U.S. Senator Cory Booker has introduced the Keep Your Pay Act (March 2026).
According to NBC New York, the proposed policy seeks to restructure the federal tax system for working- and middle-class Americans. The focus of the bill is to eliminate federal income tax on the first $75,000 of earnings for households filing jointly. Also, to extend relief for single filers.
To make it happen, Booker proposes doubling the standard deduction, which would aim to reduce the tax burden on an estimated 85% of Americans.
“New Jerseyans are working harder than ever. But they’re struggling to get by because they’re facing out-of-control costs and an economy that is stacked against them. So we need big ideas to start making the American Dream possible for everyone again,” Booker wrote in a statement unveiling his bill. “No income tax on the first $75,000 families earn would be a game changer for working people.”
“This tax cut would immediately put more money in your pocket every month to deal with the high price of everyday expenses, an unexpected emergency, or to plan for the future,” he added. “This idea will ensure Americans who work for a living keep more of their paychecks, help restore tax fairness, and start making America a country where working people can get ahead again.”
Along with direct tax cuts, the bill incorporates expanding the Child Tax Credit from $3,600 per child aged 6 to 17 and $4,320 for children under 6 years old. Also, a $2,400 “baby bonus” for newborns, and triples the Earned Income Tax Credit.
BOOKER SAYS THE TAX SYSTEM IS RIGGED
”The tax system, we all know this, is rigged. It’s rigged against working people and is full of things to help people with a lot of money, Booker said in a video message. ‘Whether it’s corporations or billionaires – avoid paying taxes. This happens because of the corruption in Washington that lets the wealthiest and most powerful write our tax code. So let’s un-rig it. Let’s make it simple and direct.”