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
Amidst COVID-19, Government Support Helped Many Wisconsin Children and Families Stay Afloat
Relief measures have given us a strong blueprint for addressing poverty for millions.
Dem. Members of Finance Committee Announce Additional Public Hearings
Today the Democratic Senate and Assembly leaders and members of the Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee (JFC) announced 10 additional budget hearings in order to allow for more public input on the proposed biennial budget. The Democratic leaders are also inviting...
How to Keep Schools Safe
There are many ways to potentially keep kids safe in school. Thank goodness this topic is finally being discussed at great length! In fact, President Obama has called for an increase of school resource officers (SROs), providing funds to hire up to 1,000 SROs across...
Legislature Has Been Ignoring Statute Requiring Criminal Penalty Bills to Have Fiscal Estimates
“Righting the Rules” Could Start with a Legislative Rule if Lawmakers Approve SJR 5 For 12 years, the Wisconsin Legislature has been operating under a rule that ignores a statutory change enacted in 2001. The law requiring bills to have fiscal estimates was changed at...
Overview: Youth Aids and Juvenile Correction Costs in the 2013-15 Budget
Following a biennium in which the Youth Aids Allocation was reduced by about 17%(about 10% of which was a permanent reduction that becomes the “base” for 2013-15 and about $7 million that was “lapsed” back to the general fund) two of the three juvenile correctional...
Invest in our Future: Support Strong Public Schools–WCCF’s recommendations for K-12 education in the 2013-15 Budget
Governor Walker has proposed a two-year budget that significantly expands resources for voucher and charter schools, and provides a large increase in spending for assessment of pupils and schools. At first glance, it appears to also give Wisconsin’s public schools a...
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