The TaxWatch Research Archives

Economic Commentary: Unemployment & the Florida Workforce

Tuesday, January 31, 2012 / Categories: Research, Economic Development

"February's Economic Commentary focuses on unemployment in Florida as compared to the nation as a whole, and within specific demographic groups and their educational levels inside our state in 2011 vs. 2010. The Commentary also discusses possible solutions to the current situation, and trends to keep an eye on."

Smart Justice Poll Results

Saturday, December 31, 2011 / Categories: Research, Corrections/Judicial

"A joint project between TaxWatch and Associated Industries of Florida, the poll shows overwhelming support from more than 600 Republican likely voters for Smart Justice reforms. "

Economic Commentary: Florida's 2011 Job Growth

Saturday, December 31, 2011 / Categories: Research, Economic Development

"January's Economic Commentary focuses on job growth in Florida in the last year. Our state created the 3rd-most jobs of any state, following only California and Texas in the number of jobs created."

Report of the Commission on Review of Taxpayer Funded Hospital Districts

Thursday, December 29, 2011 / Categories: Research, Taxes, Health Care, Taxpayer Guide

The final report of the Commission on Review of Taxpayer Funded Hospital Districts, which was chaired by TaxWatch President & CEO Dominic M. Calabro.

Economic Commentary: Florida's Economic Year in Review

Wednesday, November 30, 2011 / Categories: Research, Economic Development

"December's Economic commentary compares 2011 to 2010 using data that drives the Florida economy, primarily employment and unemployment figures. The commentary also examines the health of factors expected to play a key role in the state's economy. "

Reducing the Concentration of Risk in Florida's Property Insurance System

Wednesday, November 30, 2011 / Categories: Research, Insurance

Just one major hurricane could plunge Florida into a financial crisis as the current insurance system lacks the actuarial soundness to withstand the massive number of resultant claims. Several proposed solutions are examined.

Economic Commentary: Angel and Venture Capital in Florida

Monday, October 31, 2011 / Categories: Research, Economic Development

"The funding options available for Florida's budding entrepreneurs are analyzed in this Economic Commentary. Angel and Venture Capital is available, but takes many forms, and obtaining it can be a tortuous journey. "

Risk & Reform: A Florida TaxWatch Analysis of Florida's Property Insurance System

Monday, October 31, 2011 / Categories: Research, Insurance

The financing mechanisms of Florida's hurricane property insurance system are a complex as the meteorological factors that cause the devastating storms. This report details the components of the system and describes what must be done for optimal value and protection.

Ideas in Action - Will Florida's Hurricane Insurance Plan Blow Us Away?

Monday, October 31, 2011 / Categories: Research, Insurance, Guest Columns

"With the premise it's only a matter of time before the next big hurricane strike, this report, written independently of Florida TaxWatch, details the current property insurance situation and takes a wide-ranging look at possible solutions."

Expanding the Scope of Practice for Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants Would Generate Fiscal Savings While Enhancing High Quality Medical Care

Monday, October 31, 2011 / Categories: Research, Health Care

Reducing skyrocketing health care costs in Florida while maintaining effectiveness is becoming a top priority. This report considers whether expanding the role of the Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner would make a viable difference.

Report and Recommendations of the Florida Tangible Personal Property Tax Task Force

Monday, October 31, 2011 / Categories: Research, Taxes

The Tangible Personal Property Tax raises nearly $2 billion annually for state government but many believe its benefits are offset by the cost to Florida businesses and a lack of uniformity in its application to taxpayers across the state. This report recommends a constitutional amendment to give the Legislature flexibility in administering the tax.

2011 Annual Report

Monday, October 31, 2011 / Categories: Research, Annual Reports