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
Our Take: The Wisconsin 2023-25 Biennial Budget
We appreciate Governor Evers being a stop gap for some of the most egregious proposals from the Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee (JFC). But, if we want to actually address Wisconsin’s racial disparities, we have a lot more work to do.
Mental Health: A Behavioral Health System that Better Supports Counties and Schools
2023-25 State BudgetMarch 27, 2023 Everyone in Wisconsin, regardless of what county they live in, deserves to live in a community that supports their health and wellness, including access to quality, affordable mental health and substance use disorder services....
K-12 Education: Setting Every Child Up for Success means Lifting up Wisconsin’s Public Schools
2023-25 State BudgetMarch 22, 2023 Every child deserves a quality K-12 education that sets them up for opportunities and success, regardless of school district or zip code. However, Wisconsin public schools continue to face many substantial challenges. In the last...
Webinar 4/6: How Could Wisconsin’s Budget Impact Racial Disparities?
How could Wisconsin's Budget...
Health Care: Expanding Access to Health Care and Funding to Reduce Racial Disparities
2023-25 State BudgetMarch 16, 2023All people in Wisconsin, whether they live in Menomonie or Milwaukee, deserve access to quality, affordable health care and to live in communities that support their health and wellness. Governor Evers’ proposed budget takes steps to...
Immigration: Providing Opportunity for Wisconsinites Who are Immigrants
2023-25 State BudgetMarch 16, 2023 Every Wisconsinite deserves to provide for their children and families, regardless of immigration status. Wisconsin is home to a diverse population of immigrants, contributing to our communities’ economic and social fabric. Despite...
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