US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal Senate Bill SB2818

Introduced
9/16/25  

Caption

Tax Excessive CEO Pay Act of 2025

Impact

If enacted, the bill would implement a tiered tax penalty structure, where corporations with higher pay ratios face a higher tax rate. This incentive aims to promote equity in compensation practices within corporations and encourage firms to manage their pay ratios more responsibly. The proposed legislation applies specifically to large corporations with annual gross receipts of at least $100 million, making them accountable under this new provision. By specifically targeting those companies with excessive pay disparities, the legislation aims to foster a more equitable economic environment.

Summary

SB2818, also known as the 'Tax Excessive CEO Pay Act of 2025', seeks to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 by imposing an increased corporate tax rate on companies where the ratio of CEO pay to median worker pay exceeds 50 to 1. The intent of this legislation is to address glaring income disparities that have become prevalent in corporate America, thereby attempting to narrow the gap between executive compensation and that of the average worker.

Contention

Discussion around SB2818 has sparked varied opinions among different stakeholders. Proponents argue that this bill is a necessary step to confront systemic income inequality and promote fair pay, potentially leading to better workplace morale and productivity. Conversely, opponents express concerns regarding the potential negative impact on job creation and business investment. They argue that increasing corporate taxes could deter companies from hiring or may lead to cost-cutting measures that could harm the very workers the bill aims to protect.

Continuation

Furthermore, there are worries about additional regulatory burdens being placed on businesses. Critics highlight that such an approach could complicate corporate financial structures and lead to unintended consequences, including companies relocating or restructuring to avoid these increased taxes. The resolution of these conflicting perspectives will likely shape the legislative journey of SB2818 through the congressional process.

Companion Bills

US HB5298

Same As Tax Excessive CEO Pay Act of 2025

Previously Filed As

US HB5298

Tax Excessive CEO Pay Act of 2025

US H3261

Establishing a tax on excessive executive compensation

US S2026

Relative to excessive executive compensation

US SB1243

Paying a Fair Share Act of 2025

US HB432

Excessively Absent Students & Penalties

US HB2534

Paying a Fair Share Act of 2025

US SB358

RETIREES FIRST Act Reducing Excessive Taxation and Inefficiencies by Reforming Elder Exemptions to Support Fairness, Inflation Relief, and Simpler Taxes Act

US HB5019

CEO Accountability and Responsibility Act

US HB5973

Stop Excessive Force in Immigration Act of 2025

US HB2266

RETIREES FIRST Act Reducing Excessive Taxation and Inefficiencies by Reforming Elder Exemptions to Support Fairness, Inflation Relief, and Simpler Taxes Act

Similar Bills

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