State Government Highlights Responsible Budget, Inflation-Only Adjustments
The Baja California state government has officially confirmed that there will be no new taxes nor increases to existing state taxes or rights for the 2026 fiscal year, reaffirming its commitment to financial responsibility and economic stability for residents and businesses.
During the presentation of the 2026 budget proposal before the state Congress, officials from the Secretaría de Hacienda (State Finance Secretariat) emphasized that the plan adheres strictly to the governor’s pledge to avoid tax hikes that could burden families and local businesses. Under the proposal, no new or higher state taxes or fees will be introduced, and only standard inflationary adjustments required by law will apply.
A Balanced, Growth-Oriented Budget
The government is proposing a balanced budget of approximately 92 billion pesos for 2026 — an estimated 8 percent increase compared with the current year. This increase in total spending reflects anticipated revenue growth tied to economic activity and inflation, not higher tax rates.
According to the state finance team, key priorities in the budget include:
- Strengthened public safety and education programs
- Enhanced social development initiatives
- Investment in infrastructure
- Capitalization of ISSSTECALI (the state workers’ social security institution)
Officials stressed that these increased commitments are being funded without imposing additional taxes, a stance designed to support families while still investing in core services.
What This Means for Residents and Businesses
Under the plan:
- Tax rates at the state level will remain unchanged for 2026.
- Existing revenue streams will be adjusted only for inflation, as mandated by law, but no new levies will be created.
- The state aims to keep fiscal policy predictable and transparent for households and employers.
This decision follows calls earlier in the year from legislators and community leaders for careful fiscal responsibility to protect family budgets and local economic activity, especially in the wake of rising living costs nationwide.
Clarifying the Broader Context
It’s important to note that this no-new-taxes pledge applies specifically to state taxes in Baja California. Other regions in Mexico have taken different approaches: for example, in Baja California Sur, lawmakers have approved increases to the payroll tax and new environmental fees for 2026, drawing criticism from some sectors.
Meanwhile, at the municipal level, some city governments — like Tijuana — have also reaffirmed their intention not to raise local rates such as property tax, aligning with the broader state stance of fiscal stability for the next fiscal year.
Looking Ahead
State leaders argue the 2026 budget package demonstrates that it’s possible to balance fiscal discipline with social investment, sustaining public services without passing new tax costs onto citizens. As the budget continues through the legislative process, both business groups and civic organizations will be closely watching to ensure this tax promise remains in effect through implementation.State Government Highlights Responsible Budget, Inflation-Only Adjustments.
