Recent Work by ITEP

How the Wealthy Exploit the Tax Code: Q&A with Professor Ray Madoff, Author of ‘The Second Estate’

January 26, 2026 • By Brakeyshia Samms

Her timely book, The Second Estate: How the Tax Code Made an American Aristocracy, walks readers through federal tax policy history and the modern-day legal maneuvers the wealthy use to pay little to no taxes

State Rundown 1/22: Cautious Tone Noticeable in Most Statehouses

January 22, 2026 • By ITEP Staff

Most states are adopting a very cautious approach so far this year as legislators begin their sessions and governors make their annual addresses, thanks to ongoing economic uncertainty and federal retrenchment.

States Can Push Back Against Reckless Federal Tax Policy. Here’s How.

January 22, 2026 • By Aidan Davis, Wesley Tharpe

They should take steps to protect and boost their own revenues. And they should take a second look at their own tax cuts.

Local Governments Are Increasingly Strapped: 2026 Will Bring New Challenges and New Opportunities

January 21, 2026 • By Kamolika Das

2025 saw an intensification of state and local tax fights across the country, as well as growing experimentation with local-option taxes, levies, fees, and tourism taxes aimed at keeping budgets afloat while also navigating political constraints imposed by state legislatures.

State Rundown 1/14: New Year Brings New Resolutions for Funding Key Priorities

January 14, 2026 • By ITEP Staff

State governors are beginning to lay out their top priorities as legislatures reconvene in statehouses around the country.

Curbing Tax Deductions for Executive Pay is a Federal Tax Change States Should Get Behind

January 9, 2026 • By Matthew Gardner

This provision in last summer’s tax law could actually make budget-balancing a little bit easier for states if they follow suit.

Show Me Where We’re Going: Missouri’s Fiscally Irresponsible Path Will Be Paid for by Everyday People

January 8, 2026 • By Logan Liguore

Missouri lawmakers have been pushing regressive and shortsighted tax policies that undermine everyday workers and sabotage the Show-Me State’s ability to raise revenue.

State Rundown 1/7: New Year, New Opportunities for Progressive Revenue

January 7, 2026 • By ITEP Staff

As we kick off a new year, several states are facing revenue shortfalls. Some lawmakers are approaching the challenge with sustainable and equitable solutions.

Don’t Be Fooled by Treasury’s Jekyll and Hyde Approach to Tax Enforcement

December 31, 2025 • By Matthew Gardner

While this guidance is sorely needed to clean up the mess created by a hasty Congress, these notices stand in sharp contrast to the deregulatory, anti-tax approach that the Treasury Department has taken.

Pennsylvania Just Gave Low-Income Workers a Tax Credit Boost. Now It’s Philadelphia’s Turn.

December 30, 2025 • By Kamolika Das

In the same way states are building upon federal tax credits, localities should consider building on state tax credits.