Understanding Texas Government and Budgeting

These flashcards cover key concepts about Texas government, budgeting, public policy, and welfare programs.

What is dual budgeting?

The compilation of separate budgets by the legislative branch and the executive branch.

What does DNA stand for in criminal investigations?

Deoxyribonucleic acid; the genetic material used as a unique genetic fingerprint.

What is TEKS?

Texas Essential Knowledge & Skills is a core curriculum setting out what students should learn.

What is the role of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards?

A state regulatory agency responsible for establishing and enforcing minimum standards for the construction and operation of county and privately operated municipal jails.

What is the Economic Stabilization Fund?

Also known as the Rainy Day Fund, it is used like a savings account for stabilizing state finances and assisting during economic emergencies.

What is budget execution?

The process whereby the governor and the Legislative Budget Board oversee the implementation of the spending plan authorized by the Texas Legislature.

What is public policy?

It refers to what the government does to meet a public need or goal as determined by a legislative body or authorized officials.

What is recidivism?

Criminal behavior that results in a person being reincarcerated after being released from prison for a prior offense.

What is a plea bargain?

An agreement between the prosecutor and the defendant in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for concessions from the prosecutor.

What does Medicaid provide?

Medical assistance to the poor, funded in large part by federal grants and state appropriations.

What is SNAP?

Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, providing food assistance to low-income individuals.

What is workers' compensation?

A system of insurance that pays benefits to workers injured or made ill by their work.

What distinguishes functional from objective budget classifications?

Functional budgets represent services provided by the government, while objective budgets categorize spending by the object of expenditures.

What is the process for developing Texas' budget?

Involves planning and proposals from agencies, budget hearings, legislative action, and final approval by the Governor.

What does TANF stand for?

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, which provides limited cash assistance to the extremely poor.

How long is the Texas budget period?

The budget period covers two fiscal years, beginning on September 1 and ending on August 31.

What is the Lottery Commission responsible for?

Administering the state lottery.

What is the function of the Legislative Budget Board (LBB)?

The LBB oversees the budget process in Texas and develops the General Appropriations Act.

What happens if an employer in Texas does not provide workers' compensation insurance?

They risk expensive lawsuits as they are generally forbidden by law from not providing coverage.