You Decide Voices of Texas Case Study Criminal Justice Essay

Each question a minimum of 600 words each question. Please be detailed and provide references and citation after answering each question:

1. Read Chapter 6 in the textbook, including “You Decide: Voices of Texas: Should Former Legislators be Lobbyists,” and write an essay answering the following questions:

How do lobbyists influence lawmakers?

What is the revolving door?

Should legislators have the right to profit from their relationships and experiences as a public servant after they retire?

Do you agree or disagree that former legislators lobbying their former colleagues is unethical? Why?

Should Texas enact laws to limit the ability of legislators to lobby? If so, what specific provision should Texas enact and why?

Would laws limiting the ability of legislators to lobby make government more respected and ethical?

2. Read Chapter 11, including “You Decide: Voices of Texas: What to Do with a Budget Surplus” and write an essay answering the following questions:

Do you think that sales and use taxes are a fair way for the state to generate revenue? Why or why not?

How should policy makers deal with a projected budgetary surplus? Should taxes be cut or spending increased?

In the case of a budget surplus, what arguments would you make to the legislature to increase spending? Where would you increase spending? Why?

In the case of a budget deficit, what areas would you target for cuts? Why?

Under what circumstances should the legislature tap into the Rainy Day Fund?

Why did the Texas Legislature give up the ability to set tuition at state universities and how has this decision impacted you?

3. Read Chapter 13, including “You Decide: Voices of Texas: Cite and Release: Necessary Cost-Savings or Soft on Crime?” and write an essay answering the following questions:

Are all defendants treated equally in the Texas criminal justice system? Why or why not?

Why do you think certain groups are overrepresented or underrepresented in the prison system?

At times the integrity of the criminal justice system has been called into question. What are some of the events that have led to this situation?

What is cite and release and why was it implemented?

Do you believe that more counties should adopt cite and release? Why or why not?

Discuss at least two changes that you believe would increase fairness in the criminal justice system.