Scored 8/10 on whether it helps or hurts everyday people.
The Proposes Refundable Bill
California proposes refundable cost-of-living tax credit
Taxation: Personal Income Tax Law: cost-of-living refundable tax credit.
Good for everyday people ·
If passed, the bill would give eligible Californians a refundable credit of up to $1,050 to help cover higher living costs.
Our take
What we think, in plain words.
The credit could ease the budget strain for low‑and middle‑income families, but it costs the state and may raise taxes later, so voters should watch it now.
Take action
Add your name. At 100 signatures we compile this petition and deliver it to the office — and every signer gets a message to send their own representatives.
0 of 100 in‑district signatures
Step 1 · Pick your position
Step 2 · Add your name
Sign in to oppose this billPicking a side above doesn't sign anything yet — a free account records your name on the petition and keeps it one signature per person. We'll bring you straight back here with your choice saved.
The facts
What the bill actually says, no spin.
- Bill SB1277 was introduced on Feb 20, 2026.
- Creates a cost‑of‑living credit for tax years 2027‑2031.
- Credit amounts range from $200 to $1,050 based on income and dependents.
- Credit is refundable; excess paid from the Tax Relief and Refund Account.
- Credit is excluded from gross income for the covered years.
- Credit expires on Dec 1, 2032.
How they voted
The actual floor vote, and who broke from their own party.
Want to see how your representatives voted on this? Find your reps →
In the news
Scanning the news for this bill…
Headlines gathered from across the news, starting points to explore, not endorsements. Always read the official text before acting.
Sources
Read it yourself: the official bill and records.
This bill is in the California Bill Book 2026
The best and worst California bills of 2026, one page each — our take on the left, the bill on the right, and room for your notes. No email needed.
Get the free PDF →