Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy

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Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP) is a non-profit research organization that focuses on tax policy. Founded in 1980, ITEP aims to ensure that tax systems are fair, adequate, and effectively enforced. The organization conducts research and provides analysis to shape tax policy debates at the state, national, and international levels. ITEP's work is particularly noted for its focus on how tax policies affect low- and middle-income populations.

Overview

ITEP's research covers a wide range of tax policy issues, including but not limited to income tax, sales tax, corporate tax, and property tax. The organization is well-known for its Tax Inequality Index, which measures the impact of each state's tax system on income inequality. ITEP's work emphasizes the importance of progressive tax policies that can help reduce economic disparities.

One of ITEP's flagship publications is the "Who Pays?" report, a comprehensive analysis of the fairness of state and local tax systems. This report highlights how different tax policies can either exacerbate or alleviate the tax burden on low- and middle-income families compared to wealthy individuals and entities.

Mission and Goals

The mission of ITEP is to ensure that elected officials, the media, and the public have access to accurate and timely information that contributes to the creation of equitable and sustainable tax systems. ITEP aims to:

• Provide rigorous tax policy research and analysis
• Advocate for policies that are fair and progressive
• Educate stakeholders about the importance of tax policy in achieving social and economic justice

Research and Publications

ITEP's research team produces a variety of materials, including reports, policy briefs, and fact sheets. These publications cover a broad spectrum of tax policy topics, from analyses of federal tax proposals to examinations of state-level tax reforms. ITEP's work is characterized by its use of comprehensive data and its commitment to making complex tax issues understandable to a broad audience.

Impact

ITEP's research and analysis have been influential in shaping tax policy debates across the United States. Policymakers, media outlets, and advocacy groups frequently cite ITEP's work. The organization's analysis has contributed to the enactment of more progressive tax policies in several states and has been instrumental in raising public awareness about the importance of fair taxation.

Criticism and Controversy

As with any organization involved in policy debates, ITEP's work has faced criticism, particularly from those who favor lower taxes and less government intervention in the economy. Critics argue that ITEP's emphasis on progressive taxation overlooks the potential negative impacts of high taxes on economic growth and investment. ITEP maintains that its research is non-partisan and grounded in data, and it continues to advocate for tax policies that it believes will lead to a more equitable society.

See Also

• Tax policy
• Economic inequality
• Progressive tax
• Tax reform