Massachusetts Voters Will Decide Tax Limit Changes
The upcoming November 3, 2026 election features a ballot question regarding the state tax revenue limit formula.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Taxes
Live Poll
Should Massachusetts limit state tax revenue to provide more frequent rebates to taxpayers?
Massachusetts voters will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to decide on Ballot Question 5. This measure proposes changes to the calculation method for the state tax revenue limit established under the 1986 law known as Chapter 62F.
Why it matters
The outcome will determine whether tax revenue limits are based on actual collected revenue and include surtax income, a move supporters say will increase taxpayer rebates while opponents warn could destabilize state public service funding.
The proposal modifies the Chapter 62F revenue limit calculation to include the 4% surtax applied to annual income exceeding $1 million. The current limit is determined by the prior tax year's limit and regional wage growth.
The players
Massachusetts
This state is the location where voters will decide on the ballot measure regarding tax revenue limit calculations.
The details
If approved, the new limit would shift from being based on a maximum potential revenue cap to one calculated from actual collected state revenue. While the measure does not revoke the Fair Share Amendment, it changes how revenue from that amendment is accounted for in state financial limits.
Timeline
1986: Chapter 62F law was enacted.
1987 and 2022: Chapter 62F limit triggered state tax refunds.
October 24, 2026: The deadline to register to vote.
November 3, 2026: Statewide election held.
Market Dynamics
This ballot measure proposes a fundamental shift in how the state manages its Chapter 62F revenue cap. It reflects an ongoing effort to redefine fiscal guardrails that were originally established nearly four decades ago.
The approval of this measure could lead to more frequent tax refunds for Massachusetts residents. Conversely, changes to the state budget formula could impact the availability of public funding for services throughout the state.
The takeaway
Voters face a choice between potentially larger or more frequent tax rebates and the stability of the state's budget for public services. Residents should evaluate how the inclusion of high-earner surtax revenue in the limit calculation might affect their own financial outlook.
What happens next
Voters must register by October 24, 2026, to participate in the November 3, 2026 election where this measure will appear on the ballot.
Further reading
For additional context on the state's tax policy, visit the Massachusetts Taxes section.
Live Poll
Should Massachusetts limit state tax revenue to provide more frequent rebates to taxpayers?
