Colorado residents will have a direct say on a major tax reform this November. Initiative #195, known as the “Graduated Income Tax,” has cleared the signature threshold required by the state’s Constitution and will appear on the general‑election ballot.
Signature drive and coalition backing
The effort was coordinated by Protect Colorado’s Future, a coalition of more than 100 organizations focused on education, health care, child care and related issues. According to the Colorado Secretary of State’s Elections Division, the group submitted over 130,000 valid signatures, meeting the mandatory quota from each state senate district.
What the measure proposes
If approved, the initiative would amend the state Constitution to eliminate the current requirement that all taxable net income be taxed at a single flat rate. Instead, it would create multiple tax brackets, applying higher rates to higher levels of personal or corporate income.
The measure estimates that the new structure would generate an additional $2.7 billion in revenue each year. Proponents say those funds would be directed toward improving public services, including education, health care and child‑care programs that the coalition argues are essential for Colorado families.
Arguments from supporters and opponents
Supporters contend that a graduated system is more equitable, allowing low‑ and middle‑income Coloradans to keep a larger share of their earnings while asking wealthier individuals and profitable corporations to contribute more. They argue that the added revenue will help close funding gaps in schools and health facilities, reinforcing the state’s commitment to strong families and community well‑being.
Opponents, including several business groups and fiscal‑conservative watchdogs, warn that higher tax rates could discourage investment and job growth. They claim the projected revenue increase is optimistic and that the measure could lead to a more complex tax code, raising compliance costs for small businesses.
How voters can prepare
Voters should review the full text of Initiative #195 on the Secretary of State’s website and consider how the proposed changes align with their personal finances and community priorities. Sample ballots and voter guides will be available at local libraries and online as the election approaches.
Colorado’s November ballot will also feature other measures and local races, making it a pivotal election for the state’s fiscal direction and public‑service landscape.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
