemented by the motor fuels tax, to support general education
As a result of the 1983 national report on the state of education, A Nation at Risk, Texas adopted which reforms to address the serious issues that had been identified?
Statewide assessment standards were developed. A program was created that tied academic performance to athletic eligibility. The legislature established the Select Committee on Public Education.
Which institution is charged with making recommendations on whether to alter, terminate, or leave unchanged other entities within the state government after a period review?
Sunset Advisory Commission
The Code of Judicial Conduct is promulgated by the --- Texas and is enforced by the --- along with certain legislative requirements on judges
Supreme Court State Commission on Judicial Conduct
The Code of Judicial Conduct is promulgated by the ---of Texas and is enforced by the --- along with certain legislative requirements on judges.
Supreme Court State Commission on Judicial Conduct
The 1996 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act, or Welfare Reform Act, combined existing work and cash welfare programs into a new program known as --- that provided --- to states that encouraged innovation in reducing welfare participation and offered states more flexibility on eligibility requirements.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grants
As of 2017, the university campus with the largest enrollment in Texas was --- followed by ---. These have long been considered the definition of higher education in Texas.
Texas A&M College Station the University of Texas at Austin
Which state regulatory agency is most likely to have this as its mission statement?
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Judging from the information, which program are these most likely to be associated with?
Texas Dream Act
A particular university in Texas is seeking to get National Research University Fund money from the state of Texas in order to further its efforts to become a competitive research institution. Not only must it meet several rigorous criteria laid out by the state legislature, but it must also be recognized as an emerging research university by which state institution?
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
Match each step of the impeachment process with the entity that oversees it.
Texas Senate -two-thirds vote to convict and remove -considers evidence in trial Chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court -oversees trial of official Texas House of Representatives -approve articles of impeachment-investigation of official
How have federal programs affected state and national welfare policies?
Texas had to raise, and ultimately rework, its constitutional limit on welfare expenditures. The New Deal caused the federal government to be far more involved in welfare programs. The policies created under the Great Society further expanded federal funding and welfare programs.
Which of the following statements about Texas local government is accurate?
Texas has more local governments than most states in total, but fewer local governments per capita.
Which of the following statements about Texas public schools are accurate?
Texas has one of the largest public-school systems in the nation. The majority of school districts in Texas are in small, rural areas.
Watch the animation on the trade-offs in Texas public policy, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
Texas voters have consistently elected Republicans to state office, and these elected officials have largely enacted a conservative policy agenda. Texas has a low rate of state taxes as a percentage of income and a high rate of people without health insurance. States with higher taxes tend to offer more social services such as health care.
Using the information about educational attainment shown in the figure, what assumption can be made about the future of Texas?
Texas will likely lag behind other states with large populations in the growth of professional high paying jobs
Watch the animation on the relative tax burden on Texans of different income levels, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
Texas's taxes are mostly regressive. In terms of a percentage of their income, the richest Texans pay the least state taxes and the poor pay the most.
Consider the data on public transportation in major cities and metropolitan areas in Texas. Which of the following statements does it support?
The Dallas-Fort Worth area has planned better overall to the need for a functional mass transit system than other major urban centers of the state. Austin and the surrounding area have done a better job than the other metro areas of creating participation in the mass transit system. The major cities of the state provide greater mobility options for their residents than are available to commuters who live in the greater metro areas.
Match each office with the responsibilities or tasks that it carries out in the budgeting process.
The Governor -exercise a line-item veto after an appropriations bill is passed -develop a strategic plan for the state The comptroller of Public Accounts -collect state taxes -certify appropriations bills The Legislative Budget Board -prepare fiscal notes regarding costs and impacts of proposed legislation -prepare a general appropriations bill
Which of the following best describes the way the Permanent University Fund has affected higher education in Texas?
The Permanent University Fund has collected money from the sale of public lands and the revenue made from those lands for the creation and continuing funding of the University of Texas and Texas A&M University.
What is the role of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles?
The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles makes clemency recommendations to the governor.
The information in the chart best supports which of the following positions?
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission likely needs to provide individuals and materials that primarily support both Spanish and English speakers. Latino children are more likely to live in poverty and need more support than do children from other groups. There is a significant need for state-supported low-cost or free preventive care programs.
Who sets the governor's salary?
The Texas Legislature
Which of the following are reasons the Texas legislature refuses to regulate tuition and fees?
The Texas legislature believes individual schools are best equipped to make decisions about their own tuition and fees. The Texas legislature is unwilling to allocate more general revenue monies to higher education. State political leaders want costs held down.
Which of the following were consequences of the Brown v. Board of Education (1954) decision on education in Texas?
The Texas legislature passed laws encouraging school districts to resist federally ordered desegregation. Legal segregation was outlawed, but de facto segregation remained an issue.
How are grounds for impeachment different in the U.S. Constitution than in the Texas Constitution?
The U.S. Constitution is more specific in what constitutes impeachable offenses, while the Texas Constitution largely leaves it up to the Texas House of Representatives.
Which of the following statements about open and concealed carry are accurate?
The debate over guns in Texas has shifted away from whether or not open or concealed carry should be legal and toward establishing where handguns can be legally prohibited. More Texans support concealed carry than open carry.
Which of the following statements are true about the executive budget?
The executive budget indicates the governor's priorities. The executive budget suggests a plan for revenue and expenditure. The executive budget is prepared by the governor with his or her staff.
Study the figure on the budget-making process, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
The final stage of the budgetary cycle is with state agencies. Both chambers of the legislature process the budget at the same time.
Under the budget-execution authority granted in a 1985 constitutional amendment, how can state spending be affected between legislative sessions?
The governor or the Legislative Budget Board can propose to transfer money from one agency to another. Either the governor or the Legislative Budget Board can propose to direct an agency to stop spending money appropriated to it in the budget. Either the governor or the Legislative Budget Board can propose that the purpose of an appropriation to an agency be changed.
Which of the following statements about poverty in Texas are accurate?
The highest poverty rates in Texas are found in border counties. Texas uses the federal poverty guidelines for determining eligibility for state programs. Poverty rates among nonwhite Texans are higher than among white Texans.
Place the following steps of the budgeting process in the correct order
The legislative budget board develops a budget based on requests from state agencies The legislature drafts the budget The comptroller certifies the budget The governor signs or vetoes the proposed budget
Why did the Texas legislature adopt the Home-Rule Charter Amendments in 1912?
The legislature was overburdened with managing local affairs.
Consider the data on public transportation in major cities and metropolitan areas in Texas. Which of the following statements does it support?
The major cities of the state provide greater mobility options for their residents than are available to commuters who live in the greater metro areas. Austin and the surrounding area have done a better job than the other metro areas of creating participation in the mass transit system. The Dallas-Fort Worth area has planned better overall to the need for a functional mass transit system than other major urban centers of the state.
When immigrants arrive in Texas, the majority are destined for which of the following?
The most urban areas of the state
Looking closely at the figure below on the sources of state tax revenue, which of the following statements are accurate?
The motor fuel tax and the franchise tax are about the same in their contribution to the state's revenue. Sales taxes make up a significant portion of Texas's revenue.
What were some of the effects of Texas's prison expansions of the 1990s and 2000s?
The number of inmates in Texas prisons increased dramatically. The operating costs of Texas prisons were nearly 20 times higher in 2008 than in 1982. Average time served increased.
Which of the following are arguments made in support of the plural executive?
The plural executive is more democratic than other arrangements. The independent electoral bases of each official prevent consolidation of power by any individual.
How have federal programs affected state and national welfare policie
The policies created under the Great Society further expanded federal funding and welfare programs. Texas had to raise, and ultimately rework, its constitutional limit on welfare expenditures. The New Deal caused the federal government to be far more involved in welfare programs.
Governors follow the practice of senatorial courtesy for which of the following reasons?
The practice allows the governor to accumulate goodwill with legislators by giving them influence over some of the governor's appointments
As you consider the information, which one of the options below best explains how this polling data has impacted the thinking of policy makers on transportation policy in Texas?
The relative unpopularity of all options combined with the deep divisions about how to address the financial needs for transportation have created a stalemate for political leaders
How does the geography of Texas impact the creation of water policy for the state?
The size of the state complicates the development of a comprehensive water policy.
Which of the following is a significant reason why much of the membership in the state legislature is made up of individuals who are attorneys or other professional or business occupations?
The time demands for campaigning and the legislative session prevent most people from being able to hold legislative office.
Police use of force is one of the most controversial aspects of law enforcement. Which of the following are recent issues concerning policing in Texas?
There may be racial bias in police shootings. Few officers face consequences after police shootings.
Why are capital appreciation bonds (CABs) a controversial way for local governments to finance projects?
They allow local governments to fund new projects without raising taxes. Local governments can owe investors far more than the amount borrowed.
What purpose do grand juries serve?
They determine if there is sufficient evidence to bring the accused to trial.
Which of the following statements about the Texas prison system are accurate?
Though the number of people in prison in Texas remains high, it has gone down in recent years. Texas has executed the most prisoners of any other state in the last 30 years. The state prison system operated under federal supervision for over 20 years because of a failure to reform.
You have been asked to write a report for your government class on the rapid expansion of tolled roads in Texas between the 1990s and today. The main points in your report should consist of which of the following ideas?
Tolling allowed roads to be built that would otherwise still be waiting in line for funding. Rapid population growth in urban areas outpaced the funding available to build new roads. Politicians are unwilling to risk raising taxes to pay for more transportation projects. Construction of tolled roads reduce travel time and congestion and are paid for only by people who use them.
A bench trial is a trial held without a jury and before only a judge.
True
All county governments in Texas have an identical structure of government.
True
Because assigned counsel are often paid very low fees, there is a concern that they do not always provide an adequate defense
True
Committee chairs will pigeonhole a bill by never putting it on the committee agenda to be considered.
True
If reduction in program participation is considered the standard of success, then welfare program reforms enacted since the 1990s have largely been successful
True
Members of the Texas legislature receive a small annual salary and per diem while the legislature is in session but can receive a generous pension after ten years in office.
True
Minorities make up a disproportionate number of the inmates held on Texas's death row.
True
Poverty in Texas is highest in the border counties.
True
Texas is home to more verified wrongful convictions than any other state.
True
The Legislative Budget Board's budget receives more consideration by the House and Senate than does the governor's executive budget.
True
The Sandra Bland Act requires independent investigation of jail deaths.
True
The Texas Constitution requires a balanced budget.
True
When school districts are funded by local taxes only, the likelihood of disparities in funding goes up.
True
Without increased road funding or continued use of toll roads, the average commuter can expect large increases in commute times, fuel expenses, and a decrease in average travel speeds on major roads.
True
Which of the following reasons explain why cities are having trouble with their pension obligations?
Voters are usually uninterested in employee pension plan viability. Public employees may qualify for pensions at a younger age than their private sector counterparts. City pension fund managers have made risky investments.
Which of the following statements about voucher plans (or school-choice plans) are accurate?
Voucher proponents argue the transferrable funding will create positive competition among public, private, and religious schools to improve overall student performance. Voucher critics argue that middle- and upper-class families will benefit from the programs and leave poor families behind in even more poorly-funded public schools. Vouchers attach school funding to the student, not the school, and follow the student to whichever school is chosen by parents.
Watch the animation on the ethnic composition of school districts in major Texas cities, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
White Texans are less likely to be enrolled in public schools. In major cities, most students are either black or Latino. Suburbanization has led to de facto segregation in many Texas schools
Which of the following statements about representation on city councils in Texas are accurate?
White residents are over-represented on most city councils.
Which Supreme Court case reaffirmed a woman's right to abortion services without facing an undue burden imposed by the state of Texas?
Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt
Looking closely at the chart below, which statement about females in the Texas House of Representatives is correct?
Women have a higher percentage of representation in the state Senate than in the state House
Suppose you are on the city council of a large city with a home-rule charter. Polling shows that your citizens want to ban plastic bags, and the city council is in favor of outlawing plastic bags at stores. Can the Texas legislature stop this ordinance from going into effect?
Yes; even home-rule cities can be preempted by the state legislature.
As the mayor of a city that is less than 25 miles from a state university, what is your interest in lobbying legislators for more funding for the university and building partnerships with the university?
Your city benefits from the sales tax dollars of students, presence of skilled laborers for local businesses, and having the educational needs of the region met locally.
Match each characteristic of the Texas legislature with its best definition.
a 140-day period occurring only in odd-numbered years Correct label:regular session composed of two chambers or houses Correct label:bicameral a 30-day legislative session focused on governor's agenda Correct label:special session occurs every two years Correct label:biennial
What is one way to view the budget proposed by the Legislative Budget Board?
a list of priorities of the legislative leaders
Which standard for the burden of proof is used in civil cases?
a preponderance of the evidence
What do these points suggest is the state's biggest concern regarding education?
achieving a high portion of the state's population that can be considered competitive in a changing global economy
What has been the single largest cause for the rise in the number of exonerations in wrongful conviction cases in Texas?
advancements in DNA testing
Economic activities surrounding the --- industry rely most heavily on groundwater, while --- is most dependent on the continued availability of surface water resources.
agriculture urbanization
Which issues will likely continue to dominate public finance in Texas over the next biennium?
an increasing population and related needs for increased services growing antigovernment feeling encouraging cuts in services positive economic conditions in the short term
Which of the following paradoxical statements correctly describes the issue the state legislature faces in developing transportation policy for the state?
an overwhelming majority of Texans support increased transportation funding, but there is no consensus on what is needed
Which of the following is the best description of a legislator's constituent?
any individual who resides withing the legislators district
The Texas attorney general is mostly involved in civil law matters. In which of the following ways does the attorney general's office become involved with criminal cases?
appointing special prosecutors representing criminal cases in federal courts
Which process does the legislature use to authorize spending money on programs and services?
appropriations
The largest water source for most of the state is water pumped from ---, while the rest of the water for the state comes from resources known as ---.
aquifers surface water
Place in order the common steps of the criminal justice process once a felony arrest has been made.
arraignment posting bail grand jury indictment trial sentencing
Which of the following are requirements for an individual to open carry in the state of Texas?
at least 21 years old pass a criminal background check pass a psychological record check receive and pass classroom and shooting training have a concealed handgun license secured weapon in shoulder or belt holster
To convict a defendant of a crime, jurors must believe that the defendant's guilt is ---, and their verdict must be ---.
beyond a reasonable doubt unanimous
Texas has a --legislature modeled after the U.S. Congress, comprising a state Senate that has --- members and a state House of Representatives that has --members.
bicameral 31 150
Imagine that you are a lawmaker on the Texas House Appropriations Committee who is faced with filling a structural deficit found in the state's budget for the next biennium. Because of a lack of staff and office resources as well as the time crunch of the legislative session, you and the rest of the committee address the issue by cutting spending in state programs rather than finding a solution to the structural deficit. You and the other decision makers have just used which strategy to find a solution to the problem?
bounded rationality
Watch the animation on the powers of different state governors, and then determine which factors help make the office of governor powerful.
budget-making power power to reorganize state government line-item veto
The most serious criminal cases are called ---; if a defendant is found guilty, --- is a possible punishment.
capital cases the death penalty
Place the steps of the redistricting process in order.
census reapportionment redistricting
Which of the following are the responsibilities of the comptroller of public accounts?
certifying the approximate biennial revenue projection of the state directing the collection of taxes ensuring the safety of the state's money
Which of the following groups has the highest rate of poverty in Texas?
children
Match each public service to the type of local government that most often provides that service.
city government -enforce zoning ordinances -annex adjacent lands special district -public schools -flood control county government -sheriff's law enforcement -issue marriage licenses
Where do most bills die during each legislative session?
committee action
Place the progress of handgun legislation in Texas in chronological order
concealed carry prevention of employers banning weapons kept in cars in privately-owned parking lots open carry and campus carry
According to the terms of a 1993 ---, in order for Texas to pass a state income tax, --- would need to give final approval for its introduction, and all funds from it could only support ---
constitutional amendment voters public education
According to the terms of a 1993 ---, in order for Texas to pass a state income tax, --- would need to give final approval for its introduction, and all funds from it could only support ---.
constitutional amendment voters public education
Which office presides over the county court and the county commissioners' court with responsibility for the administration of county government?
county judge
Many counties in Texas have replaced the office of --- with a --- who receives and disburses county funds.
county treasurer county auditor
In 1949, Texas passed the Gilmer-Aikin Laws to reform schools in Texas. What did these laws help achieve?
created the Texas Education Agency established a minimum number of teaching days per school year established the State Board of Education as the public education policy-making body increased state funding for schools
Which of the following are the most significant effects that bicameralism has on the legislative process?
creates more access for interest groups increases compromise lessens the chances of bad laws getting passed
Suppose you are a commissioner in a city that has a city commissioner form of government. Which of the following would be some of your duties?
directing city departments voting on laws proposed in the commission writing laws for the commission's consideration
Which of the powers of the Texas legislature are being invoked by the lieutenant governor?
directive and supervisory powers
The primary groups served by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission include which of the following?
disabled mothers with children elderly
Some Texas counties have separate offices for county and district attorneys. In such counties, the --- tends to prosecute more serious crimes, such as felonies, while the --- prosecutes less serious crimes, such as misdemeanors, and act as the attorney in civil issues involving the county.
district attorney county attorney
The creation of a new committee composed of individuals appointed by the Speaker of the House and the lieutenant governor, including the comptroller, state representatives, and senators, to manage the $2 billion SWIRFT and SWIFT funds authorized by voters in 2013 reflects which fundamental trait of Texans regarding government?
distrust of government
Individuals brought to the United States illegally as minors who qualify for protected status under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program are often referred to as which of the following?
dreamers
Increasingly, the Texas criminal justice system is sending more individuals to --- rather than ---. This has led to a --- in prison construction across the state.
drug treatment programs prison decline
Having numerous --- in county government may strengthen the system of checks and balances while making coordination of government activity more ---
elected officials difficult
In a mayor-council form of government, the mayor has --- responsibilities, while city council members have --- responsibilities.
executive legislative
For which of the following may a lawyer be punished in Texas?
failing to keep a client informed of a legal matter generation of litigation withholding funds from a legal settlement
In terms of the Texas constitutional provisions on education, the Democratic state supreme court of the 1980s focused ---, while the Republican court of 2016 focused on ---.
fairness and efficiency general diffusion of knowledge
Which of the following are ways in which public schools in Texas are funded?
federal funds property taxes General Revenue Funds
The controversial issue of illegal immigration, enforcement of laws, and tensions between state, local, and federal governments is an example of which of the fundamental principles of the American structure of government?
federalism
Serious crimes are known as ---, whereas lesser criminal offenses are known as ---
felonies misdemeanors
Municipal utility districts (MUDs) are designed to pay for the cost of furnishing utilities in unincorporated areas outside of cities. Which groups tend to benefit the most from the creation of MUDs?
finance companies real-estate developers
Texas governors serve --- year terms of office which are --- since a change to the state constitution in 1972.
four unlimited
Clemency or changes to the terms of a prison sentence may be offered to a state prisoner by the --- with approval from a majority of the ---, except in ---.
governor Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles capital crimes
In theory, preparing the initial budget is the responsibility of the --- and the legislature. In practice, preparing the budget is primarily the responsibility of the ---.
governor legislature
Which of the following are offices of the plural executive?
governor lieutenant governor attorney general comptroller of public accounts commissioner of the General Land Office commissioner of agriculture secretary of state
Which group reviews evidence to determine if it is sufficient to indict a person for a crime? They return a verdict of either "true bill" or "no bill."
grand juries
The ruling in Houston and Texas Central Railroad Company v. East created essentially a common law policy that governs water rights from which resource?
groundwater
If the economy entered a time of recession in the near future, what would be the primary effect on Texas's Medicaid program?
growth in benefit claims
A --- charter is a set of rules created by a city with greater than --- people that defines how the government will operate.
home rule 5000
What were the central issues in the San Antonio v. Rodriguez (1973) case?
how Texas schools were funded whether or not the Texas school finance system violated the U.S. Constitution's equal protection clause
What are the primary arguments offered for reforming the practice of holding until trial poor individuals charged with a misdemeanor who cannot afford to pay bail?
increased guilty pleas for those kept in jail negative effects on their employment increased likelihood of conviction
In the last decade, state legislators have withheld increases in state funding, or even justified cuts in funding, that would have maintained the state portion of per-pupil spending with expectations that districts would have funding from what other source?
increased property tax values
Recruitment and retention of police officers is difficult for many urban police departments. What are some of the consequences of this difficulty?
increased response times for lower priority calls decreasing urban police forces
Over the years, there have been numerous proposals to reform the judiciary in Texas. Reformers have advocated for which of the following proposals?
increasing diversity on the bench restructuring the judiciary to make it more efficient merit selection
Which of the following law enforcement employees are mandated to receive licensing from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement?
jailers for the county jail jailers for privately run jails all commissioned peace officers dispatchers and telecommunications workers
Which of the following factors have been shown to make judges more likely to affirm death penalty sentences?
judges elected to the bench public opinion in favor of the death penalty
What are the duties of the governor's staff?
keeping track of bills in the legislature scheduling the governor's time recommending political appointees notifying the governor of potential issues
Which of the following are examples of public policy?
laws passed by the legislature that encourage more people to continue their education by offering free tuition at public universities regulations that raise the speed limit on Texas highways criminal penalties for drunk driving operating procedures state agencies develop to implement laws
Which of the following are common issues many Texas prisoners face after they are released?
lengthy prison sentences making readjustment difficult low levels of education drug and alcohol abuse
Which office is the second-highest elected office in Texas, whose duties include acting as president of the state Senate?
lieutenant governor
The ability of an individual to understand a problem or its solutions may be restricted by which of the following?
limited resources inability to conceptualize restricted window for making decisions
A special district is a unit of --- government performing a --- in a limited geographic area.
local single service
What are some of the challenges facing educational policy in Texas?
low levels of per-student spending relatively high levels of economically disadvantaged and at-risk students high dropout rates
What is the name of funds in which federal monies go to a state based on that state's spending for a program?
matching funds
Which of the following are requirements for those who wish to practice law in Texas?
must be sworn in as a lawyer must have a Juris Doctor degree must pass the state bar exam
The Welfare Spending Limit in the state constitution applies to which of the following?
needy dependent children
The judicial power of the legislature is an example of which kind of institutional power?
non-legislative power
The General Revenue Fund consists of which two parts?
nondedicated General Revenue account General Revenue-Dedicated account
Regulations enacted by city government, and under the jurisdiction of municipal courts, are often referred to as which of the following?
ordinances
Committee chairmanships are most significantly determined by which factor?
personal loyalty to the leader of the chamber
Taxes assessed on which single industry form a significant source of income for the state and add an element of unpredictability?
petroleum
Most criminal cases in Texas end with a ---negotiated between prosecutors and defense attorneys for a less serious crime and sentence.
plea bargain
Media coverage of the Selma March for voting rights, passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, congressional oversight of implementation of the act, and the review of constitutional challenges to the act by the federal courts are examples of which aspect of policy making?
policy legitimation
As a member of an interest group, you and your organization are most likely to raise awareness about issues important to you during which stage of the policy-making process?
problem identification
Place the steps of the policy making process in order.
problem identification policy formulation implementation evaluation
Place the steps of the policymaking process in order.
problem identification policy formulation implementation evaluation
A --- is the type of tax where the tax burden falls more heavily on upper-income individuals.
progressive tax
Texas courts have consistently sided with which of the following regarding who has the greatest say over how groundwater is used?
property owners
What are the primary revenue sources for local governments in Texas?
property taxes sales taxes
Special districts are primarily funded through ---, with the second largest source of income coming from ---.
property taxes user fees
Match each county position to the function it most commonly serves.
prosecutes serious criminal cases Correct label:district attorney maintains records of property transactions Correct label:county clerk prosecutes lesser criminal cases Correct label:county attorney maintains court documents Correct label:district clerk
One of the most significant changes to criminal justice in Texas came in 2017 through changing which aspects regarding inmate informants?
prosecutors having to document the use of incarcerated informants and share information with the defense about the criminal background of informants
Which functions do local governments serve in Texas?
providing K-12 education enforcing laws maintaining roads and bridges
What tools does the Texas governor have to influence the legislative process?
public appeals veto State of the State address executive budget proposal
Which of the following is the best definition of rationality in policy making?
public policy that addresses clearly identified goals in an optimal and efficient manner
Governor Rick Perry holds the record for most special sessions called in one year. Which policy issue did these three special sessions deal with?
redistricting
The redrawing of district and precinct lines following the national census to reflect population changes defines which of the following terms?
redistricting
Which of the following does the line-item veto allow governors of Texas to do?
reduce expenditures to punish agencies reduce expenditures for programs that are disfavored by the governor allows an opportunity for governors to make political statements
When it comes to a budgetary surplus, conservative think tanks have suggested which of the following uses?
refunds for taxpayers
Tax rates that place more of a burden on low-and middle-income taxpayers than on wealthier taxpayers are called
regressive taxes
In states that use merit selection to choose judges, an appointed judge runs in a --- election to allow voters to decide whether the judge should stay in office.
retention
What are pension programs?
retirement benefit paid to public employees
In Texas, county governments are primarily designed to govern --- areas, typically serving as the primary --- arm of the state government.
rural administrative
Numerous ---, mostly large urban areas, have chosen not to cooperate with immigration officials in holding illegal immigrants for ICE and have been threatened by --- with the withholding of federal funds for failing to cooperate.
sanctuary cities the Department of Justice
While lawmakers might generally agree that a large infusion of public funds to the public education system along with a dramatic reform of the public structure would optimize the outcomes of student performance in public education in Texas, they may choose to continue making incremental increases in funding and tweak the funding structure during each session in a practice referred to as what?
satisfiing
In Texas, which governmental entity would you approach to address concerns regarding disability services or student dress code for your child who attends a public school?
school district
Who is the chief record keeper and election official for the state of Texas?
secretary of state
A massive outpouring of opposition to the Trump Administration's "zero tolerance" policy was stoked primarily by which of the following?
separations of children from parents
Which city reform has made city government more politically representative of its residents?
single-member district elections of council members
The --- of Texas operate(s) under a "low tax, low services" philosophy that can often lead to --- needing to raise taxes to keep up with funding demands for things such as education and infrastructure.
state government local governments
Match each power to whether it's a power of the mayor in a strong mayor-council variant, weak mayor-council variant, both, or neither.
strong mayor Correct label:removal power weak mayor Correct label:appointment power shared with council both Correct label:preside over council meetings neither Correct label:passing local laws
When the Federal Highway Administration made a review of the more than 53,000 bridges in Texas, they found that nearly one-fifth were ---. They had significant deterioration or were ---, meaning they no longer met modern design standards.
structurally deficient functionally obsolete
Identify all the sources of funding for public higher education institutions in Texas.
students federal government property taxes Permanent University Fund sales taxes
Select all the major sources of funding used to build and maintain Texas's transportation network.
taxes on gasoline and diesel tolls registration fees federal government
Citizens of Houston are simultaneously governed by which of the following forms of government?
the Texas state government a school district a county government the federal government a city government a nonschool special district
Which significant event triggered the rapid and continuing growth in the demand for higher education in Texas?
the end of world war 2
Which characteristics are typically incorporated in a home-rule charter?
the form of government in the city the power to set property tax rates the authority to annex adjacent land
A policy solution to an issue that is considered to be "optimal" would be one in which what occurs?
the greatest result occur with the least resources being committed
Which of the following are legislative powers of the governor's office?
the power of the veto the power to call a special session the message power
Which of the following is the best definition of policy legitimation?
the process of demonstrating and explaining the legality
What is the purpose of a capital appreciation bond?
to allow local governments to quickly generate revenue
Which of the following is the main reason judges set bonds for defendants?
to ensure the appearance of a suspect
What is the primary role of councils of government (COGs)?
to promote coordination and planning for local government
Higher education in Texas is funded through a variety of means. Universities rely on --- from students, as well as on --- from the legislature.
tuition and fees special items
Texas has six ---to coordinate the activities of various schools and agencies involved in ---s and research
university systems higher education
If an economic crisis were to occur that caused a significant decline in the projected tax revenue for the biennium, the state legislature would likely deal with the shortfall by taking which steps?
use the Rainy Day Fund significant cuts in spending delay payments
Critics of SB 4 make which arguments about the law?
uses local law enforcement to do the federal government's job inspired by fear, hatred, and stereotypes of minorities targets average individuals rather than actual criminals causes under reporting of crimes
In what ways can a member of the public act as a lobbyist?
writing letters or emails writing legislation making phone calls scheduling a meeting
Which of the following do critics argue are the effects of Texas part-time legislature's biennial 140-day session?
+ A biennial session was better suited to Texas's agricultural past, not to its urbanized present. + The short sessions prevent the legislature from responding in a timely fashion to breaking issues. + The low pay for legislators means they must keep outside jobs while in office.
Former governor Rick Perry campaigned for president on the idea of adapting the Texas model to the U.S. Congress, arguing that the Founders intended a "citizen" Congress similar to the one in Texas. Critics argue that the Texas model should not be adopted because of which of the following?
+ Legislators are not any less prone to corruption within a part-time legislature than within a full-time legislature. + The legislative session is rushed, and legislators rely too heavily on staff who work year-round. + The rush of completing the legislation necessary to govern leaves important issues unresolved.
Match each characteristic to the correct type of state agency.
+ multimember elected boards: These include the Railroad Commission of Texas and the State Board of Education. A separate voter base allows them to pursue different policy priorities. Voters select their members. +multimember appointed boards In most cases, the governor selects their members. The Senate confirms their members. These are used to promote the ideological agenda of the governor.
Which of the following statements about the governor's appointive powers are accurate?
Appointive powers offer the governor significant patronage opportunities. The governor's appointive powers allow for influence over agencies in the Texas government.
Which of the following are reasons judicial elections have become more expensive over time?
Competitive judicial races require money. Television advertising is expensive. Judicial races have low visibility.
According to the Texas Constitution, when must the governor make a State of the State message?
Constitution, when must the governor make a State of the State message? at the beginning of each legislative session
Which of the following are true of criminal cases?
Criminal cases involve violations of penal codes. Those convicted in criminal cases may face a fine, imprisonment, or both as punishment. Grand juries review evidence before charges are brought. The government is always the plaintiff.
Watch the following animation on the 2018 governor's race, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
Greg Abbott's strongest support was found in rural areas and small towns. Lupe Valdez's strongest support was found in urban areas and the border region.
Watch the animation on how judges are selected across the United States, and then determine which of the following statements are accurate.
In states with partisan judicial elections, voters are likely to rely on their party identification when making a decision. In states in which the governor appoints judges, most must rely on a nominating committee that suggests a candidate for appointment. States using merit selection employ a commission to review the qualifications of potential judges before making recommendations.
Which of the following are actions of standing committees in the Texas legislature?
In the House, they accept bills referred to them by the Speaker. In the Senate, they accept bills referred to them by the lieutenant governor. They review, hold hearings on, and amend bills to make them more acceptable to the entire legislature.
Review the information in the chart, and then select the choices that best explain the differences in the demographic profile of the state and the profile of officeholders elected in partisan judicial elections in Texas.
Large judicial districts dilute the influence of minority voters. Minority voters are more likely to support Democratic candidates.
Based on the data presented in the infographic, which of the following statements are true?
People most often vote for judges based on party label rather than the candidate in partisan elections. Less than 20 percent of the states select judges the same way Texas does. Over half of the nation uses some form of gubernatorial appointment for judges. The use of a nominating commission to choose potential judicial appointments is the most popular form.
Which of the following are true about changes in the Texas Senate under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick?
Republicans can pass bills without gathering any Democratic support. There is increased partisanship.
The ---must recommend any changes to the compensation of the members of the state legislature, which must then be approved by the ---.
Texas ethics commission voters
While a veto threat is not a formal power of the governor, it is an important negotiating tool between the governor and the legislature for which of the following reasons?
Vetoes are notoriously difficult for the legislature to overcome when in session and impossible to overcome when out of session.
Which of the following statements about the plural executive are accurate?
With one exception, members of the plural executive are independently elected. The plural executive was created as a reaction to Reconstruction.
Tort is a --- wrong that causes harm to another and is normally remedied by awarding economic damages to the --- party.
civil injured
Municipal courts have jurisdictions over which of the following?
class C misdemeanors traffic and parking tickets violations of city ordinances search and arrest warrants
Which term defines the presentation of a grievance by the plaintiff in a civil case?
complaint
The Texas Constitution mandates that the --- provides a(n) --- that limits how much the legislature may spend in a biennium.
comptroller of public accounts revenue estimate
Match each Texas court to its correct jurisdiction.
general jurisdiction over a broad range of civil and criminal cases, mostly at the local level Correct label:district courts intermediate-level appeals for civil, juvenile, and criminal cases Correct label:courts of appeal ultimate jurisdiction in criminal cases Correct label:Texas Court of Criminal Appeals final appellate jurisdiction in civil and juvenile cases Correct label:Texas Supreme Court jurisdiction over probate cases, less serious misdemeanors, and civil cases involving relatively low amounts of money at the local level Correct label:county courts
Which two officials wield the most power in the Texas legislature?
the Speaker of the House the lieutenant governor
Texas legislators have powers beyond passing laws. Match each power to its best definition.
the ability of the Texas House, Senate, or both working together, to examine problems facing the state Correct label:investigative powers work on behalf of specific problems citizens face in a representative's district Correct label:constituent service the power of the legislature to impeach and convict members of the executive and judicial branches of state government Correct label:judicial powers the legislature's power over the executive branch, most commonly through appropriations Correct label:directive and supervisory powers the legislature's mandated role in counting returns in the election for governor and lieutenant governor Correct label:electoral powers
The five members of the Legislative Redistricting Board include which of the following?
the attorney general the Speaker of the House the lieutenant governor the commissioner of the General Land Office the comptroller of public accounts
In Texas, the --- handles most civil law issues for the state while a --- attorney handles most criminal cases for the state.
the attorney general district attorney
Once a special session of the legislature has been called, who determines the agenda?
the governor
Compared to the president of the United States and other state governors, the governor of Texas has less power. Which of the following create limitations on the governor of Texas that are not present on the president or other governors?
the plural executive limited power of appointment the Constitution of 1876
The governor of Texas can use the veto in various ways to reject acts by the legislature, and different types of vetoes have specific features. Label each description with the type of veto that it best and most closely describes.
veto + rejection of legislation that can be overridden by a two thirds vote of the legislature line-item veto + used on select portions of omnibus spending bill's post-adjournment veto + cannot be overridden by the legislature
Which of the following is the description of when a public official has been impeached?
when a majority in the Texas House of Representatives brings charges against an elected official
Which of the following scenarios are good examples of constituent services?
writing a letter of recommendation for entry into a state university delivering the keynote address for the annual Chamber of Commerce banquet intervening with the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife to get an appointment for a constituent introducing a special resolution to honor the service of a citizen in the district