MassBudget: Massachusetts Ranks in Middle for Taxes in FY 2012

MassBudget    Information.    Participation.  Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center    Democracy. Massachusetts Ranks in Middle for Taxes in FY 2012   Yesterday the US Census released its annual update on state and local finances. It compares how much is collected in taxes in each state to help pay for all those things we do through government, such as: providing quality public education and police and fire protection; building and maintaining roads, bridges and other infrastructure; protecting the environment; operating parks, playgrounds and libraries; and ensuring that we have a safety net to protect access to health care and other supports families depend on - particularly when they are faced with acute challenges. The census report finds that in 2012, the most recent year for which data is available, Massachusetts ranked in the middle of the pack for overall state and local taxes. Our total tax level, as a share of income, was a little below the national average and 21 states had higher taxes as a share of income. Taxes as a share of income were down a little from the prior year in both Massachusetts and the US. To read our related Facts-At-A-Glance, please click HERE.   The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults, strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in Massachusetts. MASSACHUSETTS BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER 15 COURT SQUARE, SUITE 700 BOSTON, MA 02108

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