As proud as most Texans are about paying nearly the least amount of taxes in the United States, an increasing State deficit is rearing its ugly head, causing lay offs and closures of schools and other subsidiaries of Texas tax dollars.
Considering the exponential growth of the Lone Star State, our archaic tax system that only benefits higher income communities, and the increasing deficit within the State, it's my opinion that tax reform is necessary. I agree with Sandoval's position on Texas' responsibility to take care of its citizens by providing a fair and equal tax code for all Texans. The current regressive taxation is right in line with the conservative status quo, promoting enterprise over the needs of the lower income populous.
Alone, income tax will not solve the growing State deficit, but it would at least provide a centralized pool of tax dollars to be distributed across the State’s counties as needed. Currently, lower income counties across Texas continue to struggle due to their low tax revenue, while larger, more affluent communities thrive and can afford services due to the higher tax revenue brought in.
A personal income tax across the state would eliminate any disparities on tax revenue brought in by counties if the State focused on income rather than the property owned. There are always unintended consequences in any reform, but this at least focuses on all working Texans and not just property owners. With the emphasis on income, property taxes can be lowered, and Texans can also receive State returns along with Federal.
Again, there are plenty of arguments against this option, but it’s my opinion, and the opinion of many others who prefer a fiscally responsible government, dedicated to its people, regardless of race, religion or affluence.
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