Research Library

Fellow Joyce Beebe analyzes the evolving landscape of crowdfunding and considers the tax treatment of funds generated through platforms like GoFundMe and Kickstarter.

As U.S. obesity rates continue to climb, policymakers debate whether federal food assistance funds should be used to buy candy and soda. The author examines both sides of the issue.

The recent rise in opioid-related overdose deaths is part of a larger trend in drug use that started over 40 years ago, writes Katharine Neill Harris, the Alfred C. Glassell, III, Fellow in Drug Policy.

By Kirstin R.W. Matthews and Melody T. Tan Vaccines and vaccine exemptions are increasingly contentious issues in Texas. In this issue brief, the authors dispel five common misconceptions about vaccines that were presented during public hearings at the Texas House of Representatives in 2017.

Patterns of charitable contributions in the U.S. and the impact of recent tax changes to charitable giving are examined. 

Rising health care costs and generational attitudes toward convenience and the ability to personalize life choices are driving a trend toward greater individual responsibility over the use of health care services.

Houston and Harris County area law enforcement leaders weigh in on the need for drug policy reforms in the United States.

The Advancing Care for Exceptional Kids Act proposes a national database that would serve as a centralized source of information on children with medically complex conditions. The aim is to improve treatment and care coordination. The authors of this brief argue, however, that the database could put children and their families at risk of discrimination by making their health information public, and therefore accessible to employers and health insurers.

Children with medical complexity (CMC), defined as children who have chronic medical conditions that can be expected to last at least one year and to require speciality pediatric care, depend on technology and multiple providers for their acute and daily health needs. The authors explore how the use of telemedicine, coupled with a patient-centered medical home model of care, can improve the efficacy and efficiency of care for CMC.

With the Texas Legislature now considering several bills that would decrease penalties for marijuana possession and legalize the use of medical marijuana to treat a variety of conditions, authors William Martin and Katharine A. Neill present updated findings in this new issue brief that support the case for reforming marijuana policy in Texas.