Spend Money, Make Money

Texas lawmakers risk millions in federal funding through inaction

Texas has always been known for its business acumen. The stories of the Lone Star State’s entrepreneurs and wildcatters are legendary. It’s part of the state’s mystique.

But it looks like the Legislature hasn’t learned a lot from these tycoons.

The U.S. census is coming up next year. Most states have set aside funding to make sure they get an accurate count of residents. California, for example, has committed more than $150 million to the effort. But so far Texas lawmakers have decided not to spend anything on the census. Bills that would have provided funding have failed. That’s not good.

The reason is Texas risks undercounting its residents. And that could have some costly consequences.

Federal funding relies heavily on census data. Money for transportation, health care, education and other vital necessities. The Center for Public Policy Priorities say Texas could lose $300 million for every 1 percent undercount.

There’s political stroke to consider as well. Congressional representation is based on the census. Texas could gain three or four seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. And undercount puts that added power in jeopardy.

To make up for the Legislatures failure to take action, some cities such as Austin, Dallas and Houston have launched census funding efforts. Political groups and nonprofits are joining in as well.

But it won’t be enough to ensure an accurate count. Spending on the census is an investment that will bring millions more back to Texas. The Legislature knows that. That they haven’t acted and put the onus on others is a disgrace.