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
Protecting Local Control: Lawmakers Harm Communities of Color
This report shines a light on the expansion of laws in Wisconsin that restrict—or ‘preempt’—the power of local elected officials and voters.
Restore $35 million in Child Care Funding
Two years ago the Wisconsin Legislature approved YoungStar with strong bipartisan support. This was a prudent investment to improve early learning for children from low-income working families receiving Wisconsin Shares subsidy payments. The Governor’s proposed budget...
Nutrition Program Put on a Crash Diet by Sequestration
Pregnant Women or Children First? -- States Are Faced with Grim ChoicesThe Women, Infants and Children supplemental nutrition program (WIC) is one of many federally funded services that will take a big hit because of sequestration. A new paper issued today by the...
Building a Better Future for Children and Youth in the Justice System: assessing and meeting their educational needs
Children involved in child welfare and juvenile justice systems often have many disadvantages throughout their lives, which decreases the likelihood of their wellness and success. Not the least of these challenges is dealing with unmet education needs. We know...
Walker’s K-12 Education Budget Generates Mostly Negative Reactions
Voucher Proposals and Frozen Revenue Cap Get a Particularly Chilly Response Proponents of school vouchers are applauding the Governor’s K-12 education budget, but they don’t have much company. A broad range of groups have been highly critical of the K-12 budget...
Will the Budget Bill Give Schools Any More Latitude on Property Taxes?
National Article Draws Attention to the Squeeze on Wisconsin Schools In case you missed it, Thursday’s Wisconsin Budget Project Blog commented on an article in Governing.com about the fiscal straightjacket Wisconsin schools find themselves in because of the...
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