There were several different types of funds, some with unacceptable conditions, others we could live with. The money was appropriated by the Dem Congress and whatever was refused went to other States. Texas citizens will not pay less Federal taxes in the future because of the money we rejected, but we will have less Federal interference.
It was appropriate to object to the bail outs of private businesses rather than a simple propping up of the banking industry. It was appropriate to object to passing the bill, but then take the funds that could be used without violating the Texas Constitution or changing the law and practices in Texas.
Perhaps you’ve read Phil Gramm’s explanation:“If we should vote next week on whether to begin producing cheese in a factory on the moon, I almost certainly would oppose it...On the other hand, if the government decided to institute the policy, it would be my objective to see that a Texas contractor builds this celestial cheese plant, that the milk comes from Texas cows, and that the Earth distribution center is located in Texas.” - http://www.texasgopvote.com/81st-texas-legislature/doggett-layoff-political-education-revenge-schools-and-teachers-002571
Of course, that’s what everybody says.
And so, nothing changes.