Kayla Kitson (she/her/hers)
Senior Policy Fellow
Kayla Kitson, Senior Policy Fellow, conducts research, authors publications, and provides technical assistance related to state tax and revenue policies. The primary goal of her work is to advance policies that make the state’s tax system more fair and ensure that it raises enough revenue to support the services Californians need to thrive.
Before joining the Budget Center in 2018, Kayla worked on federal tax policy issues in Washington, DC at Americans for Tax Fairness and the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. Prior to getting into tax policy work, she focused on affordable housing and homelessness at organizations in Los Angeles County and the Bay Area. Kayla received a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Maryland, a master’s degree in social welfare from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley.
Kayla was raised in San Diego County and enjoys watching TV with wry humor, listening to music, and occasionally camping. When she’s not working or bingeing TV, you might find her doing word puzzles or practicing Spanish with Duolingo or her cat.
meet the expert: Kayla Kitson
Read more about Kayla's story and the work she's doing at the Budget Center in our Q&A.
Recent posts by Kayla Kitson
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Fact Sheet
California’s Undocumented Residents Make Significant Tax Contributions
key takeaway California’s undocumented residents contribute nearly $8.5 billion in taxes, playing a crucial role in supporting public services while remaining excluded from essential programs. All Californians should be able to live thriving lives and participate in their communities, regardless of their race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or immigration status. California is …Health & Safety NetTaxes & Revenue -
Report
California’s State Budget Reserves Explained
How much money is in California's state budget reserves? When can the funds be withdrawn? How can the funds be used by the state?Budget AcademyCalifornia Budget -
Report
Revitalizing Unemployment Insurance in California
California’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) system is severely underfunded and outdated, leaving workers with inadequate benefits and excluding millions.Health & Safety NetPoverty & Inequality -
Report
California’s Poverty Rate Soars to Alarmingly High Levels in 2023
key takeaway California’s poverty rate has increased significantly, with disproportionate impacts on Black and Latinx residents. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for federal and state policymakers to implement robust anti-poverty measures, such as strengthening the Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, and SNAP program. California’s poverty rate increased to 18.9% in 2023, …Poverty & Inequality -
How California Leaders Can Improve the Oversight and Evaluation of State Tax Expenditures
Taxes & Revenue
