A coalition of state lawmakers, labor unions and advocacy groups released a new report Wednesday outlining how states can raise taxes on wealthy residents to fund schools and public services.
The guidebook, titled the “Real Affordability Agenda,” calls for state-level legislation aimed at addressing housing costs, wages and funding for essential services.
Organizers said more than 100 bills have been introduced in statehouses across the country to increase taxes on high-income earners and large corporations.
The report includes case studies, sample legislation and campaign strategies for passing tax measures at the state level. It focuses on housing, job quality, the cost of services and what it describes as tax fairness.
Georgia Sen. Kim Jackson, senior vice president of the State Innovation Exchange, said the agenda offers “a roadmap for state leaders to fight back with real solutions: fair taxes, higher worker wages, strong public investments, and relief that reaches the kitchen table.”
Supporters pointed to efforts in states including Illinois, Virginia, Washington, California, Michigan, New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Hawai’i and Arizona, where ballot measures are being pursued or legislation is under consideration to increase taxes on high earners and corporations.
Illinois Sen. Graciela Guzmán cited a nearly $5 billion gap in funding under the state’s school Evidence-Based Formula and said lawmakers must address what she called an “upside down” tax code.
Massachusetts lawmakers highlighted the state’s Fair Share Amendment, which added a tax on high-income earners to fund education and transportation. Sen. Jason Lewis said the additional revenue has supported free school meals, expanded financial aid and public transit improvements.
Labor leaders from Illinois, Massachusetts and California also endorsed the agenda, arguing that new revenue could support schools, child care, transportation and health care.
The coalition said affordability has become a central issue for voters and framed the proposals as a response to rising living costs nationwide.
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