Two MOA-Inspired Ballot Proposals Clear Another Hurdle

This week, Massachusetts’ Attorney General Andrea Campbell certified a “record breaking” 44 ballot petitions, moving these ideas one step closer toward appearing before voters in 2026. Two of these potential 2026 reforms were inspired by original research from the Mass Opportunity Alliance: first, slashing the individual income tax rate from 5% to 4%; second, encouraging fiscal responsibility by returning more money to taxpayers via a revision to the state revenue cap.

Together, these two proposals would offer taxpayer relief and rein in the state’s out-of-control budget spending, which has grown roughly $20 billion—over 50%—from just seven years ago. 

Proactive Solutions

MOA research and polling consistently show that Massachusetts voters are deeply concerned about the high cost of living and heavy tax burden. Our September 2024 poll found 82% of voters feel their taxes are too high, with most citing income taxes as one of the worst offenders. And only 13% of respondents in a March 2025 poll said they believe they are getting good value for their tax dollars.

Ballot Buzz: What People Are Saying

Here’s what media outlets across the state are saying about the proposed laws and their impacts on Massachusetts taxpayers.

• “…The most high-profile measures cleared the initial certification hurdle, including a pair of ideas backed by influential business groups that would reduce the state’s income tax from 5% to 4% and further limit the state tax revenue cap to make it more likely that surplus revenue would be refunded to taxpayers.” – MassLive
  
• “With several proposals regarding taxes, three are among those gaining traction with the public: one to reduce the state income tax, another to limit tax collection growth, and the third to end the gas tax.” – Boston.com
  
• “We’ve got to do something different…And the population here is demanding a voice, and we want to give them a voice to exercise where their preferences lie.” – Chris Anderson quoted in WBGH
  
• “The proposed tax cut could save the average Massachusetts taxpayer $1,300 annually compared to the status quo…As the cost of living continues to rise, residents are eager for forward-looking solutions that offer meaningful relief.” – Jim Stergios quoted in CNHI News

What This Means for Massachusetts 

Our August 2025 poll found that the MOA-inspired ideas have broad public support across party lines and income brackets. Nearly 75% of Massachusetts voters support an income tax cut from 5% to 4%. Similarly, nearly 74% of voters support a revised revenue cap to trigger more refunds when the state has collected excess revenues. 

It’s no secret why: Research confirms these measures could put more money back in the pockets of Massachusetts taxpayers. 

MOA estimates an income tax rate cut from 5% to 4% could save taxpayers roughly $1,300 annually compared to the status quo. Analysis of economic literature shows this tax cut could boost state GDP by as much as $17.5 billion three years after being fully implemented. Additionally, revising the state’s existing revenue cap to reflect changes in actual revenue collections in prior years means taxpayers can expect future tax refunds when the state collects too much in taxes.

Since its inception, MOA has heard concerns from residents about the state’s declining competitiveness, and provided data-based evidence to demonstrate the hardships taxpayers and businesses are currently facing. Now, residents may have a chance to let their voices be heard.