This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
I applaud state Sen. Pat Jones' efforts to increase funding for Utah schools, even if it comes with what some ineptly refer to as a "tax increase." Disposing of the state's dependent tax deduction would produce approximately $400 million per year for our schools, which are in desperate need of resources to ensure our children's success. This bill would help solve that problem.
While this is also an economic issue, I disagree with those who argue that businesses would avoid Utah if the deduction were gone. I argue that businesses would rather set roots in a location that will consistently produce a skilled workforce. Moreover, skilled workers and parents would rather live and work in a state where their children can receive a quality education.
Utah is fortunate to have a strong economy, but that strength will not be sustainable if we do not give our future workforce the tools to succeed. The current system is not only illogical, but it impedes our education system.
It is time for everyone to pay their fair share and for Utahns to get serious about investing in our future.
Molly Wheeler
Salt Lake City