PRO: A Progressive Income Tax Would Transform Florida Education

As someone who has worked in Florida schools for 15 years, I strongly support implementing a state income tax dedicated to education funding. Here's why:

1. Stable, Adequate Funding Our current reliance on sales tax creates volatile funding that drops during economic downturns - exactly when students need support most. An income tax provides predictable revenue that grows with the economy.

2. Competitive Teacher Salaries Florida ranks 48th in teacher pay. We're losing talented educators to neighboring states. A 3% income tax on earnings above $50,000 could raise teacher salaries by 25% while still keeping overall tax burden below the national average.

3. Reduced Inequality Our 6% sales tax is regressive - low-income families pay a higher percentage of their income. Replacing 2% of sales tax with progressive income tax would give working families more purchasing power while asking more from those who can afford it.

4. Infrastructure Investment Many schools lack basic resources: updated textbooks, technology, safe buildings. The estimated $8 billion annual revenue could finally address decades of deferred maintenance.

5. Economic Benefits Better schools attract businesses and skilled workers. Studies show every dollar invested in education returns $7 in economic growth.

The status quo is failing our children. It's time for bold action.