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.
Research & Publications
WCCF UPDATES PRELIMINARY SUMMARY OF 2009-11 BUDGET
For each biennial budget bill, the Wisconsin Budget Project at WCCF prepares a comprehensive summary that describes the significant budget issues in a variety of areas. It focuses primarily on issues relating to children and families, but also describes the various...
Joint Finance Hearings Commence
Today marked the first of six Joint Finance Committee budget hearings. Joint Finance began their day at the American Legion Hall in Sparta at 10 AM. On Wednesday, they will travel to State Fair Park in West Allis, and on Friday they will be at UW-Eau Claire. WCCF has...
Episode 2 of the "Budget Bob Show" Hits the Web
Episode 2 of the "Budget Bob Show" is now available for your viewing pleasure. If you liked the first episode, you'll love this one. Even if you hated the first one, you might love this one. Episode 2 is about the process through which the Wisconsin state budget is...
WCCF Response to Governor’s Budget
Governor Doyle released his budget proposal last night. In general, WCCF applauds his balanced approach, which includes a number of revenue uppers in addition to a host of inevitable cuts. While we do have some concerns, we appreciate the Governor's commitment to key...
Implications of Economic Recovery Act for Wisconsin
The Wisconsin Council on Children and Families has issued a comprehensive summary of how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will affect Wisconsin. The document examines 60 parts of the bill, and in many instances indicates how much funding Wisconsin can...
Debut of the "Budget Bob Show"
Well, he's no Johnny Depp, but WCCF's own Budget Bob has taken the tiny screen by storm. Visit the 2009-11 Budget Essentials page of our website to view the first installment of the "Budget Bob Show," our series of short, lo-fi videos that provide an overview of the...
New State Rankings on Taxes and Spending Show WI in Middle of Pack
This whole "high tax state" tag that people have pasted on Wisconsin is no longer credible by most reasonable measures. Newly published Census Bureau data shows that while WI ranks 11th in taxes relative to income, most of our figures are very close to the national...
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.
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