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4/13/2026
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Op-Ed: Rhode Island must choose fairness over more cuts by passing the one-percent bill
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By Rep. Karen Alzate
Rhode Island is facing a budget deficit, and we have a choice to make. We can continue repeating the same mistakes that got us here, or we can finally choose a smarter and fairer path forward. Passing the one-percent bill (2026-H 7313) that I have introduced would be a meaningful step toward restoring balance, protecting essential services and asking those who have benefited the most from our economy to contribute a little more.
For years, Rhode Island has steadily cut taxes with the promise that lower taxes would spark economic growth, attract wealth and solve our long-term financial challenges. But that promise has not been delivered for working families or for our state budget. Instead, we now face revenue shortfalls while struggling to fund the very services that make Rhode Island a place where people want to live, work and raise families. When taxes are repeatedly cut, especially for top earners and corporations, the state loses revenue that pays for schools, roads, public safety, health care, housing and local aid to cities and towns. Those needs do not disappear when tax cuts are passed. They simply get pushed onto everyone else through crowded classrooms, aging infrastructure, rising property taxes and underfunded public programs.
The one-percent bill offers a more responsible solution. It asks the wealthiest residents, those best positioned to absorb it, to pay slightly more so that Rhode Island can invest in the future. This is not about punishment. It is about fairness. Working families already pay their share every day through income taxes, sales taxes, property taxes and fees. It is reasonable to ask the top one percent to contribute more when our communities are being asked to do more with less.
Strong public services are not a burden on the economy; they are the foundation of it. Businesses look for states with educated workers, reliable transportation, safe neighborhoods and healthy communities. Families look for quality schools, affordable housing and opportunity. These investments require revenue. If we continue prioritizing tax cuts over fiscal stability, we should not be surprised when deficits grow and services decline. Rhode Island cannot cut its way to prosperity. We need a tax system that reflects our values and meets our responsibilities.
Passing the one-percent bill would help close the budget gap while creating a fairer system for everyone. It would send a clear message that Rhode Island is serious about investing in people, not just protecting wealth.
This is a moment for courage and common sense. Lawmakers should pass the one-percent bill and move Rhode Island toward a stronger, more sustainable future.
Karen Alzate, a Democrat, represents District 60 in Pawtucket and Central Falls.
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
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