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
Wisconsin Legislators Fail to Invest Any New State Funds in Early Education
The governor’s budget included a number of significant changes in early education policy and financing that would have improved the well-being of our young children, reduced racial disparities, helped parents participate in the workforce, and boosted Wisconsin’s...
Is it Working for Public University Students and their Families?
College students have felt the impact of recent changes in Wisconsin. Students at UW-Madison, students at the UW-Marathon County, students from all across Wisconsin, big and small colleges, have seen an increase in the number of students in their classes, and a...
How is it Working for Children with Disabilities?
by the Survival Coalition of Wisconsin Disability OrganizationsThe biennial budget and subsequent action by the legislature get mixed reviews by parents of children with disabilities. Among the most fragile families in Wisconsin are those with a child with a...
Is it Working for Technical College Students and Their Families?
Thanks to the deep recession and anemic recovery, there has been unprecedented demand for classes in the state’s technical colleges. Record numbers of young people recently out of high school and older displaced or underemployed workers are looking to Wisconsin’s...
Is It Working for Underinsured Kids and Families?
Most children and families in Wisconsin are covered by private health insurance, but many people will tell you that the private insurance market is not working for children and families. Too many find themselves underinsured – losing their coverage when they need it...
Is It Working for Families with an Unemployed Parent?
The national economy has been slow to emerge from the Great Recession, and Bureau of Labor Statistics data show that Wisconsin has had the slowest rebound in employment of any state during 2011 and 2012. Yet despite the ongoing need for assistance for those...
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