Texans are being told the same thing every year: we need more money. But the truth is simpler — and more uncomfortable. Texas does not have a revenue problem. Texas has a spending discipline problem. How the System Breaks Down The problem doesn’t start with your local appraisal notice. It starts at the top. The Legislature writes broad tax and spending laws. The Governor signs them into effect. When spending grows faster than discipline, the State begins to rely on surpluses