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Virginia Today
By the People, for the People
Lawmakers Push 'Tax the Rich' Agenda Across the Country
New report outlines state-level legislation to increase taxes on high-income earners and corporations
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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A coalition of state lawmakers, labor unions, and advocacy groups has released a new report outlining how states can raise taxes on wealthy residents to fund schools and public services. The 'Real Affordability Agenda' calls for state-level legislation aimed at addressing housing costs, wages, and funding for essential services. Organizers say more than 100 bills have been introduced in statehouses across the country to increase taxes on high-income earners and large corporations.
Why it matters
The report comes as affordability has become a central issue for voters nationwide, with rising living costs putting pressure on state and local governments to find new revenue sources. The proposed tax measures are framed as a response to these economic challenges, with the goal of funding critical public services and infrastructure.
The details
The 'Real Affordability Agenda' 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.' Supporters pointed to efforts in several 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.
- The report was released on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
The players
Kim Jackson
Georgia state senator and senior vice president of the State Innovation Exchange.
Graciela Guzmán
Illinois state senator who cited a nearly $5 billion gap in funding under the state's school Evidence-Based Formula.
Jason Lewis
Massachusetts state senator who said the state's Fair Share Amendment, which added a tax on high-income earners to fund education and transportation, has supported free school meals, expanded financial aid, and public transit improvements.
What they’re saying
“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.'”
— Kim Jackson, Georgia state senator and senior vice president of the State Innovation Exchange
“Lawmakers must address what she called an 'upside down' tax code.”
— Graciela Guzmán, Illinois state senator
“The additional revenue has supported free school meals, expanded financial aid and public transit improvements.”
— Jason Lewis, Massachusetts state senator
What’s next
The coalition said the proposed tax measures will continue to be a focus for state lawmakers and advocacy groups in the coming legislative sessions as they work to address affordability and fund critical public services.
The takeaway
The 'Tax the Rich' agenda represents a growing movement among state-level policymakers and grassroots organizations to find new revenue sources to address rising costs and invest in education, infrastructure, and other public priorities. The report provides a playbook for advocates seeking to pursue similar tax measures in their own states.
