Read the statement from Raise Up Massachusetts on the defeat of their millionaire tax ballot question

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court struck down a proposed “millionaire tax” ballot question on Monday, blocking it from going to voters in November.

Raise Up Massachusetts, a coalition of community organizations, religious groups, and labor unions, collected more than 150,000 signatures in support of the proposed constitutional amendment that would have imposed a surtax of 4 percent on any portion of an individual’s annual income exceeding $1 million. The measure, referred to as the “Fair Share Amendment,” called for funds generated from the tax to be earmarked for transportation and education.

Read the statement issued by Raise Up Massachusetts on the stunning defeat of their ballot question:

We are incredibly disappointed that a few wealthy corporate executives and their lobbyists brought this lawsuit that blocked the right of Massachusetts voters to amend our state’s constitution. It is stunning that these business groups would overturn the will of the more than 157,000 voters who signed petitions to qualify the Fair Share Amendment for the ballot, and of two overwhelming majorities in consecutive Constitutional Conventions.

This decision does not change the fact that Massachusetts desperately needs major investments in our schools and colleges, our roads and bridges, and our public transportation systems. It does not change the fact that our wealthiest residents can afford to pay a little more to make those investments.

While we determine our next steps, the Raise Up Massachusetts coalition remains strongly committed to winning a $15 minimum wage and paid family and medical leave for all Massachusetts workers this year, in the Legislature or on the ballot.