While answering this question you should discuss the following:
What are regressive taxes? And, are regressive taxes a fair way for the state to generate revenue? How does this contrast with a progressive taxation structure?
Who are the winners and losers of the way in which Texas generates revenue?
Based on what you now know about how different states generate revenue, what do you think would be the most fair way for the state of Texas to operate?
You are expected to take a side on what the most fair way for states to generate revenue is, but only after analyzing and acknowledging others perspectives and research on the topic. Your position, and the conclusion you reach, should be a logical consequence of the information you have gathered on the topic. In fact, your responses must include the use of scholarly literature.
Please remember that this is a research paper, NOT an opinion piece. Phrases such as “I believe”, “I think” and similar phrases have no place here.
When thinking about this question you should assume that states that feature no income taxes must resort to more regressive taxes to generate revenue. Hence, having a state income tax implies fewer or less regressive taxes. That is, you can assume that if Texas introduced a state income tax, that would decrease the regressive taxes it levies on its residents. Please note that Texas has never had a personal income tax. In fact, in 2019 the Texas Constitution was amended to ban any future income tax, though this could be overturned if a 2/3 majority of the legislature was to vote to repeal the ban.
