It's the People's Money
Paying taxes is how we build a strong foundation where everyone—from Menomonie to Milwaukee—can thrive. But, for decades the wealthy few have rigged our tax code so they pay less than their fair share. Then, they work to pit our families against each other based on our zip code, so they can hoard the wealth our work creates. As a result of these intentional policy choices and unjust structure, Wisconsin’s racial and economic disparities are some of the worst in the country.
Previously known as the Wisconsin Budget Project, we’re working to ensure every family has the opportunity to thrive, especially those most impacted by disinvestment, and not just the powerful few.
Reclaim. Rebuild.
Reimagine.
Join us to unrig the rules that benefit the wealthy few. View our full policy agenda.
Analyzing the State Budget
At Kids Forward, we know that a budget is more than just numbers; it’s a statement of values. It shows who and what Wisconsin cares about. The Wisconsin state budget—negotiated every other year in odd years—is how we invest in the public infrastructure and supports that our families and communities need. Too often, powerful, wealthy individuals and corporations influence our legislators to cut taxes instead of funding public schools, child care, and making health care more affordable. As a result, every day families struggle to make ends meet, services are harder to access, and the richest few continue to reap the benefits.
We dig through the state budget to provide community partners and advocates with the resources and tools they need to ensure the results of people’s hard work make it back to their communities. View our analyses and resources further below.
Fighting for an Equitable Tax and Revenue System
Families across Wisconsin are struggling to get by, and it shouldn’t be a surprise. Economic inequality has exploded over the past 40 years. In the last four decades, the wealthiest 20% of Wisconsinites have seen dramatic growth in their incomes, while everyone else has seen no increase or watched their income decline.
Kids Forward advocates for a fair and equitable tax system that benefits all. If the most wealthy few paid their fair share, Wisconsin could invest in critical services such as child care, health care, and a fair wage for all workers. We provide decision makers and community partners with the tools they need to advocate for a fairer tax system.
Research & Publications
Standing up for Racial Justice: A Starter Guide on Policy & Advocacy in Wisconsin
This guide serves as a tool that engages diverse populations to take action and advocate for policies that equitably serve all children and families.
Is This a “Robin Hood in Reverse” Budget?
Legislature’s Response This Week to New Data on W-2 Growth May Answer that QuestionI’ve said on a few occasions that the fiscal plan being considered in the legislature this week is a “Robin Hood in Reverse” budget. Just how true that is will be decided this week, as...
New Hampshire Court Strikes Down Tax Credits for Religious Schools
A New Hampshire Court ruling issued Monday struck down as unconstitutional the provisions of the state’s voucher tax credit law that fund religious schools. The decision by the Strafford County Superior Court declared that those portions of the program will have to be...
Ten Worst Changes in the Budget for Children and Families
Department of Children and Families budget Siphoning off federal funds for low-income families – The budget transfers almost $19 million per year more to the Dept. of Revenue from the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) block grant, to supplant state...
Tax Cut Not Likely to Create Jobs, but Could Hurt Wisconsin’s Education System
The Legislature’s budget committee passed an income tax cut this week that could hurt Wisconsin’s ability to support a high-quality public education system, while doing very little to create jobs. The proposed tax cut would take resources away from public services –...
Budget’s Non-fiscal Policy Explosion Cataloged by Fiscal Bureau
Finance Committee Approves 35 of Governor’s Non-fiscal Proposals and Adds 59 More A document released Tuesday by the Legislative Fiscal Bureau (LFB) provides a comprehensive list of non-fiscal policy measures included in the biennial budget bill. Legislators...
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