In a striking move that has stirred both financial optimism and significant public concern, the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) has sanctioned the issuance of $1 billion in revenue bonds. This decision is pivotal for the continuation of the ACCESS Oklahoma expansion program, which has faced scrutiny and public dissent since its inception. With the program’s
Politics
The political climate in the United States has always been a rollercoaster ride, but the recent election cycle has unveiled an intricate web of outcomes, particularly regarding the balance of power in Congress and its potential ramifications on the municipal bond market. As the dust settles, the implications of these results are multifaceted, reflecting not
Property taxes have long been a cornerstone of municipal finance in the United States, yet recent trends indicate that they are becoming increasingly contentious, provoking significant taxpayer backlash. As property values soar—outpacing inflation by almost 27% since 2020—many homeowners find themselves grappling with property tax bills that seem disproportionate to their income. Simultaneously, these taxes
The upcoming elections this Tuesday represent a pivotal moment in the U.S. political landscape, as the results will not only determine which party holds the majority in the Senate and House of Representatives but will also have significant implications for the direction of key congressional committees. The outcomes of these tightly contested races may influence
For decades, the municipal bond market, a crucial component within the larger financial ecosystem, has operated without stringent oversight, raising concerns among industry professionals about transparency and risk. With a total market value exceeding $4 trillion, the call for federal oversight by prominent figures in public finance such as David Dubrow and Kent Hiteshew signals
The devastating impact of Hurricanes Milton and Helene on Florida’s economy and infrastructure has raised significant concerns regarding the state’s fiscal health and preparedness for future disasters. As recovery efforts are underway, the financial implications of these storms, particularly for the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund (CAT fund), demand a thorough examination. Hurricane Milton’s aftermath is
The recent announcement by the Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding $2.4 billion in funding for railway projects across the United States has sparked a mix of optimism and skepticism among industry professionals and policymakers alike. With funding allocated for 122 projects spanning 41 states and the District of Columbia, the initiative under the Bipartisan Infrastructure
As the upcoming elections approach, a plethora of transportation funding measures are set to be placed on ballots across the United States. The sheer volume of initiatives—300 in total, valued at over $70 billion—signifies a pivotal moment for local and state infrastructure. Voters will be faced with significant decisions that could reshape their transportation networks,
The recent legal proceedings involving Todd Russ, the Oklahoma state treasurer, have erupted from a crucial debate over environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment practices. Oklahoma’s passage of the Energy Discrimination Elimination Act in 2022 was a significant legislative move aimed at curbing the influence of firms that allegedly prioritize ESG factors over traditional financial
In a bold move that could set a precedent for institutional investors nationwide, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander has voiced support for a policy aimed at excluding fossil fuel infrastructure from the city’s pension investments. This initiative, if adopted, would position the New York City Employees’ Retirement System, Teachers’ Retirement System, and Board of