POLLING: Higher Taxes Won’t Lead to Better Government Services 

According to MOA’s latest polling results, voters believe that more taxes won’t solve Massachusetts’ spending problem or improve the lives of everyday residents. 65 percent of respondents shared that they do not believe that government services would improve if taxes were raised.

It is not just the wealthy taxpayers who lack faith that increased taxes will lead to better services. In fact, those earning $50,000 to $100,000 were the most likely (72 percent) to respond that they don’t believe services would improve if taxes were increased. 

It’s no wonder Bay Staters are skeptical about the impact of tax increases. Polling shows voters already lack confidence in how existing tax dollars are spent. Only 13 percent of Massachusetts voters surveyed believe they are definitely getting good value for their taxes.

Not all government services are viewed the same by the public. Respondents are more likely to feel like they are getting a good return on their tax dollars in education and health care, two areas where Massachusetts is nationally recognized for the quality of these services. But few people would say they are “very satisfied” with how their tax dollars are spent on issues like infrastructure and energy and the environment – a sign that voters aren’t feeling a personal impact from state investment in these areas.

A majority of Massachusetts residents (53 percent) expect to pay more in taxes this April, with younger adults and middle-income earners expecting to feel an even bigger pinch this year. Over half of those making at least $50,000 report they will be paying more, and even among lower-income individuals, only a quarter (25 percent) anticipate paying less this year. 

Conclusion

These trends reinforce a prevailing frustration: taxpayers are seeing their taxes increase without a perceived improvement in key public services. With widespread skepticism about the state’s use of tax revenue, many residents—especially middle-income earners—feel disconnected from the benefits of their contributions.