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A Distributional Analysis of Green Tax Reforms

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  • Metcalf, Gilbert E.

Abstract

I measure the distributional impact of a shift toward greater reliance on environmental taxes (a green tax reform) using both annual and lifetime income measures to rank households. An environmental tax reform can be designed that has a negligible impact on the income distribution when the funds are rebated to households through reductions in the payroll tax and personal income tax. I also analyze trade-offs among competing goals of efficiency, equity, and ease of administration in the design of a green tax reform.

Suggested Citation

  • Metcalf, Gilbert E., 1999. "A Distributional Analysis of Green Tax Reforms," National Tax Journal, National Tax Association;National Tax Journal, vol. 52(4), pages 655-682, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:ntj:journl:v:52:y:1999:i:4:p:655-82
    DOI: 10.1086/NTJ41789423
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. repec:aen:journl:1994v15-03-a08 is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Poterba, James M, 1989. "Lifetime Incidence and the Distributional Burden of Excise Taxes," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 79(2), pages 325-330, May.
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